Interior system for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an interior system (10) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a center console base (11) that is stationary with respect to a vehicle body (2) and a storage element (15) which is connected to the center console base (11) in an armrest position and supported on a primary support device (12) thereof, wherein an upper surface (15.1) of the storage element (15) forms an armrest (16). In order to enable more flexible use of interior components of a motor vehicle with regard to journey interruptions, the invention provides that the storage element (15) can be removed from the armrest position by detaching it from the center console base (11) and can be arranged, or is arranged, in at least one further position in which it is supported on a secondary support device (13) of the interior system (10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an interior system for a motor vehicle, comprising the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Motor vehicles, such as cars, are used for various purposes, including leisure trips, where the occupant(s) may spend some time at their destination. Depending on the circumstances, there may be a desire to sit inside or outside the vehicle and, for example, have a picnic. In principle, it is possible to sit on the ground with a blanket. However, this is not always desirable, for example, due to the condition of the ground or the physical condition of the occupant. For such cases, it is known in the prior art that the seats of a front row can be rotated 180° so that they face the seats of the row behind them. In this way, several people can sit facing each other inside the vehicle, similar to sitting at a dining table.However, this requires a complex modification of the front seat base to enable swivel functionality. Furthermore, this solution is only suitable for certain vehicle types, such as minivans. It offers no advantage for a single passenger, nor for those who wish to sit outside the vehicle. These individuals can still bring camping chairs and / or tables inside the vehicle. However, this takes up considerable storage space. Therefore, this solution is not suitable for spontaneous trips, as such camping furniture is typically only taken along for a specific purpose.

[0003] US 11,541,819 B2 discloses a vehicle center console assembly comprising a vehicle body structure with a passenger compartment floor including a front seat assembly and a pair of second-row seats, the floor having at least one hook receptacle. A center console is detachably attached to the floor between the pair of second-row seats, the center console having a manually operated locking mechanism. In a release orientation, the center console is detached from the floor and can be moved away from its installed position and out of the vehicle. A floor surface of the center console has at least one hook dimensioned to be manually inserted into and removed from the at least one hook receptacle.

[0004] Given the current state of the art, the flexible usability of interior components of a motor vehicle with regard to journey interruptions still offers room for improvement.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of enabling more flexible use of interior components of a motor vehicle with regard to journey interruptions.

[0006] According to the invention, the problem is solved by an interior system with the features of claim 1, wherein the dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0007] It should be noted that the features and measures listed individually in the following description can be combined in any technically feasible manner and demonstrate further embodiments of the invention. The description further characterizes and specifies the invention, particularly in conjunction with the figures.

[0008] The invention provides an interior system for a motor vehicle. The term "motor vehicle" in this context refers specifically to a road vehicle, i.e., a vehicle suitable and approved for road use. In particular, this can be a passenger car, a truck, or a bus. There are no restrictions regarding the propulsion system of the motor vehicle; it can, for example, be powered by an internal combustion engine using gasoline, diesel, LPG, hydrogen, or another gas as fuel. Alternatively or additionally, an electric motor can be provided, which can be supplied with energy, for example, by a battery unit and / or a fuel cell. Preferably, the motor vehicle has at least two axles, each with two wheels; however, deviations from this are also conceivable.The term "interior system" refers to a system comprising at least two components that is designed for and assigned to the interior of the motor vehicle. The interior can also be called the passenger compartment and is the area intended for occupants within the vehicle. However, as explained below, parts of the interior system can also be used outside the interior.

[0009] The interior system features a center console base that is stationary relative to the vehicle body. The vehicle body preferably corresponds to the sprung mass of the motor vehicle and may comprise a body and / or a chassis. The center console base is stationary relative to the vehicle body and can be considered part of it. In particular, it may be part of the body. When installed, it is preferably positioned between two vehicle seats along the vehicle's transverse axis, for example, between a driver's seat and a passenger seat. However, it may also extend beyond the area of ​​the vehicle seats at the front and / or rear along the vehicle's longitudinal axis. In particular, it may extend into the area of ​​the dashboard at the front. The center console base may incorporate parts of an interior trim panel. Various display or control elements may be arranged on it.The base of the center console may also have inlets and / or outlets for a ventilation or air conditioning system.

