FUNCTIONAL DEVICE FOR THE INTERIOR OF A PASSENGER TRANSPORT VEHICLE

Abstract

The invention relates to a functional device with a functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) for the interior of a passenger transport vehicle, wherein the functional element has at least two separate surface areas (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) and is rotatably or pivotably mounted in a holder (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) about an axis of rotation (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18) such that optionally a first or a second of the surface areas faces the interior (19) and the other area faces away from the interior, wherein the axis of rotation or at least a part of the axis of rotation is movable into the interior. This creates the necessary space for the functional element to rotate.

Description

[0001] The invention lies in the field of mechanical engineering and mechanics and is particularly advantageous in the equipping of means of transport, for example motor vehicles, but can also be used, for example, in the passenger compartment of aircraft.

[0002] Passenger compartments or interiors of public transport vehicles typically have limited space, which must be utilized as efficiently as possible. Applications exist where functional elements offer multiple functions, allowing a person inside the vehicle to selectively access or face one of their various surface areas, each offering a specific function. Such a functional element can also be rotated to present a different surface area, for example, with a different function, to the person.

[0003] Patent document DE10258018A1 discloses, for example, an armrest device with an armrest that is rotatable in a holder about its longitudinal axis, thereby offering a passenger one of two opposing surface areas of the armrest on its upper side. The user can thus choose between different usage options by rotating the armrest.

[0004] One problem with the familiar setup is the space required for rotation under the armrest, as it has a relatively large width.

[0005] Against the background of the prior art, the present invention is based on the objective of creating a functional device z that can be rotated with the smallest possible space requirement.

[0006] The problem is solved by a functional device according to claim 1. The dependent claims present possible embodiments of a functional device.

[0007] The invention therefore relates to a functional device, for example an armrest device, with a functional element, in particular an armrest, for the interior of a means of passenger transport, wherein the functional element has at least two separate surface areas and is rotatably or pivotably mounted in a holder about an axis of rotation such that optionally a first or a second of the surface areas faces the interior and the other area faces away from the interior, wherein the axis of rotation or at least a part of the axis of rotation is movable into the interior.

[0008] Moving a section of the axis of rotation can be understood as pivoting a segment of the axis while a point, in particular a pivot point, about which the axis of rotation is pivotable, remains stationary. This point can be located in a pivot bearing through which the axis of rotation passes and in which the functional element is mounted so as to be rotatable on one side about the axis of rotation. Because the axis of rotation is movable into the interior of the means of passenger transport, for example, a motor vehicle, in particular sliding or pivotable at one of its ends into the interior, the functional element is moved together with the axis of rotation in such a way that it gains a distance from the interior boundary, that is, from the parts of the interior trim and from the parts of the interior to which the functional device is attached.For example, the functional device could be an armrest mounted next to a passenger or driver's seat. The pivot axis can also be moved as a whole into the interior of the passenger vehicle, remaining parallel to its initial position during this movement. If the armrest is to be rotated within the armrest assembly, space is required unless the armrest itself is completely rotationally symmetrical. In this case, the armrest often collides with parts of the interior. Temporarily raising the pivot axis of the armrest for rotation prevents a collision with other parts during the movement. After rotation, the pivot axis, and in many cases the armrest itself, can be moved back to its original position.However, by rotating the armrest, it can offer the user a different surface area than before the rotation. For this purpose, the functional element, for example the armrest, can provide access to one or more compartments or containers in a first surface area and to a control panel and / or a display in a second surface area.

[0009] One possible embodiment relates, for example, to a functional device of the type mentioned in the form of an armrest device with a functional element in the form of an armrest with at least two separate surface areas, wherein the armrest is mounted in a holder about a horizontal axis of rotation, for example in the direction of travel of the means of transport, in such a way that different surface areas are accessible depending on the angle of rotation, wherein the axis of rotation or at least a part of the axis of rotation is movable in the vertical direction.

[0010] In this example, the armrest can thus be rotatable about a horizontal or nearly horizontal axis of rotation oriented in the direction of travel. The armrest can, for instance, cover a container located beneath it and, before rotation, be raised as a whole by, say, half its width. If, before rotation, the armrest rests directly on the container and the axis of rotation is located in the middle of the armrest with respect to its width, then after the armrest has been raised by half its width, the space beneath it is sufficient to rotate it about its axis of rotation without colliding with the container. In this case, too, the axis of rotation can be displaceable, remaining parallel to its initial position in one embodiment.As described above, the armrest can also be mounted at one end in a pivot bearing so that it can rotate around an axis of rotation and pivot around a point located in the area of ​​the pivot bearing in order to create space for rotation.

[0011] The armrest can, for example, have two different surface areas on its underside and top side, each rotatable by 180 degrees, but it can also have more than two, for example three or four surface areas, if the armrest has a prismatic cross-section and can be rotated by angles of 90 degrees or 120 degrees.

