A storage console assembly for a vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle storage console 100 having a pivotable lid 116 and a slidable cover 118 movable between a first configuration (fig 4) and a second configuration (fig 1-3). In the first configuration the cov

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a storage console assembly for a vehicle. Aspects of the invention relate to a storage console assembly for a vehicle and a vehicle comprising the storage console assembly. BACKGROUND It is known to provide storage assemblies for centre consoles of vehicles that have a stowage compartment for storing one or more items and a cupholder. However, users of a vehicle will have different requirements for items or drink containers they wish to store in the centre console and how stored items are accessed. Additionally, users may differ on their preferred aesthetic for the centre console. For example, some users may prefer the centre console to have a clean surface finish when the cupholder is not in use. There exists a need to improve the versatility of a centre console so that it may accommodate the requirements of different users. Furthermore, such versatility if preferably afforded by means that are not onerous to the user. It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a storage console assembly for a vehicle and a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a console assembly for a vehicle. The assembly comprising: a storage console; a lid, the lid being pivotable relative to the storage console; and a cover, the cover being movable relative to the storage console between a first configuration and a second configuration; wherein in the first configuration the cover and lid are collectively pivotable relative to the storage console; and in the second configuration the lid is pivotable relative to the storage console independently of the cover. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a console assembly for a vehicle. The assembly comprising: a storage console; a lid, the lid being pivotable relative to the storage console to selectively block access to a first portion of the storage console; and a cover configured to selectively block access to a second portion of the storage console, the cover being movable relative to the storage console between a first configuration and a second configuration; wherein in the first configuration the cover engages the lid so that the cover and lid are collectively pivotable relative to the storage console; and in the second configuration the lid is pivotable relative to the storage console independently of the cover. The two configurations in the above-described aspects of the invention provide more versatile access to the storage console. In the first configuration, the lid and cover may move together to allow access to all of the storage console whereas in the second configuration, the lid and the cover can be moved independently to allow or block access to different parts of the storage console. Thus, the assembly enables a user to access different parts of the storage console as desired. In embodiments of either the above-described aspects ofthe invention, one or more of the following may apply. The lid may comprise a plurality of arms, each ofthe plurality of arms comprising a recess for engaging the cover in the first configuration. The arms provide a mechanical simple solution for the cover to engage the lid which is low cost, low maintenance and easy to use. Optionally, in the second configuration, the storage console engages the cover so that the cover is retained by the console. Thus, the cover is secured to the storage console in the second configuration thereby reducing the risk of the cover from being disengaged from the console in this configuration and the risk of the cover being misplaced by a user. The storage console may comprise a pair of opposing side walls each comprising a slot for receiving a portion ofthe cover, wherein the cover is slidable within the slots in the second configuration. The slots, therefore, enable engagement between the cover and the storage console and guide movement of the cover in the second configuration. Using slots to provide this engagement is advantageous as the cover can slide within the slots to selectively block access to the second portion ofthe storage console. That is, cover can slide to block or allow access to second portion ofthe storage console. The cover may be configured to slide within the slots between the second configuration and the first configuration, thus improving the ease by which the cover may be moved between configurations. The slots also advantageously constrain the movement of the cover between configurations to reduce chance of misalignment ofthe cover with the lid or the storage console in either configuration. In certain embodiments, the cover may comprise at least one protrusion on each of two opposing sides ofthe cover, the cover being retained relative to the storage console by engagement between the protrusions and the slots. Providing protrusions on the cover to engage the slots limits the engagement between the slots and the cover compared to, for example, an entire side ofthe cover being received by the slot. Thus, the protrusions improve the ease of disengaging the cover from the console so that the cover can be pivoted together with the lid in the first configuration. Optionally, the storage console may comprise at least one channel adjoining each slot for permitting the release of the protrusions from the slots when the cover is in the first configuration. Thus, in the first configuration, the channels enable the cover to be released from the slots when the protrusions on the cover are aligned with the channels. When the protrusions are not aligned with the channels, they are retained within the slots so that the cover is coupled to the storage console. Thus, the cover may be