CONSOLE TABLE DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE

Abstract

A console table device for a vehicle includes a first link module configured to selectively slide along a table that is extendable from a console for a vehicle and positionable in a use state and switchable to a storage state. The console table device also includes a second link module configured to support the first link module in the use state and selectively release a locking state when the table is switched to the storage state. The second link module is stored in the console together with the first link module in the storage state.

Description

BACKGROUND(a) Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a console table device for a vehicle. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a console table device for a vehicle capable of providing convenience to a user by simplifying a supporting and fixing structure. (b) Discussion of the background

[0002] Generally, a vehicle is equipped with various comfort features for the driver and passengers. These features include, for example, a console compartment for storing various items, an armrest for a passenger to rest their arm on, a cup holder for storing beverage containers such as cans, bottles, or cups, a glove box installed at the location of a crash pad in front of the passenger seat, and the like.

[0003] In addition, a storage compartment on the crash pad or a separate storage compartment on top of the glove compartment is installed instead of the glove compartment. Furthermore, an electronics holder is installed in front of the console compartment, suitable for holding devices such as smartphones, multimedia devices, or other items.

[0004] The console box is a storage device installed in the space between the driver's seat and the passenger seat for storing documents, items, tools, and the like. A console armrest, which allows the driver to rest their arm while driving, is attached to an upper portion of the console box. The console armrest supports the driver's elbow to maintain a comfortable posture while driving and also serves as a lid covering a storage compartment of the console housing.

[0005] Additionally, luxury vehicles, such as limousines, may feature adjustable rear seat positions or seatback angles. Luxury vehicles may also feature adjustable front seat positions or seatback angles to provide maximum comfort for VIP passengers sitting in the vehicle's rear seat, allowing passengers to sit comfortably in a spacious and comfortable space while aboard the vehicle.

[0006] In addition, various comfort devices can be provided to enhance the comfort of passengers in the rear seat of the vehicle. For example, a rear seat console can be installed between the left and right rear seats, and various comfort devices can be installed in the rear seat console.

[0007] For example, a foldable console table that can be conveniently used by passengers sitting in the left and right rear seats of a vehicle can enable easy operation of a console housing switch or the like, regardless of the positions of the passengers in the left or right seat.

[0008] Recently, however, the focus in rear seat console design has shifted to considering emotional aspects such as design, material, and color to convey a sense of luxury and enhance passenger comfort. Consequently, folding console tables are developed with functionality, usability, comfort, design, and more in mind. OVERVIEW

[0009] The present disclosure relates to providing a console table device for a vehicle. For example, by fixing or releasing the fixation of a locking member formed in a two-joint structure in conjunction with an operating movement according to the use or storage of a console table, it is possible to increase the convenience of a user who fixes or releases the fixation of the console table. Furthermore, it is not necessary to use a separate button structure for this purpose, thereby simplifying a configuration of the console table.

[0010] A console table device for a vehicle according to the present disclosure includes a first link module configured to selectively slide along a table that can be pulled out from a console of a vehicle and positioned in a use state and switched to a storage state within the console. The console table device also includes a second link module configured to support the first link module in the use state and selectively release a locking state when the table is switched to the storage state. The second link module can be housed inside the console together with the first link module.

[0011] The second connection module may include a main console to which an upper link and a lower link are connected and extend from the console, and may include a table connection unit rotatably mounted on the main bracket and configured to be connected to the first connection module to support the table. The second connection module may include a first locking connection unit arranged to protrude into the main console and configured to selectively rotate when pressed by the table connection unit. Additionally, the second connection module may include a second locking connection unit rotated by the first locking connection unit and configured to selectively release from the locking of the upper link.

[0012] A wedge-shaped pressure element can be positioned in contact with the second locking connection unit. The first locking connection unit can allow the second locking connection unit to be selectively rotated during rotation due to the shape of the pressure element.

[0013] Furthermore, the first locking connection unit may be coupled to the main console together with an elastic element such that an elastic restoring force acts, which allows the first locking unit to return to an initial position.

[0014] The second locking link unit can be positioned by being locked to the upper link by a pair of locking elements having shapes corresponding to a corresponding pair of locking grooves of the upper link.

[0015] The second locking connection unit can be coupled to the main console together with an elastic element in such a way that an elastic restoring force acts which enables the first locking connection unit to return to an initial position.

[0016] Furthermore, the second locking connection unit may have a detent step between the two locking elements, at which the first locking unit is positioned so that it can be rotated by pressing the first locking connection unit.

