Vehicle equipped with a retractable desk mechanism

Abstract

A vehicle with a retractable desk mechanism is adjusted from a stowed position in / on a ceiling (14, fig 1) to a deployed position (P2, fig 1) by a control device. When deployed, the desk is positioned behind a front row of seats (18, fig 1) and provides a storage surface (20, fig 1) for rear passengers, or with a front seat armrest 31 folded back into a space between separate storage surfaces (21a, 21b) for individual rear passengers. The desk includes a display 28, adjustable between portrait 30a and landscape 30b orientations. The mechanism may include rails 26, and be computer controlled.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of automobiles. More specifically, the present invention relates a vehicle equipped with a retractable desk mechanism according to claim 1. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a corresponding computer program product, a corresponding non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, as well as to a corresponding assistance system. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0002] From the prior art, foldable desks or tables in vehicles are already known.

[0003] The CN217835444U discloses an installation in a car, specifically focusing on a folding mechanism for a linked desk and a screen. Simultaneously, the document also pertains to a seat equipped with the folding mechanism for this linked desk and screen, as well as a vehicle equipped with this seat.

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The task of the present invention is to further develop a vehicle in such a way that storage surfaces for occupants, especially in the rear area, can be provided without wasting too much space.

[0006] This task is accomplished through a vehicle with the features of claim 1, as well as through a method according to the invention and by utilizing a corresponding computer program product, a corresponding non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, as well as a corresponding assistance system. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0007] One aspect of the invention pertains to an automobile, particularly a passenger car, equipped with a retractable desk mechanism. This desk mechanism, located in a stowed position on the ceiling area within the vehicle's interior, is capable of being at least partially automatically adjusted to a deployed position using a control device. In this deployed position, the desk mechanism is positioned behind a front row of seats and provides a storage surface for passengers in the rear area or individual separate storage surfaces for respective passengers. Therefore, the following technical description encompasses a potential construction and operation of an automobile equipped with a retractable desk mechanism. The desk mechanism is capable of being automatically adjusted between a stowed position and a deployed position, providing a storage surface or multiple storage surfaces in the rear area of the vehicle.

[0008] The vehicle, hereinafter referred to also as the "automobile," is equipped with a specialized desk mechanism located in the vehicle's interior under a ceiling area in a stowed position. This desk mechanism may be partially automatically moved to a deployed position using a control device. The desk mechanism may either provide a continuous storage surface for passengers in the rear area of the vehicle or offer separate storage surfaces for individual passengers. The desk mechanism is designed to remain concealed under the vehicle's ceiling area in the stowed position, maximizing interior space utilization when the storage surface is not needed. However, when passengers select to use the storage surface, the control device may be activated. The control device may be operated in various ways, such as through buttons or touchscreen controls within the vehicle's interior. Once the storage function is activated, the desk mechanism may be automatically adjusted to the deployed position. In this position, the storage surface may be utilized by passengers in the rear area.

[0009] Alternatively, the desk mechanism may also be divided into separate storage surfaces to provide individual passengers in the rear area of the vehicle with their own personal storage options. This enhances the comfort and versatility of the desk.

[0010] To ensure passenger safety, safety mechanisms may be integrated into the desk mechanism. These mechanisms may include obstacle detection sensors to ensure there are no obstructions when the desk mechanism is in motion. Furthermore, a locking system may be present to ensure that the desk mechanism is securely anchored in the deployed position.

[0011] In summary, the described automobile is equipped with an innovative desk mechanism that allows passengers to use a storage surface in the rear area of the vehicle as needed. The partially automatic control and the option to divide the storage surface into separate areas make this desk mechanism highly versatile and comfortable. The integrated safety features enable safe use of this function while driving.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is envisaged that the desk mechanism may be accommodated in a dedicated storage space in the ceiling area of the vehicle in the stowed position, rendering it essentially invisible to the occupants.

[0013] In another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, it is envisaged that the desk mechanism is adjustable between the stowed position and the deployed position by a rail mechanism. This rail mechanism may enable precise and reliable movement of the desk mechanism.

[0014] In yet another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, it is envisaged that the desk mechanism may incorporate a display device or screen or touchscreen. This display device may be adjusted between a portrait orientation and a landscape orientation to accommodate the occupants' needs.

[0015] In another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, it is envisaged that the display device may be folded out when the desk mechanism is moved to the deployed position. This may allow occupants to conveniently use the display device when the desk mechanism is in use.

[0016] In another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, it is envisaged that in a configuration of the desk mechanism with separate storage surfaces, an armrest between the front seats can be folded back in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle into a space between the storage surfaces. This configuration enhances comfort and functionality by providing additional storage space or a convenient surface between the seats.

