Storage device and vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storage device (1) for a vehicle (17), comprising at least one guide unit (2) that can be arranged on an interior component of the vehicle, at least one hinge element (3) that can be guided on the guide unit (2) and that is guided along the guide unit (2) in a drawer-like manner on a curved or angled path of movement, wherein the hinge element (3) has a support surface (4) and two side walls (5) angled to it, wherein each of the side walls (5) has a first end (100) at which the side wall (5) abuts the support surface (4) and a second end (200) opposite the first end (100), wherein each side wall (5) has a plurality of folding areas (6) comprising a first folding line (7), a second folding line (8) and a third folding line (9), wherein the first folding line (7) is located between the second folding line (8) and the third folding line (9).such that a first hinge part (10) is formed between the first fold line (7) and the second fold line (8), and a second hinge part (11) is formed between the first fold line (7) and the third fold line (8).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a storage device for a vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle with at least one interior vehicle component arranged in a passenger compartment and at least one storage device arranged on the interior vehicle component for the temporary storage and safekeeping of at least one object.

[0002] DE 10 2007 011 055 A1 discloses a receiving device for a motor vehicle for receiving everyday objects. The device has a receiving body, wherein the receiving body has a variable volume and wherein the receiving device is detachably connected to the motor vehicle.

[0003] DE 10 2012 013 013 A1 relates to a storage device for the luggage compartment of a vehicle, with a body-mounted container that is adjustable between a space-saving non-use position and a use position for loading cargo. The container has two walls that can be pivoted relative to each other about a hinge axis between the use position and the non-use position, the outer edges of which define the access opening to the container.

[0004] DE 696 03 063 T2 relates to an arrangement of a tabletop in a body element of a motor vehicle.

[0005] US 2004 / 0020956A1 discloses a storage device for a motor vehicle comprising at least one partially flexible storage bag that can be securely fastened in the cargo space, wherein each of the two opposite sides of the storage bag has a rigid support section extending along at least one entire horizontal length of the side to which it belongs, wherein the opposite front faces of the support sections can be detachably fastened in a fastening device in the cargo space, and the rigid support sections are connected to each other by a flexible folding structure that projects into at least one bottom section of the storage bag.

[0006] KR 10 2018 0 125 913 A refers to a door panel for a vehicle which includes a storage compartment that is integrated into the panel and can be stored in a folded state within an interior of the panel formed in a door panel.

[0007] Vehicles offer various storage options in their passenger compartments for the temporary storage of items. These may include lockable or unlocked storage compartments, expandable pockets, or drawers. It is also common practice to provide at least one storage option, such as a cup holder, on the center console.

[0008] A disadvantage of conventional storage compartments is that items placed inside, such as a smartphone, keys, sunglasses, or similar items, can shift around within the compartment while the vehicle is in motion, causing disruptive noises and potentially damaging the item and / or the compartment itself. Furthermore, conventional storage compartments are often rather cluttered and difficult to navigate. They are also frequently designed and positioned in such a way that the driver cannot fully see or access the storage space provided.

[0009] One solution to these problems could be to create a storage option in the form of a drawer. However, this would require significant modifications to the installation space of the respective vehicle interior component that would house the storage option, such as the instrument panel or center console, which is usually not feasible due to other space requirements.

[0010] One object of the invention is to provide a space-saving storage option for items to be stored.

[0011] This problem is solved by the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent patent claims, the following description, and the figures, whereby these embodiments, either individually or in different combinations of at least two of them, can represent a further development or advantageous aspect of the invention.

[0012] The problem is thus solved by a storage device for a vehicle. This device comprises at least one guide unit that can be arranged on an interior vehicle component. The guide unit, in turn, can consist of several components and advantageously includes a rail. Furthermore, the storage device comprises at least one hinge element that can be guided on the guide unit and is slidably guided along the guide unit on a curved or angled path, similar to a drawer. The hinge element has a bearing surface and two side walls angled relative to it. In particular, each side wall is guided in its own guide unit. It is provided that the hinge element can be moved between a storage position and a support position. In the support position, it is specifically provided that the hinge element has at least partially left the guide unit.In the support position, a user can place objects on the support surface, while in the storage position, the hinge element increases the user's freedom of movement.

