Holding assembly for a beverage container

Abstract

Beverage container assembly (1, Fig. 2) comprising: frame 11 pivotally coupled to housing (41, Fig 4); and first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 coupled to, and rotationally fixed relative

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a holding assembly for a beverage container. The holding assembly is configured to hold one or more beverage container in a vehicle. Aspects of the invention relate to a beverage container holding assembly, an armrest console or a vehicle. BACKGROUND It is known to provide a vehicle with one or more assembly for holding a beverage container. The beverage container may, for example, comprise a coffee cup. The holding assembly typically comprise a container receptacle for receiving the beverage container. The container is held in a fixed upright position in the vehicle. Under extreme operating conditions, for example when the vehicle is operating off-road or operating on a steep gradient, the pitch angle and / or the roll angle of the vehicle may be sufficiently large to cause spilling of the beverage from the beverage container. This problem may be compounded if the vehicle undergoes rapid changes in pitch angle and / or roll angle. Again, these changes may be encountered when the vehicle is operating off-road, for example traversing rough terrain. 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 beverage container holding assembly, and a vehicle comprising one or more beverage container holding assembly as claimed in the appended claims. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage container holding assembly for a vehicle, the beverage-container holding assembly comprising: a frame; a housing; a first container receptacle for receiving a beverage container, the first container receptacle being coupled to the frame; and a second container receptacle for receiving a beverage container, the second container receptacle being coupled to the frame. At least in certain embodiments the frame is pivotably mounted to the housing. The frame may be pivotable about a frame pivot axis. The first container receptacle and the second container receptacle may be rotationally fixed, relative to the frame, about the frame pivot axis. At least in certain embodiments the first container receptacle and the second container receptacle do not pivot relative to the frame about the frame pivot axis. The frame is pivotable about the frame pivot axis. The first and second container receptacles pivot with the frame about the frame pivot axis. In use, beverage containers may be disposed in the first and second container receptacles. Different volumes of beverage in the beverage containers may cause them to experience different forces for a given vehicle movement. The rotational fixing of the first and second container receptacles relative to the frame helps to reduce or prevent relative movement beverage containers about the frame pivot axis. In use, the beverage containers disposed in the first and second container receptacles pivot together about the frame pivot axis. At least in certain embodiments the frame pivot axis intersects both the first and second container receptacles. The housing and the frame member may have complementary surfaces. The complementary surfaces may cooperate with each other to prevent an opening forming between the housing and the frame member as the frame member pivots. The complementary surfaces of the housing and the frame member may be concentric about the frame pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may be centred on the frame pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may have a part-circular profile in a plane extending perpendicular to the frame pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may have a geometric centre disposed on the frame pivot axis. Each partcircular profile may have a constant radius along the frame pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may comprise or consist of a part-cylindrical profile. Alternatively, each part-circular profile may have a radius which varies along the frame pivot axis. For example, the radius of the part-circular profile may increase and / or decrease along the frame pivot axis. Alternatively, the complementary surfaces may comprise or consist of a part-spherical profile or a part-ellipsoidal profile. The frame may comprise at least one frame outer surface. The housing may comprise at least one housing inner surface. The frame outer surface and the housing inner surface may have complementary profiles. For example, the at least one frame outer surface and the at least one housing inner surface may have complementary part-cylindrical profiles. The or each frame outer surface may comprise a part-cylindrical profile having a geometric centre coincident with the frame pivot axis. The housing may comprise a mounting aperture. The housing inner surface may extend along at least one side of a mounting aperture in which the frame is disposed. The at least one housing inner surface and / or the at least one frame outer surface may each comprise a part-cylindrical profile having a geometric centre coincident with the frame pivot axis. Alternatively, the at least one housing inner surface and / or the at least one frame outer surface may each comprise a part-spherical profile or a part-ellipsoidal provide having a geometric centre coincident with the frame pivot axis. The housing inner surface may extend parallel to the frame pivot axis. The or each frame outer surface may extend parallel to the frame pivot axis. At least one of the first container receptacle and the second container receptacle may be pivotable relative to the frame. The first container receptacle may be pivotable about a first container-receptacle pivot axis. The first container-receptacle pivot axis may extend perpendicular to the frame pivot axis. Alternatively, or in addition, the second container receptacle may be pivotable about a second container-receptacle pivot axis. The second receptacle container pivot axis may extend perpendicular to the frame pivot axis. The first and second container-receptacle pivot axes may extend parallel to each other. The first container receptacle and the frame member may have complementary surfaces. The complementary surfaces of the first container receptacle and the frame member may be concentric about the first containerreceptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may have a part-circular profile in a plane extending perpendicular to the first container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may have a geometric