released from the storage console in the first configuration whilst reducing the risk of the cover being unintentionally removed from the console in the second configuration. In certain embodiments, recess of each of the plurality of arms may be configured to receive one of the protrusions so that the cover engages the lid in the first configuration. When the lid is closed, the cover can be slid relative to the console so that the protrusions are received by the recess of each arm. Thus, the cover engages the lid. Providing the engagement in this manner provides an arrangement which is mechanically simple and straightforward to use. The lid may comprises a stop member configured to block entry of one of the protrusions into its respective channel when the cover is in the first configuration and the lid is pivoted to allow access to the first portion of the storage console. Advantageously, the stop member may prevent the protrusions on the cover entering the channels thereby reducing risk of damage to the protrusions and the cover if, when the cover is in the second configuration, the lid is closed to block access to the first portion of the storage console. In certain embodiments, one of the plurality of arms comprises the stop member. Thus, the assembly is simplified by removing the need for the stop member to be provided by an additional component in the assembly. The cover may comprise an aperture and the storage console comprises a hook configured to pass through the aperture as the lid is pivoted in the first configuration. Advantageously, the hook may prevent the cover from being disengaged from the lid as the lid is pivoted. In certain embodiments, the storage console comprises a stowage compartment; wherein the first portion of the storage console comprises a first portion of the stowage compartment and the second portion of storage console comprises a second portion of the stowage compartment. This arrangement allows the userto access a stowage compartment in different ways depending on their needs. For example, a user can open the lid or remove the cover to stow a smaller item in the stowage compartment (i.e. when the cover is in the second configuration) ora user can pivot the lid together with the cover (i.e. when the cover is in the first configuration) so that the entire stowage compartment is accessible and a larger item can be stowed. The storage console may comprise at least one cupholder. The second portion of the storage console may comprise the at least one cupholder. Thus, in the second configuration the cover may block access to the at least one cupholder creating a clean, smooth surface for the storage console. The lid may be an armrest pivotably coupled to the storage console. Thus, the lid provides both a lid for the storage console and improves user comfort. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising the storage console assembly as described above. Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in anyway and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a storage console assembly for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 6 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 7 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 8 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 9 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 10 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 11 shows a cover of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 12 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; Figure 13 shows a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly of Figure 1; and Figure 14 shows a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Figures 1 to 4 show a storage console assembly 100 for a vehicle 1000 according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in the Figures, the storage console assembly 100 comprises a storage console 101. The storage console 101 may be a centre console 500 for a vehicle 1000 as shown in Figures 1 to 4. In a vehicle 1000, such as that shown in Figure 14, the centre console 500 may be disposed within any row of seats within the vehicle. For example, the centre console may be positioned at least partially between a driver seat (not shown) and a front passenger seat (not shown). Alternatively or additionally, the centre console may be positioned between two rear passenger seats (not shown). The centre console 500 may be adjacent to an instrument panel 700. A lower end of the instrument panel 700 is shown in Figures 1 to 4. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the storage console 101 may comprise a stowage compartment 104. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the storage console 101 comprises a plurality of side walls 107, 108, 109, 110 defining the stowage compartment 104 therebetween. The stowage compartment 104 provides a volume for storing items within a vehicle 1000. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the assembly 100 may comprise a housing 105 which includes the plurality of side walls 107, 108, 109, 110. The side walls 107, 108, 109, 110 may be connected to and extending from a base 106 of the housing 105. The plurality of side walls 107,108,109,110 may comprise a first pair of opposing side walls. The first pair of opposing side walls may comprise a first side wall 107 and a second side wall 108. As shown in Figure 4, the first and second side walls 107, 108 may be substantially parallel to one another. When the assembly 100 is within a vehicle 1000, each of the first and second side walls 107,108 may be adjacent to one of the seats between which the assembly 100 is positioned. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 to 4, the plurality of side walls 107,108,109,110 may comprise a second pair of opposing side walls. The second pair of opposing side walls may comprise a third side wall 109 and a fourth side wall 110. When the assembly 100 is within a vehicle 1000, the third side wall 109 may be closer to a front 1004 of the vehicle 1000 than the fourth side wall 110. Thus, the third side wall 109 may be towards a front 112 of the storage console assembly 100 and the fourth side wall 110 is towards a rear 113 ofthe storage console assembly 100. The third and fourth walls 109, 110 may be substantially parallel to one another. As shown in the embodiment 100 in Figure 1 to 4, the third side wall 109 may extend from the first side wall 107 to the second side wall 108. Similarly, the fourth side wall 110 may extend from the first side wall 107 to the second side wall 108. The stowage compartment 104 is therefore provided between the four side walls 107, 108, 109, 110. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the first and second side walls 107, 108 are perpendicular to the third and fourth side walls 109, 110. Thus, the stowage compartment 104 is cuboid in shape. However, the storage console 101 and storage compartment 104 are not limited to the shapes shown in Figures 1 to 4. In alternative embodiments, the third and fourth side walls 109,110 may have an alternative shape, for example, the third and fourth side walls 109, 110 may be curved. The storage console 101 may comprise one or more cupholders 114 shown in Figures 2 to 4. The cupholder 114 may comprise a recess 115 in the storage console 101 configured to receive and hold one or more drink containers. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 2 to 4, the recess 115 may extend into the housing 105 of the storage console 101. The recess 115 may be configured to receive and hold two drinks containers. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the cupholder 115 is closerto the front 112 of the storage console assembly than the stowage compartment 104. This position for the cupholder 115 may improve the ease of accessing the cupholder 115 by a user in one of the seats of the vehicle 1000. The storage console assembly 100 comprises a lid 116. As shown in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, the lid 116 may comprise an armrest. The lid 116 is pivotable relative to the storage console 101 to selectively block access to a first portion of the storage console 101. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the lid 116 may selectively block access to a first portion 117 of the stowage compartment 104. The lid 116 may be pivotably coupled to the storage console 101 to enable the lid 116 to rotate relative to the storage console 101. The lid 116 may be connected to the storage console 101 by any suitable means. For example, the assembly 100 may comprise a pivot (not shown), such as a rod. The pivot may be coupled to the lid 116 and the storage console 101 so that the lid 116 is rotatable about the pivot relative to the storage console 101, and consequently, the stowage compartment 104. The pivot may extend through the lid 116 so that the pivot is coupled to the storage console 101 on either side of the lid 116. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4, the lid 116 is pivotably coupled to the storage console 101 in a position adjacent to the fourth side wall 110. Thus, the lid 116 selectively covers the first portion 117 of the stowage compartment 104. The first portion 117 of the stowage compartment 104 may extend between the first side wall 107, the second side wall 108 and the fourth side wall 110 as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The lid 116 is therefore coupled to the storage console 101 towards the rear 113 of the console 101. Thus, the lid 116 is arranged to selectively block access to a rear portion of the stowage compartment 104. To selectively block access to the first portion of the storage console 101, the lid 116 is pivotable relative to the storage console 101 between a closed position, shown in Figures 1 to 3, and an open position, shown in Figure 4. In the open position, the lid 116 does not block access to the first portion 117 ofthe storage console 101. Thus, a user may access the first portion 117 ofthe stowage compartment 104. In the closed position, the lid 116 may be supported on an upper surface of each of the first and second side walls 107,108. At least one ofthe upper surfaces ofthe first and second side walls 107, 108 may comprise a locking mechanism (not shown) configured to releasably secure the lid in the closed position. Any suitable locking mechanism may be used. Non-limiting examples of a suitable locking mechanisms include an inertia lock, a detent, a mechanical lock configured to be operated by a user in the vehicle and an electromechanical lock operated configured to be operated by a user in the vehicle. The storage console assembly 100 comprises a cover 118 configured to selectively block access to a second portion of the storage console 101. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 1 and 2, the cover 118 may have a substantially planar upper surface. Thus, the cover 118 may provide a smooth, flat cover for the storage console 101. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cover 118 may selectively block access to a second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104. The second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104 may extend between the first side wall 107, the second side wall 108 and the third side wall 109. That is, the cover 118 may be arranged to selectively block access to a forward portion of the stowage compartment 104. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cover 118 may also selectively block access to the cupholder 114. The cover 118 may be configured to cover the cupholder 114 and the cupholder 114 may be configured to receive the cover 118. Thus, the second portion of the storage console 101 may comprise the second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104 and the cupholder 114. As in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4, the cover 118 may be slidable relative to the storage console 101 to selectively block access to the second portion of the storage console 101. In Figure 1, the cover 118 is blocking access to the second portion to the storage console 101 whereas in Figure 3 the second portion of the storage console 101 is accessible. The cover 118 may be configured to slide rearwards in a direction towards the fourth side wall 110 to allow access to the second portion of the storage console i.e. to move from the position shown in Figure 1 to that shown in Figure 3. In a similar manner, the cover 118 may be configured to slide rearwards in a direction towards the fourth side wall 110 to move from the position shown in Figure 1 to that shown in Figure 2 and allow access to the cupholder 114. The storage console 101 may comprise a pair of slots 120, shown for example in Figures 5 to 10, within which the cover 118 is configured to slide. One of the pair of slots 120 may be in the first side wall 107 and the other of the pair of slots 120 may be in the second side wall 108. Thus, each of the first pair of side walls may comprise a slot. Each slot 120 may be configured to receive a portion of the cover 118 so that the cover is slidable within the slots 120. Each slot 120 may extend along the length of the respective side wall. That is, from the third side wall 109 to the fourth side wall 110. Additionally, the slots 120 may extend above the cupholder 114 so that the cover 118 is receivable by the cupholder 114. The slots 120 may be substantially horizontal. The slots 120 and / or the cover 118 may comprise one or more detents (not shown) to releasably retain the cover 118 in a particular position. For example, the detents may be arranged to releasably retain the cover 118 in a position covering the second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104. The detents may be arranged to releasably retain the cover 118 in a position covering cupholder 114. The slots 120 may be recessed within the first and second side walls 107, 108. Alternatively, the first and second side walls 107, 108 may each comprise a pair of supports which extend from the side wall 107, 108 into the stowage compartment 104. The slots 120 may be formed between the supports on the first and second side walls 107, 108. Whilst the slots are not shown in Figures 1 to 4, the slots 120 will be described below in further detail with reference to Figures 5 to 11. As shown in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, the cover 118 may comprise a handle 121 accessible to a user. The handle 121 may be used to slide the cover 118 relative to the storage console 101. The handle 121 may be positioned towards a front end of the cover 118. The cover 118 is movable relative to the storage console 101 between a first configuration and a second configuration. The cover 118 may be configured to slide within the slots 120 between the first and the second configurations. The first configuration is shown in Figures 3 and 4 and the second configuration is shown in Figures 1 and 2. In the first configuration, the cover 118 engages the lid 116 so that the cover 118 and lid 116 are collectively pivotable relative to the storage console 101. That is, as the lid 116 pivots relative to the storage console 101 the cover 118 is coupled to and moves with the lid 116. Figures 3 and 4 shown the cover 118 in the first configuration. In Figure 3, the cover 118 engages the lid 116 and the lid 116 is in the closed position blocking access to the first portion of the storage console. Since the cover 118 engages the lid 116, as the lid 116 is rotated to the open position, shown in Figure 4, the cover 118 rotates with the lid 116. Thus, a user may access both the first and second portions of the storage console 101. In the second configuration, the lid 116 is pivotable relative to the storage console 101 independently of the cover 118. Thus, in the second configuration the cover 118 does not engage the lid 116. Put another way the cover and the lid are disengaged. Figures 1 and 2 show the cover 118 in the second configuration. In Figure 1, the cover 118 blocks access to the second portion 119 of the storage console 101. That is, the cupholder 114 and the second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104. Together the lid 116 and cover 118 may coverthe entirety of the stowage compartment 104. Thus, the stowage compartment 104 is entirely concealed by the lid 116 and the cover 118. In Figure 2, the cover 118 has been moved so that the cover 118 blocks access to the second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104 but does not block access to the cupholder 114. In both of Figures 1 and 2, the lid 116 is in the closed position. However, as the cover 118 is not coupled to the lid 116, the lid 116 and the cover 118 are therefore independently movable in each of Figures 1 and 2. Thus, the lid 116 may be rotated to the open position without altering the position of the cover 118 as shown in Figures 5 and 7. In the second configuration, the storage console 101 may be configured to engage the cover 118 so that the cover 118 is retained by the console 101. This engagement may be achieved by the cover 118 residing in the slots 120 in the storage console 101. That is, a portion of the cover 118 may reside in the slots 120. The cover 118 may be configured to slide within the slots 120 between the first and the second configurations. For example, to move from the first configuration shown in Figure 3 to the second configuration shown in Figure 2, the cover 118 may be slid forwards, in a direction towards the third side wall 109. During use, a user may move the cover 118 between the first and second configurations and move the lid 116 between the open and closed positions to access stowage within the storage console 101. Starting from the arrangement shown in Figure 1, where the lid 116 is in the closed