[0012] Another possible embodiment relates to a functional device with an armrest comprising at least two movable armrest parts, wherein each movable armrest part has at least two separate surface areas and is rotatably and / or pivotably mounted in a bracket about a horizontal axis of rotation, in particular one oriented in the direction of travel of the means of transport, wherein the axes of rotation of different armrest parts are aligned parallel to each other, and wherein the axes of rotation are movable, in particular displaceable, in the vertical direction. The axes of rotation can also be pivotable, as already described above.

[0013] When it is said in this context that a rotational axis is movable, this means that the components, such as bearings, which determine the respective rotational axis, are movable accordingly.

[0014] In the described case, the armrest can be divided in the direction of its width, i.e., perpendicular to the direction of travel of the passenger transport vehicle, into two or more strip-shaped armrest sections, each of which is only narrow. Several of the armrest sections each have a pivot axis, and the sections can be rotated or swiveled together or sequentially around their pivot axes to present a different surface area to the user.

[0015] The individual armrest sections, with their pivot axes n, can be shifted before rotation as described above to create the necessary space for the rotation. If an armrest, or more generally a functional element, is divided into several armrest sections or functional element sections, the degree of displacement can be relatively small, since the space required for rotation is significantly reduced when the functional element is subdivided.

[0016] It may further be provided that the functional element, in at least one rotating and / or swiveling position, covers a volume adjacent to the functional element, for example a storage space accessible beneath it.

[0017] In this case, the functional element, in a rotating and / or swiveling position, can at least perform a covering function and obscure part of the interior surface of the passenger transport vehicle. Simultaneously, certain functions of the functional element on its side facing away from the interior can be inaccessible and locked to the user, while other functions are available on the side facing the user. The covered volume can be a container, a unit, a device, a display, or a control panel that can be used within the interior of the passenger transport vehicle.

[0018] Furthermore, it may be provided that the functional element or parts of the functional element is / are mounted in a rotary bearing at one or both of two opposite ends of its axis of rotation, wherein in each rotary bearing a first rotary bearing part is provided on the side of the functional element and a second rotary bearing part is provided on the side of the support, and wherein the second rotary bearing part(s) are displaceable in the direction into the interior and / or vertically upwards.

[0019] A rotary bearing of the functional element at one of its ends may be sufficient and, for some purposes, adequately stable if appropriately designed. In many cases, however, a bearing at both ends of the axis of rotation will be advantageous. Every rotary bearing has a first part that is connected to the functional element and moves / rotates relative to a second part of the rotary bearing. The second part of the rotary bearing is mounted in a bracket of the functional device, such as an armrest assembly. For example, the first part of each rotary bearing can be the end of a shaft or a shaft stub that rotates in a bushing, which is connected to the bracket as the second part of the rotary bearing. The first rotary bearing part can bear directly against the second rotary bearing part, forming a plain bearing. Rolling elements can also be provided, which are then arranged between the first and second bearing parts.To shift the axis of rotation, the pivot bearings are moved. For example, in the case of an armrest assembly, the second set of pivot bearing parts can be moved vertically upwards simultaneously and by the same amount to temporarily raise the armrest.

[0020] Another possible embodiment may provide that two separate, immediately adjacent surface areas of the functional element or a part of the functional element are separated from each other by a body edge or a rounding with a radius of curvature of less than 3 cm, in particular less than 1 cm, and / or that the surface normals of each two immediately adjacent, separated surface areas enclose an angle of at least 90 degrees.

[0021] To allow passengers to face different surface areas, these areas are located on different circumferences of the functional element, such as an armrest, relative to the axis of rotation. The circumference of the functional element can be divided into two or more such areas. In many cases, these surface areas are angled relative to their immediately adjacent counterparts, resulting in edges or curved sections between them. In most cases, no more than four surface areas are used, and these are advantageously angled relative to each other by at least approximately 90 degrees.

[0022] In another possible embodiment, two separate, immediately adjacent surface areas of the functional element, or of a part of the functional element, may be located opposite each other on opposite sides of the functional element. In this case, the functional element, for example an armrest, is rotated approximately 180 degrees to change the surface area used. Detents may be provided at each of the rotation angles required to move between the different positions, allowing the functional element to engage. These detents can be incorporated, for example, into the design of the pivot bearings.

[0023] In a functional device, it may also be provided that a rotary and / or pivoting movement of the functional element or a part of the functional element is coupled by a gear with a translational displacement movement of the axis of rotation, in particular of the two second rotary bearing parts.