[0010] Furthermore, the interior system includes a storage element which, in an armrest position, is connected to the center console base and supported by a primary support element of the same, with the upper surface of the storage element forming an armrest. The storage element can also be referred to as an armrest element, backrest element, or armrest element. In the armrest position, it is connected to the center console base. Preferably, it is locked to the center console base in this position, meaning that, apart from possible elastic deformation, the storage element does not move relative to the center console base. The center console base has a primary support element designed to support the storage element when it is in the armrest position.The support means that both forces and torques acting on the storage element are transmitted via the primary support structure to the center console base and thus to the vehicle body. The connection to the center console base can also be at least partially via the primary support structure. In the armrest position, the upper surface of the storage element forms an armrest. This means that a vehicle occupant can rest at least part of their arm, e.g., their forearm, on the upper surface. Advantageously, but not necessarily, the upper surface has a padded element to increase comfort. Apart from possible padding of the upper surface, the storage element is preferably made of a material with high rigidity to ensure effective arm support.The upper surface forms the armrest, which explicitly includes the possibility that parts of the upper surface may not belong to the armrest, or may not belong exclusively to it. For example, the storage element may include at least one storage compartment, a cup holder, or similar feature, which are also accessible from the upper surface. In the armrest position, the storage element, together with the center console base, can be considered part of the center console.

[0011] According to the invention, the storage element can be removed from the armrest position by detaching it from the center console base and can be arranged in at least one further position, or is arranged in such a position in which it is supported by a secondary support device of the interior system. That is, the storage element is detachably connected to the center console base in the armrest position. Preferably, it can be detached from the center console base without tools. That is, a user preferably does not need any tools to detach the storage element. For example, a locking mechanism can be provided that can be manually unlocked or is unlocked. For example, an elastically deflectable locking element could be provided that establishes a connection in the armrest position and that can be deflected by the user, after which the storage element can be removed from the center console base.According to the invention, the storage element thus designed can be arranged in at least one further position in which it is supported by a secondary support device of the interior system. The interior system can have one or more secondary support devices, wherein, in the case of multiple secondary support devices, the storage element can be selectively supported by exactly one secondary support device. Each secondary support device is different from the primary support device. It is designed such that, in the further position, forces and torques acting on the storage element can be absorbed and transmitted via the secondary support device. That is, the storage element can also be used in this further position, in particular to support a load itself.However, embodiments are also conceivable in which the storage element in the further position predominantly or exclusively bears its own weight, which is absorbed via the secondary support device.

[0012] The option to support the armrest in the wider position provides at least one additional use for the storage element. It can be used flexibly, with the armrest position being advantageous during normal vehicle operation. The wider position, with its additional usage option, can be particularly beneficial when the vehicle is parked for a period of time and the user may not need the armrest. Further advantages of using the armrest in this wider position are explained below.

[0013] Advantageously, the storage element has a storage connection section arranged offset from the armrest, and the primary support device has a base connection section with which the storage connection section engages positively in the armrest position. Positive locking, as used in the invention, means that the connecting parts can be separated from each other in a way that prevents damage. The base connection section is part of the center console base. The two connection sections engage positively with each other, preferably locking the two connection sections and thus locking the storage element to the center console base. In this embodiment, the storage element can be supported on the base connection section via the storage connection section. The two connection sections can be plugged together along a single direction.In particular, one of the two connecting sections can be adjustable within the other connecting section. One of the two connecting sections can be equipped with an elastically deflectable locking element that engages in a recess on the other connecting section, thus creating a positive connection in the direction of the insertion axis. The storage-connecting section is offset from the armrest; that is, it does not extend to the armrest. For example, it can be horizontally offset from the armrest position.

