Control panel arrangement for a motor vehicle and motor vehicle

Abstract

Control panel arrangement (2) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a control panel (4) with a first connection interface (8) and a center console (5) with a second connection interface (9), wherein both connection interfaces (8, 9) can be coupled to each other for fastening the center console (5) to the control panel (4), characterized in that the two connection interfaces (8, 9) are designed such that the center console (5) can be fastened in at least two mounting positions with different orientations relative to the control panel (4) and cantilevered from the control panel (4), wherein the center console (5) has at least one control element (14) of a first control element type on a top surface (11) and has at least one control element (15) of a second control element type on a bottom surface (13) opposite the top surface (11), wherein the first control element type differs from the second control element type.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a control panel arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising a control panel with a first connection interface and a center console with a second connection interface, wherein both connection interfaces can be coupled to each other for attaching the center console to the control panel. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.

[0002] Motor vehicles typically feature a center console between the driver and front passenger, and various center console designs are known in the prior art. These usually extend upwards from the floor of the vehicle cabin, roughly to the height of the seat cushions, and lengthwise from the dashboard, approximately to behind the front seats. The dashboard is also frequently referred to as the instrument panel.

[0003] Customizability is playing an increasingly important role in the interior of a motor vehicle. A high degree of customizability allows the driver to tailor the interior to their preferences, thereby improving, at least subjectively, driving comfort and / or ease of use. Customizability is particularly important with regard to the center console, as the driver typically uses it regularly to operate the vehicle. It is also located, at least indirectly, within the driver's field of vision and can, for example, be used as an armrest.

[0004] In the prior art, center consoles are known as vehicle components that allow no or only very limited customization. US Patent 7,111,883 B1, for example, discloses a two-part center console design with a first console part that is fixed to the vehicle and a second console part that is rotatably mounted on the first console part. The latter can thus be rotated about the vehicle's longitudinal axis. Furthermore, US Patent 2008 / 0150307 A1 discloses a center console that is pivotally mounted to a dashboard. It can be pivoted within a limited range about a vertical axis of the vehicle and thus oriented differently.

[0005] Center consoles typically have a fixed shape and appearance. Customization to suit individual driver preferences, which can change over time, especially for different drivers, is either not possible or only possible to a very limited extent.

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a concept for improved individualizability of a center console for a motor vehicle.

[0007] To solve this problem, in a switchboard arrangement of the type mentioned at the outset, the invention provides that the two connection interfaces are designed such that the center console can be mounted in at least two mounting positions with different orientations relative to the switchboard and cantilevered from the switchboard, wherein the center console has at least one control element of a first control element type on a top side and at least one control element of a second control element type on a bottom side opposite the top side, wherein the first control element type differs from the second control element type.

[0008] According to the invention, the connection interfaces allow for a change in the mounting position and thus a change in the orientation of the center console relative to the dashboard. This makes it possible to reproduce different center console variants and improves customizability. By changing the mounting position of the center console, a variety of variants can be generated without having to modify the design of the center console itself. Therefore, one center console is sufficient to reproduce several center console variants by reorienting it relative to the dashboard. This is advantageous because it reduces the number of manufacturing tools, documentation, part numbers, etc., required to produce multiple center console variants or equipment variants, which in particular results in a reduction in machine costs, production space, and logistics effort.

[0009] A specific advantage of the control panel arrangement according to the invention is that changing the mounting position of the center console also changes the position of the controls of the first and second control element types. Thus, by changing the mounting position, the control element type of a control element provided at a specific position can be adapted. This leads to a further improvement in the customizability of the center console.

[0010] The controls may be designed to operate the vehicle, a multimedia system, or any other system of the vehicle. They may include, for example, rotary knobs, touch displays, buttons, levers, or the like.

[0011] The control element type refers to one or more properties of the respective control element. For example, it can refer to the size, shape, and / or color of the control element. Additionally or alternatively, it can refer to the action required to operate the control element. For instance, the control element type might specify that the control element is a capacitive or inductive touch panel, allowing user input by mere touch or even without touching. It is also conceivable that the control element type specifies that the control element(s) are switches that must be flipped or pressed for operation. Furthermore, the control element type can specify that the control element(s) are sliders or rotary knobs that must be moved or turned for operation.

[0012] Since at least one control element on the top and at least one control element on the bottom of the center console differ in their type, changing the mounting position of the center console can alter the way it can be operated. For an operator or driver of a motor vehicle, only certain controls, such as those on the top of the center console, are typically accessible in any given mounting position. If the mounting position of the center console is changed, the control element(s) accessible to the operator, and thus their type, can also change. Consequently, the way the center console is operated and / or its visual appearance can be altered.

