An armrest assembly

Abstract

An armrest assembly (10 for a vehicle (8), the armrest assembly (10) comprising: an armrest base (14); an armrest cover (12) slidable with respect to the armrest base (14) between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein an internal volume (22) is defined between the armrest cover (12) and the armrest base (14); a biasing arrangement (24) located in the internal volume (22) and configured to bias the armrest cover (12) into the extended position; a latching arrangement (26a, 26b) located in the internal volume (22) and moveable between a latched position in which the armrest cover (12) is latched in the retracted position and an unlatched position; a mounting arrangement (28a-d) configured to slidably mount the armrest cover (12) to the armrest base (14), wherein the mounting arrangement (28a-d) comprises a rod (28a, 28c) fixedly mounted to the armrest base (14) or the armrest cover (12) and a bush (28b, 28d) fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base (14) and the armrest cover (12); and wherein the rod (28a, 28c) is slidably received within the bush (28b, 28d) to facilitate sliding of the armrest cover (12) with respect to the armrest base (14) between the extended position and the retracted position.

Description

[0001] AN ARMREST ASSEMBLY

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an armrest assembly for a vehicle, a vehicle and a method of operating an armrest assembly.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The rear seat arrangement of a vehicle may typically comprise a seat base extending substantially across the width of the rear passenger compartment and two seat backs. Such a rear seat arrangement may also typically be provided with an armrest cover having an armrest member that is movable between a storage position and a deployed position. The armrest assembly is typically provided at a substantially central position on the rear seat arrangement such that, in the deployed position, the armrest assembly overlies the middle of the seat base and is accessible by passengers seated on either side thereof. In order to move the armrest member between the deployed and storage positions, the user may have to place their fingers between a surface of the armrest member and a surface of the armrest arrangement, which may be a fiddly process and may result in the user’s fingers getting trapped. Additionally, the armrest assembly may be prone to breakages.

[0006] The arm rest member may be provided with features intended for use by rear seat passengers when the arm rest member is in the deployed position. Such features may include, for example, beverage holders and storage recesses, however such storage space is currently limited.

[0007] It is an aim of the present invention to provide a solution to this issue.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide an armrest assembly for a vehicle, a vehicle and a method of operating an armrest assembly, as claimed in the appended claims.

[0010] According to an aspect of the present teachings, there is provided an armrest assembly for a vehicle, the armrest assembly comprising: an armrest base; an armrest cover slidable with respect to the armrest base between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein an internal volume is defined between the armrest cover and the armrest base; a biasing arrangement located in the internal volume and configured to bias the armrest cover into the extended position; a latching arrangement located in the internal volume and moveable between a latched position in which the armrest cover is latched in the retracted position and an unlatched position; a mounting arrangement configured to slidably mount the armrest cover to the armrest base, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first mounting arrangement located at a first side of the internal volume and a second mounting arrangement located at an opposing second side of the internal volume; and wherein the armrest base comprises a recessed region extending into the internal volume in a direction towards the armrest cover, and wherein the recessed region is located between the first mounting arrangement and the second mounting arrangement.

[0011] Advantageously, providing an armrest assembly slidable between a retracted position and an extended position and having a biasing arrangement for biasing the armrest cover into the extended position facilitates smooth sliding whilst reducing the likelihood of the user’s fingers being trapped during extension and retraction of the armrest cover. The recessed region increases a space defined below the armrest cover for storage, thereby increasing the storage capability of the armrest assembly.

[0012] According to an aspect of the present teachings there is provided an armrest assembly for a vehicle, the armrest assembly comprising: an armrest base; an armrest cover slidable with respect to the armrest base between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein an internal volume is defined between the armrest cover and the armrest base; a biasing arrangement located in the internal volume and configured to bias the armrest cover into the extended position; a latching arrangement located in the internal volume and moveable between a latched position in which the armrest cover is latched in the retracted position and an unlatched position; a mounting arrangement configured to slidably mount the armrest cover to the armrest base to facilitate sliding of the armrest cover with respect to the armrest base between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0013] Optionally, the mounting arrangement comprises a rod fixedly mounted to the armrest base or the armrest cover and a bush fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base and the armrest cover. Optionally, the rod is slidably received within the bush to facilitate sliding of the armrest cover with respect to the armrest base between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0014] Advantageously, providing an armrest assembly slidable between a retracted position and an extended position and having a biasing arrangement for biasing the armrest cover into the extended position facilitates smooth sliding of the armrest cover whilst reducing the likelihood of the user’s fingers being trapped during extension and retraction of the armrest cover. Using a rod and bush arrangement to facilitate sliding improves durability of the mounting arrangement, thereby increasing an allowable weight which the mounting arrangement can take, in use. Additionally, a rod and bush arrangement enables smooth sliding of the armrest cover between the extended and retracted positions.