[0014] One embodiment provides that the storage element in the armrest position is at least partially separated from the center console base, thus creating a storage space. This storage space is located between the storage element and the center console base. Depending on its size and shape, it can be used for various purposes. Advantageously, the interior system can include a container that can be placed or is already located within this storage space and can be removed from it as needed. The storage space is advantageously accessible while the storage element is in the armrest position.

[0015] Advantageously, at least one secondary support device is formed on the vehicle body and configured to support the storage element in an upright position in which the upper surface is inclined more steeply relative to the horizontal than in the armrest position. In this case, the aforementioned additional position is the upright position. The "horizontal" in this context refers to the horizontal plane defined by the longitudinal and transverse axes of the vehicle. In the armrest position, the upper surface can be parallel to the horizontal, or it may have a slight inclination of, for example, a maximum of 20° to the horizontal. In the upright position, the upper surface is inclined more steeply, for example, at least 45° or at least 60°. This also includes embodiments in which the upper surface is inclined at more than 90° to the horizontal, for example, at 110°. In this case, the upper surface is oriented slightly downwards.Geometrically and mathematically, one can say that a surface vector associated with the top side runs downwards. Due to the altered inclination in the upright position, the top side is not usable, or only with difficulty, as a surface on which, for example, an object can be placed. However, other uses arise, which are explained below.

[0016] A preferred embodiment provides that the upper surface forms a backrest in the upright position, while an area adjacent to a secondary support structure forms a seat. In this embodiment, the upper surface can be inclined, for example, by 60° to 90° to the horizontal, although other inclinations are also conceivable. The storage element is arranged so that the upper surface can be used as a backrest. An area of ​​the vehicle body adjacent to the secondary support structure forms a seat. That is, an area of ​​sufficient size and with a suitable surface profile is formed adjacent to the secondary support structure, which can be used by a user as a seat while their back rests against the backrest. This results in an additional seat within the vehicle; one could also say, an auxiliary seat. Due to the size of the storage element, the auxiliary seat may only be suitable for a child.In particular, the additional seat can be designed on a loading platform. This allows a person to sit on the loading platform with the tailgate open, their back supported by the surface of the storage element. Advantageously, the secondary support device has a floor-connecting section formed on the vehicle floor, which engages positively with the storage-connecting section in the erection position. The floor-connecting section can be designed similarly to the basic connecting section; that is, the shape of both sections can be adapted to the shape of the storage-connecting section. The floor-connecting section can be located on the rear of the loading platform. Multiple such floor-connecting sections can also be provided, allowing the storage element to be arranged in different positions to create various additional seats.

[0017] One embodiment provides that at least one secondary support device has at least one leg element connected to the storage element, which is adjustable between a stowed position in which it rests against the storage element and a support position in which it projects from an underside of the storage element to rest against a surface with a foot section. That is, the secondary support device is connected to the storage element and forms a seat or table unit with it. When the storage element, together with the secondary support device, is detached from the center console base, the storage element can form a seat or a tabletop, with the at least one leg element supporting the seat or tabletop against the surface. Due to the typical dimensions of the storage element, the resulting seat or table may be relatively small, but can nevertheless be used effectively.The user will typically set up the seat or table outside the vehicle. Of course, if space permits, use inside the vehicle is also possible. At least one leg element is adjustable, which can include both translational and rotational adjustability. Multiple leg elements can be provided, adjustable relative to the support element and to each other. For example, two leg elements can be pivotally connected to each other, similar to a scissor chair. Each leg element has a foot section designed to rest on the ground and support the leg element. This foot section forms a base for the table or seat. This applies when the leg element is in the support position, projecting from the underside of the support element opposite its top surface.In the stowed position, the respective leg element lies flat against the underside in a space-saving manner.

[0018] In some embodiments, the storage element can consist of a single piece or comprise multiple pieces that are permanently connected. In another embodiment, the storage element has a base and a removable cushion element, arranged on top of a padded area of ​​the base and forming at least a portion of the armrest. This cushion element allows the padded area to be used as a storage surface. This embodiment can be particularly advantageous if the storage element is to be used as a table. In this case, the cushion element is rather cumbersome. This design therefore allows the cushion element to be removed, making the underlying padded area usable. The removable connection between the cushion element and the base can be implemented in various ways, for example, by a plug connection, a snap-fit ​​connection, or a magnetic connection.The fasteners should be chosen to minimize their impact on the surface of the upholstery area.

