Mechanism for moving a display screen

Abstract

Aspects of the present invention relate to a mechanism (100, 800) for moving a display screen (324) in a vehicle (900), to a mechanism (100, 800) and a display screen (324), and to a vehicle (900). Th

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a mechanism for moving a display screen. Aspects of the invention relate to a mechanism for moving a display screen in a vehicle, to a mechanism and a display, and to a vehicle. BACKGROUND It is known to provide mechanisms for moving a display screen in a vehicle which can move the screen in either a rotational manner or an axial manner relative to a surface of a vehicle instrument panel, for example a top surface. Mechanisms enabling rotational movement allow the screen to pivot about an axis between a stowed position in which the display surface of the screen is typically parallel with a surface of the instrument panel, and a deployed position in which the screen extends away from the surface of the instrument panel at an angle, so that the display surface of the screen is directed towards the user. Mechanisms enabling axial movement of the display screen allow the screen to move between a stowed position within a cavity of the instrument panel and a deployed position in which the screen projects out of the cavity to position the screen externally ofthe rest ofthe instrument panel, forexample, on an upper surface ofthe instrument panel. This arrangement requires the instrument panel to be large enough to accommodate a cavity capable of receiving the entire screen in the stowed position, which can be undesirable in vehicle cabins where space is limited and / or where it is desirable to provide a slimmer profile instrument panel for aesthetic purposes. It is an aim ofthe present invention to address one or more ofthe disadvantages associated with the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a mechanism for moving a display screen in a vehicle, a mechanism and a display, and a vehicle, as claimed in the appended claims. According to an aspect ofthe present invention there is provided a mechanism for moving a display screen in a vehicle, wherein the mechanism is configured to move the display screen in a simultaneous linear and pivoting movement between a first position and a second position. The combination of simultaneous linear and pivoting movement during at least part ofthe movement between the first and second positions enables the screen to be moved between the first and second positions using a “swooping” type action caused by the simultaneous linear and pivoting movements, which creates a theatrical experience for the user and allows for the display screen to be stowed in a space-saving way as well as allowing deployment for user viewing. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mechanism for moving a display screen in a vehicle, the mechanism comprising a mount for mounting a display screen thereto, and a guide along which the mount is slidable between a first end of the guide and a second end of the guide to move a display screen on the mount between a stowed position at the first end and a deployed position at the second end, wherein the mount comprises at least one pivot axis for enabling pivoting of the mount as the mount slides along the guide from the first end to the second end in a sliding direction, and wherein the guide and the mount are configured to cause simultaneous pivoting and linear movement of the mount. The combination of simultaneous linear and pivoting movement during at least part of the movement along the guide enables the screen to be deployed from a flat position in which the back of the screen is flush with the adjacent parts of the instrument panel to a deployed position in which the screen is roughly perpendicular to the instrument panel, using a “swooping” type action during movement which creates a theatrical experience for the user and allows for the display screen to be moved between being stowed in a space-saving way and deployment for user viewing. Optionally, the guide and the mount are configured to cause simultaneous pivoting and linear movement of the mount along at least half of a length extending from the first end to the second end of the guide as the mount moves between the stowed position and the deployed position. Advantageously, simultaneous pivoting and linear movement of the mount along at least half of a length extending from the first end to the second end allows for movement of the screen to be more precisely customised so that the “swooping” action caused by the simultaneous pivoting and linear movement occurs in the desired region of the guide. Optionally, the guide comprises a plurality of guide tracks. The guide tracks may be independent, i.e. formed individually, or may at least in part converge with or be contiguous with a part of another guide track. Advantageously, multiple guide tracks allow for tilting or pivoting of the at least one mount as it engages with more than one track. Optionally, the plurality of guide tracks comprises a first guide track and a second guide track, wherein the first guide track is substantially linear and the second guide track is curved. Advantageously, the combination of separate linear and curved guide tracks assists with guiding the mount in a simultaneous linear and pivoting movement. Optionally, the first guide track overlies the second guide track in the same plane. Advantageously, this arrangement provides a compact guide track assembly. Optionally, the plurality of guide tracks on the guide comprises a first guide track, a second guide track and a third guide track. Optionally, the first guide track is curved and one or both of the second and third guide tracks are linear, or substantially linear. The term “substantially” linear (guide track(s)) is intended to include exactly linear guide tracks, approximately linear guide tracks, i.e. an insignificant deviation from exactly linear, and non-linear guide tracks which have a minor deviation from exactly or substantially linear, and / or non-linear such that movement along the guide tracks is at least in part exactly linear and / or moves the screen in an equivalent manner to that of an exactly linear guide track. As a non-limiting example, the minor deviation may include but not be limited to a change in direction from start to end of, for example, up to 5 degrees, or up to 10 degrees. As a non-limiting example, a guide track comprising an exactly linear portion having a non-linear terminus can be considered “substantially linear”. Advantageously, the combination of substantially linear and curved guide tracks promotes pivoting of the mount about the one or more pivot axes to produce the pivoting action that results in the “swooping” effect of the screen during deployment and stowage. Optionally, the first guide track, second guide track and third guide track are all in the same plane. Optionally, the first guide track overlies the second guide track. Optionally, the third guide track intersects the second guide track. Optionally, the third guide track intersects the second guide track approximately midway along the first guide. Optionally, each of the one or more different locations can coincide with the location of a pivot axis on the mount. Advantageously, providing the guide tracks in the same plane and optionally wherein the third guide track intersects the second guide tracks provides multiple independent tracks for supporting the mount at one or more different locations which can assist in providing a more robust support arrangement for the mount and attached display screen. Optionally, an end portion of the first guide track at the second end of the guide is contiguous with or is located closer to an end portion of the second guide track at the second end of the guide. Optionally, an end portion of the third guide track at the second end of the guide extends in the sliding direction away from the first and second guide tracks. Advantageously, these configurations cause a tilting movement of the mount, as pins connecting the guide tracks to the mount move along the guide tracks in the variably spaced apart configurations. Optionally, the mechanism comprises a housing having a surface in which each of the first, second and third guide