centre disposed on the first container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may cooperate with each other to prevent an opening forming as the first container receptacle pivots relative to the frame. Each part-circular profile may have a constant radius along the first container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may comprise or consist of a part-cylindrical profile. Alternatively, each part-circular profile may have a radius which varies along the first container-receptacle pivot axis. For example, the radius of the part-circular profile may increase and / or decrease along the first container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may comprise or consist of a part-spherical profile or a part-ellipsoidal profile. The second container receptacle and the frame member may have complementary surfaces. The complementary surfaces of the second container receptacle and the frame member may be concentric about the second container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may have a part-circular profile in a plane extending perpendicular to the second container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may have a geometric centre disposed on the second container-receptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may cooperate with each other to prevent an opening forming as the second container receptacle pivots relative to the frame. Each part-circular profile may have a constant radius along the second containerreceptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may comprise or consist of a part-cylindrical profile. Alternatively, each part-circular profile may have a radius which varies along the first container-receptacle pivot axis. For example, the radius of the part-circular profile may increase and / or decrease along the first containerreceptacle pivot axis. The complementary surfaces may comprise or consist of a part-spherical profile or a part-ellipsoidal profile. The frame may comprise at least one first frame inner surface. The first container receptacle may comprise at least one first container receptacle outer surface. The first frame innersurface and the first container receptacle outer surface may have complementary profiles. The first frame innersurface and the first container receptacle outer surface may have complementary part-cylindrical profiles. The first container receptacle may comprise a first closure wall. The at least one first container receptacle outer surface may be formed by the closure wall. The frame may comprise at least one second frame inner surface. The second container receptacle may comprise at least one second container receptacle outer surface. The second frame inner surface and the second container receptacle outer surface may have complementary profiles. The second frame innersurface and the second container receptacle outer surface may have complementary part-cylindrical profiles. The second container receptacle may comprise a second closure wall. The at least one second container receptacle outer surface may be formed by the closure wall. A coupling may be provided to couple the pivoting movement of the first and second container receptacles. The first and second container receptacles may be coupled to each other by the coupling. The coupling causes the first and second container receptacles to pivot together about the respective first and second containerreceptacle pivot axes. In use, the first and second container receptacles pivot together about the respective first and second pivot axes. The coupling may be flexible, for example comprising a flexible strip. The coupling may be extendible. For example, the coupling may comprise a spring member, for example a tension spring. The spring member may enable a limited amount of relative movement of the first and second container receptacles. Alternatively, the coupling may be rigid or non-extendible. The coupling may comprise a rigid link member. The coupling may be pivotably connected to each of the first and second container receptacles. The coupling may be connected at a first end to the first container receptacle; and at a second end to the second container receptacle. The connection to each of the first and second container receptacles may be offset from the respective first and second container receptacle pivot axes. The coupling may be coupled to a base of each of the first and second container receptacles. Alternatively, the coupling may be coupled to a side of each of the first and second container receptacles. The coupling may extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes. The first container receptacle may be pivotable relative to the frame by an angular range of less than or equal to ±10°, ±15° or ±20°. The first container receptacle may be pivotable relative to the frame by an angular range greater than 20°. The second container receptacle may be pivotable relative to the frame by an angular range of less than or equal to ±10°, ±15° or ±20°. The second container receptacle may be pivotable relative to the frame by an angular range greater than 20°. The frame member may be pivotable relative to the housing by an angular range of less than or equal to ±10°, ±15° or ±20°. The frame member may be pivotable relative to the housing by an angular range greater than 20°. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage container holding assembly for a vehicle, the beverage-container holding assembly comprising: a frame; a housing; and a first container receptacle for receiving a beverage container, the first container receptacle being coupled to the frame. At least in certain embodiments the frame is pivotably mounted to the housing. The frame may be pivotable about a frame pivot axis. The first container receptacle may be rotationally fixed, relative to the frame, about the frame pivot axis. The beverage container holding assembly may optionally comprise a second container receptacle for receiving a beverage container, the second container receptacle being coupled to the frame. The second container receptacle may be rotationally fixed, relative to the frame, about the frame pivot axis. At least in certain embodiments the first container receptacle and / or the second container receptacle do not pivot relative to the frame about the frame pivot axis. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an armrest console for a vehicle, the armrest console comprising at least one beverage container holding assembly as described herein. The at least one beverage container may be moveably mounted to the armrest console. The at least one beverage container may be slidably mounted to the armrest console, for example on one or more rail. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising at least one beverage container holding assembly as described herein. The vehicle may comprise a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis. The longitudinal axis is parallel to a forward direction of travel of the vehicle. The frame pivot axis may extend parallel to the transverse axis of the vehicle. 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 vehicle incorporating a beverage container holding assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the beverage container holding assembly shown in Figure 1 mounted in an armrest console of the vehicle; Figure 3 shows a partial cutaway of the beverage container holding assembly shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the beverage container holding assembly shown in Figure 1; Figure 5A shows a cross-sectional view of the beverage container holding assembly along section B-B shown in Figure 4; Figure 5B shows an enlarged view of a region D of the beverage container holding assembly shown in Figure 5A; Figure 6A shows a cross-sectional view of the beverage container holding assembly along section A-A shown in Figure 4; and Figure 6B shows an enlarged view of a region C of the beverage container holding assembly shown in Figure 6A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION A beverage container holding assembly 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures. The beverage container holding assembly 1 may be referred to as a cup holder. As shown in Figure 1, the beverage container holding assembly 1 is installed in a vehicle 3. The beverage container holding assembly 1 is configured to hold at least one of a first beverage container 5-1 and a second beverage container 5-2. The first and second beverage containers 5-1,5-2 may, for example, be coffee cups or soft-drink cups. The beverage container holding assembly 1 may hold other types of beverage containers. The vehicle 3 is illustrated as an automobile in the present embodiment. It will be understood that the beverage container holding assembly 1 may be used in other types of vehicle, such as a sports utility vehicle, a utility vehicle or a tractor unit. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the beverage container holding assembly 1 in the present embodiment is located in an armrest console 5 disposed between the front seats 7 of the vehicle 3. It will be understood that the beverage container holding assembly 1 may be mounted in other locations in the vehicle 3, for example between rear seats (not shown) of the vehicle 3 or integrated into a centre console. The vehicle 3 is described herein with reference to a reference frame comprising a longitudinal axis X, a transverse axis Y and a vertical axis Z. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the beverage container holding assembly 1 comprises a frame 11, a first container receptacle 13-1 and a second container receptacle 13-2. The frame 11 is provided to support the firstand second receptacles 13-1,13-2. In the present embodiment, the frame 11 has a one-piece construction. The frame 11 is moulded from a plastics material but could be formed from other materials such as carbon fibre or metal. The frame 11 comprises first and second frame apertures 14-1, 14-2 for receiving the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 respectively. In the present embodiment, the first and second frame apertures 14-1, 14-2 are rectangular but could be a different shape, such as a circle. The first and second container receptacles 13-1,13-2 are arranged in a side-by-side configuration. In particular, the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 are offset from each other in a transverse direction, i.e. offset along the transverse axis Y. Other configurations are contemplated for the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2. For example, the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 may be arranged in a tandem configuration, i.e. offset along the longitudinal axis X. Alternatively, the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 may be arranged in a staggered or offset arrangement relative to each other. The configuration of the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 will now be described. The first container receptacle 13-1 is suitable for receiving the first beverage container 5-1. The first container receptacle 13-1 comprises a first bowl 15-1 in which the first beverage container 5-1 locates. As shown in Figure 5, the first bowl 15-1 comprises a first sidewall 17-1 which forms a truncated cone having a bowl central axis E3Z1. The first sidewall 17-1 tapers inwardly towards a bottom of the first bowl 15-1. The first container receptacle 13-1 comprises at least one first finger 19-n for engaging a sidewall of the first beverage container 5-1. The at least one first finger 19-1 extends inwardly into the first bowl 15-1. The at least one first finger 19-n is movable between an extended position and a retracted position to accommodate a range of different sizes and / or profiles of the first beverage containers 5-1. The first container receptacle 13-1 in the present embodiment comprises a plurality of the first fingers 19-n. Each of the plurality of first fingers 19-1 is pivotally mounted and, in use, pivots between the extended position and the retracted position. A spring biasing means SP1, such as a spring member (represented in Figure 3 by a broken line), is provided to bias each of the first fingers 19-1 towards the extended position. In use, the first beverage container 5-1 is introduced into the first container receptable 13-1 and the first fingers 19-1 are displaced outwardly towards the retracted portion. The spring biasing means SP1 biases the first fingers 19-1 against the sidewall of the first beverage container 5-1 to hold the first beverage container 5-1 in an upright orientation. Other configurations of the first fingers 19-1 are contemplated. The second container receptacle 13-2 is suitable for receiving the second beverage container 5-2. The second container receptacle 13-2 comprises a second bowl 15-2 in which the second beverage container 5-2 locates. The second bowl 15-2 comprises a second sidewall 17-2 which forms a truncated cone having a bowl central axis E3Z1. The second sidewall 17-2 tapers inwardly towards a bottom of the second bowl 15-2. The second container receptacle 13-2 comprises at least one second finger 19-n for engaging a sidewall of the second beverage container 5-2. The at least one second finger 19-2 extends