[0017] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for providing a storage surface for occupants in the rear area or separate storage surfaces for respective occupants, in which a desk mechanism, which is at least partially automatically adjusted from a stowed position on the ceiling area within the interior of the vehicle to a deployed position using a control device, is placed behind a front row of seats, thereby providing the storage surface or the storage surfaces.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention relates an assistance system for an at least in part automated vehicle, comprising at least one module, one capturing device, and one electronic computing device, wherein the assistance system is configured for performing a method for providing a storage surface for occupants in the rear area or separate storage surfaces for respective occupants, in which a desk mechanism, which is at least partially automatically adjusted from a stowed position on the ceiling area within the interior of the vehicle to a deployed position using a control device, is placed behind a front row of seats, thereby providing the storage surface or the storage surfaces.

[0019] Further advantages, features, and details of the present invention derive from the following description of preferred embodiments as well as from the drawings. The features and feature combinations previously mentioned in the description as well as the features and feature combinations mentioned in the following description of the figures and / or shown in the figures alone can be employed not only in the respectively indicated combination but also in any other combination or taken alone without leaving the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The novel features and characteristic of the present disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of system and / or methods in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described below, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0021] The drawings show in:

[0022] Fig. 1 a cross-section of a vehicle to illustrate a desk mechanism in the interior; and

[0023] Fig. 2 a rear view of a front row of seats behind which the positioned desk mechanism is shown.

[0024] In the figures the same elements or elements having the same function are indicated by the same reference signs. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] In the present document, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration". Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0026] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawing and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[0027] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion so that a setup, device or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises” or “comprise” does not or do not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or method.

[0028] In the following detailed description of the embodiment of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawing that forms part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration a specific embodiment in which the disclosure may be practiced. This embodiment is described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0029] Fig. 1 illustrates a cross-section of a vehicle 10 showcasing the interior arrangement of a retractable desk mechanism 12. The retractable desk mechanism 12 may be at least partially automatically adjusted from a stowed position P1 (not shown) located on the ceiling area 14 within the vehicle's interior 16 to a deployed position P2 using a control device 15 (not shown). The control device 15 may be included in the retractable desk mechanism 12 or another comparable unit such as a control unit in the vehicle 10.

[0030] In the deployed position P2, the retractable desk mechanism 12 may be situated behind a front row of seats 18, providing a storage surface 20 for passengers 22 in the rear area 24. Alternatively, it may offer respective separate storage surfaces 21a, 21b for individual passengers 22.

[0031] In some embodiments for the stowed position P1 (not shown), the desk mechanism 12 may be housed within a storage space 23 in the ceiling area 14, ensuring it remains essentially invisible to passengers 22. The adjustment of the retractable desk mechanism 12 between positions P1 and P2 may be facilitated by a rail mechanism 26.

[0032] Furthermore, the retractable desk mechanism 12 may include a display device 28, which may be adjusted between portrait orientation 30a and landscape orientation 30b as shown in Fig. 2. When the retractable desk mechanism 12 is in the deployed position P2, the display device 28 may be folded out for use.

[0033] For configurations with separate storage surfaces 21a, 21b, an armrest 31 between the front seats 18 may be folded backward longitudinally into the space between the storage surfaces 21a, 21b, enhancing the overall functionality of the arrangement. This configuration is shown in more detail in Fig. 2.

[0034] The adjustment is achieved through a method for providing a storage surface 20 for passengers 22 in the rear area 24 or respective separate storage surfaces 21a, 21b for individual passengers 22. In this method, the retractable desk mechanism 12 may be at least partially automatically adjustable from a stowed position P1 situated in the ceiling area 14 within the interior 16 of the vehicle 10 to the deployed position P2 using the control device 15.

[0035] The sequence of adjustments may involve initially extending the storage surface 20 or storage surfaces 21a, 21b from a housing or enclosure such as a housing in the storage space 23, followed by folding them downward in the vertical direction Z of the vehicle 10. Subsequently, the retractable desk mechanism 12 may be lowered along rails of the rail mechanism 26 and then folded towards the passengers in the rear area 24, providing a horizontal storage surface. Afterward, the display device 28 or screen may be folded out for the passengers 22 to use.

[0036] Fig. 2 shows a rear view of a front row of seats 18 behind which the positioned retractable desk mechanism 12 is shown.

[0037] In configurations with separate storage surfaces 21a and 21b, an armrest 31 may be located between the front seats 18 and may provide an additional ergonomic enhancement. This armrest 31 may be designed to be longitudinally foldable in the vehicle's interior 16. When the armrest 31 is folded backward, it fits into the space between the separate storage surfaces 21 a and 21 b.