[0019] To position the storage element in the further position, it must first be detached from the center console base. However, this does not preclude it from also being attached to the center console base in the further position. Thus, within the scope of the invention, it is possible for the storage element to first be detached from the center console base and then reattached to it in a different position. According to a corresponding embodiment, at least one secondary support device is formed on the center console base and configured to support the storage element in the upright position. This means the storage element can be supported on the center console base either (by means of the primary support device) in the armrest position or (by means of the secondary support device) in the upright position. Even with this embodiment, it would be conceivable for the upper surface of the storage element to form a backrest.However, due to the spatial conditions in the area of ​​the center console base, other uses may be more suitable, which are explained below.

[0020] One embodiment provides that a table element is pivotably connected to the storage element. In its initial position, the table element is arranged with its surface adjacent to the underside of the storage element. It can be pivoted into an extended position, in which both the table surface and the underside of the storage element are accessible. The table element is preferably flat and plate-shaped. It has a surface that can be used as a storage area for various objects such as dishes, cutlery, food, stationery, etc. It is pivotally connected to the storage base. In its initial position, it is pivoted against the storage element, with its table surface adjacent to the storage element. It can, in particular, rest against the underside of the storage element. In this position, neither the table surface nor the underside of the storage element is accessible.In the swivel position, however, the table element is swung away from the underside, so that both the table surface and the underside are accessible. This embodiment can be usefully combined with the aforementioned embodiment. The position of the storage element and the swivel position of the table element can be coordinated so that the table surface is at least approximately horizontal in the swivel position.

[0021] Particularly when a table element is present, but not exclusively, it is advantageous if the underside of the storage element has at least one holding device for an object. This holding device could be, for example, a storage compartment, a pocket, a loop, a net, a magnetic holder, or the like. The holding device may also be useful in the armrest position. However, it is particularly useful in the upright position. In this position, the underside of the storage element is generally more easily accessible. If the table element is attached to the storage element, holding devices on the underside can be used when the table element is swung out to hold or store objects that are temporarily used on the table surface. If the table surface is used, for example, as a small dining table, the holding device can be used to hold, for example, a small item.Cutlery, dishes, spice shakers, or similar items can be stored there. In any case, any item stored there is ergonomically positioned near the table surface.

[0022] Further advantageous details and effects of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment illustrated in the figures. These show Fig. 1 a perspective view of a part of a motor vehicle with an interior system according to the invention with a storage element in an armrest position; Fig. 2 a perspective view of the motor vehicle with the storage element in a setup position; Fig. 3 a perspective view of the storage element with leg elements in a support position; Fig. 4 a perspective representation accordingly Fig. 3 with one upholstery element removed; as well as Fig. 5 a perspective view of a part of a motor vehicle with an interior system according to the invention, comprising a storage element in a standing position and a table element in a swiveling position.

[0023] In the different figures, identical parts are always designated with the same reference symbols, which is why they are generally described only once. The terms "first," "second," etc., used in this application serve only for the purpose of differentiation. In particular, their use is not intended to imply any order or priority of the elements mentioned in connection with these terms.

[0024] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of part of a motor vehicle 1, in this case a passenger car. For better orientation, a longitudinal axis X pointing towards the rear of the vehicle, a transverse axis Y, and an upward-pointing vertical axis Z are shown. The following is depicted in Fig. 1 A part of a vehicle interior 6 with a center console base 11 extending along the longitudinal axis X between two seats (not shown for clarity). At the front, the center console base 11 is connected to an instrument panel 4. Various display or control elements, as well as inlets and / or outlets of an HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning system), can be arranged on the instrument panel 4, as well as on the center console base 11. These elements are also omitted for clarity. The center console base 11, the instrument panel 4, and the seats belong to a vehicle body 2 of the motor vehicle 1.