inwardly into the second bowl 15-2. The at least one second finger 19-2 is movable between an extended position and a retracted position to accommodate a range of different sizes and / or profiles of the second beverage containers 5-2. The second container receptacle 13-2 in the present embodiment comprises a plurality of the second fingers 19-n. Each of the plurality of second fingers 19-2 is pivotally mounted and, in use, pivots between the extended position and the retracted position. A spring biasing means SP2, such as a spring member (represented in Figure 3 by a broken line), is provided to bias each of the second fingers 19-2 towards the extended position. In use, the second beverage container 5-2 is introduced into the second container receptable 13-2 and the second fingers 19-2 are displaced outwardly towards the retracted portion. The spring biasing means biases the second fingers 19-2 against the sidewall of the second beverage container 5-2 to hold the second beverage container 5-2 in an upright orientation. Other configurations of the second fingers 19-2 are contemplated. The first container receptacle 13-1 locates inside the first frame aperture 14-1 and is pivotably mounted to the frame 11. In particular, the first container receptacle 13-1 is pivotable about a first container receptacle pivot axis RX1. The first container receptacle pivot axis RX1 extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the vehicle 3. The first container receptacle 13-1 comprises first and second pivot pins 21 A, 21B (shown in Figure 5A) which are diametrically opposed from each other. The first and second pivot pins 21 A, 21B extend radially outwardly and locate in respective first and second apertures 23A, 23B formed in the frame 11. The first container receptacle 13-1 comprises a first biasing means for biasing the first bowl 15-1 to a neutral (balanced) position in which the first bowl central axis BZ1 of the first bowl 15-1 extends substantially vertically. The first biasing means in the present embodiment comprises a First counterweight 16-1. The first counterweight 16-1 applies a biasing force to pivot the first bowl 15-1 about the first container receptacle pivot axis RX1 to maintain the first bowl central axis BZ1 in a vertical orientation. Damping means DP1 (shown schematically in Figure 3) may optionally be provided to damp pivoting movement of the first container receptacle 13-1 about the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. For example, the damping means may comprise one or more compressible member for engaging the first container receptacle 13-1. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more mechanical stop (not shown) may be provided to restrict the extent of the pivoting movement of the first container receptacle 13-1. The second container receptacle 13-2 locates inside the second frame aperture 14-2 and is pivotably mounted to the frame 11. In particular, the second container receptacle 13-2 is pivotable about a second container receptacle pivot axis RX2. The second container-receptacle pivot axis RX2 extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the vehicle 3. The second container receptacle 13-2 comprises first and second pivot pins 31A (only the first pivot pin 31A is shown in Figure 6A) which are diametrically opposed from each other. The first and second pivot pins 31 extend radially outwardly and locate in respective first and second apertures 33A (only the first aperture 33A is shown) formed in the frame 11. The second container receptacle 13-2 comprises second biasing means 16-2 for biasing the second bowl 15-2 to a neutral (balanced) position in which the second bowl central axis BZ2 of the second bowl 15-2 extends substantially vertically. The second biasing means 16-2 in the present embodiment comprises a second counterweight 16-2. The second counterweight 16-2 applies a biasing force to pivot the second bowl 15-2 about the second container receptacle pivot axis RX2 to maintain the second bowl central axis BZ2 in a vertical orientation. Damping means DP2 (shown schematically in Figure 3) may optionally be provided to damp pivoting movement of the second container receptacle 13-2 about the second container-receptacle pivot axis RX2. For example, the damping means may comprise one or more compressible member for engaging the second container receptacle 13-2. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more mechanical stop (not shown) may be provided to restrict the extent of the pivoting movement of the second container receptacle 13-2. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the beverage container holding assembly 1 comprises a housing 41 in which the frame 11 is mounted. The housing 41 is disposed in the armrest console 5 of the vehicle 3. The housing 41 comprises an outer sidewall 42 which encloses the first and second bowls 15-1,15-2. The housing 41 is sized to enable pivoting movement of the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 about the respective first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. The housing 41 may comprise one or more mechanical stop (not shown) to limit pivoting movement of the first and second container receptacles 5-1,5-2. One or more resilient insert, for example comprising foam or rubber, may be provided on an interior of the housing 41 for cooperating with the first and second container receptacles 13-1,13-2. The housing 41 may be fixedly or movably mounted to the armrest console 5. In the present embodiment, the housing 41 is mounted on a set of rails 93 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis X, as shown in Figure 3. The beverage container holding assembly 1 is movable along the longitudinal axis X, for example to travel between a stowed position and a deployed position. The beverage container holding assembly 1 is disposed under an armrest 95 in the stowed position. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the frame 11 comprises a frame member 43 which is mounted in a mounting aperture 45 formed in the housing 41. The frame member 43 in the present embodiment is pivotably mounted to the housing 41. In particular, the frame member 43 is pivotable about a frame pivot axis FY1. First and second frame pivot pins 47-1, 47-2 are disposed on opposing sides of the frame member 43. The first and second frame pivot pins 47-1,47-2 locate in respective first and second housing apertures 49-1,49-2 formed in the housing 41. The first and second frame pivot pins 47-1, 47-2 define the frame pivot axis FY1. In the present embodiment, the frame pivot axis FY1 extends substantially parallel to the transverse axis Y. The first container receptacle 13-1 and the second container receptacle 13-2 are rotationally fixed, relative to the frame member 43, about the frame pivot axis FY1. The frame pivot axis FY1 extends substantially perpendicular to the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. This mounting arrangement prevents pivoting of the first container receptacle 13-1 and the second container receptacle 13-2 about the frame pivot axis FY1. In the present embodiment, the frame pivot axis FY1 and the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2 are disposed in the same horizontal (XY) plane. The frame pivot axis FY1 may be offset vertically from the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. In a variant, the frame may comprise first and second frame members for receiving the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 respectively. The first and second frame members may be arranged to pivot about the frame pivot axis FY1 together or independently of each other. First and second ball joints may be provided to connect the link member 25 to the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 to accommodate relative movement of the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2. The first and second counterweights 16-1, 16-2 bias the frame member 43 towards a neutral (balanced) position in which the first and second bowl central axes E3Z1, BZ2 are oriented vertically. In a variant, the frame member 43 may be fixedly mounted to the housing 41 or may be formed integrally with the housing 41. Damping means may be provided to damp pivoting motion of the frame member 43 about the frame pivot axis FY1. The housing 41 and the frame member 43 have complementary surfaces which cooperate with each other. In particular, the housing 41 and the frame member 43 cooperate with each other to help maintain the housing 41 substantially closed as the frame member 43 pivots about the frame pivot axis FY1. This can reduce or prevent openings forming between the frame member 43 and the housing 41. The housing 41 comprises opposing first and second transverse walls 51 A, 51B extending parallel to the frame pivot axis FY1. The first and second transverse walls 51 A, 51B comprise first and second closure sections 53A, 53B respectively. The first and second closure sections 53A, 53B have first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B. The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B extend parallel to the frame pivot axis FY1. The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B each have a part-circular profile in a plane perpendicular to the frame pivot axis FY1. The part-circular profile has a geometric centre coincident with the frame pivot axis FY1. In the present embodiment, the first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B each comprise a part-cylindrical profile. The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B are both defined by a first (virtual) right cylinder having a first radius R1. The first (virtual) right cylinder has a central longitudinal axis which is coincident with the frame pivot axis FY1. The frame member 43 comprises first and second sidewalls 61 A, 61B extending parallel to the frame pivot axis FY1. The first and second sidewalls 61 A, 61B comprise first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B. The first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B have part-cylindrical profiles. The first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B are both defined by a second (virtual) right cylinder having a second radius R2. The second (virtual) right cylinder has a central longitudinal axis which is coincident with the frame pivot axis FY1. The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B have complementary profiles. In particular, the first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B are arranged concentrically. The first radius R1 is larger than the second radius R2 (R1>R2). The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B in the present embodiment are spaced apart from the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B to facilitate the pivoting movement of the frame member 43 about the frame pivot axis FY1. The gap between the first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and between the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B is small, for example less than 0.5mm. 1mm or 2mm. As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the first container receptacle 13-1 and the frame member 43 have complementary surfaces which cooperate with each other. In particular, the first container receptacle 13-1 and the frame member 43 cooperate with each other to help maintain the housing 41 substantially closed as the first container receptacle 13-1 pivots about the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. This may reduce or prevent openings forming between the first container receptacle 13-1 and the frame member 43. The second container receptacle 13-1 has the same mounting arrangement as the first container receptacle 13-1. For the sake of brevity, only the mounting arrangement of the first container receptacle 13-1 is described herein. The frame member 43 comprises first, second and third cross members 71 A, 71B, 71C extending parallel to the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. The first, second and third cross members 71 A, 71B, 71C comprise first, second and third closure sections 73A, 73B, 73C respectively. The first container receptacle 13-1 is disposed between the first and second cross members 71 A, 71B; and the second container receptacle 13-2 is disposed between the second and third cross members 71B, 71C. The first, second and third closure sections 73A, 73B, 73C have first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B, 77C. The second cross member 71B comprises a pair of the second frame inner surfaces 77B for cooperating with the first container receptacle 13-1 and the second container receptacle 13-2. The first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B, 77C each have a part-circular profile in a plane extending perpendicular to the first containerreceptacle pivot axis RX1. The part-circular profile has a geometric centre coincident with the first containerreceptacle pivot axis RX1. In the present embodiment, the first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B, 77C each comprise a part-cylindrical profile. The first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B, 77C may comprise other profiles, such as a part-spherical profile or a part-ellipsoidal profile. The first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B, 