[0017] The pair of locking members may be formed to be inclined downward from a loading direction of the table and to be latched (locked) into the pair of locking grooves.

[0018] The first connection module may include a rail guide coupled to the table to form a sliding movement path, and a rail connection unit connected to the second connection module and configured to slide along the rail guide when the table is switched to the storage state. The first connection module also includes a button unit arranged collinearly with the rail connection unit to maintain a contact state and configured to block the sliding movement path of the rail connection unit to fix the table in the use state.

[0019] The button unit may be rotatably mounted on the table and configured to release the locked state by pressing to extend the sliding movement path when the table enters the storage state upon rotation.

[0020] In addition, the key unit can be coupled to the table together with an elastic element in such a way that an elastic restoring force acts which allows the key unit to return to an initial position.

[0021] The sliding movement path may extend along a gap formed between the key unit and the table when the key unit rotates.

[0022] The button unit may extend the sliding movement path and have a movement guide configured to restrict movement in space.

[0023] According to the present disclosure, by locking or unlocking the locking member formed in the two-joint structure in conjunction with the operating movement according to the use or storage of the console table, it is possible to increase the convenience of the user who locks or unlocks the console table. Furthermore, it is not necessary to use a separate button structure for this purpose, thus simplifying the configuration.

[0024] Furthermore, by adopting a slide rail and rail joint structure that moves along the slide rail, and by allowing the rail joint to move when the button is pressed to fit into the space between the button and the console table, the console table can be folded by loosening the rail joint fastening. This allows the console table to be folded by simply pressing the button, increasing user convenience.

[0025] It is to be understood that the terms "automobile," "vehicle," "vehicular," or other similar terms, as used herein, include motor vehicles generally. Such motor vehicles may include sport utility vehicles (SUVs), buses, trucks, various commercial vehicles, watercraft including a variety of boats and ships, aircraft, and the like. Such motor vehicles may also include hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g., fuels derived from resources other than petroleum). A hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that has two or more sources of power, such as a vehicle powered by both gasoline and electricity.

[0026] The above and other features of the disclosure are explained below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0027] The above and other features of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to specific examples thereof illustrated in the accompanying drawing figures, which are given hereinafter for illustrative purposes only and thus do not limit the present disclosure, in which: Fig. 1 is a view showing a console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 is a view showing an assembled state of a second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 is a view showing an exploded view of the second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are views showing a structure of the second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and in a use state of the table; Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B are views illustrating a structure of the second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and in a storage state for the table; Fig. 6 is a view showing a locking member of a second locking connection unit of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 7 is a view showing an assembled state of a first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 8 is a view showing an exploded view of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 9 is a view showing a structure of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 10A is a view showing a structure of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and in a use state for the table; and Fig. 10B is a view showing a structure of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and in a storage state for the table.

[0028] The accompanying drawing figures are not necessarily to scale and therefore represent a somewhat simplified representation of various features illustrating the basic principles of the disclosure. The specific design features of the present disclosure as disclosed herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, will be determined in part by the particular intended application and environment of use.

[0029] In the figures, reference numerals refer to the same or equivalent parts of the present disclosure in the different figures of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawing figures.

[0031] The advantages and features of the present disclosure and the methods for carrying them out should become more apparent by reference to the embodiments described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures.

[0032] However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various forms. The disclosed embodiments are merely intended to complete the disclosure of technical concepts. Furthermore, these embodiments are provided to fully inform those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates and to enable a complete understanding of the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0033] Furthermore, in the description of the present disclosure, in cases where it was determined that related known technologies might obscure the gist of the present disclosure, a detailed description has been omitted.

[0034] To the extent that a component, device, element, or the like is described in the present disclosure as being useful or for performing an operation, function, or the like, the component, device, or element should be considered herein as being "configured" to fulfill that purpose or to perform that operation or function.

[0035] When a component is described as "connected" or "in contact" with another component, it may be directly connected or in contact with the other component, but other components may also be present in between. Conversely, when a component is described as "directly connected" or "in direct contact" with another component, it is assumed that no other component is present in between.

[0036] Fig. 1 is a view showing a console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a view showing an assembled state of a second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a view showing an exploded view of the second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] In addition, Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B Views illustrating a structure of the second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and for a table in a use state. Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B are views illustrating a structure of the second connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and for a table in a storage state. Fig. 6 is a view showing a locking member of a second locking connection unit of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] In addition, Fig. 7 is a view showing an assembled state of a first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 is a view showing an exploded view of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] In addition, Fig. 9 is a view showing a structure of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10A is a view illustrating a structure of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and for a table in a use state. Fig. 10B is a view showing a structure of the first connection module of the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and for a table in a storage state.