[0013] The controls of different types can differ significantly not only in the type of user action required for operation, but also in the range of functions they offer. In this context, "range of functions" refers to the number of possible, different user inputs that can be made by the respective control. While a switch typically only allows for turning something on and off, a rotary or slider control can allow for intermediate settings. This becomes particularly clear when comparing a switch with a touchscreen. The latter can offer a far greater range of functions than a switch. Therefore, the range of functions offered by at least one control on the top side can exceed or fall short of that offered by at least one control on the bottom side.Since the controls are used, i.e., operated, or remain unused by a driver depending on their position, changing the mounting position of the center console can also expand or reduce the range of functions offered by the center console.

[0014] Preferably, the range of functions offered by all controls on the top of the center console corresponds to the range of functions offered by all controls on the underside of the center console. All controls on the top and all controls on the underside thus preferably provide identical functionality, even though they differ in their type. The operator can therefore make the same inputs with the at least one control on the top as with the at least one control on the underside. This ensures that the center console allows all necessary actions and inputs for operation even when rotated by 180° relative to the dashboard.

[0015] Preferably, the center console can be mounted to the dashboard in a first mounting position such that its upper surface is oriented upwards, and in a second mounting position such that its underside is oriented upwards. The center console can therefore be rotated by 180° relative to the dashboard in both the first and second mounting positions. Depending on the mounting position, either the upper or lower surface of the center console can be oriented upwards, thus making it accessible to the driver, for example, in a motor vehicle. This is particularly advantageous because, in motor vehicles, the driver typically uses only, or at least predominantly, the controls on the side of the center console oriented upwards. The upward orientation can be understood, for example, as the vehicle's vertical orientation.

[0016] In one example, the top of the center console could feature a touchscreen as its control element, while the underside could consist solely of switches. In the first mounting position, the touchscreen is oriented upwards, while in the second mounting position, the switches are oriented upwards. If the driver prefers touch controls, they can install the center console in the first mounting position. Otherwise, they can install it in the second mounting position if they prefer switches. The driver can therefore mount the center console so that the control element(s) of their preferred type are located on the side of the console oriented upwards. Overall, this results in significantly improved user comfort, as the driver can configure the preferred method of operation.

[0017] It is therefore also preferred that the connection interfaces of the dashboard and the center console are designed in such a way that the mounting position of the center console can be changed by the driver, allowing them to adjust the type of control themselves. This eliminates, for example, the need for workshop visits to change the mounting position of the center console.

[0018] Furthermore, the connection interfaces are preferably mechanical interfaces that enable a particularly secure and stable attachment of the center console to the dashboard. When attached, the center console is preferably fixed immovably to the dashboard. In particular, the center console must be sufficiently stable to be able to be used as an armrest in its various mounting positions. It is conceivable that both connection interfaces can be reversibly coupled, especially non-destructively, so that the center console, once mounted on the dashboard, can be removed from the dashboard again without damage. The connection interfaces can also be designed in such a way that the mounting position of the center console can be changed without completely removing it from the dashboard.

[0019] As mentioned at the beginning, the center console can also be attached to the dashboard in such a way that, in the respective mounting position, it cantilevers out from the dashboard. If the dashboard arrangement is therefore intended for use in a motor vehicle, for example, this has the further advantage that the cantilevered mounting of the center console increases the freedom of movement for the driver or front passenger, because the center console no longer extends to the floor of the vehicle's interior.

[0020] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the center console has at least one fastening element on both its upper and lower surfaces, in or on which at least one control element, in particular a switch or a rotary knob, is attached or can be attached. Each control element can thus be attached to the center console on its upper or lower surface by means of a fastening element. The fastening elements can be understood as a type of connector or receptacle in or on which at least one of the control elements is attached. Control elements of different types can be attached to the center console using these fastening elements. The fastening elements are preferably designed to securely fix the respective control element(s) to the center console.They can be positioned so that they—and ultimately, of course, the control element(s) attached to them—are ideally positioned either to the left or right of the center console, depending on its mounting position. The fasteners on the top and bottom can be positioned so that a change in the center console's mounting position results in a repositioning of at least one fastener, and thus of any control element attached to it, on the upward-facing side of the center console. Advantageously, the controls can be easily attached to or within the respective fastener, for example, by inserting, pressing, and / or snapping them into place. Screwing them in is also conceivable. This allows an installer to easily equip the center console with the desired controls.

[0021] Preferably, the center console and the dashboard have at least one electrical connection point, in particular a connector, wherein the fastening elements and / or the operating elements of the center console can be electrically connected to one or more conductors of the dashboard by connecting the electrical connection points of the center console and the dashboard. The fastening elements and the operating elements of the center console can be electrically coupled to the one or more conductors of the dashboard by means of the electrical connection points. The electrical connection points are configured for power supply and / or data transmission. The one or more conductors of the dashboard can be part of a wiring harness, in particular an on-board electrical system, of the motor vehicle.