position and the cover 118 is blocking access to the second portion 119 of the stowage compartment 104 and the cupholder 114, a user is presented with several different options for using the stowage in the assembly 100. For example, if a user wishes to store a small item in the stowage compartment 104, they may slide the cover 118 relative to the storage console 101 or rotate the lid 116. They may select whether to move the lid 116 or cover 118 depending on which is easiest forthem and depending on what items are already stowed in the stowage compartment 104. If a user wishes to store a large item in the stowage compartment 104, the cover 118 maybe moved into the first configuration and then the lid 116 may be rotated along with the cover 118 to allow access to all of the stowage compartment 104 as shown in Figure 4. Additionally, if a user wishes to store a drink container within the assembly 100, they may slide the cover 118 to allow access to the cupholder 114. The assembly 101 therefore allows a user to choose whether to move the lid 116 or the cover 118 depending on the type of item they which to store within or access within the assembly 101 thereby improving ease of access and versatility of the assembly 100. As described above, the cover 118 is configured to slide relative to the storage console 101 and the cover 118 is configured to engage the lid 116 in the first configuration. Figures 5 to 13 show in detail the features which allow the cover 118 to slide relative to the storage console 101 and to engage the lid 116 in the first configuration. The features described with reference to Figures 5 to 13, are for use in the storage console assembly 100 of Figures 1 to 4. Thus, all features of Figures 5 to 13 may be included in the storage console assembly 100 shown in Figures 1 to 4. As described above, the storage console 101 may comprise the pair of slots 120 within which the cover 118 is configured to slide. One of the pair of slots 120 (i.e. a first slot 123) may be in the first side wall 107 and the other of the pair of slots (i.e. the second slot (not shown)) may be in the second side wall 108. Figures 5 to 10 show a partial cross-section of the storage console assembly 100 in a direction parallel to the first side wall 107. Figures 5 to 10 show the first slot 123 in the first side wall 107. Whilst not shown, the second slot in the second side wall 108 is substantially the same as the first slot 123 in the first side wall 107. Each slot 123 of the pair of slots 120 may extend along the length of the respective side walls. That is, the first slot 123 may extend along the first side wall 107 from the third side wall 109 to the fourth side wall 110. The second slot may extend along the second side wall 108 from the third side wall 109 to the fourth side wall 110. Each slot 123 of the pair of slots 120 may be configured to receive a portion of the cover 118 so that the cover 118 is slidable within the slots. As shown in Figure 11, the cover 118 may comprise a body 124 and one or more protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 on opposing sides of the body 124. In Figure 11, the cover comprises two pairs of protrusions. A first pair of protrusions 125, 126 is positioned at a rear end 129 of the body 124. That is, the end of the body which is closest to the fourth side wall 110. A second pair of protrusions 127, 128 is positioned closer to a front end 130 of the body 124 (i.e. closerto the third side wall 109) than the first pair of protrusions. Each slot 123 of the pair of slots 120 is configured to receive the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 so that the cover 118 is slidable within the slots 120. That is, one of the protrusions 125, 127 in each pair is receivable in the first slot 123 in the first side wall 107 and the other protrusion 126, 128 in each pair is receivable in the second slot in the second side wall 108. Thus, the cover 118 may be retained by and slidable relative to the storage console 101. The body 124 of the cover 118 may not be received within either slot 123 of the pair of slots 120. When the cover 118 is in the second configuration, each of the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 is at least partially within the pair of slots 120 as shown in Figures 5 to 8. Thus, in the second configuration the cover 118 may engage the storage console 101 so that the cover 118 is retained by the console 101. In the first configuration, the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 do not reside in the slots as shown in Figures 9 and 10. Therefore, the cover 118 may be disengaged from the storage console 101. The storage console 101 may comprise at least one channel 131, 132 adjoining each slot 123 of the pair of slots 120 for permitting the release of the protrusions 125,126,127,128 from the slots 120 when the cover 118 is in the first configuration. When a protrusion 125,126,127, 128 is aligned with its corresponding channel 131,132, the protrusion 125, 126,127,128 can be lifted from the storage console 101 via the channels 131,132 as shown in Figures 9 and 10. Thus, the cover 118 may be rotatable with the lid 116 in the first configuration. As shown in the embodiment to Figures 5 to 10, the storage console 101 may comprise a first channel 131 and a second channel 132 in the first side wall 107. The first and second channels 131, 132 may both adjoin the first slot 123. The first channel 131 may be positioned to release one of the first pair of protrusions 125 from the first slot 123. The second channel 132 is positioned to release one of the second pair of protrusions 127 from the first slot 123. Thus, each of the first and second channels 131, 132 may be wider than its corresponding protrusion 125,127. Whilst not shown, the storage console 101 may comprise first and second channels in the second side wall 108 that both adjoin the second slot. The channels 131,132 may be