tracks is formed as an elongate aperture in the surface. Advantageously, forming the guide tracks as an elongate aperture in the housing does not require any additional components such as separate rails to secure the mount to the guide tracks, which reduces component weight and improves manufacturing efficiency as the elongate apertures can simply be cut out of the surface of the housing during manufacture. Optionally, the mount comprises a triangular plate, or triangular portion. Optionally the triangular plate is configured to attach to or engage with a surface of the display screen to support the display screen during movement. Optionally, the mechanism comprises two mounts, optionally each of the two mounts comprises a triangular plate or triangular portion. Optionally, the triangular plate(s) comprise one or more apertures for engaging with support means such as pins for supporting the mount(s) and the display screen during movement of the mechanism. Optionally, the one or more apertures comprises first, second and third circular apertures. Optionally, the one or more apertures each define a pivot axis in combination with pins receivable within each aperture. Optionally, the mount comprises a second triangular plate, wherein each of the first triangular plate and the second triangular plate are configured for attachment to opposing side surfaces of a display screen to secure the screen between the two triangular plates. Advantageously, the provision of triangular plate section(s) of the mount provides a surface of the mount with a wide surface area for connecting the mount to the guide, such as for example via pins orpins extending from orthrough the triangular plate section(s). Also advantageously, the triangular portions of the mount provide a shape and surface area capable of having a number of apertures therein, in a spaced apart configuration. In embodiments in which one or more of the apertures define a pivot axis, the provision of a number of spaced apart apertures provides multiple pivot points for the mount which increases the range of motion, e.g. tilting motion of the mount. Optionally, the mount comprises a planar arm for supporting a first side of a display screen. Optionally, the planar arm may extend from or be integrally formed with a triangular plate portion of the mount(s). Optionally, an end of the planar arm may comprise one or more apertures for receiving support means such as a pin for connecting the planar arm to other components in the mechanism, such as the one or more guide tracks. Optionally, the planar arm may be configured to support a side of the display screen. Optionally, the planar arm may be fastened to or a side of the display screen. Advantageously, the planar arm provides robust support for the display screen. One or more apertures in the planar arm allow for connection of the mount to the guide which advantageously provides a convenient means for joining the mount to the guide using fasteners passing through the one or more apertures. Optionally, each of the first, second and third circular apertures are configured to receive a pin or fastener. Alignment of each circular aperture with a respective guide track advantageously allows connection of the mount to the guide (via the pins mentioned in subsequent claims). Optionally, the mechanism comprises first, second and third pins, wherein the first pin extends through the first circular aperture, the second pin extends through the second circular aperture and the third pin extends through the third circular aperture. Advantageously, pins passing through the circular apertures in the at least one mount connects the mount to the guide tracks within the guide. Optionally, a first end of the first pin is slidably received in the first guide track, a first end of the second pin is slidably received in the second guide track and a first end of the third pin is slidably received in the third guide track. Advantageously, the pins provide a convenient means of slidably connecting the mount to the guide tracks. Optionally, one end the planar arm is pivotally attached to a first end of a linkage. Optionally, a second end of the linkage is pivotally attached to a display screen housing or a display screen. Optionally, the first end of the linkage comprises a pin for engaging with the first guide track. Optionally, the second end of the linkage comprises a pin for engaging with the second guide track. Advantageously, the linkage(s) provide additional pivot points within the mechanism. Optionally, the second guide track comprises a recessed portion for receiving the first end of the second pin when the mount is at the second end of the guide. Advantageously, the recessed portion secures the second pin into a particular position in the second guide track to secure the screen in a deployed position. Optionally, the mount is pivotable about each of the first, second and third pins. Advantageously, pivoting about each pin enables the simultaneous pivoting and linear movement of the at least one mount as it moves along the at least one guide. Optionally, the display screen comprises a virtual cockpit. Optionally, the display screen comprises a human machine interface (HMI). Optionally, the display screen comprises an indicator display. Advantageously, these display screen interfaces provide a clear means of presenting vehicle information to the driver, and in the case of an HMI, additionally provides a means for the driver to interact with the display screen to access selected vehicle information via the display screen. Optionally, the mechanism comprises a second mount and a second guide. Optionally, the second guide comprises a plurality of guide tracks. Optionally, the plurality of guide tracks comprises a first curved guide track overlying a second substantially linear guide track, and a third substantially linear guide track intersecting the second substantially linear guide track approximately midway along the second guide. Optionally, the second mount is configured to support a second side of a display screen and comprises a triangular portion, wherein the triangular portion comprises first, second and third circular apertures each for receiving a pin or a fastener. Optionally, the first circular aperture is aligned with the first guide track, the second circular aperture is aligned with the second guide track, and the third circular aperture is aligned with the third guide track. Advantageously, these features and configurations create the simultaneous linear and pivoting movement pattern of the mount, in a compact guide arrangement. Advantageously, providing a second mount at the opposite side of the screen enables greater support and stability of the screen during the deployment and stowage movements. Optionally, a second end of the first pin extends through the first circular aperture on the second mount, a second end of the second pin extends through a second aperture on the second mount, and a second end of the third pin extends through a third aperture on the second mount. Optionally, the second end of the first pin is slidably received in the first guide track on the second guide, the second end of the second pin is slidably received in the second guide track on the second guide and the second end of the third pin is slidably received in the third guide track on the second guide. Optionally, the first mount and the second mount are mutually moveable and pivotable along the first and second guides, respectively. Advantageously, these features allow for the mount(s) to be slidably mounted in the respective guide tracks which provides for a smooth movement along the guide, and the multiple pins slidably received in the respective guide track means that each pin follows its own track which defines the movement pattern of the mount(s). According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an instrument panel comprising a mechanism according to the present invention. Advantageously, the instrument panel comprises the benefits of being able to deploy a screen within it using a “swooping” motion achieved through the aforementioned combination of linear and pivoting movement achieved via the configuration of the mechanism. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system comprising a mechanism according to the present invention and a display. Optionally, the display is an instrument panel configured to display a virtual cockpit. Advantageously, the system comprises the benefits of being able to deploy a display (screen) using a “swooping” motion achieved through the combination of linear and pivoting movement achieved via the configuration of the mechanism. Advantageously, the virtual cockpit provides a clear means of presenting vehicle information to the driver. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a mechanism or a system according to the present invention. Advantageously, the vehicle comprises the benefits of being able to deploy a screen within it using a “swooping” motion achieved through the aforementioned combination of linear and pivoting movement achieved via the configuration of the mechanism. Optionally, the mechanism comprises a cover configured to lie adjacent to a rear surface of a display screen mounted on the at least one mount. Optionally, the cover forms a part of a surface of the control panel or instrument panel. Optionally, the cover is pivotable before, during and / or after movement of the mount along the guide. Advantageously, the cover conceals the back of the screen and may be customised to match or complement the surrounding control panel or instrument panel. Optionally, the mechanism comprises at least one actuator for driving the at least one mount along the at least one guide. Advantageously, the at least one actuator allows for automatic deployment and / or stowage of the screen in response to a user input which activates the actuator. Optionally, the mechanism comprises at least one controller configured to initiate movement of the at least one mount along the at least one guide in dependence on receipt of a signal. Advantageously, the at least one controller can control or be linked to other vehicle components such that screen deployment can be triggered by activation of other vehicle features, such as by opening door handle. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of moving a display screen mounted to a mechanism according to the present invention, the method comprising sliding the at least a part of the mount along the at least one guide and simultaneously pivoting the at least one mount about the at least one pivot axis so as to cause the display screen to move both linearly and pivotally simultaneously along at least a portion of the guide. Advantageously, the method of moving the screen both linearly and pivotally simultaneously along at least a portion of the guide causes the screen to “swoop” during deployment and stowage which provides the user with a more theatrical experience of the screen as compared to known methods of deploying and stowing a screen which involve either linear (e.g. axial) movement or purely rotational movement. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control panel comprising a mechanism according to an aspect of the present invention, and a display screen. Advantageously, the control panel comprises the benefits of being able to deploy a display screen within it using a “swooping” motion achieved through the aforementioned combination of linear and pivoting movement achieved via the configuration of the mechanism. Optionally, the control panel comprises an instrument panel for a vehicle. Optionally, the instrument panel is a virtual cockpit. Optionally, the instrument panel is a Human Machine Interface (HMI). Optionally, the instrument panel is an indicator display. Advantageously, these instrument panel interfaces provide a clear means of presenting vehicle information to the driver, and in the case of an HMI, additionally provides a means for the driver to interact with the display screen to access selected vehicle information via the instrument panel. 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 any way 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: FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2A shows an enlarged view of a first side of the mechanism of FIG. 1, from a first angle; FIG. 2B shows an enlarged view of the first side of the mechanism of FIG. 1, from a second angle; FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of a housing which encloses the mechanism of FIG. 1, and includes a screen attached to the mechanism, the screen being in a non-deployed (stowed) position; FIG. 3B shows an enlarged view of a first side of the housing of FIG. 3A, with a first side panel of the housing omitted to show parts of the mechanism of FIG. 1 within the housing, and the screen in a nondeployed position; FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of the housing shown in FIG. 3A, with the screen in a deployed position; FIG. 4B shows a side view of the housing shown in FIG, 4A, omitting a cover and the first side panel of the housing to reveal the mechanism of FIG. 1. contained within the housing, and a screen attached to the mechanism in the deployed position; FIGS. 5A-6B show an enlarged perspective view of parts of the mechanism of FIG. 1 within the housing of FIGS. 3A-4B, showing a sequence of movement of the mechanism between the non-deployed position and the deployed position; FIG. 5A shows an enlarged perspective view of parts of the mechanism of FIG. 1. within the housing of FIGS. 3A-4B, showing a guide comprising guide tracks on the first side of the housing for guiding the mechanism between the non-deployed and the deployed position, and the mechanism in the nondeployed position; FIG. 5B shows the enlarged perspective view of FIG. 5A, with the mechanism in a partially deployed position, having moved from the non-deployed position, along the guide tracks towards the deployed position; FIG. 6A shows the enlarged perspective view of FIG. 5B, with the mechanism in a partially deployed position, having moved further along the guide tracks towards the deployed position; FIG. 6B shows the enlarged perspective view of FIG. 6A, with the mechanism in the deployed position; FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a vehicle instrument panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, the instrument panel; FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of a mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 9 shows a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION FIG. 1 shows a screen deployment mechanism 100 for an instrument panel in a vehicle which can move a screen attached to the mechanism 100 between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration. The mechanism 100 comprises a guide 102, which in the present embodiment is formed by a first guide 102a and a second guide 102b. The first and second guides 102a, 102b are separated by a strut 104 which maintains the first and second guides 102a, 102b at a fixed distance apart and provides some stability to the mechanism 100 when it is in use. A mount 106 is provided between the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b, the mount 106 being configured to support a display screen (not shown on FIG. 1) of an instrument panel. The mount 106 comprises a first and a second pivotable support 106a, 106b which are attached to either side of the display screen (not shown on FIG. 1), and which are separated by a central portion 106c of the mount 106. The first pivotable support 106a is located towards the end of the mount 106 closest to the first guide 102a and the second pivotable support 106b is located towards the end of the mount 106 closest to the second guide 102b. The display screen may be further attached to the mount 106 via a pin (not shown in FIG. 1), which can be threaded through a through-bore in a bottom edge of the screen, and either end of which can be threaded through a bore 107a, 107b in each of the first and second pivotable supports 106a, 106b, respectively. Each end of the mount 106 comprises a triangular shaped pivotable mount portion 302 (not visible on FIG. 1, shown on FIG. 3B) which is configured to engage with the guide 102 via pins (visible on FIG. 3B) which extend from the pivotable mount portion 302 and into tracks in the guide 102. The pins define pivot axes for the mount. The tracks are explained in more detail with reference to FIGS 2A and 2B. The pivotable mount portion 302 is attached to the display screen such that movement of the pivotable