[0013] The side wall comprises a first end and a second end. At the first end, the side wall rests against the support surface. The second end is opposite the first end. The side wall is designed to have multiple folding areas, comprising a first fold line, a second fold line, and a third fold line. The first fold line is positioned between the second and third fold lines, forming a first hinge section between the first and second fold lines and a second hinge section between the first and third fold lines. Furthermore, the second and third fold lines are not parallel to each other, and the first distance between the second and third fold lines at the first end is smaller than the second distance between the second and third fold lines at the second end.This design ensures that when the folding section is folded, the first and second hinge sections form either a peak or a valley. Since the initial distance at the first end differs from the second distance at the second end, the side wall shortens more at the second end when the folding section is folded than at the first. This allows the side wall, along with the support surface, to move along a curved path. Alternatively, each folding section can be locked in place, so that the side wall acts as a stiffener for the support surface, thus providing a rigid surface that can be used as a shelf or tabletop.

[0014] Furthermore, it is provided that a lever element is attached to each first fold line. It is provided that such lever elements, attached to opposite first fold lines of the side walls, are connected via a central hinge. Thus, the lever elements extend, in particular, in an area below the support surface. Since the lever elements are directly coupled to the first fold line, a movement of the lever elements, especially a rotation, can force the folding or unfolding of the fold areas. It is provided that each central hinge can be moved by the guide unit towards and away from the support surface in order to selectively fold the first hinge part and the second hinge part into either a mountain or valley position. By moving the central hinge, the lever elements can be rotated as described above.Therefore, the guide unit can guide the hinge element along the curved path.

[0015] To place and store an object in the storage device according to the invention, the hinge element is first moved from a retracted storage position to an extended support position, whereby the hinge element is guided along a curved or angled path by means of the guide unit. This exposes the support surface, making it available for placing at least one object. In its extended support position, the hinge element essentially forms a table. For this purpose, the hinge element at least partially leaves the guide element. The hinge element can be moved from its support position back to its storage position, again being guided along the curved or angled path by means of the guide unit.The hinge element can remain in its storage position until the next use of the storage device, so as not to unnecessarily restrict the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The storage device according to the invention can be easily operated with one hand.

[0016] The control unit is preferably permanently mounted on an interior vehicle component, i.e., a component located in the passenger compartment. For this purpose, a suitable installation space or movement channel must be provided in the passenger compartment component.

[0017] The hinged element provides a relatively large, easily visible, and accessible surface compared to conventional storage options such as a cup holder. The hinged element can be moved between the storage position and the support position manually or automatically via a motor. The respective trapezoidal wall element of each side panel is connected at its base (i.e., the base of the side panel) to the web of the hinged element or the web section of the respective link.

[0018] Preferably, the second and third folding lines are arranged symmetrically to the first folding line. This ensures that the first hinge part is the same size as the second hinge part. This simplifies the kinematics of folding and unfolding. In particular, this allows for simple and reliable transfer of the storage device between the storage position and the support position.

[0019] Advantageously, the first, second, and third fold lines meet at the first end. This results in triangular hinge components. This, in turn, simplifies the kinematics of folding and unfolding. Furthermore, the change in length between the first and second ends is maximized, since the first end remains unchanged while the second end shortens by the distance between the second and third fold lines when the fold area is folded. Thus, the contact surface at the first end is not affected during folding; it is merely curved along the path of movement.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, both the first and second hinge parts are designed to have the shape of a right-angled triangle. Alternatively or additionally, it is preferably provided that the second and third fold lines, together with a portion of the second end, form an equiangular triangle. This again simplifies the folding kinematics and enables simple, effortless, safe, and reliable operation of the storage device.