[0015] Optionally, the armrest cover is slidable in a first direction from the extended position to the retracted position and in an opposing second direction from the retracted position to the extended position. Optionally, movement of the armrest cover from the retracted position in the first direction causes the latching arrangement to move into the unlatched position.

[0016] Advantageously, using movement of the armrest cover to unlatch the latching arrangement helps to reduce the number of additional components, for example actuation members, needed to move the armrest cover between the extended and retracted positions. This increases the durability of the armrest assembly because such components are prone to breakages and malfunctions. Additionally, using the sliding movement of the armrest cover to unlatch the latching arrangement contributes to a “luxury feel” of the armrest assembly.

[0017] Optionally, the latching arrangement comprises a pin located on one of the armrest cover and the armrest base and a recess located on the other of the armrest cover and the armrest base. Optionally, in the latched position, the pin is fixed in relation to the recess in the second direction and moveable relative to the recess in the first direction.

[0018] Advantageously, the pin and recess arrangement is a simple and robust mechanism for facilitating latching and unlatching without the need for additional components, such as an actuation members, to actuate the pin. This increases the durability of the armrest assembly because such components are prone to breakages and malfunctions.

[0019] Optionally, the internal volume comprises a first end, a second end remote from the first end and first and second opposing sides extending between the first end and the second end. Optionally, the biasing arrangement comprises a spring extending at least partially between the first and second sides and located at the first end of the internal volume.

[0020] Advantageously, the location of the spring within the internal volume provides a space efficient arrangement of the armrest assembly. A spring is robust and can provide a sufficient biasing force to bias the armrest cover in the extended position.

[0021] Optionally, the spring is a constant force spring. Optionally, the constant force spring is formed from a rolled ribbon that is pre-stressed to resist uncoiling. Optionally, the spring is a coil spring, a torsional spring, a compression spring or the like.

[0022] Optionally, the mounting arrangement comprises a first mounting arrangement located on a first side of the internal volume and a second mounting arrangement located on an opposing second side of the internal volume. Optionally, the first and second mounting arrangements each comprise a rod fixedly mounted to the armrest base or the armrest cover and a bush fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base and the armrest cover.

[0023] Advantageously, providing first and second mounting arrangements increases durability of the mounting arrangement, and increases an allowable weight the mounting arrangement can take, in use. Providing first and second mounting arrangement also improves smoothness of sliding of the armrest cover between the extended and retracted positions. Providing the first and second mounting arrangements on opposing sides of the internal volume increases the space efficiency of the armrest assembly.

[0024] Optionally, the armrest base comprises a recessed region extending into the internal volume in a direction towards the armrest cover.

[0025] Advantageously, the recessed region increases a space defined below the armrest cover for storage, thereby increasing the storage capability of the armrest assembly.

[0026] Optionally, the armrest assembly comprises a storage compartment defining an interior storage volume, and wherein the interior storage volume is located below the recessed region when the armrest cover is in the extended position.

[0027] Optionally, the recessed region is located between the first mounting arrangement and the second mounting arrangement.

[0028] Advantageously, providing the recessed region between the first and second mounting arrangements increases the space efficiency of the armrest assembly whilst maximising the storage capability.

[0029] Optionally, the recessed region occupies a majority of a distance defined between the first and second mounting arrangements.

[0030] Advantageously, the recessed region occupying a majority of the distance between the first and second mounting arrangements helps to further increase the storage capability of the armrest assembly.

[0031] Optionally, the recessed region comprises a tapered perimeter wall. Optionally, the tapered perimeter wall tapers in a direction towards the internal volume.

[0032] Advantageously, the tapered perimeter wall increases a space within the internal volume for housing components of the armrest assembly.