mount portion 302 as it rotates about each of the pins during movement of the mount 106 along the guide causes corresponding movement of the screen. An inner surface of each of the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b is provided with a toothed track 108, and each toothed track 108 is configured to engage with a toothed wheel 110 which is attached to either end of the mount 106. Teeth on each toothed wheel 110 engage with the teeth on the respective toothed track 108. The central portion 106c of the mount 106 is supported by a mount guide 116 which extends from and is electrically connected to a motor 114. A drive screw (not visible) within a drive screw housing 115 extending from the motor 114 rotates, which drives the mechanism 100 and causes the mount 106 to move from a first end 126 to a second end 128 of each of the first and second guides 102a, 102b. The toothed wheel 110 on each side of the mechanism 100 moves along each respective toothed track 108 as the drive screw rotates, which ensures that both sides of the mount 106 are moving simultaneously to prevent warping of the mount 106 and attached screen (not shown). Referring to FIGS. 1,2A, 2B and 3B, the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b each comprise a first guide track 112a, a second guide track 112b and a third guide track 112c. The first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c guide the movement of the mount 106 when the mechanism 100 is in use by providing three tracks extending between a first end 126 and a second end 128 of the first and second guides 102a, 102b into which a first end of respective first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 (shown on FIG. 3B) is slidably received. A second end of each of the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 is connected to the end of the mount 106 so that the mount 106 is supported in the first, second and third first guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c by virtue of the pins 314, 316, 318 and further supported by the toothed track 108 underlying the toothed wheel 110 attached to either side of the mount 106. The outer surface of each of the first and second guides 102a, 102b are provided with an end panel 122a, 122b. The end panels 122a, 122b cover the first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c in each of the first and second guides 102a, 102b, respectively, to prevent debris or other foreign objects from entering the guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c and / or other parts of the mechanism 100 and impairing its function. The end panels 122a, 122b are secured to the respective guide 102a, 102b via fasteners (not visible in FIG. 1.) secured into apertures 124a, 124b, 124c in the first and second guides 102a, 102b, respectively. Figs. 2A and 2B will now be described collectively. FIG. 2A shows the arrangement of the guide tracks 112a, 112b and 112c more clearly, from an external perspective of the mechanism 100, looking at the external surface of the first guide 102a. FIG. 2B shows the arrangement of the guide tracks 112a 112b, 112c from an internal perspective of the mechanism 100 looking at the internal surface of the first guide 102a. As explained with reference to FIG. 1, each of the first guide 102a and second guide 102b (second guide not visible in FIG. 2A or FIG. 2B, but the track arrangement of the second guide mirrors that of the first guide) comprises first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c that guide the movement of the mount 106 by virtue of first, second and third pins (pins not visible on FIG. 2A, or FIG. 2B but are shown and described in relation to FIG. 3B, and FIGS 5A-6B) which are connected at one end to the mount 106 via a triangular plate 302 (shown on FIG. 3B) and to the first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c at the other end. The first pin is slidably received in the first guide track 112a. The second pin is slidably received in the second guide track 112b. The third pin is slidably received in the third guide track 112c. The first guide track 112a overlies the second and third guide tracks 112b, 112c. Since the guide pins are slidably engaged with their respective guide track 112a, 112b, 112c, the movement pattern of the mount 106, specifically the triangular plate 302 components of the mount 106 attached to the guide pins 314, 316, 318, is dictated by the shape and relative configuration of the three guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c. During movement of the mechanism between the stowed position and the deployed position, the interaction of the guide pins 314, 316, 318 along each corresponding guide track 112a, 112b, 112c causes the triangular plates 302 of the mount 106 to pivot I tilt (shown and described in relation to FIGS. 5A-6B). This causes corresponding movement of the screen attached to the triangular plates 302 as the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 move along each respective first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c. The first guide track 112a is slightly curved, with each end of the first guide track 112a curving downwardly in the direction of the second guide track 112b which is positioned directly underneath the first guide track 112a, in the same plane, on the first guide 102a. A first end of the first guide track 112a at the first end 126 of the first guide 102a terminates at a point which is inwardly of a corresponding terminus at a first end of the second guide track 112b. A second end of the first guide track 112a is contiguous with a second end of the second guide track 112b in the present embodiment. The second end of the second guide track 112b terminates at the second end 128 of the first guide 102a. In other embodiments, the second end of the first guide track 112a may not be contiguous with the second end of the second guide track 112b. For example, the second end of the first guide track 112a may be distinct but adjacent to the second end of the second guide track 112b. The second guide track 112b and the third guide track 112c intersect one another at a point which is approximately midway between the first end 126 and the second end 128 of the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b, respectively, so as to form an X shape. The second guide track 112b is linear in the present embodiment and extends from a first corner region of the second end 128 of the first guide 102a towards a region just inwardly of the first end 126 of the first guide 102a and approximately halfway between the first guide track and a lower edge of the first guide 102a. The second guide track comprises a locating feature 202 in the form of a recess 202 in the lower edge of the guide track 112b into which the second pin 316 can be received to secure the mount 106 into position when the screen reaches the deployed position and to provide the screen with some rigidity when deployed so that it does not flex if a user touches the screen. The third guide track 112c comprises a linear section extending from a corner region of the first end 126 of the first guide 102a downwardly towards a diagonally opposing corner region at the second end 128 of the first guide. A final portion 204 of the third guide track 112c at the second end 128 curves downwardly towards a lower corner of the second end of the first guide 102a. The aforementioned description of the first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c applies to the guide tracks of each of the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b. The first and second guides 102a, 102b are arranged to mirror each other either side of the mount such that the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 which secure the mount 106 and screen 312 to the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b move in each of the guide tracks in the first guide 102a simultaneously with the corresponding guide track in the second guide 102b. It will be appreciated that the specific arrangement of the first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c may be different in other embodiments of the invention and still be configured to achieve the simultaneous linear and pivoting movement of the mount 106 and attached display screen. It will also be appreciated that the simultaneous