[0022] The electrical connection points can coincide with the connection interfaces of the center console and the instrument panel. For example, the electrical connection point of the center console can be a cable with a connector protruding from the center console and electrically connectable to one or more conductors inside the instrument panel. Alternatively, the electrical connection points can be designed so that the coupling of the connection interfaces itself creates the electrical connection. For this purpose, they can, for example, be designed as spring contacts at the first and second connection interfaces, so that they automatically make contact with each other when the connection interfaces are coupled.

[0023] Preferably, the fastening elements are already electrically connected to one or more conductors of the control panel by connecting the electrical connection points of the center console and the instrument panel. By subsequently attaching a control element to or within a fastening element, the control element can also be electrically connected to one or more conductors via the fastening element acting as a connector.

[0024] The center console can have at least one panel on its top and / or bottom, which at least partially covers the respective top or bottom surface. The at least one top panel and / or the at least one bottom panel may differ in material and / or appearance, in particular in shape and / or color. In this way, a change in the mounting position of the center console allows for a particular degree of visual variation. Depending on whether the top or bottom panel is oriented upwards, the appearance and / or feel of the center console changes because the at least one upwardly oriented panel changes.

[0025] Suitable materials for at least one of the center console panels include plastic, in particular any plastic commonly used for automotive interior trim. Wood and / or metal, especially aluminum or copper, and / or carbon fiber and / or glass are also suitable. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the center console panels can be covered with a fabric commonly used in automotive interior trim. Thus, the upper and lower surfaces of the center console can have panels with different coverings. For example, the upper surface can be covered in Alcantara, while the lower surface can be covered in leather. If the center console is used as an armrest, the feel can be adjusted by changing the mounting position.Any combination of trim materials is conceivable for the underside and top of the center console, for example a plastic trim on the top and a leather or carbon trim on the underside.

[0026] Preferably, at least one panel is provided on both the top and bottom of the center console. Alternatively, at least one panel can be provided on only one side. The center console can have one or more panels on its top and / or bottom, regardless of whether it has controls. If controls are provided on the center console, one or more panels can be attached to the top and / or bottom of the center console in such a way that they at least partially, and in particular completely, cover at least one control on the respective side. This allows unused controls, especially those on the side of the center console facing downwards, to be concealed. This can improve the visual appearance of the center console.

[0027] The at least one trim panel can be attached to the center console by at least one fastening element, which serves to attach at least one control element. Alternatively, additional fastening elements for attaching one or more trim panels can be provided on the top and / or bottom. The at least one trim panel can be attached to the center console in such a way that, when attached, it projects from the respective top or bottom surface of the center console. In a special embodiment, however, it can also be inserted into the center console as a kind of insert at the respective top or bottom surface. In this case, it does not project beyond any end face of the top or bottom surface of the center console.

[0028] Preferably, at least one trim panel can be attached to the center console in a way that is non-destructive, particularly by an operator. It can then be installed or removed as needed, especially if the mounting position of the center console is changed. This non-destructive removal allows the at least one trim panel to be easily replaced and reattached to the center console at a later time. Advantageously, no tools, or at least no special tools, are required for this, so the operator can install and remove the at least one trim panel independently.

[0029] It is conceivable that all center console trim panels are attached or can be attached to the center console by means of an easily detachable plug connection, in particular a snap connection, and / or a screw connection.

[0030] Magnetic attachment is also possible. To simplify the installation of the trim panel(s), the center console can have a geometry on its top and / or bottom that is the opposite of the geometry of the respective trim panel(s). By interlocking these geometries during installation, the trim panel can then be locked onto the center console.

[0031] To ensure the most secure attachment of the center console to the dashboard, both connection interfaces preferably have identical connection geometries that can only be interlocked in at least two mounting positions by moving the connection interfaces along a connection axis. The connection geometries are therefore preferably designed such that they interlock only in these at least two mounting positions when the connection interfaces are coupled along the connection axis. This secures the center console to the dashboard, with the connection geometries defining the orientation of the center console in the mounting positions.

[0032] The connecting elements can protrude along the connecting axis from a respective end face of the center console and / or the dashboard. Alternatively, one of the connecting elements can be a recess projecting into the center console or dashboard along the connecting axis. Both connecting elements can then be coupled together by simply sliding them along the connecting axis. The cross-sections of the connecting elements perpendicular to the connecting axis can be designed such that the center console and the dashboard can only be coupled in two or more defined orientations relative to each other. Various configurations are conceivable in this regard.