arranged so that all of the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 can be released from the pair of slots 120 simultaneously. Thus, the distance between the centres of the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 in the first and second pairs is substantially the same as the distance between the centres of the first and second channels 131,132. As shown in the embodiment in the Figures, the lid 116 may comprise a plurality of arms 133, 134. Each of the plurality of arms 133, 134 may be configured to engage the cover 118 in the first configuration. In the embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10, the arms 133,134 may be configured to engage the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 so that the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 can be lifted through the channels 131, 132 in the first configuration. In the embodiment in Figures 5 to 10, the lid 116 may comprise four arms 133, 134, one arm to engage each protrusion 125,126,127,128. Thus, the plurality of arms may comprise a rear pair of arms 133 and a forward pair of arms 134. The arms 133,134 are arranged so that there are two arms on either side of the lid 116. This may improve the stability of the engagement between the lid 116 and the cover 118. The arms 133,134 may be positioned towards opposing sides of the lid 116.When the lid 116 is in the closed position, the arms 133, 134 are adjacent to an inner surface of either the first side wall 107 or the second side wall 108. A portion of each of the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 adjacent to the body 124 of the cover 118 may extend from (i.e. out of) the respective slot. As such, the arms 133,134 may engage the protrusions 125,126,127,128 without entering the slots 120 or the channels 131, 132 in the side walls 107, 108, 109, 110. As shown in the embodiment in the Figures, the lid 116 may comprise a pair of rear arms 133 arranged to engage the first pair of protrusions 125,126 and a pair of forward arms 134 arranged to engage the second pair of protrusions 127, 128. Whilst Figures 5 to 10 only shown the arms 133,134 adjacent to the first side wall 107, the arms adjacent to the second side wall 108 are substantially the same as those adjacent to the first side wall 107. Each arm 133,134 may comprise a recess 135. Each recess 135 may be configured to engage the cover 118. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 9 and 10, each recess 135 may provide a shelf 136 on which the corresponding protrusion 125, 126, 127, 128 rests when the lid 116 is in the first configuration. Thus, each recess 135 of the arm 133, 134 is configured to receive one of the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 within the respective channel 131,132 so that the cover 118 engages the lid 116 and enters the first configuration. Once the recesses 135 have engaged the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128, the cover 118 and lid 116 may be collectively pivoted relative to the storage console 101 as shown in Figure 10. Figures 5 to 10 show how the lid 116 and cover 118 may be moved within and between the first and second configurations. Figures 5 and 7 show the lid 116 in the open position and the cover 118 in the second configuration. In this configuration, the protrusions 125,126,127,128 are within the pair of slots 120, not within the channels 131, 132. To move the cover 118 into the first configuration, the lid 116 may firstly move to the closed position as shown in Figures 6 and 8. As such, the arms 133,134 of the lid 116 extend into the channels 131, 132. The cover 118 may then slide rearwards so that the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 enter the channels 131, 132 as shown in Figure 9. When the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 enter the channels 131, 132, each protrusion 125, 126, 127, 128 may be received by one of the recesses 135 in the arms 133, 134. Thus, the cover 118 engages the lid 116 and has entered the first configuration. The lid 116 and cover 118 may then be rotated together as shown in Figure 10 to move the lid 116 from the closed position to the open position. To return the cover 118 to the second configuration, the lid 116 must first be rotated into the closed position. Then, the cover 118 may slide out of the first configuration and into the second configuration. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, when the cover 118 is in the second configuration, the cover 118 and lid 116 are independently moveable. Thus, the lid 116 may be opened and closed whilst the cover 118 remains connected to the storage console 101 (i.e. the protrusions 125,126,127,128 of the cover 118 are retained within the pair of slots 120).To reduce the risk of damage to the protrusions 125, 126, 127,128 or body 124 of the cover 118 when the lid 116 is moved from the open to the closed position whilst the cover 118 is in the second configuration, the lid 116 may comprise a first stop member 137. The first stop member 137 may be configured to block entry of one ofthe protrusions 125,126,127,128 into its respective channel 131,132 when the cover 118 is in the second configuration and the lid 116 is in the open position (i.e. the lid 116 is pivoted to allow access to the first portion ofthe storage console 101). As shown in Figures 5 and 7, one or both arms 133 of the pair of rear arms may provide the first stop member 137. As shown in the embodiment in the Figures, the rear arm 133 closest to the first side wall 107 may comprise an extension which may be configured to prevent one of the protrusions 125 of the first pair of protrusions from entering the first channel 131 when the lid 116 is in the open position. That is, the extension may be arranged so that the portion of the protrusion 125 that extends out of the first slot 123 may contact the extension so that the protrusion 125 cannot enter the first channel 