[0021] Preferably, the lever elements are designed such that the folding areas exhibit maximum folding when the lever elements are at a minimum distance from the support surface. In this case, the lever elements can be moved such that opposing lever elements connected via a central pivot form a straight line when minimal folding is present. In this case, the lever elements are advantageously arranged in a self-locking manner, thus stiffening the hinge element. To move the hinge element along the curved path, the central pivots must be moved to achieve maximum folding, as described above. For a user, the hinge parts thus form a valley during folding. Alternatively, the folding areas are designed to exhibit minimal or no folding when the lever elements are at a minimum distance from the support surface.In this case, the folding areas can be folded by moving the center hinges away from the support surface, specifically into a state where the lever elements connected via a center hinge form a straight line. From a user's perspective, the folding then occurs outwards, so that the hinge elements form a mound.

[0022] Advantageously, the lever elements comprise end faces that can be pressed together by the central joint. This blocks further movement of the lever elements in at least one direction. Specifically, the pressing together is achieved by moving the central joint away from the bearing surface, thus stiffening the hinge element, particularly in the first alternative described above. This stiffening is accompanied by a locking of the lever elements due to the pressing together of the side faces, allowing the hinge element to maintain its stiffened state without external influences. Therefore, the hinge element can leave the guide unit without compromising its stiffened state.

[0023] The lever elements are preferably or alternatively lockable onto a portion of the hinge element to block movement of the lever elements in at least one direction. This is particularly advantageous in the second alternative described above, where the lever elements connected via a central joint exhibit a kink relative to each other when the folding areas are not folded or only minimally folded. In this case, there is a minimal gap between the support surface and the central joint. If the central joint and / or the associated lever elements are locked in this position, the hinge element maintains its stiffened state independently. Thus, the hinge element can leave the guide unit without losing its stiffened state.

[0024] It is particularly advantageous that the side walls are designed parallel to each other. Specifically, it is intended that the side walls form a U-shape with the bearing surface. This ensures optimal stiffening of the bearing surface in the supported position. The bearing surface can also be extended beyond one or both side walls. This can be achieved in one piece by enlarging the bearing surface or by attaching an additional element to it.

[0025] The storage device preferably has at least two parallel hinge elements. The bearing surfaces of the hinge elements are connected, in particular, to a support element. The support element can be provided, at least partially, with a friction-enhancing surface. This results in a drawer-like system that, especially at its edges, has hinge elements enabling movement along a curved path.

[0026] Preferably, the first and second hinge parts are lockable to prevent folding of the hinge area. This allows the section of the hinge element that has been pulled out of the vehicle interior component or automatically extended to stiffen due to the locking mechanism, enabling an object to be placed upon it. When the hinge element is moved into its support position, the locking mechanisms are progressively or sequentially released automatically to allow the corresponding hinge area to fold. This is achieved in particular by the lever elements guided in the guide unit.

[0027] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the storage device has at least one cover element arranged on the support surface of the hinge element and at least one stationary winding device for winding / unwinding the cover element, which defines a winding axis oriented transversely to a displacement direction of the hinge element, wherein the cover element is elastically designed, a free end section of the cover element facing away from the winding device is fixed to an end section of the support surface, which is opposite a support end section of the support surface for placing at least one object on the extended hinge element, and the guide unit is designed and arranged relative to the winding device in such a way that the support end section of the support surface can be moved away from the winding device by a predetermined amount.If several hinge elements are present, it is preferably provided that the cover element is arranged on the support part that connects the support surfaces of the hinge elements.

[0028] To place and store an object in the storage device according to this embodiment, the hinge element is first moved from a retracted storage position to an extended support position, with the hinge element being guided along the curved or angled path of movement by means of the guide unit. The cover element, due to its fixation to the hinge element, moves along with it and is wound up by the winding device. By moving the hinge element from its storage position to its support position, the end section of the support surface is moved away from the winding device by the predetermined amount, so that the support surface or support part is exposed and available for placing at least one object on it.

[0029] Once the object has been placed on the support surface or support part, the hinge element can be moved from its support position back to its storage position, with the guide unit again guiding the hinge element. Due to its fixation to the hinge element, the cover element moves along with it and is unwound from the winding unit. The object also moves with the hinge element and, after passing the winding unit, is picked up between the hinge element and the cover element and continues to move with the hinge element until it reaches its storage position.

[0030] By placing the object between the support surface or support element and the cover element, the hinge element is elastically deformed, thus clamping the object between the hinge element and the cover element. This reliably prevents the object from slipping within the storage device while the vehicle is in motion. Therefore, disruptive noise and damage to the object and the storage device caused by such slippage, such as scratches, are reliably prevented.