linear and pivoting movement of the mount 106 and / or attached display screen can be achieved with other guide track configurations which may or may not comprise three guide tracks. A non-limiting example of an alternative guide track configuration is given In relation to FIG. 8. FIG. 3A shows a housing 310 containing the mechanism 100 shown in the aforementioned Figures. The housing 310 is configured for positioning within a correspondingly shaped cavity within an instrument panel in a vehicle. For clarity purposes, some features, such as the fasteners 308 in the first end panel 122a, are not labelled in FIG. 3A. The housing 310 comprises a plurality of securing flanges 304, 306 (only some are visible on FIG. 3A) for securing the housing to a support structure within the instrument panel cavity. In the present embodiment, the securing flanges 304, 306 comprise first and second side securing flanges 304 (only one is visible on FIG. 3A), and a rear securing flange 306. Each of the first securing flange 304 and the second securing flange (not visible) extend substantially perpendicularly from the first end panel 122a and the second end panel 122b, respectively, and are provided with two spaced apart apertures for receiving fasteners for securing the flanges 304 to a support member (not shown) within the instrument panel cavity. The rear securing flange 306 extends substantially perpendicularly from a rear surface of the housing 310 and also comprises at least one aperture (not visible on FilG. 3) for securing the rear flange 306 to a support member (not shown) within the instrument panel cavity. The housing 310 is shaped to generally conform to the general shape of the screen deployment mechanism 100 and therefore in the present embodiment, the housing 310 comprises a generally rectangular shaped front portion 310a which encases the mount 106 and first and second guides 102a, 102b, and smaller rectangular shaped rear portion 31 Ob which encases the motor 114 and extends from a rear surface of the rectangular shaped front portion 310a. In the present embodiment, the upper-most surface of the rectangular shaped front portion 310a is formed by the rear surface 312a of the display screen 312, when the mechanism 100 and the attached screen 312 are in the stowed position. FIG. 3B shows a magnified view of part of the housing 310 shown in FIG. 3A, with the first end panel 122a omitted to show the underlying toothed track 108, toothed wheel 110 and ends of each of the first pin 314, second pin 316 and third pin 318 which are attached to the mount 106. As shown in FIG. 3B, the ends of each of the first pin 314, second pin 316 and third pin 318 pass through a respective first, second and third aperture on a triangular plate 302 located either end of the mount 106. The triangular plate 302 maintains each of the first pin 314, second pin 316 and third pin 318 at a spaced apart distance during movement of the mechanism 100. FIG. 3B also shows a plurality of fastener posts 320 extending perpendicularly from a first support plate which supports the toothed track 108 on the first side of the mechanism 100. The plurality of fastener posts 320 engage with corresponding apertures on an inner surface of the first guide 102a (omitted for clarity purposes on FIG. 3B) to help secure the first guide 102a to the remainder of the mechanism 100. Each of the fastener posts 320 comprises a bore, which may or may not be threaded, into which fasteners 308 for securing the first end panel 122a can be received to secure the first end panel 122a to the first guide 102a. Corresponding fastener posts (not shown) are positioned on a second support plate (not visible on FIG. 3B) which supports the toothed track on the second side (not visible) of the mechanism 100. The fastener posts on the second support plate engage with corresponding apertures of an inner surface of the second guide (not visible on FIG. 3B) to help secure the second guide to the remainder of the mechanism 100. FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a housing 310 which surrounds the mechanism 100 shown in the aforementioned Figures, and shows the screen 312 in the deployed position. In some embodiments of the invention, the housing 310 comprises a top cover 310c which covers the mechanism 100 when it is installed in an instrument panel of a vehicle. Covering the mechanism in this way prevents debris from entering the mechanism 100 which may impair its operation, and also improves the aesthetic appearance of the screen and mechanism in use. In some embodiments, the top cover may comprise the same finish as an adjacent surface of the instrument panel into which the screen deployment mechanism 100 is installed, such that the housing appears discreet against the remainder of the instrument panel. FIG. 4B shows a side view of the mechanism of FIG. 1. contained within the housing of FIGS. 3A-4B, with the first side panel of the housing omitted to show parts of the mechanism of FIG. 1 within the housing, and with a display screen attached to the mechanism in the deployed position. In the present embodiment, the top cover 310c comprises a sloped portion 31 Od. The sloped portion 31 Od is configured to slope upwardly, away from the underlying mechanism 100 so that it meet the visible (rear) surface of the screen 312 when the screen 312 is in the stowed position. The second guide 102b is visible in FIG. 4B and it can be appreciated from this Figure in conjunction with the previous figures that the first and second guides 102a, 102b are arranged within the housing 310 as mirror images of one another on either side of the housing 310, and either side of the screen 312 mounted therebetween. This ensures that the first pin, second pin and third pins on the triangular plate 302 on each side of the mount 106 follow corresponding first, second and third guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c in each of the first and second guides 102a, 102b, respectively, to control movement of the screen 312 during deployment and stowage. As also shown in FIG. 4B, each side of the housing comprises the toothed track 108 which engages with the toothed wheel 110 mounted on either end of the mount 106 as described above with reference to FIG. 1. The provision of a toothed track 108 and corresponding toothed wheel 110 on either side of the mechanism 100 controls movement of the mount 106 to prevent or reduce the likelihood of one side of the mount 106 moving more quickly than the other which would apply undesirable torsional forces to the screen 312. Embodiments of the present invention may be driven by a single motor. Using a single motor to move the mount 106 between the first end 126 and the second end 128 of the mechanism 100 along the two toothed tracks 108 either side of the mount 106, as compared to using two motors, i.e. One motor driving each side of the mount 106 along the respective toothed tracks 108, prevents or reduces the risk of skewing of the mechanism 100 and attached screen 312 in the event that the motors driving each side of the mount 106 operated at slightly different speeds. Some of the features of the mechanism described in relation to earlier figures have been annotated on FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B for context, and are not necessarily described again in relation to FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B. Figures 5A to 6B show stages of the movement sequence of the screen and mount 106 during deployment of the screen 312. In these Figures, the screen 312 is denoted by a dotted line to show its position relative to the mechanism 100, but without obscuring the features of the mechanism 100. Movement of the screen deployment mechanism 100 may be initiated in a number of ways. For example, the mechanism 100 may be configured to move between the stowed position towards the deployed position on receipt of a signal from a button on the instrument panel, or from a button on a key fob of the vehicle in which the mechanism 100 is installed, or when the door of the vehicle is unlocked or opened. In FIG. 5A, the screen 312 is in the stowed position in which it overlies the mechanism 100 such that a rear surface 312a of the screen 312 is uppermost and the display region of the screen 312 is positioned inwardly, facing the