[0025] A storage element 15 is supported on the center console base 11 and, together with the center console base 11, forms part of an interior system 10 according to the invention. It has a plate-like storage base 21 on which a cushion element 22 is arranged in a cushioned area 21.1. The cushion element 22 is detachably connected to the storage base 21, for example, by a plug connection, a snap-fit ​​connection, or a magnetic connection. An upper surface 15.1 of the storage element 15 forms an armrest 16 for an occupant. Furthermore, two cup holders 23, accessible from the upper surface 15.1, are formed in the storage element 15. With respect to the longitudinal axis X, at the front of the armrest 16, the storage element 15 has a storage connection section 15.3, which is Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is recognizable. This engages positively in a base connection section 11.1 of the center console base. The latter forms a primary support device 13 on which the storage element 15 is supported. By way of example, a spring-loaded locking element 17 can be arranged on the storage connection section 15.3, which engages in a recess (not shown) on the base connection section 11.1. By pressing a button 18, the locking element 17 can be released to remove the storage element 15 from the center console base 11. As in Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figure 1, a storage space 14 is formed between the storage element 15 and the center console base 11 with respect to the vertical axis Z, in which a container 30 can be placed. This could be, for example, a tool container, a cooler, or the like.

[0026] Fig. Figure 1 shows the storage element 15 in an armrest position, in which it can be used as an armrest 16. This corresponds to the normal position when the vehicle 1 is in operation. If the vehicle 1 is parked for a certain period of time, e.g., for a picnic, the armrest 16 is not needed and the storage element 15 can be used for another purpose. For this, the locking element 17 is unlocked as described and the storage connection section 15.3 is decoupled from the base connection section 11.1. The storage element 15 can now be positioned in another location. Fig. Figure 2 shows an application in which it is arranged in an upright position on a loading platform 7. In this example, two floor connection sections 3.1 are arranged on a vehicle floor 3 in the area of ​​the loading platform 7, the design of which is adapted to the storage connection section 15.3. Accordingly, the latter can be positively connected to these. Each floor connection section 3.1 forms a secondary support device 13 against which the storage element 15 is supported. While the upper surface 15.1 of the storage element 15 runs approximately parallel to a horizontal line spanned by the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y in the armrest position, it is inclined, for example, by approximately 70° relative to the horizontal in the upright position. That is, it is inclined by approximately 20° relative to the vertical axis Z. It therefore forms a backrest 19 of an additional seat, with a rearward connection to the floor connection section 3 with respect to the longitudinal axis X.1. Adjacent area 3.2 forms a seating surface 20. Due to the size of the storage element 15, the additional seat is suitable, for example, for a child (not shown).

[0027] Fig. Figure 3 shows another possible use of the storage element 15. For this purpose, two leg elements 24 arranged on the underside 15.2 of the storage element 15 are moved from a stowed position to a support position. In the stowed position, the leg elements 24 lie flat against the storage element 15 to save space. In the support position, they protrude from the underside 15.2. In this case, the leg elements 24 can be adjusted like a scissor chair, although this is only an example. Naturally, the leg elements 24 can be locked in the support position. Together, they form a secondary support device 13 against which the storage element 15 is supported. The leg elements 24, in turn, are supported by foot sections 24.1 on a base 40. In the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 3, the storage element 15 can be used as a seat or stool, and possibly also as a footrest. Alternatively, the upholstered element 22 can also be removed from the storage base 21, allowing the upholstered area 21.1 to be used as a storage surface. Such a configuration is shown in Fig. 4 shown. This allows, for example, its use as a table.