[0033] For example, one of the connection interfaces can have a groove as its connection geometry, and the other connection interface can have a corresponding tongue as its connection geometry. The two connection geometries then complement each other to form a tongue-and-groove connection, by means of which the center console can be attached to the dashboard. The center console can be attached by sliding the two connection geometries together along the connection axis. For ease of manufacturing, the groove and tongue can have a rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the connection axis. The cross-section of the groove and tongue can vary along the connection axis, so that the tongue cross-section can, for example, have a wedge shape and the groove cross-section a funnel shape. This facilitates the joining of the two connection interfaces.

[0034] It is also conceivable that one of the connection interfaces has two projections extending along the connection axis, and the other connection interface has at least one corresponding receptacle for the projections. A connection geometry can have one or more projections that extend axially, particularly in a cylindrical or cuboid shape. The at least one projection can also be a hemisphere projecting axially from the control panel or center console at the respective connection interface. At the other connection geometry, a corresponding receptacle, e.g., a bore or recess, can be provided for each projection, into which the respective projection can be inserted to couple the connection interfaces along the connection axis. Alternatively, the receptacle can also be a groove into which several projections engage after the connection interfaces have been joined.

[0035] Both the tongue-and-groove joint and the joint with two protrusions represent simple and effective design options for the connection geometries. Regardless of the specific design, the connection geometries can be configured so that, after assembly, they hold together not only through positive interlocking but also through frictional engagement, for example, by means of an interference fit.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, a connection interface can have at least one locking element that engages with at least one retaining element of the other connection interface when the connection interfaces are joined. This creates an undercut when the connection interfaces are coupled, which secures the center console to the dashboard.

[0037] In a specific embodiment of the control panel arrangement according to the invention, the center console is slidably mounted on the control panel along an axle component defining the connecting axis. From the first mounting position, the center console can be moved in a first direction along the axle component by disengaging the interlocking connecting geometries. It can then be moved into the second mounting position by rotating it about the axle component and moving it along the axle component in an opposite second direction, with the connecting geometries engaging. The axle component can be mounted on the control panel or on the center console, with the other component being slidably mounted on the axle component. The axle component extends along the connecting axis and preferably has a constant circular cross-section perpendicular to the connecting axis.

[0038] When mounted, the center console can be moved along the connecting axis in the first direction, away from the dashboard, until the connecting elements no longer engage. In this released position, the center console is no longer secured to the dashboard by the connecting elements, but can be rotated around the axis component and thus around the connecting axis, for example, by an angle of 180° to the other of the two mounting positions. After reorientation, the center console can be mounted to the dashboard by moving it along the connecting axis in the second direction, back towards the dashboard. The connecting elements can then engage again in the new mounting position, so that the center console is once again secured to the dashboard. The described process, i.e., moving and reorienting, can preferably be performed independently by the operator without tools or without special tools.

[0039] A further development preferably incorporates a spring element which, at least when the center console is moved along the axle component in the first direction, generates a restoring force on the center console directed towards the dashboard. Both connection interfaces can each have a shoulder oriented perpendicular to the connection axis, against which the spring element can rest. The spring element can, for example, comprise at least one ring spring and / or at least one coil spring and / or at least one disc spring. If the spring element is provided, the center console must, when moving along the axle component in the first direction against the restoring force, be moved away from the dashboard into the release position. After reorientation, the center console can move back along the axle component in the second direction on its own due to the restoring force of the spring element, essentially snapping back into place.Preferably, the restoring force is sufficiently large to prevent the center console attached to the dashboard from detaching itself, even during driving maneuvers with high driving dynamics.

[0040] To improve the stability of the mounting, the center console can be attached to the dashboard in at least two mounting positions by means of at least one fastening element, in particular a pin or a screw. Any fastening element commonly used in automotive engineering, preferably one that can be removed non-destructively and without (special) tools, is suitable. To facilitate the installation of the at least one fastening element after the connection interfaces have been coupled, a trim panel of the dashboard and / or the center console can have a recess or closable opening through which a mounting point for the at least one fastening element is accessible. Alternatively, the at least one fastening element can be covered by a subsequently installed trim panel of the center console after it has been installed.This can be one of the previously described covers that at least partially conceals the top or bottom of the center console. Preferably, at least one fastening element can be installed and removed by the operator.

[0041] In addition to the switchboard arrangement according to the invention, the invention also relates to a motor vehicle and a switchboard arrangement according to the invention.

[0042] All features and advantages of the switchboard arrangement according to the invention can be transferred to the motor vehicle according to the invention and vice versa.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the motor vehicle according to the invention, the switchboard arrangement is provided in the interior of the motor vehicle such that the center console is arranged between a driver's seat and a passenger seat of a first row of seats in the motor vehicle. This arrangement is particularly advantageous because the advantages described above for the center console are especially evident here.

[0044] As an alternative to being located between the driver's and front passenger's seats, the control panel can also be positioned at a rear or second row of seats, with the control panel being a part of the backrest of the rear seat row, particularly in the transverse direction of the vehicle, at least substantially centrally located. Alternatively, in this case, the control panel can be a mounting device located between the driver's and front passenger's seats.