mechanism 100. In this position and when the mechanism is installed into an instrument panel, the rear surface of the screen 312 is generally in the same plane as an uppermost surface of the instrument panel so that the screen 312 and mechanism 100 blends discreetly into the instrument panel for aesthetic purposes. The rear surface 312a of the screen 312 may comprise a finish which is the same as the finish of the instrument panel, against so that the screen 312 blends discreetly into the instrument panel when the screen 312 is in the stowed position. In the stowed position, the mount 106 is at the first end 126 of the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b, and each of the first pin 314, second pin 316 and third pin 318 is at the first end 126 of each respective first guide track 112a, second guide track 112b and third guide track 112c of each of the first and second guides 102a, 102b. A bottom edge 322 of the screen 312 is pivotally connected to the mount 106 and in part supported by the first and second pivotal supports 106a, 106b (106b not visible on FIG. 5A). In FIG. 5B, the screen 312 has been moved out of the stowed position and towards the deployed position. As can be seen, the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 have moved away from the first end 126 of each of the first guide 102a and second guide 102b, and towards the midpoint of the first and second guide tracks 112a, 112b, between the first end 126 and the second end 128 of each of the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b. Movement of the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 along the guide tracks 112a, 112b between the first end 126 and the midway point of the guide tracks 112a, 112b between the first end 126 and the second end 128, causes the bottom edge 322 of the screen 312 to pivot, which moves the top edge 324 of the screen 312 away from the underlying mechanism 100 and towards a more upright position as shown on FIG. 5B. In FIG. 6A, the mount 106 and attached screen 312 have moved further away from the first end 126, beyond the midpoint of the first and second guide tracks 112a, 112b, and closer towards the second end 128 of each of the first guide 102a and second guide 102b. Movement of the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 along the guide tracks 112a, 112b between the midway point and the second end 128 causes the bottom edge 322 of the screen 312 to further pivot which reveals the display surface 312b of the screen 312 and moves the top edge 324 of the screen to a more upright, partially deployed position as shown on FIG. 6A. FIG. 6B shows the screen 312 in the fully deployed position. In this position, the first, second and third pins 314, 316, 318 have moved to the end of each respective first, second and third guide track 112a, 112b, 112c at the second end 128 of each of the first guide 102a and the second guide 102b. The mount 106 and attached screen 312 are secured into the deployed position shown in FIG. 6B by engagement of the second and third pins 316, 318 into respective locating features 319b, 319c. Locating feature 202 in the second guide track 112b is in the form of a recess 202 in the guide track 112b into which the second pin 316 drops when the mount 106 and screen 312 are at the second end 128 of the guide tracks 112a, 112b, 112c. The recess 202 in the present example is in the form of a notch in a lower surface of the guide track 112b, but may, in other embodiments, take an alternative form but one which is still capable of receiving and temporarily retaining the second pin 316. As previously mentioned, the locating feature 202 provides the screen with rigidity when deployed so that it doesn’t flex if a user touches the screen. The third guide track 112c locating feature 204 takes the form of a downwardly curved final portion 204 at the second end 128 of the guide track 112c. When the third pin 318 reaches this curved final portion 204, the downward nature of the final portion 204 directs the third pin 318 downwardly. This causes the bottom edge 322 of the screen 312 to be pushed forward in the direction of the second end 128 and the top edge 324 of the screen to be tilted backward commensurately, in the direction of the first end 126 of the guides 102a, 102b to present the display surface 312b of the screen 312 to the vehicle driver. This is the deployed position of the screen. The final portion 204 also assists in guiding the third pin 318 upwardly and back along the third guide track 112c towards the first end 126 when the screen 312 is being moved from the deployed position shown in FIG. 6B, to the stowed position shown in FIG. 5A. As the third pin moves up along the final portion 204, in the direction of the first end 126 of the first guide 102a and second guide 102b respectively, the upward movement of the third pin 318 along the third guide track 112c causes the second pin 316 to move upwards and thus disengage from the locating feature 202 in the second guide track 112b. FIG. 7 shows a portion of an instrument panel 700 for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention. The curved edges of the instrument panel 700 shown in FIG. 7 are intended to reflect that only a portion of the instrument panel 700 is shown in this Figure, and are not intended to depict any particular shape or configuration of instrument panel 700. The instrument panel 700 comprises a display screen mechanism 100 (not visible in FIG. 7 as it is contained and concealed within the instrument panel 700) according to the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 6B, when the screen 312 attached to the mechanism 100 is in a deployed configuration as shown in FIG. 4A. At least a part of the top cover 310c of a housing (not fully visible on FIG. 7) containing the mechanism 100 is generally continuous with a surface 702 of the instrument panel 700. The instrument panel and display screen mechanism may define at least part of a system according to an aspect of the present invention. FIG. 8 shows a side view of a mechanism 800 for moving a display screen 816 in a vehicle according to another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the mechanism 800 comprises a first guide track 802, a second guide track 804 and two guide rails; a first guide rail 806 and a second guide rail which is not visible in this figure. In FIG. 8, the screen is shown in a partially deployed position. The first guide track 802 is linear and arranged to directly overlie the second guide track 804 which is curved. The curve of the second guide track 804 is such that the distal ends of the second guide track 804 are positioned closer to the first guide track 802 as compared to the central portion of the second guide track 804 which is spaced further apart from the first guide track 802. The distal ends of the second guide track 804 extend just beyond the corresponding distal ends of the first guide track 802. At a first end of the first guide track 802 and second guide track 804, the ends of the first and second guide tracks converge such that the end of the first guide track 802 abuts a part of the second guide track second guide track 804 just before its terminus at the first end. At a second end of the first and second guide tracks first guide track 802, second guide track 804, the ends of the first and second guide tracks first guide track 802, second guide track 804 converge such that the end of the first guide track is adjacent but slightly spaced apart from a part of the second guide track 804 just before its terminus at the second end. This aforementioned configuration of termini of each of the first and second guide tracks assists in pivoting the display screen 816 during movement of the screen 816 between the stowed and the deployed position. A first mount 808 is configured to slide along the first guide rail 806. A second mount (not visible) is configured to slide along a second guide rail (not visible) on the opposite side of the mechanism. A display screen 816 is positioned between the first mount 808 and the second mount such that a first side edge of the display screen 816 is positioned adjacent the first mount 808 and a second side edge (on the opposite side of the screen 816) is positioned adjacent the second mount. Each side edge of the display screen 