[0033] Optionally, the mounting arrangement and / or the latching arrangement are located directly behind the tapered perimeter wall.

[0034] Advantageously, providing the mounting arrangement and / or latching arrangement behind the tapered perimeter wall increases space efficiency whilst increasing the storage capability of the armrest assembly.

[0035] Optionally, the armrest assembly comprises a damping arrangement having a base damping member located on the armrest base and a complimentary cover damping member located on the armrest cover, and wherein the base damping member engages the cover damping member during movement of the armrest cover between the extended and the retracted positions.

[0036] Advantageously, the damping arrangement helps to facilitate smooth and controlled sliding of the armrest cover between the extended and retracted positions, and reduces the likelihood of injury caused by a user trapping their fingers.

[0037] Optionally, the latching arrangement is located on a first side of the internal volume. Optionally, the damping arrangement is located on an opposing second side of the internal volume.

[0038] Advantageously, providing the latching arrangement and damping arrangement on the first and second sides of the internal volume increases space efficiency of the armrest assembly.

[0039] Optionally, the recessed region is located between the latching arrangement and the damping arrangement. Advantageously, providing the recessed region between the latching arrangement and the damping arrangement improves space efficiency whilst increasing the storage capability of the armrest assembly.

[0040] Optionally, the armrest assembly comprises a support arrangement comprising at least one support member formed from a resiliently deformable material. Optionally, the at least one support member is configured to engage a surface of the vehicle to restrict or control movement of the armrest cover with respect to the vehicle.

[0041] Advantageously, providing a support arrangement with resiliently deformable support members helps to prevent damage to components of the armrest assembly as they move relative to each other and the vehicle. Additionally, providing at least one resilient deformable support member helps to facilitate smooth stopping of armrest assembly, thereby contributing to a “luxury feel” armrest assembly.

[0042] Optionally, the at least one stopper comprises a first stopper located on the armrest cover and configured to restrict or control movement in the second direction as the armrest cover moves into the extended position.

[0043] Advantageously, providing a first resiliently deformable stopper helps to facilitate smooth stopping of armrest assembly as the armrest cover moves into the extended position, thereby contributing to a “luxury feel” armrest assembly.

[0044] Optionally, the armrest base is formed from a metal alloy. Optionally, the armrest base is formed from an aluminium alloy.

[0045] Advantageously, providing an armrest base formed from a metal alloy, for example an aluminium alloy, increases the structural strength of the armrest assembly.

[0046] According to a further aspect of the present teachings, there is provided a vehicle comprising an armrest assembly according to a previous aspect located in an interior thereof.

[0047] Advantageously, providing an armrest assembly slidable between a retracted position and an extended position and having a biasing arrangement for biasing the armrest cover into the extended position facilitates smooth sliding whilst reducing the likelihood of the user’s fingers being trapped during extension and refraction of the armrest cover. Using a rod and bush arrangement to facilitate sliding improves durability of the mounting arrangement, thereby increasing an allowable weight which the mounting arrangement can take, in use. Additionally, a rod and bush arrangement enables smooth sliding of the armrest cover between the extended and refracted positions.

[0048] According to a further aspect of the present teachings, there is provided a method of operating an armrest assembly according to a previous aspect, the method comprising: sliding the armrest cover from the extended position into the refracted position to move the latching arrangement into the latched position; sliding the armrest cover from the retracted position in a direction away from the extended position to move the latching arrangement into the unlatched position such that the biasing arrangement biases the armrest cover into the extended position.

[0049] Advantageously, providing an armrest assembly slidable between a retracted position and an extended position and having a biasing arrangement for biasing the armrest cover into the extended position facilitates smooth sliding whilst reducing the likelihood of the user’s fingers being trapped during extension and refraction of the armrest cover. Using a rod and bush arrangement to facilitate sliding improves durability of the mounting arrangement, thereby increasing an allowable weight which the mounting arrangement can take, in use. Additionally, a rod and bush arrangement enables smooth sliding of the armrest cover between the extended and refracted positions.

[0050] 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.