[0031] To remove an object from the storage device, the hinge element is first moved from its storage position back to its support position, so that the support surface of the hinge element and the object placed on it are exposed again. The object can then be removed from the support surface or support part. The hinge element can then be moved back to its storage position until the next use of the storage device, in order to avoid unnecessarily restricting the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The entire operation of the storage device according to the invention can be easily performed with a single hand.

[0032] The cover element can be formed partially or completely, for example, from a monolithic flexible element or a fabric. An elastic cover element can be formed partially or completely, for example, from a flat elastomer body or an elastic fabric. The side of the cover element facing the contact surface can be provided, at least partially, with a friction-enhancing surface. The free end section of the cover element, located away from the winding device, can be fixed to the end section of the hinge element, for example, by a material bond, at least one seam, or at least one mechanical connecting element.

[0033] The winding unit can be permanently mounted on the guide unit or the vehicle interior component. The winding unit has at least one winding reel for winding and unwinding the cover element. The winding unit also has at least one pre-tensioning element which is tensioned when the cover element is unwound from the winding reel, generating a restoring force. This restoring force is used to automatically wind the cover element back onto the winding reel. The winding reel is rotatably mounted about the winding axis. The winding axis preferably runs perpendicular to the direction of movement of the hinge element.

[0034] The folding area is particularly advantageous when designed as a film hinge. This allows for the simple and cost-effective production of individual fold lines, as described previously. It also ensures safe and reliable operation of the storage device. The hinge element can also be composed of several articulated links. Each link can be dimensionally stable or rigid.

[0035] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the storage device has at least one handle fixed to the hinge element. The handle can, for example, be designed as a grip, knob, strip, or the like, and serves for the manual handling of the storage device.

[0036] In a further advantageous embodiment, the storage device has at least one light source arranged on the hinge element. Alternatively, the hinge element itself can also be designed as a light source. This allows, for example, the positioning or edge of the support section of the support surface to be visually highlighted, enabling a person to place an object on the support surface without requiring a high degree of attention. This minimizes the driver's distraction from traffic when placing an object on the support surface.

[0037] A vehicle according to the invention comprises at least one interior component arranged in a passenger compartment and at least one storage device arranged on the interior component for temporarily storing at least one object, wherein the storage device is configured according to one of the aforementioned embodiments or any combination of at least two of these embodiments. The advantages mentioned above with regard to the storage device are correspondingly associated with the vehicle. The vehicle can also have two or more such storage devices. According to an advantageous embodiment, the interior component is an instrument panel, a center console, or a vehicle seat.

[0038] Further details, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic view of a storage device according to an embodiment of the invention, Fig. 3 a schematic side view of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention in a partially extended position, Fig. 4 a schematic side view of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention in a retracted position, Fig. 5 a first schematic representation of a first alternative of a hinge element of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 6 a second schematic representation of the first alternative of the hinge element of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a central joint of the first alternative of the hinge element of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 8 a first schematic representation of the functional principle of the first alternative of the hinge element according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 9 a second schematic representation of the functional principle of the first alternative of the hinge element according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 10 a third schematic representation of the functional principle of the first alternative of the hinge element according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 11 a first schematic representation of a second alternative of a hinge element of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 12 a second schematic representation of the second alternative of the hinge element of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 13 a schematic representation of a central joint of the second alternative of the hinge element of the storage device according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 14 a first schematic representation of the functional principle of the second alternative of the hinge element according to the embodiment of the invention, Fig. 15 a second schematic representation of the operating principle of the second alternative of the hinge element according to the embodiment of the invention, and Fig. 16 a third schematic representation of the functional principle of the second alternative of the hinge element according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0039] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a vehicle 17 according to an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 17 comprises several interior vehicle components 18, wherein in Fig. Figure 1 shows, by way of example, a vehicle seat as a vehicle interior component 18. A storage device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention is arranged on the vehicle interior component 18. At least a part of the storage device 1 is guided in a drawer-like manner, wherein a curved or angled movement path is provided in order to realize, on the one hand, a table-like support position, and on the other hand, to transfer the storage device 1 into a space-saving storage position.