[0024] Such a coupling ensures that the functional element maintains the required minimum distance from obstacles at every stage of its rotation. Furthermore, it can be additionally or alternatively provided that the bracket or a part of the bracket is pivotable about a bracket axis that runs parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0025] This design allows for an additional degree of freedom of arrangement beyond the translational displacement of the axis of rotation, enabling the functional element to be pivoted not only around its axis but also along with its mounting or parts thereof. This allows for greater utilization of the space beneath the functional element, such as an armrest, or reduces the displacement of the axis of rotation required to rotate the element.

[0026] Another possible realization of a functional device can provide that the holder has a fixed part and at least one part that is movable relative to the fixed part, wherein the movable part has the second pivot bearing parts and is connected to the fixed part via a toggle lever arrangement, wherein a first lever of the toggle lever arrangement is coupled to the functional element in such a way that a rotational and / or pivoting movement of the functional element forces a pivoting movement of the first lever, and wherein a second lever is pivotally connected to the first lever and to the fixed part of the holder.

[0027] The first lever can, for example, be rigidly connected directly to the functional element itself. A movement performed by the first lever when the functional element rotates can force a movement of the second lever, which is a combination of a pivoting and a sliding motion and generates a displacement of the movable part of the bracket relative to the fixed part of the bracket. Thus, with a simple design, a rotational movement of the functional element directly and necessarily produces a displacement.

[0028] It can also be provided that the first lever of the toggle lever arrangement is rigidly connected to a second gear which can be driven by a first gear rigidly connected to the functional element and rotatable about the axis of rotation.

[0029] Such a construction makes it easy to design the transmission mechanism to achieve the desired stroke / relative displacement of the movable part of the bracket relative to the fixed part of the bracket, provided the sizes of the first and second gears are appropriately chosen.

[0030] It may also be provided that the functional element has at least one guide element spaced apart from the axis of rotation and / or pivoting, which, during a rotation and / or pivoting movement of the functional element about its axis of rotation, is guided on a guide surface or in a guide track of the holder in such a way that a displacement of the axis of rotation and / or pivoting, in particular a displacement of the second bearing parts of the rotary bearings of the holding device, is forced.

[0031] The guide element can, for example, be formed by an edge of the functional element / armrest that, during a rotational movement, slides over a fixed surface or edge of the bracket, thereby forcing a translational movement / displacement of the functional element's axis of rotation. The guide element can also be designed as a guide pin that is guided in a groove on the bracket. The mechanical design of such a coupling is particularly simple and can be implemented with few parts.

[0032] Another embodiment provides that the bracket has a fixed part and at least one part that is displaceable relative to the fixed part between a first end position and a second end position, the displaceable part comprising the second pivot bearing parts. The fixed part of the bracket can provide or form a guide rail for the displaceable part. A separate displaceable part of the bracket can also be provided at each end of the axis of rotation within the fixed part of the bracket, and furthermore, the various elements of the displaceable part can be coupled to one another such that their displacement movement is coupled and synchronized by a gear mechanism. This prevents the displaceable part of the bracket and the functional element from tilting during the displacement movement.

[0033] Optionally, a spring device can also be provided in the functional device, which exerts a force on at least one movable part of the holder in the direction of a first end position.

[0034] For example, the spring mechanism can push or pull the movable part of the bracket into the end position where the functional element is freely rotatable, i.e., into the position where the axis of rotation of the functional element is moved into the interior. In the case of an armrest, the spring then moves the armrest and / or the axis of rotation of the armrest into an upper end position, which corresponds to the first end position. After a rotation, the armrest can be moved back into the second end position against the spring force.

[0035] Furthermore, it may be provided that the movable part(s) of the bracket can be locked in the second end position, which is opposite to the first end position.

[0036] In the example of a sliding armrest, it can be rotated in the upper end position and then moved back to the lower end position against the force of the spring element and locked there.

[0037] It may also be provided that the movable part(s) of the bracket can be alternately locked and unlocked on the fixed part of the bracket by a movement opposite to the force of the spring device.

[0038] For this purpose, so-called push / push mechanisms are known, also referred to as "ballpoint pen mechanisms." In these mechanisms, a locking mechanism is activated by an initial translational movement of a locking element, for example against a spring force. This locking is then deactivated by a second movement in the same direction. The locking element can then be released from the locked position by the spring force.

[0039] In addition to a functional device, the invention may also relate to a method for actuating a functional device of the type mentioned above, in which first the axis of rotation of the functional element or axes of rotation of parts of the functional element is / are moved in the direction into the interior of the means of transport, then the functional element is rotated about its axis of rotation or parts of the functional element are rotated about their axes of rotation and then the axis of rotation or the axes of rotation are moved back again.

[0040] Such a method for rotating a functional element is simple and space-saving.

[0041] The invention will now be shown and subsequently explained using exemplary embodiments in figures of a drawing.