77C are each defined by a first (virtual) right cylinder having a first radius RT. The first (virtual) right cylinder has a central longitudinal axis which is coincident with the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. The first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B, 77C have like configurations in the present embodiment. The first and second container receptacles 13-1,13-2 have like configurations in the present embodiment. The first and second container receptacles 13-1,13-2 each comprise first and second closure walls 81 A, 81B which extend parallel to the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. In the present embodiment, the first and second closure walls 81 A, 81B are in the form of first and second flanges 81 A, 81B. The first and second closure walls 81 A, 81B extend downwardly from an upper surface of the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2. In a variant, the first and second closure walls 81 A, 81B could comprise an extension of the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2. The first and second closure walls 81 A, 81B have respective first and second containerreceptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B. The first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B each have a part-circular profile in a plane perpendicular to the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. In the present embodiment, the first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B comprise part-cylindrical profiles. The first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B may comprise other profiles, such as part-spherical. The first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B are both defined by a second (virtual) right cylinder having a second radius R2’. The second (virtual) right cylinder has a central longitudinal axis which is coincident with the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. The first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B have like configurations in the present embodiment. The first, second and third frame inner surfaces 77A, 77E3, 77C and the first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B have complementary profiles. The first and second frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B and the first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B of the first container receptacle 13-1 are arranged concentrically. Similarly, the second and third frame inner surfaces 77B, 77C and the first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B of the second container receptacle 13-2 are arranged concentrically. The first radius R1’ is larger than the second radius R2’. The first and second frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B in the present embodiment are spaced apart from the first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B to facilitate the pivoting movement of the first container receptacle 13-1 about the first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1. The gap between the first and second frame inner surfaces 77A, 77B and the first and second container-receptacle outer surfaces 87A, 87B is small, for example less than 0.5mm, 1mm or 2mm. One or more locking mechanism 91 may optionally be provided to lock the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 and inhibit or limit rotation about the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. Alternatively, or in addition, the one or more locking mechanism 91 (shown schematically in Figure 3) may lock the frame member 43 to inhibit or limit rotation about the frame pivot axis FY1. The one or more locking mechanism 91 may comprise a mechanical or an electromechanical lock. The one or more locking mechanism may comprise a latch which is operated to inhibit pivoting motion of one or more of the frame 11, the first container receptacle 13-1 and the second container receptacle 13-2. The one or more locking mechanism 91 may be operable manually or electronically. The beverage container holding assembly 1 is configured operatively to receive one or more beverage container. The one or more beverage container are referred to herein as the first beverage container 5-1 and the second beverage container 5-2 to identify their positioning in the beverage container holding assembly 1. The first beverage container 5-1 is described herein as locating in the first container receptacle 13-1, and the second beverage container 5-2 is described as locating in the second container receptacle 13-2. The first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 have like configurations and are suitable for receiving beverage containers. The first beverage container 5-1 and the second beverage container 5-2 may be the same as each other or may be different from each other, for example having different capacities (i.e., volumes) and / or different profiles. The first and second beverage containers 5-1, 5-2 are suitable for containing a beverage, such as tea, coffee or a soft drink. The first container-receptacle pivot axis RX1 and the second container-receptacle pivot axis RX2 are offset from, and at least substantially parallel to, each other. Thus, the first and second container receptacles have different pivot centres. As shown in Figure 5A, a coupling (25) 25 is provided to couple the pivoting movement of the first and second container receptacles about the respective first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. The coupling (25) 25 in the present embodiment comprises a link member 25 which connects the first and second container receptacles. The link member (or strut) 25 extends substantially perpendicular to the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. In the present embodiment, the link member 25 extends in a transverse direction. The link member 25 is connected at a first end 27A to the first bowl 15-1; and is connected at a second end 27B to the second bowl 15-2. The first and second ends 27A, 27B are pivotal about respective first and second link pivot axes LZ1, LZ2 which extend parallel to the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. The first end 27A of the link member 25 is pivotally connected to a first connector 29-1 provided on the first bowl 15-1 15-1; and the second end 27E3 of the link member 25 is pivotally connected to a second connector 29-2 provided on the second bowl 15-2. The first and second connectors 29-1,29-2 comprise brackets in the present embodiment which are provided on the underside of the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2, respectively. It will be understood that the first and