[0040] Generally, a table 10 is provided that can be accommodated in a vehicle console 1 or the like. The table 10 can be fixed (secured) only when a separate locking device is operated in a use state. Similarly, a locking device must be operated to release the fixed table when the table is placed in a storage state.

[0041] As described above, using the table 10 may cause inconvenience to a user in a first or second row of a vehicle due to the need to operate a separate locking device. Furthermore, the locking device inevitably requires multiple components, resulting in increased structural complexity.

[0042] For this purpose, the console table device for a vehicle according to an embodiment as shown in Fig. 1, a first connection module 100 and a second connection module 200.

[0043] The first connecting module 100 slides selectively along the table 10 when the table 10 is moved between a storage state and a use state, i.e., a state in which it is pulled out of the console 1 and can support a load. The first connecting module 100, including the table 10, is folded with the second connecting module 200 when it is placed in the storage state within the console 1.

[0044] In addition, the second connection module 200 supports the first connection module 100. When the table 10 is switched to the storage state, a locking state for supporting the first connection module 100 in conjunction therewith is selectively released, and the table 10 and the second connection module 200 can be accommodated (stored) together with the first connection module 100 in the console 1.

[0045] In other words, when an operation that switches the first connection module 100 from the use state (operation state) to the storage state is performed, the second connection module 200 can release the locking state that fixes and supports the first connection module 100 in conjunction with the operation that switches the table 10 to the storage state, even without operating a separate locking device.

[0046] Conversely, the second connection module 200 can perform the locking for fixing and supporting the first connection module 100 in conjunction with the operation that puts the table 10 into the use state even without operating the separate locking device when an operation that transfers from the storage state to the use state is performed.

[0047] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the second connection module 200 may include a main console 210, a table connection unit 220, a first locking connection unit 230, and a second locking connection unit 240.

[0048] The main console 210 is configured and arranged to connect an upper link 210a and a lower link 210b. The upper link 210a is disposed at an upper portion of the main console 210 and extends from the console 1. The lower link 210b is arranged to be spaced apart from a lower portion of the upper link 210a.

[0049] The upper link 210a and the lower link 210b define a rotational path of the main console 210 to move the table 10 from a use state to a storage state or from the storage state to the use state. Furthermore, the upper link 210a and the lower link 210b may be configured to be bent and adapt to a vehicle layout.

[0050] The table connection unit 220 is rotatably attached to the main console 210 at one end and connected to the first connection module 100 at the other end. Furthermore, the table connection unit 220 is designed and configured to specifically support the table 10, which, in use, is connected to the main console 210 in an articulated manner (e.g., via a pivot point or a hinge).

[0051] As in Fig. 4A, the first locking link unit 230 is provided such that one end is arranged to protrude into the main console 210 to selectively rotate when pressed by the table link unit 220.

[0052] A wedge-shaped pressure element 232 is arranged at the other end of the first locking connection unit 230 to be in contact with the second locking connection unit 240. As in Fig. 5A, the first locking connection unit 230 selectively rotates in conjunction with the second locking connection unit 240 due to the shape of the pressure element 232 when rotating.

[0053] Since the first locking connection unit 230 has a shape in which the other end in contact with the second locking connection unit 240 is gradually widened in a front-back direction (see Fig. 3), the first locking link unit 230 allows the rotation of the second locking link unit 240 even when rotating at a relatively small angle.

[0054] The first locking link unit 230 is coupled to the main console 210 together with an elastic member 234. As a result, an elastic restoring force acts, allowing the first locking link unit 230 to return to an initial position when the rotation is performed by pressing the table link unit 220.

[0055] The second locking link unit 240 rotates in conjunction with the first locking link unit 230. The second locking link unit 240 is configured to be selectively disengaged from the upper link 210a by rotation while overcoming the elastic restoring force exerted on the second locking link unit 240 by the elastic element 246.

[0056] In other words, as in Fig. 4B, the second locking connection unit 240 can be positioned to be locked to the upper link 210a by a pair of locking elements 242 provided in a shape corresponding to a locking groove H formed in each of a pair of coupling portions 210a-1 of the upper link 210a (see Fig. 3). As described above, the locking elements 242 can be released from the engagement or locking with the pair of coupling portions 210a-1 of the upper link 210a when the second locking link unit 240 is rotated by being pushed by the first locking link unit 230, as shown in Fig. 5B.