131 when the lid 116 is in the open position. As such, the protrusion 125 remains within the first slot 123. The first stop member 137 may also result in one of the protrusions 127 of the second pair of protrusions also being within the first slot 123 and not within the second channel 132. Therefore, as the lid 116 is moved from the open position shown in Figure 7 to the closed position shown in Figure 8, the protrusions 125, 127 of the cover 118 are not within the channels 131, 132. Thus, the lid may be closed without the arms 133, 134 causing damage to the protrusions. The extension may be positioned on the arm 133 beneath the recess 135. As such, the extension does not inhibit the protrusion 125 entering the channel 131 when the lid 116 is in the closed position. The extension may comprise an engagement surface 138 which faces towards the third side wall 109. As such, the engagement surface 138 is arranged to engage or contact one of the protrusions 125 of the first pair of protrusions as the cover 118 is moved rearwards to prevent the protrusion 125 entering the channel 131. When the lid 116 is in the open position, the engagement surface 138 may be disposed either level with or forward of the front side of the first channel 131 (i.e the side of the channel 131 closer to the third side wall 109). Thus, as the cover 118 is slid rearwards, the protrusion 125 engages the engagement surface 138 prevent the protrusion 125 from entering the channel 131. The engagement surface 138 may be a curved surface. The engagement surface 138 may comprise an arc of a cylinder. As such, the engagement surface 138 may inhibit the protrusion 125 entering the channel 131 from the point where the lid 116 leaves the closed position. The rear arm closest to the second side wall 108 may comprise a first stop member that is substantially the same as the extension of the rear arm 133 closest to the first side wall 107. The cover 118 may be configured so that the first pair of protrusions 125, 126 is unable to enter either of the second channels 132 adjoining the first and second slots 123. For example, the distance between the protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 on the cover 118 may be selected such that when the cover 118 is in the second configuration and at its most forward position the first pair of protrusions 125 may be rearwards (i.e. closer to the fourth side wall 110) of the second channels 132 as shown in Figures 5 and 6. As shown in the embodiment in Figures 5 to 10, one or both of the forward arms 134 of the lid may provide a second stop member 139. The second stop member 139 may comprise a rear surface 140 of the forward arm 134. The second stop member 139 may be configured to engage the protrusion 125 of the first pair of protrusions when the lid is in the closed position and the cover 118 is slid forwards. Thus, the second stop member 139 may prevent the one of the protrusion 125 of the first pair of protrusions entering the second channel 132. This may reduce the risk of damage to the cover 118 when the lid 116 is moved between the open and closed positions. Additionally, the second stop member may prevent the first pair of protrusions being trapped in front of the forward arm 134 when the lid 116 is in the closed position which would prevent the cover 118 from sliding between the first and second configurations. The forward arm closest to the second side wall 108 may comprise a second stop member that is substantially the same as the extension of the forward arm 134 closest to the first side wall 107. In certain embodiments, the assembly 100 may comprise a third stop member (not shown) to limit forward movement of the cover 118 relative to body 101 of the assembly 100. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the third stop member may be positioned at the forward end 114a of the cupholder 114. The third stop member may limit forward movement of the cover 118 when the lid 116 is in the open or the closed positions. Figure 12 and 13 show a partial cross-section of the assembly 100 through a centre of the lid 116 and parallel to the first and second side walls 107, 108. Figure 12 shows the cover 118 in the first configuration and the lid 116 in the closed position. Figure 13 shows the cover 118 in the first configuration and the lid 116 in the open position. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the storage console 101 may comprise a hook 141. The hook 141 may be arranged to extend in a direction towards the lid 116, The hook 141 may extend from an upper surface of the fourth side wall 110. The lid 116 may be configured to rotate around an outer surface 142 of the hook 141 between the open and closed positions. As such, the hook 141 may comprise a curved outer surface 142. The rearmost side of the lid 116, the side closest to the fourth side wall 110, may also comprise a curved surface 143 which is complementary to the curved outer surface 142 of the hook 141. Thus, as the lid 116 is pivoted, the lid 116 may slide or pass over the curved outer surface 142 of the hook 141. The hook 141 may be arranged to engage the cover 118 when the cover 118 is in the first configuration and the lid 116 is rotated out of the closed position. As such, the cover 118 may comprise an aperture 144 configured to receive the hook 141. Thus, the aperture 144 is arranged towards the rear end 129 of the body 124 of the cover 118. Figure 12 shows the cover 118 in the first configuration and the lid 116 in the closed position. In this arrangement, the hook 141 does not pass through the aperture 144 in the cover 118. However, as the lid 116 is rotated out of the closed position, the cover 118 moves with the lid 116 and the hook 141 passes though the aperture 144 in the cover 118 as shown in Figure 13. The hook 141 and aperture 144 secure the cover 118 to the lid 116. Thus, preventing the cover 118 from being disengaged from the lid 116. This