[0045] Preferably, the motor vehicle has an electrical system which is partially routed into the dashboard as an electrical network, wherein the fastening means and / or the operating elements of the center console, if present, can be electrically connected to the electrical system by connecting the electrical interfaces of the center console and the dashboard.

[0046] Further advantages and details of the invention will become apparent from the following exemplary embodiment and the accompanying drawings. These schematically show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a sectional view of a motor vehicle according to the invention with a switchboard arrangement according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a side view of a further switchboard arrangement according to the invention with an axle component and a center console in the fixed state, and Fig. 3 A schematic representation of the side view of the switchboard arrangement of the Fig. 2 with the center console in a release position.

[0047] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a motor vehicle 1 according to the invention with a control panel arrangement 2 according to the invention. A schematic representation shows a cutaway side view of the motor vehicle 1, the section revealing an interior 3 of the motor vehicle 1. For better orientation, a motor vehicle coordinate system is shown, which defines a longitudinal direction 100, a vertical direction 200, and a transverse direction 300.

[0048] The control panel arrangement 2 comprises a control panel 4 and a center console 5 attached to it. It is positioned in the interior 3 of the motor vehicle 1 such that the center console 5 is located between a driver's seat 6 and a passenger seat, which is in Fig. 1 is located 300 in the transverse direction of the vehicle behind the driver's seat 6, and is arranged in a first row of seats 7 of the motor vehicle 1.

[0049] The control panel 4 has a first connection interface 8 and the center console 5 has a second connection interface 9, wherein both connection interfaces 8, 9 can be coupled to each other to connect the center console 5, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, to be firmly and securely attached to the switchboard 4.

[0050] Both connection interfaces 8, 9 are designed such that the center console 5 can be attached to the control panel 4 in two mounting positions with different orientations relative to the control panel 4. To enable this, both connection interfaces 8, 9 have identical connection geometries that can only be interlocked when the connection interfaces 8, 9 are joined in one or the other of the two mounting positions along a connection axis 10.

[0051] Specifically, both connection interfaces 8 and 9 are located in a transverse plane of the vehicle, which is in Fig. The center console 5, which is spanned by the vehicle's vertical direction 200 and its transverse direction 300, has a rectangular cross-section that is larger in the transverse direction 300 than in the vertical direction 200. The center console 5 can therefore only be attached to the control panel 5 in two mounting positions. The center console 5 is inserted into the first mounting interface 8 of the control panel 4 with the second connection interface 9 along the connection axis 10. In this first mounting position, a top surface 11 of the center console 5 is oriented upwards in a vertical direction 12, which here corresponds to the vehicle's vertical direction 200. A bottom surface 13 of the center console 5, which is opposite the top surface 11, is consequently oriented downwards in the vertical direction 12.

[0052] In addition to the one in Fig. In the first mounting position shown in Figure 1, the center console 5 can be attached to the control panel 4 in a second mounting position such that the center console 5 is oriented with its upper surface 11 facing downwards in the vertical direction 12 and with its lower surface 13 facing upwards in the vertical direction 12. Thus, in both possible mounting positions, the center console 5 can be rotated by an angle of 180° about the connecting axis 10 on the control panel 4. A change in the mounting position of the center console 5 results in a first control element 14 on the upper surface 11 and a second control element 15 on the lower surface 13, both of which serve to operate the vehicle 1, being rotated to the opposite side of the center console 5.

[0053] In both mounting positions, the center console 5 projects freely from the dashboard 4. It is therefore fixed solely by the coupling of the connection interfaces 8, 9 and is not connected to the floor of the vehicle interior 3, which increases the freedom of movement, in particular legroom, in the vehicle interior 3.

[0054] The control elements 14, 15 can be switches, levers, touch displays, or the like. They are attached to the top 11 and the bottom 13 of the center console 5 by means of respective fastening elements 16, 17, in this case connectors. Fig. 1 The control element 14 on the upper surface 11 has a first type of control element that differs from a second type of control element 15 on the lower surface 13: The control element 14 is a touch display 18 and the control element 15 is a rotary control 19, which also includes a rotary push-button control. Both control elements 14 and 15 thus differ significantly in the manner of operation they enable and in their visual appearance. The driver of the motor vehicle 1 can position the center console 5 in the mounting position in which the preferred control element 14 or 15, or the preferred type of control element, is oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12.The center console 5 can therefore be installed either in the first mounting position shown, with the touch display 18 oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12, or in the alternative second mounting position, with the rotary control 19 oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12. The center console 5 can thus be individually adjusted to the driver's preferences. It provides controls 14, 15 of different types, from which the driver of the vehicle 1 can select the controls 14, 15 they prefer.