[0042] This shows: Fig. 1 to 3: an armrest that can be rotated around its longitudinal axis in various rotational positions, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5: another version of an armrest in two different swivel positions Fig. 6 and Fig. 7: a two-part armrest with individually rotatable armrest sections, Fig. 8 to 13: another version of an armrest in different representations and different rotation positions, Fig. 14 and Fig. 15: another embodiment of a functional device with a swiveling bracket, Fig. 16 to 19: a version of a functional device with a telescopically extendable bracket and a spring mechanism, as well as the Fig. 20 to 24: an embodiment of an armrest with a swiveling pivot axis.

[0043] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a functional device with a functional element 1 in the form of an armrest. The armrest 1 is arranged above a volume 39 of a container which it covers, so that the armrest forms a container. The armrest 1 has two surface areas 1a, 1b which are opposite each other, so that one of the surface areas is located on the top and the other on the bottom of the armrest. In the representation of the Fig. In this section, surface area 1a faces the vehicle interior 19, while surface area 1b faces the covered volume 39. The armrest 1 is rotatably mounted in a bracket 7a, 7b about the axis of rotation 13. A gap is left between the armrest and the walls of the container surrounding the volume 39, allowing limited rotation of the armrest. The bracket 7a, 7b can be displaced in the vertical direction indicated by arrow 20, thereby simultaneously shifting the axis of rotation 13 and additionally creating space for a full rotation of the armrest 1 about the axis of rotation 13. When not rotated, the armrest 1 can be lowered to the walls of the container surrounding the volume 39. To rotate the armrest 1 around the axis of rotation 13, the bracket 7a, 7b is then raised in the direction of arrow 20, in order to be lowered again after a rotation.

[0044] The Fig. Figure 2 shows the armrest 1 in an intermediate position during rotation, in which the surface areas 1a, 1b are vertically aligned.

[0045] The Fig. Figure 3 shows the armrest shortly before completing a 180° rotation relative to the one in the Fig. 1 state shown, where arrow 35 indicates the direction of rotation.

[0046] In the Fig. Figure 3 shows that support pads 36 are arranged on surface area 1b of the armrest, while surface area 1a, as is clearly shown in the Fig. 1 is visibly smooth. Thus, the surface area 1b with the support cushion 36 for the arms of a passenger can be directed upwards towards the passenger compartment / interior to increase travel comfort, while the surface area 1a can serve, for example, for placing objects, such as drinking vessels, during a rest.

[0047] The Fig. Figure 4 shows another design of an armrest 2 with a surface area 2a that has recesses for storing objects, while on the opposite side of the armrest, the surface area 2b can be smooth and flat. The armrest 2 is rotatable about the axis of rotation 14, which runs horizontally and parallel to the direction of travel of the vehicle. The armrest 2 is rotatably mounted in two pivot bearings of a bracket 8a, 8b. On the side of the bracket 8a, a fixed part 108b and a sliding part 108a of the bracket 8a are shown in detail. The sliding part 108a and its counterpart on the side of the bracket 8b are movable in the vertical direction, as indicated by arrow 20, so that the armrest 2 can also be raised with the axis of rotation 14. The armrest 2 can then be lowered, as shown in the Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the armrest 2 can be rotated so that it does not touch the walls of the container 49. After rotating the armrest 2 by 180° about the horizontal axis 14, the sliding parts 108a of the bracket 8a, 8b can be lowered again and the armrest 2 can rest on the edges of the container 49.

[0048] In the Fig. Figure 5 shows in detail a mechanism that couples the rotation of the armrest 2 about the axis 14 with the lifting of the pivot axis 14 or the pivot bearings in which the armrest 2 is mounted. For this purpose, a pivot bearing element is arranged in a movable / slidable part 108a of the bracket 8a, and the movable part 108a of the bracket 8a is slidably mounted in the fixed part 108b of the bracket. The pivot bearing element within the movable part 108a of the bracket can, for example, be a receptacle for a shaft journal. A shaft journal is then provided at each end of the armrest 2, the longitudinal axis of which runs in the direction of the pivot axis 14. The pivot journals then form shaft sections that are rotatably mounted in the pivot bearing elements of the movable parts 108a of the bracket.

[0049] Rollers 27 and 28 are provided on the outer edges of the armrest 2, facing the parts of the bracket, which can roll on a guide surface 29 of the fixed part 108b of the bracket 8a. Instead of the rollers 27 and 28, which can, for example, be rotatably mounted, a simple curve of the armrest can also be provided, which can slide over the guide surface 29.

[0050] When the armrest 2 is rotated about its longitudinal / rotational axis 14, the rollers 27 or 28 roll on the guide surface 29 in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis 14, depending on the direction of rotation, so that, as shown in the Fig. Figure 4 shows that the armrest 2 is raised by the pivot axis 14. This is made possible by the movable arrangement of the sliding part 108a of the bracket 8a.