816 is secured to the respective first mount 808 and second mount via a linkage 810 connected to a first end of each of the first mount 808 and the second mount (not visible). Each linkage 810 comprises two circular apertures 812, 814 at opposing ends of the linkage 810. A first of the circular apertures 812 is configured to overlie a corresponding circular aperture in the first end of each of the first mount 808 (adjacent the first side edge of the display screen) and the second mount (not visible but adjacent the second side edge of the display screen). A pivotable fastener is inserted through the first circular aperture 812 and through the adjacent corresponding circular aperture in the first end of each of the first mount 808 and the second mount, through the first guide track 802, and into a corresponding circular aperture in the first side edge and second side edge, respectively, of the display screen 816, to secure the screen to the first mount 808 and the second mount. A pin is positioned in the second circular aperture 814 of each linkage 810. The pin does not pass through a corresponding aperture in the first mount 808 or second mount, but does pass through the second guide track 804 and into an aperture, on each of the first side edge and the second side edge of the display screen 816. This configuration allows the linkage 810 to pivot about the fastener in the first circular aperture 812 and the pin in the second circular aperture 814 independently, which allows the linkage 810 to pivot independently of the first mount 808 as the mount moves along the first guide rail 806 (and second guide rail) between the stowed position and the deployed position. Since the screen is independently pivotally attached to each end of the linkage 810 via the fastener in the first aperture 812 and the pin in the second aperture 814 of the linkage, the screen 816 is permitted to pivot or tilt as the first mount 808 and second mounts move along the first guide rail 806 and the second guide rail (not visible in this figure), thereby achieving simultaneous linear and pivoting movement of the screen. The simultaneous linear and pivoting movement is facilitated by the shape and configuration of the first guide track 802 and second guide track 804 because as the pivotable fastener in the first circular first aperture 812 of the linkage 810 moves linearly within the first linear guide track 802, the pin in the second circular aperture 814 of the linkage 810 is sliding independently along the second guide track 804. The curve of the second guide track 804 promotes tilting of the screen 816 attached to the first mount 808 (and second mount) via one end of linkage 810 (corresponding linkage on the second mount is not visible), and, simultaneously, the linear nature of the first guide track 802 promotes linear movement of the screen 816. This simultaneous linear and pivot movement of the screen allows swift deployment of the screen in a swooping motion in contrast to the prior art arrangements which provide either a linear or rotational screen deployment mechanism. The simultaneous linear and pivoting movement of the screen according to embodiments of the present invention provides numerous advantages. The mechanism 800 may be configured to move by a number of different drive means. As a non-limiting example, the mechanism 800 is driven by an electrical motor 820 which moves a drive screw 818 to which the first mount 808 and second mount are connected. When rotating in a first direction, the drive screw 818 is configured to move the first mount 808 and second mount along the first guide rail 806 from the stowed position, in a direction away from the motor 820, towards the deployed position at the opposite end of the first guide rail 806, which causes the fastener at one end of the linkage 810 to slide along the first guide track 802 and the pin at the opposite end of the linkage 810 to slide along the second guide track 804. When rotating in an opposite, second direction, the drive screw 818 is configured to move the first mount 808 and second mount along the first guide rail 806 from the deployed position, in a direction towards the motor 820, towards the stowed position. The motor 820 is secured to a mount 822 which is configured for attachment to an instrument panel of a vehicle, to retain the mechanism 800 securely during use in a vehicle environment. The mechanism 800 is contained within a housing 824 which, in use, is positioned within a cavity of the vehicle instrument panel. This ensures that only the display screen 816 is visible to the user once the screen deployment mechanism 800 is installed. In the stowed position, a rear surface of the screen deployment mechanism 800 sits flush with the adjacent instrument panel surface so as to provide a generally continuous surface between the screen and the instrument panel. Optionally, the rear surface of the screen deployment mechanism 800 may be provided with a coating or finish which conforms to that of the adjacent instrument panel, to improve the aesthetic appeal of the screen in the stowed position. In known linear screen deployment mechanisms, the screen rises in a linear plane from a stowed position within the instrument panel to an upright position at approximately 90 degrees to an upper surface of the instrument panel. This known arrangement requires the instrument panel to have at least a part which has sufficient depth to accommodate the entire height of a display screen in the stowed position such that, in the stowed position, no part of the display screen projects above the uppermost surface of the instrument panel since this is aesthetically undesirable in screens which are intended to move between a stowed and a deployed position. In known rotational screen deployment mechanisms, an edge of the display screen is anchored to the uppermost surface of the instrument panel and the display screen pivots about that edge such that it moves from a stowed position in which the display screen is face down against the instrument panel, towards a deployed position in which the display screen is visible to the driver of the vehicle. However, this rotational deployment can take some time to complete to the point whereby the display is clearly visible to the driver. It will be appreciated that in a vehicle environment, it is paramount that an instrument panel display screen is clearly visible to a driver and therefore the longer it takes for the display screen to deploy, the longer the driver must wait until it is safe to drive the vehicle. Embodiments of the present invention which enable simultaneous linear and pivoting movement of the screen address both of these issues with prior art screen deployment mechanisms. By providing a mechanism that both moves linearly and rotationally, the screen can be stowed substantially parallel to the underlying instrument panel, meaning that it is not necessary for the instrument panel to be deep enough to accommodate the full height of the screen within it. This means that the depth of the instrument panel can be reduced when using screen deployment mechanisms according to embodiments of the present invention. This may offer cost savings, space savings and / or increase the space available in front of first row passengers and / or free up space for other components to be hidden within the instrument panel to provide a clean aesthetic to the vehicle cabin environment. Additionally, by providing a mechanism which simultaneously moves linearly and rotationally, the screen moves from the stowed position to the deployed position more quickly than the known mechanisms which move only rotationally. This means that the display screen is more quickly available to the driver thus reducing any delay between the driver getting into the vehicle and being able to safely move the vehicle. FIG. 9 shows a vehicle 900 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 900 may comprise an instrument panel 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the instrument panel 700 optionally comprising a screen deployment mechanism 100 (or mechanism 800) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 900 may be an electric or a hybrid vehicle or may comprise an internal combustion engine. 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.