[0040] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of the storage device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention, which is as shown in Fig. 1 shown on an interior vehicle component 18 of the vehicle 17. In particular, the storage device is at least partially brought into the support position.

[0041] Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows a sectional view of the storage device 1 as in Fig. Figure 2 shows that the storage device 1 is therefore at least partially in the support position. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of the storage device 1 in its storage state. The storage state results from the support state by the fact that the hinge elements 3 have been moved manually or automatically.

[0042] The storage device 1 has a guide unit 2 that can be arranged on the vehicle interior component 18. Two hinge elements 3 of the storage device 1 are arranged on the guide unit 2 to form a support element, and these hinge elements are guided by the guide unit 2 in a drawer-like manner. The two hinge elements 3 of the support element are connected to each other via a support part 13. The support part 13 serves a user, in particular, for placing objects on or for use as a table-like surface.

[0043] Furthermore, the storage device 1 comprises a flexibly designed cover element 20 and a stationary winding device 21 for winding and unwinding the cover element 20. A displacement direction of the hinge elements 3 is indicated by double arrows, with a winding axis of the winding device 21 being oriented transversely to said displacement direction of the hinge elements 3. The cover element 20 is elastically designed. The cover element 20 and the winding device 21 are optional and can be omitted.

[0044] A free end section of the cover element 20, arranged facing away from the winding device 21, is fixed to an end section of the support part 13, which is connected to a Fig. The end section of the support part 13, shown on the right, is opposite the end section of the support part 13 for manual actuation of the support element. A handle 14 is fixed to this end section. The handle 14 serves to manually actuate the storage device 1. Alternatively, the hinge elements 3 can also be moved relative to the guide unit by an actuator. In this case, the handle 14 can be omitted.

[0045] The guide unit 2 is designed and arranged relative to the winding device 21 such that the end support section of the support part 13 can be moved away from the winding device 21 by a predetermined amount, as shown in Fig. Figures 2 to 4 show that this allows the support element to be moved into the support position, so that objects, for example a pair of glasses 15 and an apple 16, can be placed on the support element (see Figure 2). Fig. 3) Furthermore, the guide unit 2 is designed such that the hinge elements 3, and thus the support part 13, are guided by the guide unit 2 along an angled path of movement in a drawer-like manner. In the illustrated embodiment, this allows the hinge elements 3 to be moved into their respective positions during movement. Fig. 4. Bearing delivery shown is deflected downwards.

[0046] The guide unit 2 has, in particular, its own guide device at each edge region of the hinge elements 3 (not shown) with respect to the direction of movement of the hinge elements 3. The respective guide device is, in particular, a stationary guide rail in which parts of the hinge elements 3 are slidably guided. The guide rails run parallel to each other.

[0047] In the storage position of the storage device 1, the cover element 20 has been unwound from the winding device 21. Furthermore, the objects, for example the glasses 15 and the apple 16, have been placed between the support element and the cover element 20, causing the cover element 20 to be elastically deformed as shown. By reversing this kinematic process, the storage device 1 can be returned to its support position.

[0048] Preferably, the storage device 1 can have at least one light source (not shown) arranged on the hinge elements 3 or the support part 13. This makes the hinge elements 3 and the support part 13 easily visible even in darkness. In particular, the current position of the storage device 1 can be quickly and easily determined.

[0049] Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows a spatial representation of a first alternative of one of the hinge elements 3 of the storage device 1. Fig. Figure 6 schematically shows a front view of this hinge element. The two hinge elements 3 of the storage device 1 are designed in a mirror-image manner.

[0050] The hinge element 3 has a U-shaped cross-section with a bearing surface 4 and, in particular, side walls 5 extending perpendicular to the bearing surface 4. The side walls each extend between a first end 100, where the side walls are connected to the bearing surface 4, and a second end 200, which is a free end. Each side wall 5 has several folding sections 6 arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the hinge element 3. The folding sections allow the hinge element 3 to be moved along a curved or angled path of movement. In particular, each side wall can be curved or stiffened by means of the folding sections 6. The latter is particularly useful for using the storage device as a table-like base.