[0038] The incorporation of this foldable armrest 31 may enhance the overall functionality and versatility of the retractable desk mechanism 12 in the interior 16 layout. In some embodiments, the armrest 31 may be folded forwards, and the retractable desk mechanism 12 include a single storage surface 20 with a display device 28. In other embodiments, passengers 22 in the rear area 14 may enjoy the convenience of separate storage surfaces 21a, 21b, allowing them to stow personal items, snacks, or other belongings individually. The functionality of the retractable desk mechanism 12 may ensure a neat and organized space and a dedicated area for each passenger 22, enhancing their overall comfort during the journey.

[0039] Moreover, the foldable armrest 31 may serve multiple purposes. In addition to its primary function as a central divider between the separate storage surfaces 21a, 21b, it may be used as an armrest 31 for passengers in the front seats 18 when in the armrest 31 is positioned in the front area 32 of the interior 16. This dual functionality caters to the varying needs of passengers 22, ensuring that they have a comfortable and adaptable space within the vehicle 10. The armrest's 31 longitudinal folding mechanism is designed to be user-friendly and efficient.

[0040] Finally, it is possible to provide the storage surfaces 21a, 21b with respective attaching elements 33a, 33b, which may be L-shaped and may be attached to respective corresponding receiving areas on the foldable armrest 31. This results in a planar surface formed by the storage surfaces 21a, 21b and the armrest 31, especially the surface is flat and overlapping. For example, these attaching elements 33a, 33b may be foldable around a respective axis, allowing them to be placed on the armrest 31. Furthermore, they may also have locking elements to be detachably locked onto the armrest 31. In an alternative configuration, the attaching elements 33a, 33b may also be arranged on the armrest 31 and attached and / or detachably locked onto receptacles on the storage surfaces 21a, 21b.

[0041] In summary, the introduction of the foldable armrest 31 between separate storage surfaces 21a, 21b in the vehicle's 10 interior 16 may enhance both practicality and comfort. It exemplifies a thoughtful approach to interior design, accommodating the diverse needs of passengers and contributing to an enjoyable and functional traveling experience.

[0042] In summary, the present invention describes a retractable table or desk for cars / vehicles. Reference Signs 10 vehicle 12 retractable desk mechanism 14 ceiling area 15 control device 16 interior 18 front row seats 20 storage surface 21a storage surface 21b storage surface 22 passengers 23 storage space 24 rear area 26 rail mechanism 28 display device 30a portrait orientation 30b landscape orientation 31 armrest 32 front area 33a attaching element 33b attaching element P1 stowed position P2 deployed position Z vertical direction

Claims

1. Vehicle (10) equipped with a retractable desk mechanism (12), which is capable of being at least partially automatically adjusted from a stowed position (P1) located on a ceiling area (14) within the interior (16) of the vehicle (10) to a deployed position (P2) via a control device (15), positioning the retractable desk mechanism (12) behind a front row of seats (18) and providing a storage surface (20) for passengers (22) in the rear area (24) or respective separate storage surfaces (21a, 21b) for individual passengers (22).

2. Vehicle (10) according to claim 1, characterized in thatthe retractable desk mechanism (12) is accommodated in a storage space (23) in the ceiling area (14) in the stowed position (P1) and / or is substantially invisible to the passengers (22).

3. Vehicle (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in thatthe retractable desk mechanism (12) is adjustable between the stowed position (P1) and the deployed position (P2) by a rail mechanism (26).

4. Vehicle (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe retractable desk mechanism (12) incorporates a display device (28).

5. Vehicle (10) according to claim 4, characterized in thatthe display device (28) is adjustable at least between a portrait orientation (30a) and a landscape orientation (30b).

6. Vehicle (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in thatthe display device (28) is capable of being folded out when the retractable desk mechanism (12) is adjusted to the deployed position (P2).

7. Vehicle (10) according to claim 1, characterized in thatin a configuration of the retractable desk mechanism (12) with respective separate storage surfaces (21a, 21b), an armrest (31) between the front seats is capable of being folded back in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (10) into a space between the storage surfaces (21a, 21b).

8. Method for providing a storage surface (20) for passengers (22) in the rear area (24) or respective separate storage surfaces (21a, 21b) for individual passengers (22), in which a retractable desk mechanism (12), which is at least partially automatically adjustable from a stowed position (P1) located on a ceiling area (14) within the interior (16) of the vehicle (10) to a deployed position (P2) by a control device (15), whereby in this deployed position (P2), the desk mechanism (12) is positioned behind a front row of seats (18), thereby providing the storage surface (20) or the storage surfaces (21a, 21b).

9. A computer program product comprising program code means for performing a method according to claim 8.

10. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising at least the computer program product according to claim 9.

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