[0055] In the example of the Fig. In this embodiment, the software of the motor vehicle 1 is configured such that both control elements 14 and 15 offer the same range of functions despite their different operating modes (touch operation for control element 14 and rotary or rotary-push operation for control element 15). Thus, regardless of whether the upper surface 11 or the lower surface 13 of the center console 5 is oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12, the driver can make the same user inputs via the control element 14 or 15 oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12. In other embodiments, however, the range of functions offered by the control element 14 on the upper surface 11 may differ from that offered by the control element 15 on the lower surface 13.

[0056] Furthermore, the control elements 14 on the upper surface 11 and the control elements 15 on the lower surface 13 can also differ in their respective control element types in other embodiments of the center console 5. In general, the control element type can relate, for example, to a shape and / or a size and / or a color and / or a material and / or an operating action required for the respective control element 14, 15. By changing the mounting position of the center console 5, which the driver of the motor vehicle 1 can preferably do himself, the center console 5 can be particularly well adapted to the wishes of the respective driver, specifically the appearance and operating method preferred by him. The individualizability can thus be significantly increased.

[0057] The interlocking connection geometries of the connection interfaces 8 and 9, when assembled, determine and fix the orientation of the center console 5 relative to the control panel 4. Fig. 1. This is achieved by means of connection geometries that form a tongue-and-groove connection. Alternatively, a connection interface 8, 9 can have as a connection geometry two projections extending along the connection axis 10, which, when the two connection interfaces 8, 9 are joined, engage in a corresponding receptacle of the other connection interfaces 8, 9.

[0058] The center console 5 of the Fig. The center console 5 is detachably attached to the control panel 4 by several additional fastening elements 20, namely a screw 21 and a nut 22. These elements allow the unblocked degree of freedom of the center console 5, namely its movement along the connecting axis 10, to be blocked. By loosening the screws, the center console 5 can be moved out of the first connecting interface 8 of the control panel 4 along the connecting axis 10. The center console 5 can then be reoriented, for example, and reattached to the control panel 4 in the second mounting position by inserting the connecting interface 9 into the connecting interface 8 of the control panel 4 and re-tightening the screws. To facilitate the installation of the fastening elements 20 after the center console 5 has been inserted into the control panel 4, the control panel 4 has an opening 23 that provides access to the location where the fastening elements 20 are to be installed.Once the part is securely fastened, opening 23 can be closed again. Repositioning the center console 5 is therefore easily accomplished even by a layperson without specialized knowledge or tools.

[0059] Alternatively to the one in Fig. In the screwed fixing of the center console 5 to the control panel 4 described in section 1, one of the connection interfaces 8, 9 can have a locking element that engages with at least one retaining element of the other connection interface 8, 9 when the two connection interfaces 8, 9 are joined. This can preferably occur automatically when the two connection interfaces 8, 9 are joined, for example, when connection interface 9 of the center console 5 is inserted along the connection axis 10 into connection interface 8 of the control panel 4. Alternatively, instead of screws, both connection interfaces 8, 9 can be additionally fixed or fixable to each other by at least one clip, for example, an expansion clip, to prevent movement of the center console 5 along the connection axis 10.

[0060] Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows, using a second embodiment of a control panel arrangement 2 according to the invention, how the individualizability can be increased by an alternative design of the center console 5 and its coupling to the control panel 4. This control panel arrangement 2 can also be used, like the control panel arrangement 2 of the Fig. 1, provided in a motor vehicle 1. Also in the embodiment of the Fig. 2 and Fig. In both possible mounting positions, the center console 5 cantilevers freely from the control panel 4 and is fixed solely by the coupling of the connection interfaces 8, 9. It can be, as in the example of the Fig. 1, in two mounting positions in which the center console 5 is rotated 180° around the connecting axis 10, is attached to the switchboard 4.

[0061] Fig. Figure 2 shows the center console 5 in the first mounting position, in which the top 11 is oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12. Fig. Figure 3 shows the center console 5 in a release position during the change of the mounting position. In the release position shown, the center console 5 is rotated by an angle of 180° about the connecting axis 10 relative to the first mounting position (see arrow 38), so that the top 11 is oriented downwards in the vertical direction 12.

[0062] Controls 14 and 15 on the center console are identical to those of the Fig. 1 and feature 11 different types of controls on the top and 13 on the bottom. Additionally, the center console has 5 in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. A cover 24 is located on the upper side 11 and a cover 25 on the lower side 13. Both covers 24 and 25 at least partially conceal their respective sides of the center console 5. In alternative versions, the covers 24 and 25 can also partially or completely conceal one or more control elements 14 and 15. They can therefore also be provided to conceal unused control elements 14 and 15, for example, on the side of the center console 5 oriented downwards in the upward direction 12.