second connectors 29-1,29-2 may be provided in other locations, for example on the sidewalls of the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2. The link member 25 has a rigid structure and, in use, restricts relative pivoting movement of the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 about the respective first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. In a variant, the link member 25 may comprise a flexible member or a spring member which may enable a controlled or limited degree of movement of the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 relative to each other. The link member 25 may comprise first and second live hinges for forming pivoting connections with the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 respectively. Other types of connector are contemplated for connecting the link member 25 to the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2. For example, first and second ball joints may be provided to connect the link member 25 to the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2. The operation of the beverage container holding assembly 1 will be described with reference to the arrangement in which the first and second beverage containers 5-1,5-2 are inserted into the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 respectively. The first and second fingers 19-1, 19-2 engage the first and second beverage containers 5-1,5-2 to support them in the respective first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2. The first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 are pivotable relative to the frame 11 about the first and second containerreceptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. Furthermore, the frame member 43 is pivotable relative to the housing 41 about the frame pivot axis FY1. In use, the vehicle 3 may rotate about one or more of the longitudinal axis X (a rolling motion), the transverse axis Y (a pitching motion) and the vertical axis Z (a yawing motion). The rotational motion of the vehicle 3 results in a corresponding motion of the first and second beverage containers 5-1, 5-2. The pitching and rolling motion of the first and second beverage containers 5-1, 5-2 may cause the contents to spill. The beverage container holding assembly 1 is configured to maintain the first and second beverage containers 5-1,5-2 in an upright orientation to reduce the possibility of the beverage being spilled. In particular, the frame member 43 is pivotable relative to the housing 41 about the frame pivot axis frame pivot axis FY1 at least partially to compensate for changes in a pitch angle of the vehicle 3, for example as a result of rotational motion about the transverse axis Y. The first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 are pivotable about the first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2 at least partially to compensate for changes in a roll angle of the vehicle 3, for example as a result of rotational motion about the longitudinal axis X. The first and second counterweights 16-1, 16-2 bias the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 towards an upright position. The link member 25 connects the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 to ensure that the first and second container receptacles 13-1, 13-2 move in concert with each other. In use, the link member 25 causes the first and second container receptacles 13-1,13-2 to pivot together about the respective first and second container-receptacle pivot axes RX1, RX2. The first and second counterweights 16-1, 16-2 bias the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 towards an upright position in which the first and second bowl central axes BZ1, BZ2 are oriented substantially vertically (i.e. parallel to the vertical axis Z). The first and second counterweights 16-1, 16-2 thereby help to maintain the first and second beverage containers 5-1,5-2 in an upright orientation. By maintaining the first and second beverage containers 5-1,5-2 in an upright orientation, the likelihood of the beverage therein spilling may be reduced. The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B have complementary profiles. The first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B are arranged concentrically about the frame pivot axis FY1. In the illustrated arrangement, the first and second housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the first and second frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B comprising part-cylindrical profiles. Other profiles are contemplated for the housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B. For example, the housing inner surfaces 57A, 57B and the frame outer surfaces 67A, 67B may comprise one or more section having a part-spherical profile or a part-ellipsoidal profile. At least in certain embodiments, the beverage container holding assembly 1 described herein can securely hold one or more of the first and second beverage containers 5-1, 5-2. The orientation of the beverage containers) 5-1,5-2 is adjustable relative to the vehicle 3, for example in dependence on changes in a pitch angle and / or a roll angle of the vehicle 3. By adjusting the relative orientation of the beverage container(s) 5-1, 5-2, the beverage container(s) 5-1,5-2 may remain in an upright orientation irrespective of the pitch angle and / or the roll angle of the vehicle 3. At least in certain embodiments this may reduce the likelihood of liquid being spilled from the beverage container(s) 5-1,5-2. The beverage container holding assembly 1 described herein is suitable for use with a range of beverage containers 5-1, 5-2 having different volumes and capacities. At least in certain embodiments, the beverage container holding assembly 1 may securely hold beverage containers ranging from a disposable espresso cup through to a large fast food drink container. Different sizes of cups and bottles may also be retained in the beverage container holding assembly 1. 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. The beverage container holding assembly 1 has been described herein as comprising first and second counterweights 16-1, 16-2. It will be understood that the first and second counterweights 16-1, 16-2 could be combined into a single counterweight. Alternatively, or in addition, the link member 25 may be configured to function as a counterweight. Other biasing means may be provided to bias the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 towards an upright position. For example, one or more spring element may be provided to bias the first and second bowls 15-1, 15-2 towards the upright position.