may reduce the chance of the cover 118 being misplaced during use. It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application. For example, in the above described embodiments, the storage console 101 comprises a cupholder 114. In alternative embodiments, the storage console may not comprise a cupholder. In the above-described embodiments, the lid 116 is pivotable about the fourth side wall 110 of the storage console 101. In alternative embodiments, the lid may be pivotable about a different part of the storage console. For example, the lid may be pivotable about either the first or second side wall. In the above-described embodiments, the lid 116 is configured to selectively block access to a second portion 117 of the stowage compartment 104. In alternative embodiments, the lid may be differently sized so that the lid may selectively block access to the entirety of the stowage compartment. That is, the lid may cover the entirety of the stowage compartment when the lid is in the closed position. In such embodiments, the cover may selectively block access to the cupholderwhen the lid is in the closed position. In the above-described embodiment, the cover 118 comprises two pairs of protrusions 125,126,127,128 and the lid 116 comprises two pairs of arms 133, 134. However, in alternative embodiments, the cover may comprise a single pair of protrusions and the lid may comprise a single pair of arms. Additionally, there may only be a single channel adjoining each slot. In the embodiment described above, the lid 116 is substantially rectangular in shape. However, the lid is not limited to this shape. The shape of the lid may be selected depending on one or more of the shape of the storage console, the stowage compartment and the cupholders. The engagement between the lid 116 and the cover 118 in the first configuration is not limited to the arms 133, 134 and protrusions 125, 126, 127, 128 described above. Any suitable alternative means may be used for the cover to engage the lid. Whilst the stowage assembly is suitable for and is described as being positioned in a centre console of a vehicle, the stowage assembly may be located at any suitable location within a vehicle and is not limited to being within the centre console. 02 04 25

Claims

1. A storage console assembly for a vehicle, the assembly comprising:a storage console comprising a hook;5 a lid, the lid being pivotable relative to the storage console to selectively block access to a first portionof the storage console; anda cover comprising an aperture, the cover configured to selectively block access to a second portion of the storage console, the cover being movable relative to the storage console between a first configuration and a second configuration;10 wherein in the first configuration the cover engages the lid so that the cover and lid are collectivelypivotable relative to the storage console, wherein the hook of the storage console is configured to pass through the aperture as the lid is pivoted in the first configuration; andin the second configuration the cover and the lid are disengaged so that the lid is pivotable relative to the storage console independently of the cover.

2. A storage console assembly according to claim 1, wherein the lid comprises a plurality of arms, each of the plurality of arms comprising a recess for engaging the cover in the first configuration.

3. A storage console assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the second configuration, the20 storage console engages the cover so that the cover is retained by the storage console.

4. A storage console assembly according to claim 3, wherein the storage console comprises a pair of opposing side walls each comprising a slot for receiving a portion of the cover, wherein the cover is slidable within the slots in the second configuration.

255. A storage console assembly according to claim 4, wherein the cover is configured to slide within the slots between the second configuration and the first configuration.

6. A storage console assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the cover comprises at least one 30 protrusion on each of two opposing sides, the cover being retained relative to the storage console by engagement between the protrusions and the slots.02 04 257. A storage console assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the storage consolecomprises at least one channel adjoining each slot for permitting the release of the protrusions from the slots when the cover is in the first configuration.5 8. A storage console assembly according to claim 7, when dependent on claim 2, wherein the recessof each of the plurality of arms is configured to receive one of the protrusions so that the cover engages the lid in the first configuration.

9. A storage console assembly according to claim 8, wherein the lid comprises a stop member 10 configured to block entry of one of the protrusions into its respective channel when the cover is in the first configuration and the lid is pivoted to allow access to the first portion of the storage console.

10. A storage console assembly according to claim 9, wherein one of the plurality of arms comprises thestop member.

11. A storage console assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage console comprises a stowage compartment; andwherein the first portion of the storage console comprises a first portion of the stowage compartment and the second portion of storage console comprises a second portion of the stowage compartment.2012. A storage console assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage console comprises at least one cupholder.

13. A storage console assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid is an 25 armrest pivotably coupled to the storage console.

14. A vehicle comprising the storage console assembly of any one of the preceding claims.

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