[0028] Fig.Figure 5 again shows an interior 6 of a motor vehicle 1 with a further embodiment of an interior system 10 according to the invention. This is partially identical to the embodiment described above and is therefore not explained again. However, in this case, the storage element 15 is connected to the center console base 11 in an upright position. For this purpose, the storage connection section 15.3 is coupled to a second base connection section 11.2, which in this case functions as a secondary support device 13. The storage element 15 is inclined at more than 90° to the horizontal relative to the armrest position, so that the underside 15.2 points rearward and slightly upward. A table element 29 connected to the storage element 15 is pivoted from a fixed position (not shown) into a swiveled position. In this position, a table surface 29.1 of the table element 29 is approximately horizontally oriented.It can serve as a storage surface for various items. Furthermore, by swiveling out the table element 29, several holding devices 25 on the underside 15.2 of the storage element 15 become accessible and usable. Two pockets 26, a magnetic holder 27, and a retaining net 28 are shown here as examples. The table element 29 could, for instance, be used as a dining table, in which case dishes, cutlery, spice shakers, or similar items could be stored in the holding devices 25. Reference symbol list: 1 motor vehicle 2 Vehicle bodies 3 Vehicle floor 3.1 Ground connection section 3.2 Area 4 Dashboard 5 Steering wheel 6 Vehicle interior 7 Loading area 10 Interior system 11 Center console base 11.1 Basic connection section 11.2 second basic connection section 12 Primary support device 13 Secondary support device 14 storage spaces 15 storage element 15.3 Storage Connection Section 15.1 Top 15.2 Underside 16 Armrest 17 locking element 18 buttons 19 Backrest 20 Seating area 21 Storage base 21.1 Upholstery area 22 upholstered elements 23 cup holders 24 leg elements 24.1 Foot section 25 Holding device 26 bags 27 magnetic holders 28 Stop net 29 table element 29.1 Table surface 30 containers 40 subsurface X Longitudinal axis Y transverse axis Z vertical axis QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 11 541 819 B2

[0003]

Claims

[1] Interior system (10) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a center console base (11) stationary with respect to a vehicle body (2) and a storage element (15) which is connected to the center console base (11) in an armrest position and is supported on a primary support device (12) of the same, wherein a top (15.1) of the storage element (15) forms an armrest (16), characterized by , that the storage element (15) can be removed from the armrest position by detaching it from the center console base (11) and can be arranged in at least one further position in which it is supported on a secondary support device (13) of the interior system (10). [2] Interior system according to claim 1, characterized by, that the storage element (15) has a storage connection section (15.3) arranged offset from the armrest (16) and the primary support device (12) has a base connection section (11.1) with which the storage connection section (15.3) engages in a form-fitting manner in the armrest position. [3] Interior system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the storage element (15) in the armrest position is at least partially separated from the center console base (11), thereby forming a storage space (14). [4] Interior system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one secondary support device (13) is formed on the vehicle body (2) and is designed to support the storage element (15) in an upright position in which the upper surface (15.1) is inclined more to a horizontal than in the armrest position. [5] Interior system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the upper surface (15.1) forms a backrest (20) in the upright position, while an area (3.2) adjacent to a secondary support device (13) forms a seat surface (20), wherein the secondary support device (13) preferably has a floor connecting section (3.1) formed on a vehicle floor (8) which engages positively with the storage connecting section (15.3) in the upright position. [6] Interior system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one secondary support device (13) has at least one leg element (24) connected to the storage element (15), which is adjustable between a storage position in which it rests against the storage element (15) and a support position in which it projects from an underside (15.2) of the storage element (15) in order to support itself with a foot section (24.1) on a base (40). [7] Interior system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the storage element (15) has a storage base (21) and a cushion element (22) arranged on the upper side of a cushion area (21.1) of the storage base (21), which at least partially forms the armrest (16) and is removable, whereby the cushion area (21.1) can be used as a storage surface. [8] Interior system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one secondary support device (13) is formed on the center console base (11) and is designed to support the storage element (15) in the upright position. [9] Interior system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a table element (29) is pivotably connected to the storage element (15), which is arranged in a fixed position with a table surface (29.1) adjacent to the underside (15.2) of the storage element (15) and can be pivoted into a swiveling position in which the table surface (29.1) and the underside (15.2) of the storage element (15) are accessible. [10] Interior system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the underside (15.2) of the storage element (15) has at least one holding device (25) for holding an object.

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