Claims

1. A beverage container holding assembly for a vehicle, the beverage-container holding assembly comprising:a frame;a housing;a first container receptacle for receiving a beverage container, the first container receptacle being coupled to the frame; anda second container receptacle for receiving a beverage container, the second container receptacle being coupled to the frame;wherein the frame is pivotably mounted to the housing, the frame being pivotable about a frame pivot axis,wherein the first container receptacle and the second container receptacle are rotationally fixed, relative to the frame, about the frame pivot axis.

2. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame comprises at least one frame outer surface and the housing comprises at least one housing inner surface; the at least one frame outer surface and the at least one housing inner surface having complementary profiles.

3. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one frame outer surface and the at least one housing inner surface have complementary part-cylindrical profiles.

4. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the frame is disposed in a mounting aperture formed in the housing, the housing inner surface extending along at least one side of the mounting aperture.

5. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first container receptacle is pivotable about a first container-receptacle pivot axis; and the second container receptacle is pivotable about a second container-receptacle pivot axis,6. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the frame comprises at least one first frame inner surface; and the first container receptacle comprises at least one first container receptacle outer surface;wherein the at least one first frame inner surface and the at least one first container receptacle outer surface have complementary part-cylindrical profiles.

7. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein the first container receptacle comprises a first closure wall, the at least one first container receptacle outer surface being formed by the closure wall.

8. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5, 6 or 7, wherein the frame comprises at least one second frame inner surface; and the second container receptacle comprises at least one second container receptacle outer surface;wherein the at least one second frame inner surface and the at least one second container receptacle outer surface have complementary part-cylindrical profiles.

9. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second container receptacle comprises a second closure wall, the at least one second container receptacle outer surface being formed by the second closure wall.

10. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein a coupling is provided to couple the pivoting movement of the first and second container receptacles.

11. A beverage container holding assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the coupling comprises a rigid link member.

12. An armrest console for a vehicle, the armrest console comprising at least one beverage container holding assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

13. A vehicle comprising at least one beverage container holding assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 or an armrest console as claimed in claim 12.

14. A vehicle as claimed in claim 13, wherein the vehicle comprises a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, the frame pivot axis extending parallel to the transverse axis of the vehicle.Application No:     GB2414739.9Examiner:      Liz Paramo-BritlandClaims searched: 1-14Date of search: 18 March 2025Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance X 1, 2, 4, 5, 10-14 EP 0438915 A2 (LEAR SEATING CORP) See figures 1-7, noting: receptacles 54, 54' and frame 46 pivotally connected to housing 40 X 1, 2, 4, 5, 10-14 US 5104184 A (KWASNIK et al.) See figures 1-13, noting receptacles 120, 120' and frame 50 pivotally connected to housing 18 X 1, 2, 4, 5, 10-14 WO 97 / 44212 Al (IRVIN AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS INC) See figures 1-13, noting frame 12 being pivotally connected to housing 18, and receptacles 56 X 1, 2, 4, 5, 12-14 US 5072989 A (SPYKERMAN et al.) See figures 1-7, noting receptacles 52 and frame 10 pivotally connected to housing 20 X 1, 2, 4, 5, 12-14 US 5673890 A (DUESTERBERG) See figures 1-4, noting receptacles 43, 44 and frame 40 pivotally connected to housing 33 X 1, 2, 4, 12-14 JP 2001197960 A (JOHNSON CONTRAUTOMOTIVE SYS) See figures 1-7, noting receptacles 40 and frame 40a being pivotally connected to housing 30Categories:X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step A Document indicating technological background and / or state of the art. Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if combined with one or more other documents of same category. P Document published on or after the declared priority date but before the filing date of this invention. & Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:Search of GB, EP, WO &US patent documents classified in the following areas of the UKCX :Worldwide search of patent documents classified in the following areas of the IPC_____________A47C; B60N; B60R____________________________________________The following online and other databases have been used in the preparation of this search reportSEARCH-PATENTInternational Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From B60N 0003 / 10 01 / 01 / 2006 A47C 0007 / 68 01 / 01 / 2006

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