[0051] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] 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 vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0053] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an armrest assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention for the vehicle of Figure 1 ;

[0054] Figure 3 shows a plan view of the armrest assembly of Figure 2;

[0055] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of a portion of the armrest assembly of Figure 2;

[0056] Figure 4B shows a perspective view of a portion of the armrest assembly of Figure 2;

[0057] Figures 5 and 6 show perspective views of an armrest cover and an armrest base of the armrest assembly of Figure 2;

[0058] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of the armrest cover and armrest base of Figures 5 and 6;

[0059] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the armrest base of Figures 5 and 6;

[0060] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the armrest cover of Figures 5 and 6

[0061] Figure 10 shows a flow chart of a method of operating an armrest assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0062] Figures 11 to 13 show cross-sectional views of the armrest cover and armrest base of Figures 5 and 6;

[0063] Figures 14A and 14B show views of a pivot arrangement of the armrest base of Figures 5 and 6; and

[0064] Figure 15 shows a flow chart of a method of operating an armrest assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0065] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] Figure 1 shows an example of a vehicle 8. The vehicle 8 may be an electric vehicle (EV) 8, for example a battery electric vehicle (BEV) 8. In such embodiments, the BEV 8 may be driven by a prime mover. The prime mover may be one or more electric motors, and the power source may be a battery arrangement. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the prime mover may be an internal combustion engine (ICE) or the like, and / or the vehicle 8 may be a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) 8 or any alternative vehicle 8.

[0067] Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown an armrest assembly generally indicated at 10. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the armrest assembly 10 is a rear armrest assembly 10. Although not shown, the armrest assembly 10 is located in an interior volume of the vehicle 8. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the armrest assembly 10 may be used at any suitable location in the vehicle 8. For example, the armrest assembly may be a front armrest assembly 10. In use, the armrest assembly 10 is incorporated into a rear seat arrangement (not shown). By way of example, the rear seat arrangement may include two rear seats, however any suitable rear seat arrangement may be provided. The rear seats include a seat base and a seat back, as is known in the art. The armrest assembly 10 is located between the two rear seats. Put another way, the rear seats are located on opposing sides of the armrest assembly 10. The armrest assembly 10 extends from the seat back and overlies the seat base. As such, passengers can rest their arm on the armrest assembly 10 whilst sat in a rear seat of the vehicle 8.

[0068] The armrest assembly 10 includes an armrest cover 12 and an armrest base 14, illustrated in Figures 5 to 9. The armrest cover 12 is slidable with respect to the armrest base 14 between a retracted position, illustrated in Figure 3, and an extended position, as illustrated in Figure 2. The armrest cover 12 is slidable in a first direction D1 from the extended position to the refracted position, and in an opposing second direction D2 from the retracted position to the extended position. The armrest assembly 10 may include an armrest support 16, illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, to which the armrest base 14 is mounted. It shall be appreciated that in some embodiments, the armrest support 16 may be omitted and the armrest assembly 10 may include the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12. The armrest support 16 is fixed in relation to the vehicle 8. By way of example, the armrest support 16 may be fixedly mounted to the seat base and / or to the seat back. The armrest cover 12 may include a substantially flat uppermost surface such that the armrest assembly 10 may be used as a work surface or support surface, for example to support a laptop, a user’s lunch, a book or notepad or the like.

[0069] The armrest cover 12 and armrest base 14 each include a first end 12a, 14a, an opposing second end 12b, 14b, and opposing first and second sides 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d extending between the first and second ends 12a, 14a, 12b, 14b. The armrest cover 12 is slidable with respect to the armrest base 14 in a direction extending between the first and second ends 12a, 14a, 12b, 14b. The first end 12a, 14a is taken to be the leading or frontmost end when the armrest cover 12 is sliding in the second axial direction D2, and the second end 12b, 14b is taken to be the leading or frontmost end when the armrest cover 12 is sliding in the first axial direction D1 . The first and second sides 12c, 14c, 12d, 14d extend substantially parallel to the first and second axial directions D1 , D2.

[0070] The armrest support 16 includes first and second side walls 16c, 16d defining the first and second sides of the armrest support 16 and first and second end walls 16a, 16b defining the first and second ends of the armrest support 16. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 4, the armrest support 16 includes two side walls 16a which are connected by two end walls 16b. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the armrest support 16 may be any suitable shape, with any suitable number of side walls 16a and / or end walls 16b. The plurality of side walls 16a define an opening 17 at an uppermost edge thereof which facilitates access to an interior volume of the armrest support 16.