[0051] If the armrest 2 is returned to the horizontal position after a 180° or 360° rotation, it can be lowered again using the pivot bearing components and the axle 14. The surface areas of the armrest 2 are designated 2a and 2b.

[0052] In the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 is designated by reference numerals 19 as the interior space of the vehicle located above the functional element 2 in the form of the armrest.

[0053] Mounting bracket 8a shows a spring assembly 30 with a coil spring and a spring guide, wherein the coil spring is supported in the fixed part 108b of mounting bracket 8a and pushes the movable part 108a of the mounting upwards. In the rest state, the movable part 108a is, for example, locked in its lower position and can be unlocked by rotating the armrest 2. However, it can also be provided that the spring force is not sufficient to lift the armrest on its own and that the spring force merely assists in rotating the armrest by lifting a portion of its weight.

[0054] In the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows a two-part armrest 3, comprising two parallel parts 3a and 3b. Each part 3a and 3b is rotatable about its own axis of rotation 15 to turn the surface areas 3c and 3d to face either the top or bottom. Parts 3a and 3b each have pivot pins 21 that extend along the axis of rotation 15 and are supported in a pin receptacle 22 of the movable part of the bracket 9a and 9b.

[0055] The Fig. Figure 8 schematically shows a functional device with a functional element 4 in the form of a stylized armrest, which is rotatably mounted at both ends in a part of the bracket 10a, 10b. The axis of rotation of the armrest 4 is labelled 16 and runs horizontally in the direction of travel or movement of the vehicle or means of transport. In the Fig. In the position of the armrest shown in Figure 8, surface area 4a faces upwards towards the vehicle interior 19, while on the underside of the armrest, surface area 4b faces a container located below the armrest, which is in the Fig. 8 is not shown for the sake of clarity.

[0056] The bracket 10a, 10b, comprising two parts, one of which is arranged at each end of the armrest, has on each of the two parts 10a, 10b a second pivot bearing part in the form of a receptacle, each of which receives a shaft journal of the armrest, the axes of rotation of the shaft journals being arranged coaxially to the axis of rotation 16. The movable parts 110a of the bracket are arranged to be displaceable in the vertical direction relative to the fixed parts 110b. The fixed parts 110b form rails for guiding the linear movement of the displaceable parts 110a upwards in the direction of arrow 20 and downwards in the opposite direction. On both sides of the armrest 4, in the area of ​​the pivot bearings, a displaceable part of the bracket is provided, each of which is displaceably guided in a fixed part of the bracket.

[0057] In the Fig. 9 is an armrest 4, which is basically already included in the Fig. Figure 8 is shown in a different rotational position. The surface areas 4a, 4b of the armrest 4 are different from the one shown in Figure 8. Fig. The armrest is rotated approximately 70° around the axis of rotation 16 in the position shown in Figure 8. It is also indicated that coupling gears are provided in the area of ​​the brackets 10a, 10b at both ends of the armrest, which couple a rotation of the armrest 4 around the axis of rotation 16 with a linear displacement of the movable parts 110a relative to the fixed parts 110b of the bracket.

[0058] In the Fig. 10 shows on one side of the armrest 4 in the cutout and schematically in detail the coupling mechanism that couples the rotary movement of the armrest 4 about the axis of rotation 16 with the linear up and down movement of the movable part 110a of the bracket 10a.

[0059] A first gear 25 is fixedly connected to the armrest 4, and both elements are rotatably mounted on the movable part 110a of the bracket 10a, such that a rotation of the armrest 4 about the axis of rotation 16 causes the first gear 25 to rotate about the same axis of rotation. The first gear engages with a second gear 26, which is rotatably mounted on the movable part 110a of the bracket 10a. A first toggle lever 23 is fixedly connected to the second gear 26 and pivots with the second gear 26 when the armrest 4 is rotated. The first toggle lever 23 is pivotally connected in a pivot joint 50 to the first end of a second toggle lever 24, which is simultaneously displaced and pivoted by the first toggle lever 23 when the armrest 4 is rotated.Since a second end of the second knee lever 24 is rotatably coupled to the fixed part 110b of the bracket 10a in a pivot axis 51, a rotation of the armrest 4 from the horizontal orientation of the surface areas 4a, 4b moves the movable part 110a together with the armrest itself upwards in the direction of arrow 20, while a rotation from a vertical orientation towards a horizontal orientation of the surface areas 4a, 4b causes a downward movement of the armrest and the pivot axis 16. This coupling of the rotational movement with a translational movement means that when the armrest is rotated about the pivot axis 16 from a rest position, it is lifted so that it can be rotated freely without colliding with objects on which the armrest rests in its rest position.

[0060] After the armrest is rotated, it lowers back into its original rest position after completing a rotation angle of 180° or an integer multiple thereof, thanks to a corresponding design of the linkage mechanism.