[0063] The trim panels 24, 25 increase the individualizability of the center console 5 compared to the embodiment of the Fig. 1. This is further enhanced. The upper panel 24 11 differs in size, shape, color, material, and position—specifically, its distance relative to an end face 39 of the center console 5 opposite the control panel 4—from the lower panel 13 panel 25. In this case, panel 24 is a soft fabric covering, e.g., made of gray Alcantara, while panel 25 is, e.g., a glossy carbon fiber part. Analogous to the control elements 14, 15, an operator can also change the panel 24, 25, which is oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12, by changing the mounting position of the center console 5. This leads to a more significant change in the appearance of the center console 5 and thus to even greater individualizability. Furthermore, the feel of the center console 5 can be altered.In this case, for example, the trim panel 24 in the form of the fabric cover provides a more comfortable armrest than the carbon trim panel 25. If the operator wishes to use the center console 5 as an armrest, for example, they can do so in the first mounting position (see . Fig. 2) provide such that the cladding 24 is oriented upwards in the vertical direction 12.

[0064] The trim panels 24 and 25 are attached to the respective upper surface 11 or lower surface 13 of the center console 5 by means of additional fasteners (not shown). The attachment is positive-locking via clip connections. It is designed such that both trim panels 24 and 25 can be removed from the center console 5 without damage. The operator can install or remove the trim panels 24 and 25 from the center console 5 at will and without tools. In addition to changing the design of the center console 5 by altering the mounting position, the operator can also replace the trim panels 24 and 25 with alternative trim panels, such as aftermarket parts. In alternative configurations, the trim panels 24 and 25 can be attached by existing or unused fasteners 16 and 17, which are already provided on the center console 5 for attaching the control elements 14 and 15.

[0065] In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. The panels 24, 25 protrude from the respective front faces of the center console 5. Alternatively, they can also be provided or installed in the center console 5 in such a way that they are flush with the respective front faces of the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 13 of the center console 5. Furthermore, several panels 24, 25 can be provided on the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 13 to further customize the appearance of the center console 5.

[0066] As mentioned, it differs in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 also the connection of the center console 5 to the control panel 4. The center console 5 is slidably attached to the control panel 4 along an axle component 26 that defines the connecting axis 10. The axle component 26 comprises a hollow shaft section 27 to which a disc 28 is fixed at one end and extends along the connecting axis 10. This allows the mounting position of the center console 5 to be changed without completely detaching the center console 5 from the control panel 4, making it particularly easy for the operator to adjust the mounting position of the center console 5.

[0067] In Fig. In the first mounting position, the center console 5 is attached to the control panel 4. The connecting geometries 8 and 9, with rectangular cross-sections, interlock along the connecting axis 10. Rotation of the center console 5 about the connecting axis 10 is blocked by the control panel 4 due to the interlocking connecting geometries 8 and 9. A spring 29 presses the center console 5 against the control panel 4 along the connecting axis 10. One end of the spring 29 rests against the disc 28 of the axle component 26, and the other end rests against an inner shoulder 30 of the control panel 4. The spring 29 exerts a restoring force on the center console 5, directed towards the control panel 4.

[0068] Based on the one in Fig. In the state shown in Figure 2, the center console 5 can be moved away from the control panel 4 in a first direction 31 along the connecting axis 10. This movement occurs against the restoring force and under compression of the spring 29. The center console 5 can be moved in the first direction 31 until it is in a release position in which the connecting geometries of the connecting interfaces 8, 9 no longer engage. This state is shown in Figure 2. Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. Since the axle component 26 has a circular cross-section perpendicular to the connecting axis 10, the center console 5 is freely rotatable about the connecting axis 10 in the release position (see arrow 38). By rotating it about the connecting axis 10 and moving it along the connecting axis 10 in a second direction 32 opposite to the first direction 31, the center console 5 can be moved into the second mounting position. Before moving it in the second direction 32, the center console 5 can be oriented by rotation so that the connection geometries of the connection interfaces 8, 9 re-engage when the center console 5 is moved back in the second direction 31. This return movement is supported by the restoring force of the spring 29 acting on the center console 5.

[0069] In the event that the restoring force of the spring 29 is insufficient to securely fasten the center console 5 to the control panel 4 in the mounting positions, one or more additional fastening elements 20, such as screws, bolts, or clips, may also be provided in this embodiment of the control panel arrangement 2. These may be concealed by one or more covers 24, 25 after the center console has been mounted.

[0070] Overall, show Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 thus a particularly practical embodiment of the switchboard arrangement 2 according to the invention, in which the change of the mounting position of the center console 5 is particularly easy and in which the center console allows a particularly strong degree of individualization (optical as well as technical) due to the different trims 24, 25 and operating elements 14, 15.