[0051] Each folding area 6 comprises a first fold line 7, a second fold line 8, and a third fold line 9. The first fold line 7 is located between the second fold line 8 and the third fold line 9. All fold lines 7, 8, and 9 extend between the first end 100 and the second end 200. The fold lines 7, 8, and 9 allow the folding area 6 to be folded such that the second end 200 is shortened relative to the first end 100. This enables the hinge element 3 to be guided along the curved or angled path of movement.

[0052] In the example shown, the first fold line 8 extends perpendicularly to the first end 100 and the second end 200. The second fold line 8 and the third fold line 9 are arranged symmetrically to the first fold line 7 and intersect the first fold line 7 at the first end 100. This defines a first hinge part 10 and a second hinge part 11, with the first hinge part 10 being formed between the first fold line 7 and the second fold line 8, and the second hinge part 11 being formed between the first fold line 7 and the third fold line 9. The hinge parts 10 and 11 are thus triangular in shape and are bounded by the fold lines 7, 8, and 9 and the second end 200. In particular, each hinge part 10 and 11 is a right-angled triangle, with the entire folding area 6, bounded by the second end 200, the second fold line 8, and the third fold line 9, forming an equiangular triangle.

[0053] The folding areas 6 of the hinge element 3 are specifically designed as film hinges. This enables simple and cost-effective manufacturing of the hinge elements 3. In particular, the hinge elements 3 are made of a plastic, for example by injection molding.

[0054] To guide the hinge element 3 along a curved or angled path of movement, the folding areas 6 are at least partially folded. This means that the first hinge part 10 and the second hinge part 11 are folded into a peak or valley, with the first fold line 7 forming the highest or lowest point relative to the side wall 5. Folding shortens the second end 200 relative to the first end 100, thus curving the hinge element 3. The degree of folding determines the radius of curvature.

[0055] The folding of the folding areas 6 is particularly accelerated by the guide unit 2. The guide unit 2 thus preferably serves, on the one hand, to guide the movement of the hinge elements 3, and on the other hand, to fold in and / or unfold the folding areas 6 of the hinge elements 3 and to enable the curved or angled movement of the hinge elements 3. Additionally, the guide unit 2 can transfer the folding areas 6 into a state that stiffens the side walls 5, so that the hinge elements 3 can leave the guide unit 2 to serve as a rigid, table-like base.

[0056] Lever elements 12 are attached to all first fold lines 7. It is provided that opposite first fold lines 7 of the two parallel side walls 5 have interconnected lever elements 12. The lever elements 12 are preferably coupled by a central hinge 22.

[0057] The lever elements 12 extend into an interior space of the U-shape of the respective hinge elements 3. If the center joints 22 are displaced relative to the support surface 4, i.e., if the distance between the center joint 22 and the support surface 4 is changed, the folding areas 6, in particular, fold. In the first alternative of the hinge elements 3, as in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a minimal distance between the support surface 4 and the central hinge 22 leads to a maximum folding of the folding area 6, to which the corresponding lever elements 12 are connected. In particular, the associated hinge parts 10, 11 are folded into a valley.

[0058] If the center joints 22 have a maximum distance to the support surface 4, the associated folding areas 6 are minimally or not folded at all. This means that the folding areas 6 cause no or virtually no difference in length between the first end 100 and the second end 200. In particular, the lever elements 12 are also blocked against each other. For this purpose, the end faces 23 of the lever elements 12 abut each other at the center joint 22. Specifically, it is provided that the lever elements 12 can be pivoted by the center joint 22 towards the support surface 4. However, no or only minimal pivoting is possible away from the support surface 4 until the end faces 23 abut each other. As soon as this occurs, the hinge elements 3 are stiffened, since folding of the folding areas 6 is no longer possible. Thus, the hinge elements 3 can exit the guide unit 2 as a table-like support.