[0071] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, the interior volume is an interior storage volume. The interior storage volume includes one or more storage compartments 18a, 18b, illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. In particular, the armrest support 16 includes a first storage compartment 18a and a second storage compartment 18b. The first storage compartment 18a is located towards the first end wall 16b, and the compartment 18b is located between the opposing second end wall 16b and the first storage compartment 18a. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first storage compartment 18a may be for holding a drinking vessel. For example, the first storage compartment 18a may be used as a cup holder, a bottle holder and / or a mug holder. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4A, two cup holders are arranged side-by-side with respect to a direction extending between the side walls 16a. It shall be appreciated that any suitable number of cup holders arranged in any suitable configuration may be used.

[0072] The second storage compartment 18b may be a refrigerated compartment 18b for storing food items, or items to be refrigerated. The armrest base 14 and / or the second storage compartment 18b may include any suitable sealing arrangement for sealing the second storage compartment 18b. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the second storage compartment 16b may be an ambient storage compartment.

[0073] It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable number of storage compartments 18a, 18b may be provided. The storage compartments 18a, 18b may be used to store any suitable object, device, foodstuff etc. The storage compartment or compartments 18a, 18b may be of any suitable configuration for storage.

[0074] The armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12 are pivotable with respect to the armrest support 16 between a first rotational position, illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, and a second rotational position, illustrated in Figure 4A. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, the armrest base 14 and armrest cover 12 pivot approximately 90° between the first and second rotational positions, however any suitable degree of rotation may be used. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the armrest base 14 and armrest cover 12 may not be pivotable with respect to the armrest support 16. The armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12 form a lid or cover over the opening 17 of the armrest support 16. In particular, the armrest base 14 and / or armrest cover 12 form a lid over the first compartment 18a and the second compartment 18b. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, the armrest cover 12 is configured to form a cover over the first storage compartment 18a, and the armrest base 14 is configured to form a cover over the second storage compartment 18b, as will be described in more detail hereafter.

[0075] Figure 2 shows the armrest cover 12 in the extended position and the armrest base 14 in the first rotational position. When the armrest cover 12 is in the extended position and the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position, the armrest assembly 10 is in a “closed-closed” configuration. In the “closed-closed” configuration, the armrest base 14 and armrest cover 12 form a cover over an entirety of the opening 17. In embodiments where the first and second storage compartments 18a, 18b are provided, the armrest cover 12 forms a cover over the first storage compartment 18a and the armrest base 14 forms a cover over the second storage compartment 18b. As such, the first storage compartment 18a is closed and the second storage compartment 18b is closed in the “closed-closed” configuration. Closed is taken to mean that access to the opening 17, for example to the first and / or second storage compartment 18a, 18b is prevented or inhibited.

[0076] Figure 3 shows the armrest cover 12 in the retracted position and the armrest base 14 in the first rotational position. When the armrest cover 12 is in the retracted position and the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position, the armrest assembly 10 is in an “open-dosed” configuration. In the “open-dosed” configuration, the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12 form a partial cover over the opening 17. In embodiments where the first and second storage compartments 18a, 18b are provided, the first storage compartment 18a is open and the second storage compartment 18b is closed. As such, access to the first storage compartment 18a is facilitated and access to the second storage compartment 18b is prevented.

[0077] Figure 4A shows the armrest cover 12 in the retracted position and the armrest base 14 in the second rotational position. When the armrest cover 12 is in the retracted position and the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position, the armrest assembly 10 is in an “open-open” configuration. In the “open-open” configuration, the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12 are rotated to provide access to the opening 17. In embodiments where the first and second storage compartments 18a, 18b are provided, the first storage compartment 18a is open and the second storage compartment 18b is open. As such, access to the first storage compartment 18a and the second storage compartment 18b is facilitated when the armrest cover 12 is in the retracted position and the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position.

[0078] The armrest base 14 includes a rotational latching member 20, illustrated in Figure 6, configured to prevent the armrest base 14 from being rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. The rotational latching member 20 is located at or towards the first end 14a of the armrest base 14.