[0057] When the locking or latching in the locking groove H of the second locking link unit 240 is released, the upper link 210a and the lower link 210b can be rotated as described above. This allows the table 10 to be placed in the storage state for storage in the console 1.

[0058] The second locking member unit 240 may have a locking step 244 provided between the pair of locking elements 242 on which the first locking link unit 230 is positioned (see Fig. 3). When the first locking link unit 230 rotates, the second locking link unit 240 can rotate in a direction urged by the pressing of the locking step 244, thereby easily releasing the second locking link unit 240 locked in the locking grooves H.

[0059] As in Fig. 6, the locking elements 242 may be configured such that they are inclined downward from a loading direction of the table 10 and positioned such that they each engage in the locking grooves H.

[0060] This is intended to prevent the locking or latching of the second locking connection unit 240 from being released in the use state. This is achieved by forming an angle at which the locking grooves H and the locking elements 242 are aligned in the same direction as the load direction or more, i.e., inclined downward. This is because, in the use state of the table 10, the locking elements 242 can move along an inclined surface to be separated from the locking grooves H if the angle at which the locking grooves H and the locking elements 242 are aligned is formed in the load direction or less.

[0061] As in the Fig. 7-9, the first connection module 100 comprises rail guides 110, a rail connection unit 120 and a button unit 130.

[0062] A pair of rail guides 110 have a predetermined length and are provided parallel to each other and fixedly connected to a lower part of the table 10 to form a sliding movement path.

[0063] Furthermore, the rail connection unit 120 is connected to the table connection unit 220 of the second connection module 200 and slidably coupled to the rail guide 110. When the table 10 is switched from the operating state to the storage state, the rail connection unit 120 is configured and arranged to slide in a longitudinal direction of the rail guide 110.

[0064] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the rail connecting unit 120 may include a wing element 122. When the wing element 122 is inserted into the rail guide 110 and slidably connected thereto, the rail connecting unit 120 may slide horizontally parallel to the rail guide 110.

[0065] Furthermore, the key unit 130 is arranged collinearly with the rail connecting unit 120 to maintain a state in which it is in contact with the rail connecting unit 120. The key unit 130 is configured to block the sliding movement of the rail connecting unit 120 such that the table 10 is fixed in the use state.

[0066] The button unit 130 is axially and rotatably mounted on the table 10. When the button unit 130 is rotated upward by pressing while the table 10 is switched to the storage state, the button unit 130 releases the contact state with the rail connection unit 120 to extend the sliding movement path.

[0067] More specifically, the key unit 130 is axially and rotatably mounted on the table 10 by a rotary shaft 130a coupled to the table 10. The key unit 130 is coupled to the table 10 together with the elastic member 132 in such a way that the elastic restoring force acts to allow the key unit 130 to return to an initial position. As shown in Fig. 10A, the contact state with the rail connection unit 120 can be effectively maintained. In this case, as shown in Fig.As shown in Fig. 10B, when one side of the key unit 130, that is, the side or end opposite the rail connecting unit 120, is pressed, the key unit 130 rotates around the rotary shaft 130a. At this time, the other side or end of the key 130, which is opposite the rail connecting unit 120, moves downward or away from the table 10. In this way, the contact with the rail connecting unit 120 can be released to lengthen the sliding movement path.

[0068] The sliding movement path for the rail connection unit 120 may extend along a space formed between the key unit 130 and the table 10, which moves downward and away from the table 10 as the key unit 130 rotates. As described above, as the rail connection unit 120 moves along the extended sliding movement path, the table 10 including the first connection module 100 may be folded while rotating axially toward the main console 210 of the second connection module 200 and entering the storage state.

[0069] The key unit 130 selectively extends the sliding movement path and may include a movement guide, a movement limiter, or a stop 134 for limiting additional sliding movement of the rail connecting unit 120 in the space formed between the key unit 130 and the table 10.

[0070] This is to prevent the rail connecting unit 120 from being separated from the rail guide 110 when the rail connecting unit 120 slides continuously into the space between the key unit 130 and the table 10 without the movement guide 134.

[0071] Consequently, in one embodiment, when the table 10, which is in the use state, is to be placed in the storage state, the locking of the first link module 100 can be released by pushing one end of the button unit 130 toward the table 10. When the first link module 100 is folded onto the second link module 200 together with the table 10, the table link unit 220 can push the first locking link unit 230 through such an operation that the locking or latching with the upper link 210a by the second locking link unit 240 is released. Therefore, switching the table 10 to the storage state can be achieved by rotating the upper link 210a and the lower link 210b.