[0059] Fig. Figures 8 to 10 schematically illustrate a principle of operation for forcing the folding by the lever elements 12. This is particularly evident in Fig. Figure 8 shows that the guide unit 2 provides different movement paths for the center joints 22 and the second end 200. The center joints 22 are guided on a first movement path 300, while the second end 200 is guided on a second movement path 400. This allows the center joints 22 to be displaced relative to the second end 200 and thus relative to the support surface 4.

[0060] As especially from Fig. As can be seen from Figure 8, the center joints 22 are guided at the same height as the second end 200, as long as no curvature of the hinge elements 3 is required. This means that the folding areas 6 are preferably not folded. In particular, the folding areas 6 are also stiffened so that the storage device 1 can be used as a table-like base. For stiffening, the lever elements 12 rest against a stop 19, the stop being formed by the end faces 23 of the lever elements 12 themselves. As described above, the end faces 23 of the lever elements 12 can abut each other to block further movement of the lever elements 12 and thus form the stop 19. This condition is particularly advantageous in Fig. 10 shown.

[0061] To achieve the curvature of the hinge elements 3, the first movement path 300 moves away from the second movement path 400, causing the center joints 22 to be displaced towards the bearing surface 4. This results in the folding of the fold areas 6, with the first hinge part 10 and the second hinge part 11 forming a bulge. This allows the first end 200 to shorten relative to the first end 100, thus curving the hinge element 3. This condition is particularly relevant in Fig. 9 shown.

[0062] After the hinge element 3 has been guided around the arc-shaped movement path section, the first movement path 300 approaches the branch movement path 400 again (cf. Fig. 8), which moves the center joints 22 away from the support surface 4. This terminates the folding of the folding areas 6 and, in particular, stiffens the hinge elements 3. The hinge elements 3 can thus leave the guide unit 2 and remain in a stiffened state.

[0063] The Fig. Figures 11 to 16 show a second alternative of the hinge element 3 of the storage device 1 according to the exemplary embodiment. The figures shown are Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 analogous views like the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Fig. Figure 13 schematically shows the central joint 22 analogously to Fig. 7. Fig. Figures 14 to 16 schematically illustrate the operating principle, analogous to Fig. 8 to 10.

[0064] The only difference from the first alternative lies in the design of the lever elements 12 and the central joint 22. In particular, the lever elements 12 are longer than in the first alternative, which means that the lever elements 12 can be in different positions for achieving the stiffened state and the folded state compared to the first alternative.

[0065] If the center joints 22 are moved towards the support surface 4, this causes the folding areas 6 to unfold, so that the folding areas 6 are not folded or only minimally folded. In this state, the center joints 22 can be fixed, as is particularly evident in Fig. Figure 13 shows that a first locking element 24 is attached to the central joint 22 or at least to one of the lever elements 12. This first locking element can be engaged with a second locking element 25, which is attached to the support surface 4. For example, in Fig. Figure 13 shows a clip connection. Thus, the folding areas 6 are stiffened and the hinge element 3 can leave the guide unit 2 and serve as a table-like base. Such a condition is particularly relevant in Fig. 16 shown.

[0066] When the center hinges 22 are moved away from the support surface 4, the lever elements 12 push the first fold lines 7 outwards, thus causing the first hinge part 10 and the second hinge part 11 to fold outwards into a bulge. This results in a shortening of the second end 200 relative to the first end 100, causing a curvature of the hinge element 3. This condition is particularly evident in Fig. 15 shown. Thus, there is a difference to the first alternative in the direction of folding of the folding area 6 in order to achieve the curved state of the hinge element 3.

[0067] Fig. Figure 14 schematically shows a folding area 6 with the associated lever element 12. The first movement path 300 of the center joints 22 and the second movement path 400 of the second end are also shown. In contrast to the first alternative, the second alternative provides that the center joints 22 are spaced from the second end 200 as long as no curvature of the hinge element 3 is required. In this state, the center joints 22 are locked to the support surface 4, as described previously. To guide the hinge element 3 along a curved or angled movement path, the center joints 22 must be moved towards the second end 200. This leads to the movement shown in Figure 1. Fig.Figure 14 shows the approach of the first movement path 300 and the second movement path 400. As soon as the curvature of the hinge element 3 is no longer required, the first movement path 300 and the second movement path 400 move away from each other to regain their original distance. The center joints 22 are then locked again, in particular, to the bearing surface 4. Reference symbol list: 1 storage device 2 Command Unit 3 hinge element 4 Support surface 5 side wall 6 folding area 7 first fold line 8 second fold line 9 third fold line 10 first hinge part 11 second hinge part 12 Lever element 13th edition 14. Handling 15 Item (glasses) 16. Item (apple) 17 vehicles 18 Vehicle interior component 19 attacks 20 cover element 21 Changing unit 22 Middle joint 23 Front surface 24 first locking element 25 second locking element 100 first end 200 second end