[0079] The rotational latching member 20 includes a protrusion 20 extending from the armrest base 14 in a direction away from the armrest cover 12. The protrusion 20 engages a corresponding recess or aperture 21 in the armrest support 16, illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, to prevent the armrest base 14 from being rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. In particular, the protrusion 20 includes a stepped surface which extends in the first direction D 1 . The protrusion 20 extends through the aperture 21 of the armrest support 16 and the stepped surface engages behind the aperture 21 to fixedly connects the armrest base 14 to the support 16. If an operator fries to rotate the armrest cover 12 and armrest base 14 from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, the stepped surface of the protrusion 20 engages behind the aperture 21 of the armrest support 16 such that the protrusion 20 can not move past the aperture 21 of the armrest support 16. As such , the armrest base 14 is prevented from being rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational.

[0080] The rotational latching member 20 is fixedly connected to a rotational actuation member 23, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 8. As such, movement of the rotational actuation member 23 moves the rotational latching member 20 between a latched and unlatched position thereof. Put another way, actuation of the rotational actuation member 23 enables movement of the armrest base 14 between the first and second rotational positions. As illustrated in Figure 8, the rotational actuation member 23 is pivotally mounted to the armrest base 14, for example using a pivot pin. The rotational latching member 20 and the rotational actuation member 23 are therefore pivotable with respect to the armrest base 14. As such, rotation or pivoting of the rotational actuation member 23 rotates the rotational latching member 20 out of engagement with the aperture 21 . In particular, the stepped surface is rotated with respect to the aperture 21 such that the stepped surface no longer engages behind the aperture 21 , and instead the rotational latching member 20 can be moved out of the aperture 21 as the armrest base 14 is moved from the first rotational position to the second rotational position.

[0081] When the armrest cover 12 is in the extended position shown in Figure 6, the operator is unable to access the rotational actuation member 23 because the armrest cover 12 forms a cover thereover and obstructs access. As such, when the armrest cover 12 is in the extended position and the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position, the rotational latching member 20 is in the latched position and movement of the armrest cover 12 from the first rotational position to the second rotational position is prevented. When the armrest cover 12 is in the retracted position of Figure 3, the operator is able to access the rotational actuation member 23. As such, when the armrest cover 12 is in the retracted position, the operator can actuate the rotational actuation member 23 to unlatch the rotational latching member 20 and rotate the armrest cover 12 from the first rotational position into the second rotational position.

[0082] The rotational latching member 20 and the rotational actuation member 23 may be provided as a unitary body, or may be formed separately and assembled together. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the rotational actuation member 23 is a plate 23, however in alternative embodiments any suitable rotational actuation member 23 may be used. The plate 23 is located directly below an underside of the armrest cover 12, i.e. towards an uppermost surface 15a of the armrest base 14. The rotational latching member 20 extends from the plate 23 and through a lowermost surface 15b of the armrest base 14. As illustrated in Figure 4B, the armrest support 16 may include an indication feature or features 19a, 19b for discouraging a user from erroneously placing objects, such as a mobile phone, on the armrest support 16. For example, the user may mistake the aperture 21 for a charging port, and place their mobile phone on the armrest support 16, which may lead to damage of components of the armrest assembly 10. The indication features 19a, 19b indicate to the user that the armrest support 16 is not intended for supporting an object such as a mobile phone. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4B, the indication features 19a, 19b are a pair of parallel detents 19a, 19b. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the indication feature may be any alternative feature, for example a detent, notch, recess or protrusion of any suitable shape. Any suitable number of indication feature or features may be used in any suitable configuration. In further alternative embodiments, the indication feature may be omitted.

[0083] The armrest base 14 is formed form a metal alloy. In particular, a substrate of the armrest base 14, shown in Figure 8, may be formed from a metal alloy. The armrest base 14 may be formed from any suitable metal alloy, for example an aluminium alloy. The armrest base 14 may be formed using any suitable manufacturing process, for example casting. The substrate may include any suitable covering for improving comfort and aesthetics of the armrest base 14. For example, the covering may match that of the interior of the vehicle 8.