[0061] In the Fig. 11, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 is the one already mentioned in the previous ones. Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 Armrest constructions shown in a side view in different rotation angle positions.

[0062] In the Fig. In 11, the armrest 4 is in a horizontal position, such that the two surface areas 4a, 4b are horizontally aligned and the upper surface area 4a faces the interior 19 of the vehicle. The axis of rotation is designated 16 and the part of the bracket on the side of the structure facing the viewer is designated 10a, where 110b designates a fixed part of the bracket 10a, and 110a a part that is linearly displaceable relative to the fixed part 110b.

[0063] In the Fig. Figure 12 shows a rotational angle position of the armrest 4, in which it is opposite the position shown in the Fig. The state shown in Figure 11 is rotated approximately 45° counterclockwise, i.e., in the direction of arrow 52. Due to the gear ratio of the first gear 25 and the second gear 26, the first toggle lever 23 has moved in the direction of arrow 53 during this movement, thereby pushing the second toggle lever downwards in the direction of arrow 54, or pushing the movable part 110a of the bracket, together with the armrest 4, upwards relative to the second toggle lever 24. The armrest 4 thus moves upwards simultaneously with its movement in the direction of rotation indicated by arrow 52, ​​in the direction of arrow 20, so that it can utilize the space freed up beneath it for rotation.

[0064] In the Fig. Figure 13 shows the armrest 4 after further rotation in the direction of arrow 52, ​​such that in this position the movable part 110a is shifted almost maximally upwards relative to the fixed part 110b of the bracket 10a. The sizes of the gears 25, 26 and the lengths of the toggle levers 23, 24 are arranged such that in a vertical position of the armrest, i.e., when the surfaces 4a and 4b are vertically aligned, the maximum upward stroke of the armrest in the direction of arrow 20 is reached, and further rotation leads to an opposite movement of the toggle levers and a lowering of the armrest.

[0065] For example, the armrest rotation mechanism can be manually operated by grasping the armrest itself, with the armrest automatically raising in conjunction with the rotation. Alternatively, the armrest rotation can be motorized, driven by an electric motor. In this case, only the rotation of the armrest itself needs to be driven, while the upward and downward movement of the armrest is coupled to the linear movement of the sliding part of the bracket.

[0066] In the Fig. 14 and Fig. Figure 15 again shows an armrest in a highly schematic form and is labelled 5. The armrest 5 has a first upper surface area 5a facing the interior 19 and a lower surface area 5b opposite surface area 5a, which, in the rest position, faces the volume 39 of a container covered by the armrest. The armrest 5 is also provided with a bracket 12a, 12b, each with bracket parts at its two opposite ends in alignment with the axis of rotation 17, wherein the brackets 12a, 12b also each have a movable part 112a and a fixed part 112b. The movable part 112a is linearly displaceable within the fixed part 112b, so that the armrest 5 is translationally movable upwards in the direction of arrow 20 and in the opposite direction. In contrast to the embodiments of Fig. However, in sections 8 to 13, the fixed part 112b of the bracket 12a is fixed only in the sense that it is not translationally displaceable. The fixed part 112b of the bracket is, however, pivotable about a bracket axis 32.

[0067] The armrest 5, along with its rotation and its displacement in the direction of arrow 20, can be pivoted about the axis 32 together with the brackets 12a, 12b, as indicated by arrow 21. The additional degree of freedom provided by pivoting in the direction of arrow 21 allows for even more effective use of the space beneath the armrest 5 in various rotational positions. This can be used, for example, to create the largest possible opening for accessing the volume 39 with minimal effort by shifting and pivoting the brackets 12a, 12b, if the armrest only needs to be lifted slightly to access the space beneath it.When the armrest 5 is fully rotated, the swivelling of the brackets 12a, 12b can be used to achieve a full rotation of the armrest above a volume 39 covered by it with a smaller relative displacement of the movable parts 112a of the bracket compared to the fixed parts 112b.

[0068] The Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. Figure 19 schematically shows an armrest assembly with an armrest 6, which is rotatably mounted at both ends in a bracket 11a. In the figures, the axis of rotation of the armrest 6 is labelled 18. The figures each show only one side of the armrest with a one-sided part of the bracket 11a. In this case, as in the other embodiments shown, the armrest 6 is linearly displaceable up and down with its axis of rotation 18. This is achieved in the examples shown by the fact that the bracket 11a has a displaceable part 111a, which is translationally displaceable up and down within a fixed part 111b.In the state in which the movable part 111a of the bracket 11a is moved upwards in the direction of arrow 20, the armrest 6 can then be rotated about the pivot axis 18 and the lower part of the armrest, which reaches its lowest point after a 90° rotation, is moved upwards so far that it does not touch, for example, a container located below the armrest 6.