Claims

1. A mechanism for moving a display screen in a vehicle, the mechanism comprising:a mount for mounting a display screen thereto, anda guide along which the mount is slidable between a first end of the guide and a second end of the guide to move a display screen on the mount between a stowed position at the first end and a deployed position at the second end,wherein the mount comprises at least one pivot axis for enabling pivoting of the mount as the mount slides along the guide from the first end to the second end in a sliding direction, andwherein the guide and the mount are configured to cause simultaneous pivoting and linear movement of the mount.

2. A mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the guide and the mount are configured to cause simultaneous pivoting and linear movement of the mount along at least half of a length extending from the first end to the second end of the guide as the mount moves between the stowed position and the deployed position.

3. A mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the guide comprises a plurality of guide tracks.

4. A mechanism according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of guide tracks on the guide comprises a first guide track, a second guide track and a third guide track, optionally wherein the first guide track is curved and the second and third guide tracks are substantially linear.

5. A mechanism according to claim 4, wherein the first guide track, second guide track and third guide track are all in the same plane, and wherein the first guide track intersects the second guide track, optionally, wherein the first guide track intersects the second guide track approximately midway along the first guide in the sliding direction.

6. A mechanism according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein an end portion of the first guide track at the second end of the guide is contiguous with an end portion of the second guide track at the second end of the guide, optionally wherein an end portion of the third guide track at the second end of the guide extends in the sliding direction away from the first and second guide tracks.

7. A mechanism according to any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the mount comprises a triangular plate section for supporting a side of a display screen, and optionally comprises first, second and third circular apertures, wherein the first circular aperture is aligned with the first guide track, the second circular aperture is aligned with the second guide track, and the third circular aperture is aligned with the third guide track.

8. A mechanism according to claim 7, wherein each of the first, second and third circular apertures are configured to receive a pin or fastener.

9. A mechanism according to claim 8, wherein the mechanism comprises first, second and third pins, wherein the first pin extends through the first circular aperture, the second pin extends through the second circular aperture and the third pin extends through the third circular aperture, optionally wherein a part of the mount is pivotable about each of the first, second and third pins.

10. A mechanism according to claim 9, wherein a first end of the first pin is slidably received in the first guide track, a first end of the second pin is slidably received in the second guide track and a first end of the third pin is slidably received in the third guide track.11 .A mechanism according to claim 10, wherein the second guide track comprises a recessed portion for receiving the first end of the second pin when the mount is at the second end of the guide.

12. A mechanism according to any preceding claim, comprising a second mount and a second guide, optionally, wherein the second guide comprises a plurality of guide tracks ,and the plurality of guide tracks comprises a first curved guide track overlying a second substantially linear guide track, and a third substantially linear guide track intersecting the second substantially linear guide track approximately midway along the second guide, and, optionally, wherein the second mount is configured to support a second side of a display screen and comprises a triangular portion, wherein the triangular portion comprises first, second and third circular apertures each for receiving a pin or a fastener, optionally wherein the first circular aperture is aligned with the first guide track, the second circular aperture is aligned with the second guide track, and the third circular aperture is aligned with the third guide track.13.A mechanism according to claim 12, wherein a second end of the first pin extends through the first circular aperture on the second mount, a second end of the second pin extends through a second aperture on the second mount, and a second end of the third pin extends through a third aperture on the second mount, optionally wherein the second end of the first pin is slidably received in the first guide track on the second guide, the second end of the second pin is slidably received in the second guide track on the second guide and the second end of the third pin is slidably received in the third guide track on the second guide, optionally, wherein the first mount and the second mount are mutually moveable and pivotable along the first and second guides, respectively.

14. A system comprising a mechanism according to any preceding claim and a display, wherein the display is an instrument panel configured to display a virtual cockpit.

15. A vehicle comprising a mechanism according to any of claims 1 to 13, or a system according to claim 14.21

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