[0084] The armrest cover 12 may also be formed from a metal alloy. In particular, a substrate of the armrest cover 12, shown in Figure 9, may be formed from a metal alloy. The armrest cover 12 may be formed from any suitable metal alloy, for example an aluminium alloy. The armrest cover 12 may be formed using any suitable manufacturing process, for example casting. The substrate may include any suitable covering for improving comfort and aesthetics of the armrest cover 12. For example, the covering may match that of the interior of the vehicle. The armrest cover 12 may include a cushioning material extending along an uppermost surface thereof for improving comfort when a user rests their arm on the armrest cover 12.

[0085] An internal volume 22 is defined between the armrest cover 12 and armrest base 14. The internal volume 22 is illustrated in the cross-sectional view of Figures 11 to 13. The internal volume is considered to be the volume defined between the armrest cover 12 and the armrest base 14 when the armrest cover 12 is in the extended position, as illustrated in Figures 11 and 12. The internal volume 22 includes a first end 22a, a second end 22b remote from the first end 22a and first and second opposing sides 22c, 22d extending between the first end 22a and the second end 22b.

[0086] In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the armrest assembly 10 includes a biasing arrangement 24, a latching arrangement 26a, 26b and a mounting arrangement 28a-d. The biasing arrangement 24 is located in the internal volume 22 and is configured to bias the armrest cover 12 into the extended position. The latching arrangement 26a, 26b is located in the internal volume 22 and is moveable between a latched position in which the armrest cover 12 is latched in the retracted position and an unlatched position. In the unlatched position, the armrest cover 12 is slidable relative to the armrest base 14. The mounting arrangement 28a-d is configured to slidably mount the armrest cover 12 to the armrest base 14.

[0087] Providing an armrest assembly 10 slidable between a refracted position and an extended position and having a biasing arrangement 24 for biasing the armrest cover 12 into the extended position facilitates smooth sliding of the armrest cover 12 whilst reducing the likelihood of the user’s fingers being trapped during extension and retraction of the armrest cover 12.

[0088] Movement of the armrest cover 12 from the refracted position in the first direction D1 causes the latching arrangement 26a, 26b to move into the unlatched position. Using movement of the armrest cover 12 to unlatch the latching arrangement 26a, 26b helps to reduce the number of additional components, for example actuation members such as buttons, needed to move the armrest cover 12 between the extended and retracted positions. This increases the durability of the armrest assembly 10 because such components for facilitating actuation are prone to breakages and malfunctions. Additionally, using the sliding movement of the armrest cover 12 to unlatch the latching arrangement 26a, 26b contributes to a “luxury feel” of the armrest assembly 10.

[0089] The latching arrangement 26a, 26b, which may also be referred to as a sliding regulation arrangement 26a, 26b, includes a pin 26a, illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, located on one of the armrest cover 12 and the armrest base 14 and a recess 26b, illustrated in Figure 9, located on the other of the armrest cover 12 and the armrest base 14. In the embodiment shown in Figures 8 and 9, the pin 26a is located on the armrest base 14 and the recess 26b is located on the armrest cover 12. In the latched position of the latching arrangement 26a, 26b, the pin 26a is fixed in relation to the recess 26b in the second axial direction D2 and moveable relative to the recess 26b in the first axial direction D1 . Put another way, the pin 26a is retained by the recess 26b so as to be moveable in the first axial direction D1 and fixed in the second axial direction D2. As such, when the latching arrangement 26a, 26b is in the latched position, the armrest cover 12 is moveable in the first axial direction D1 and movement of the armrest cover 12 is prevented in the second axial direction D2.

[0090] The pin and recess arrangement 26a, 26b is a simple and robust mechanism for facilitating latching and unlatching without the need for additional components, for example actuation members such as buttons, to actuate the pin 26a. This increases the durability of the armrest assembly 10 because such components are prone to breakages and malfunctions. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, an alternative latching arrangement 26a, 26b may be used. In addition, the pin and recess arrangement 26a, 26b helps to regulate sliding of the armrest cover 12 with respect to the armrest base 14.