[0071] In both embodiments, the center console 5 and the control panel 4 each have an electrical connection point 33, in this case a connector 34. By connecting the electrical connection point 33 as shown in the figures, the fastening elements 16, 17, i.e., the plugs, as well as the electrical controls 14, 15 connected to them, are electrically connected to a conductor 35 of the control panel 4. Fig. 1. Conductor 35 is part of a wiring harness 36 of the motor vehicle 1. The connector 34 of the center console 5 is led out of the center console 5 at its end and connected to the connector 34 of the control panel 4 in the instrument panel 4. In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 2 and Fig.3 the connector 34 of the center console 5 is passed through the hollow shaft section 27 and the disc 28 of the axle component 26, so that the electrical conductor is not damaged when the center console 5 is rotated about the connecting axis 10.

Claims

[1] Control panel arrangement (2) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a control panel (4) with a first connection interface (8) and a center console (5) with a second connection interface (9), wherein both connection interfaces (8, 9) can be coupled to each other for fastening the center console (5) to the control panel (4), characterized by , that the two connection interfaces (8, 9) are designed such that the center console (5) can be mounted in at least two mounting positions with different orientations relative to the control panel (4) and cantilevered from the control panel (4), wherein the center console (5) has at least one control element (14) of a first control element type on a top surface (11) and has at least one control element (15) of a second control element type on a bottom surface (13) opposite the top surface (11), wherein the first control element type differs from the second control element type. [2] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the center console (5) can be attached to the dashboard (4) in a first mounting position such that the top (11) of the center console (5) is oriented upwards in a vertical direction (12), and that the center console (5) can be attached to the dashboard (4) in a second mounting position such that the bottom (13) of the center console (5) is oriented upwards in a vertical direction (12). [3] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the center console (5) has at least one fastening means (16, 17) on the upper surface (11) and the lower surface (13), in or on which at least one control element (14, 15), in particular a switch or a rotary control, is attached or can be attached. [4] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the range of controls offered by all the controls (14) on the top (11) of the center console (5) corresponds to the range of controls offered by all the controls (15) on the bottom (13) of the center console (5). [5] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the center console (5) and the switchboard (4) each have at least one electrical connection point (33), in particular a connector (34), wherein the fastening means (16, 17) and / or the operating elements (14, 15) of the center console (5) can be electrically connected to one or more conductors (35) of the switchboard (4) by connecting the electrical connection points (33) of the center console (5) and the switchboard (4). [6] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the center console (5) has at least one covering (24, 25) on the upper surface (11) and / or the lower surface (13) each, which at least partially covers the respective upper surface (11) or lower surface (13) to the outside, wherein the at least one covering (24) of the upper surface (11) and / or the at least one covering (25) of the lower surface (13) differ in material and / or appearance, in particular shape and / or color. [7] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to claim 6, characterized by , that at least one cover (24, 25) can be attached to the center console (5) in a way that is non-destructive, in particular by an operator. [8] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that both connection interfaces (8, 9) have identical connection geometries which can only be interlocked when joining the connection interfaces (8, 9) in at least two assembly positions by moving the connection interfaces (8, 9) along a connection axis (10). [9] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to claim 8, characterized by , that one of the connection interfaces (8, 9) has a groove as its connection geometry and the other connection interface (8, 9) has a opposite spring as its connection geometry, or that one of the connection interfaces (8, 9) has two projections extending along the connection axis (10) as its connection geometry and the other connection interface (8, 9) has at least one opposite receptacle for the projections as its connection geometry. [10] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a connection interface (8, 9) has at least one locking element which locks into place when the two connection interfaces (8, 9) are joined with at least one retaining element of the other connection point (8, 9). [11] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by , that the center console (5) can be slidably attached to the switchboard (4) along an axle component (26) defining the connecting axis (10), wherein the center console (5) can be moved from the first mounting position in a first direction (31) by releasing the interlocking connecting geometries along the axle component (26) and can be brought into the second mounting position by rotating about the axle component (26) and moving along the axle component in an opposite second direction (32) by engaging the connecting geometries. [12] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to claim 11, characterized by, that a spring means (29) is provided which, at least when the center console (5) is moved along the axle component (26) in the first direction (31), builds up a restoring force on the center console (5) directed towards the switchboard (4). [13] Switchboard arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the center console (5) can be attached to the dashboard (4) in at least two mounting positions by means of at least one fastening element (20), in particular a pin or a screw (21). [14] Motor vehicle (1) comprising a switchboard arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims. [15] Motor vehicle (1) according to one of claim 14, characterized by , that the switchboard arrangement (2) is provided in an interior (3) of the motor vehicle (1) such that the center console (5) is arranged between a driver's seat (6) and a passenger seat of a first row of seats (7) of the motor vehicle (1).

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