[0069] In the Fig. Figure 16 shows the armrest 6 in a rotational position in which it is rotated by approximately 70° relative to the horizontal position in which the surface area 6a points upwards.

[0070] In the Fig. Figure 17 shows the armrest 6 in a usable position, in which the surface area 6a faces upwards and is oriented towards the interior 19. Various recesses are visible in the surface area 6a, which can, for example, form storage compartments for objects. In a position rotated 180° about the axis of rotation 18, the surface area 6b faces upwards towards the interior 19 and can, for example, provide a flat surface or padded armrests.

[0071] In the Fig. Figure 18 shows in more detail the interaction between the movable part 111a of the bracket 11a and the fixed part 111b.

[0072] The Fig. Figure 19 shows, in particular, the mechanical construction of the stationary part 111b, further enlarged and in a frontal view. In the Fig. Reference numeral 30, denoted by reference numeral 19, is a roller spring that forms the spring assembly which pushes the movable part 111a of the holder 11a upwards in the direction of arrow 20. Reference numeral 55 denotes a cam in the fixed part 111b in which a finger 57 of the movable part 111a is guided for a push-push mechanism. This mechanism, known per se, causes the movable part 111a to be locked in its lowest position when pressed down in a direction opposite to arrow 20 against the force of the spring 30. It can then be unlocked by pressing down again, allowing the roller spring 30 to push it upwards.The 56 designates a synchronous cam which ensures that the roller springs 30, which are arranged on both sides of the central axis of the movable part 111a, are synchronously tensioned and relaxed and that tilting of the movable part 111a in the stationary part 111b is avoided.

[0073] Two dampers 58 are provided in the lower part of the stationary part 111b, which dampen the movement of the movable part 111a. Synchronizing gears 59, which move with the roller spring during its tensioning and relaxation, serve to synchronize the tensioning and relaxation movements of the roller springs by means of their coupling, thus preventing tilting. The gears 59 are connected to each other by a synchronizing shaft 60. Finally, end-stop dampers 61 are provided at the end of the movement path of the movable part 111a.

[0074] For the use of the in the Fig. In the mechanism shown in Figures 16 to 19, downward pressure is first applied to an armrest 6 in its rest position to release the locking mechanism via the push-push mechanism and allow the movement of the roller springs 30. As they relax, these springs push the movable part 111a of the bracket 11a upwards, giving the armrest 6 the freedom to rotate 180° about its axis of rotation 18. After rotation, the armrest 6 is then pressed down against the force of the roller springs 30 until it engages in the locking mechanism. A different surface area of ​​the armrest 6 is then available for use.

[0075] The Fig. Figures 20 to 24 show a perspective view of a functional device with a functional element 1 in the form of an armrest in various positions. The armrest 1 is arranged above a volume 39 of a container 200 covered by it, so that the entire container is covered by the armrest. The armrest 1 has two surface areas 1a, 1b that are opposite each other, so that one surface area is located on the top and the other on the bottom of the armrest. In the illustration of the Fig. In the representation of the Fig. In Figure 23, the opposite is true. The armrest 1 is rotatably mounted about the axis of rotation 13 in a pivot bearing 201 within a bracket 202. To create the space necessary for rotation between the walls of the container 200 and the armrest 1, the armrest is pivotable about a point on the bracket 202 located in the area of ​​the pivot bearing 201, for example, about a horizontal axis 203, such that the axis of rotation 13 can also be pivoted about this point or axis into the interior 19 and thus moved. The armrest 1 can, for example, be, as shown in the Fig. 22 and in the Fig. As shown in Figure 24, the armrest can be pivoted 90 degrees into the vertical position, so that the axis of rotation 13 is also vertically aligned. In this position, or in an intermediate position between this vertical and the horizontal position, the armrest can then be rotated about its axis of rotation 13, for example by 180 degrees. Such a position is, for example, in the Fig. 21 shown.

[0076] The Fig. 24 shows a position in which, with the pivot axis 13 vertical, the armrest is opposite the one in Fig. The position shown in 22 is rotated by an angle of more than 90 degrees around the axis of rotation 13.

[0077] To enable all the aforementioned rotary and swivel movements, the rotary bearing 201 can, for example, be designed as a ball joint.