Claims

[1] Storage device (1) for a vehicle (17), comprising • at least one guide unit (2) that can be arranged on an interior vehicle component (18) • at least one hinge element (3) that can be guided on the guide unit (2) and that is guided along the guide unit (2) on a curved or angled movement path in a drawer-like manner, • wherein the hinge element (3) has a support surface (4) and two side walls (5) angled to it, • wherein each of the side walls (5) has a first end (100) at which the side wall (5) abuts the support surface (4) and a second end (200) opposite the first end (100), • wherein each side wall (5) has a plurality of folding areas (6) comprising a first folding line (7), a second folding line (8) and a third folding line (9), • wherein the first fold line (7) is placed between the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9), such that a first hinge part (10) is formed between the first fold line (7) and the second fold line (8) and a second hinge part (11) is formed between the first fold line (7) and the third fold line (9), • wherein the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9) are not parallel to each other and a first distance between the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9) at the first end (100) is smaller than a second distance between the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9) at the second end (200), • wherein a lever element (12) is attached to each first fold line (7), • wherein the lever elements (12) which are attached to opposite first fold lines (7) of the side walls (5) are connected via a central hinge (22) and • wherein each central joint (22) is movable towards and away from the support surface (4) by the guide unit (2) in order to selectively transfer the first hinge part (10) and the second hinge part (11) to a mountain or valley folded state. [2] Storage device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9) are arranged symmetrically to the first fold line (7). [3] Storage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first fold line (7), the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9) meet at the first end (100). [4] Storage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that both the first hinge part (10) and the second hinge part (11) have the shape of a right-angled triangle. [5] Storage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the second fold line (8) and the third fold line (9) together with a part of the second end (200) form an equiangular triangle. [6] Storage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the lever elements (12) are designed such that the folding areas (6) have a maximum folding when the lever elements (12) have a minimum distance to the support surface (4) or that the folding areas (6) have a minimum or no folding when the lever elements (12) have a minimum distance to the support surface (4). [7] Storage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the lever elements (12) have end faces (23) which can be pressed together by the central joint (22) to block movement of the lever elements (12) in at least one direction. [8] Storage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the center joints (22) and / or the lever elements (12) can be locked onto a part of the hinge element (3) in order to block movement of the lever elements (12) in at least one direction. [9] Storage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the side walls (5) are parallel to each other and in particular form a U-shape with the support surface (4). [10] Storage device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by at least two parallel hinge elements (3) whose bearing surfaces (4) are connected to a bearing part (13). [11] Storage device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by • at least one flexibly designed cover element (20) arranged on the bearing surface (4) of the hinge element (3) and • at least one stationary winding device (21) for winding / unwinding the cover element (20), which defines a winding axis oriented transversely to a displacement direction of the hinge element (3), wherein • the cover element (20) is designed to be elastic, • a free end section of the cover element (20) arranged away from the winding device (21) is fixed to an end section of the hinge element (3) which is opposite a support end section of the hinge element (3) for placing at least one object (15, 16) on the extended hinge element (3) and • the guide unit (2) is designed and arranged relative to the winding device (21) in such a way that the support end section of the hinge element (3) can be moved away from the winding device (21) by a predetermined amount. [12] Storage device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the folding area (6) is designed as a film hinge. [13] Vehicle (17) with at least one interior vehicle component (18) arranged in a passenger compartment, in particular an instrument panel and / or a center console and / or a vehicle seat, and at least one storage device (1) arranged on the interior vehicle component (18) according to one of the preceding claims for temporarily storing and storing at least one object (15, 16).

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