[0072] As a result, in one embodiment, when the button unit 130 is pressed to switch to the storage state, the second link module 200 can perform the locking or latching release operation in conjunction with the operation of the first link module 100. Moreover, even when the table 10 is switched from the storage state to the use state, the functions of the first link module 100 and the second link module 200 can be connected only by the operation of unfolding the table 10, so that the locking of the first link module 100 and the second link module 200 to support the table 10 in the use state is automatically performed.

[0073] According to the present disclosure, by fixing or releasing the locking member formed in the two-joint structure in conjunction with the operating movement according to the use or storage of the console table, it is possible to increase the convenience of the user who fixes or releases the fixation of the console table. It is also unnecessary to use the separate button structure for this purpose, thereby simplifying the configuration.

[0074] Furthermore, by using a slide rail and rail joint structure that moves along the slide rail, and allowing the rail joint to move at the touch of a button to be accommodated in the space between the button and the console table, the console table can be folded by loosening the rail joint fastening and can be easily folded with a simple touch of a button, thus increasing user convenience.

[0075] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to various embodiments illustrated in the drawing figures. However, it should be understood that this is only illustrative, and various modifications may be made to the present disclosure by those skilled in the art. All or some of the embodiments described above may also be implemented in deliberate combinations thereof. Therefore, the true technical scope of the present disclosure should be measured by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

[1] Console table device for a vehicle, comprising: a first connection module configured to selectively slide along a table when the table is pulled out from a console of the vehicle and positioned in a use state, and when the table is switched to a storage state; and a second connection module configured to support the first connection module in the operating state and to selectively release a locking state when the table is switched to the storage state, wherein the second connection module is housed together with the first connection module inside the console. [2] The console table device according to claim 1, wherein the second connection module comprises: a main console; an upper and a lower connecting link extending from the console and connected to the main console; a table connecting unit rotatably mounted on the main console and configured to be connected to the first connecting module to support the table in use; a first locking link unit arranged to protrude into the main console and configured to selectively rotate when pressed by the table link unit; and a second locking link unit configured to be rotated by the first locking link unit and selectively released from a locking state of the upper link when the table is moved from the use state to the storage state. [3] The console table device according to claim 2, wherein a wedge-shaped pressing member is positioned in contact with the second locking connection unit, and wherein the first locking connection unit allows the second locking connection unit to be selectively rotated when rotating by a shape of the pressing member. [4] The console table device according to claim 3, wherein the first locking connection unit is coupled to the main console together with an elastic member such that an elastic restoring force acts to return the first locking connection unit to an initial position. [5] The console table device according to claim 2, wherein the second locking link unit is positioned in the use state by being locked to the upper link by a pair of locking elements whose shapes correspond to a pair of locking grooves of the upper link. [6] The console table device according to claim 5, wherein the second locking connection unit is coupled to the main console together with an elastic member such that an elastic restoring force acts to return the first locking connection unit to an initial position. [7] The console table device according to claim 5, wherein the second locking link unit has a detent step between the pair of locking members at which the first locking link unit is positioned to be rotated by pressing the first locking link unit. [8] The console table device according to claim 5, wherein the pair of locking members are formed to be inclined downward from a loading direction of the table and are positioned by being locked into the pair of locking grooves, respectively. [9] The console table device according to claim 1, wherein the first connection module comprises: a rail guide connected to the table to form a sliding motion path; a rail connection unit connected to the second connection module and configured to slide along the rail guide when the table is switched to the storage state; and a button unit arranged collinearly with the rail connecting unit to maintain a contact state, and configured to block a part of the sliding movement path of the rail connecting unit to fix the table in the use state. [10] The console table device according to claim 9, wherein the button unit is rotatably mounted on the table and is configured to release the contact state such that the table can be switched to the storage state by pressing the button unit when rotating to extend the sliding movement path. [11] The console table device according to claim 10, wherein the key unit is coupled to the table together with an elastic member such that an elastic restoring force acts to return the key unit to an initial position of the contact state. [12] The console table device according to claim 10, wherein the extended sliding movement path extends along a space formed between the key unit and the table when the key unit is rotated by pressing. [13] The console table device according to claim 12, wherein the key unit extends the sliding movement path and has a movement guide configured to limit the movement in the space.

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