[0078] The invention provides a simple mechanism that enables the rotation of a functional element within the interior of a means of transport while requiring minimal space. Instead of an armrest, another functional element, such as a display device on the dashboard, can be mounted in a sliding bracket and moved translationally into the interior to allow the functional element to rotate and retract back into place. 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] DE 10258018A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Functional device with a functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) for the interior of a passenger transport vehicle, wherein the functional element has at least two separate surface areas (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) and is rotatably or pivotably mounted in a holder (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) about an axis of rotation (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18) such that optionally a first or a second of the surface areas faces the interior (19) and the other area faces away from the interior, characterized by that the axis of rotation, or at least a part of the axis of rotation, is movable into the interior. [2] Functional device according to claim 1 in the form of an armrest device with a functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) in the form of an armrest with at least two separate surface areas (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b), wherein the armrest is mounted in a holder (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) so as to be rotatable and / or pivotable about a horizontally oriented axis of rotation (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18) such that, depending on the angle of rotation, different surface areas (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) are accessible, characterized by , that the axis of rotation or at least a part of the axis of rotation is movable in the vertical direction (20). [3] Functional device according to claim 2 with an armrest (3) having at least two movable armrest parts (3a, 3b), wherein each movable armrest part has at least two separate surface areas (3c, 3d) and is mounted in a holder (9a, 9b) so as to be rotatable and / or pivotable about a horizontally oriented axis of rotation (15), wherein the axes of rotation of different armrest parts are aligned parallel to each other, characterized by , that the axes of rotation are movable in the vertical direction (20). [4] Functional device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by , that the functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) covers a volume (39) adjacent to the functional element in at least one rotational and / or pivoting position. [5] Functional device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by, that the functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) or parts (3a, 3b) of the functional element is / are mounted in a rotary bearing (21, 22) at one or both of two opposite ends of its axis of rotation (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18), wherein in each rotary bearing a first rotary bearing part (21) is provided on the side of the functional element and a second rotary bearing part (22) is provided on the side of the support, and wherein the second rotary bearing part(s) are displaceable in the direction (20) into the interior and / or vertically upwards. [6] Functional device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by, that each two separate, immediately adjacent surface areas (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) of the functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) or a part of the functional element are separated from each other by a body edge or a rounding (33, 34) with a radius of curvature of less than 3 cm and / or that the surface normals of each two immediately adjacent, separated surface areas enclose an angle of at least 90 degrees. [7] Functional device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that each of two separate, immediately adjacent surface areas (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3c, 3d, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) of the functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) or each of a part (3a, 3b) of the functional element are opposite each other on different sides of the functional element. [8] Functional device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by, that a rotary and / or pivoting movement of the functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) or a part (3a, 3b) of the functional element is coupled by a gear with a translational displacement movement of the axis of rotation (14, 15, 16, 17) and / or that the support (12a, 12b) or a part of the support is pivotable about a support axis (32) that runs parallel to the axis of rotation (17). [9] Functional device according to claim 5 or 8 and 5, characterized by, that the support (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) has a fixed part (108b, 110b, 111b, 112b) and at least one part (108a, 110a, 111a, 112a) that is displaceable relative to the fixed part, wherein the displaceable part has the second pivot bearing parts and is connected to the fixed part via a toggle lever arrangement (23, 24), wherein a first lever (23) of the toggle lever arrangement is coupled to the functional element (4) such that a rotational and / or pivoting movement of the functional element (4) forces a pivoting movement of the first lever, and wherein a second lever (24) is pivotally connected to the first lever and to the fixed part (110b) of the support (10a) is. [10] Functional device according to claim 9, characterized by, that the first lever (23) of the toggle lever arrangement is rigidly connected to a second gear (26) which can be driven by a first gear (25) which is rigidly connected to the functional element (4) and is rotatable about the axis of rotation (16). [11] Functional device according to claim 8, characterized by , that the functional element (2) has at least one guide element (27, 28) spaced apart from the rotation and / or pivot axis (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18), which is guided on a guide surface (29) or in a guide track of the holder (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) during a rotation and / or pivot movement of the functional element about its axis of rotation in such a way that a displacement of the rotation and / or pivot axis is forced. [12] Functional device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized bythat the support (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) has a fixed part (108b, 110b, 111b, 112b) and at least one part (108a, 110a, 111a, 112a) that is movable relative to the fixed part between a first end position and a second end position, wherein the movable part has the second pivot bearing parts. [13] Functional device according to claim 12, characterized by , that a spring device (30) is provided which exerts a force in the direction of a first end position on at least one displaceable part (108a, 110a, 111a, 112a) of the support (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b). [14] Functional device according to claim 13, characterized by, that the movable part(s) (108a, 110a, 111a, 112a) of the holder (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 12a, 12b) can be locked in a second end position opposite to the first end position and / or that the movable part(s) of the holder can be alternately locked and unlocked on the fixed part of the holder by a force opposite to the force of the spring device. [15] Method for actuating a functional device according to one of claims 1 to 14, in which first the axis of rotation (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18) of the functional element (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) or axes of rotation of parts (3a, 3b) of the functional element is / are moved in the direction into the interior (19) of the transport means, then the functional element is rotated about its axis of rotation or parts of the functional element are rotated about their axes of rotation and then the axis of rotation or the axes of rotation are pushed back again.

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