[0091] As illustrated in Figure 8, the pin 26a is mounted to the armrest base 14 by a retaining plate 27. A first end of the pin 26a is received by the retaining plate 27, and an opposing second end of the pin 26a engages the recess 26b. The first and second ends of the pin 26a extend in opposing directions. In particular, the first end extends in a direction away from the internal volume 22 and the second end extends into the internal volume 22, i.e. towards the armrest cover 12. As illustrated in Figure 9, the recess 26b defines a path or maze frack in which the pin 26a is received, as is known in the art.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 9, the armrest assembly 10 includes a damping arrangement 30a, 30b configured to provide a damping force as the biasing force is exerted by the biasing member 24 to move the armrest cover 12 between the extended and retracted positions. The damping arrangement 30a, 30b helps to facilitate smooth and controlled sliding of the armrest cover 12 between the extended position and the retracted position, and reduces the likelihood of injury caused by a user trapping their fingers. The damping arrangement 30a, 30b includes a base damping member 30a, illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, located on the armrest base 14 and a complimentary cover damping member 30b, illustrated in Figure 9, located on the armrest cover 12. The base damping member 30a engages the cover damping member 30b during movement of the armrest cover 12 between the extended and the refracted positions.

[0093] In the embodiment shown in Figures 8 and 9, the base damping member 30a is a pinion or gear 30a and the cover damping member 30b is a rack 30b. The rack 30b extends substantially parallel to the axial directions D1 , D2 of the armrest cover 12. Teeth of the pinion 30a engage complimentary teeth of the rack 30b. As the armrest cover 12 moves from the refracted position to the extended position under the force of the biasing member 24, the rack 30b moves along the pinion 30a to dampen the movement of the armrest cover 12. The pinion 30a enable damping of movement of the armrest cover 12. The pinion 30a includes a viscous material, for example oil, which limits the speed at which the pinion 30 is able to rotate. For example, a shaft which mounts the pinions to the armrest base 14 may be provide in the viscous material which limits speed of rotation of the shaft, and therefore of the pinion to provide a damping force as the armrest cover 12 slides relative to the armrest cover 14. Using a rotational damping arrangement 30a, 30b helps to provide a compact and robust arrangement.

[0094] It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the base damping member 30a may be a rack and the cover damping member 30b may be a pinion. Alternatively, any suitable damping arrangement 30a, 30b may be used, for example a longitudinal damping arrangement, or the damping arrangement 30a, 30b may be omitted.

[0095] As illustrated in Figure 8, the latching arrangement 26a, 26b is located on the first side 22c of the internal volume 22 and the damping arrangement 30a, 30b is located on the opposing second side 20d of the internal volume 22. Providing the latching arrangement 26a, 26b and the damping arrangement 30a, 30b on the first and second sides of the internal volume 22 increases space efficiency of the armrest assembly 10 by increasing a space defined between the latching arrangement 26a, 26b and the damping arrangement 30a, 30b for storage.

[0096] As illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the biasing arrangement 24 includes a spring 24 extending at least partially between the first and second sides 22c, 22d of the internal volume 22. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the spring 24 is located at or towards the first end 22a of the internal volume. In particular, the spring 24 is mounted to the armrest base 14 at a location towards the first end 14a of the armrest base 14. The spring 24 is fixedly connected to armrest cover 12 at a first end and fixedly mounted to the armrest base at an opposing second end. By way of example, as illustrated in Figure 8, the first end of the spring 24 may include a recess or aperture which engages a corresponding protrusion, for example a hook, on the armrest cover 12 to connect the spring 24 to the armrest cover 12. The spring 24 is a constant force spring which is formed from a rolled ribbon that is pre-stressed to resist uncoiling. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the spring may be any alternative spring, for example a coil spring, a torsional spring, a compression spring or the like, or an alternative biasing member, such as an elastomeric member or block.

[0097] The mounting arrangement 28a-d includes a rod 28a, 28c fixedly mounted to the armrest base 14 or the armrest cover 12 and a bush 28b, 28d fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base 14 or the armrest cover 12. The rod 28a, 28c is slidably received within the bush 28b, 28d Using a rod and bush arrangement to facilitate sliding is a structural strong arrangement, thereby improving durability of the mounting arrangement 28a-d and increasing an allowable weight which the mounting arrangement 28a-d can take, in use. This may be particularly advantageous when the armrest assembly 10, for example am uppermost surface of the armrest cover 12, is used as a workstation (for example for supporting a laptop or eating lunch).

[0098] Additionally, a rod and bush arrangement 28a-d enables smooth sliding of the armrest cover 12 between the extended and retracted position. As illustrated in Figures 6 to 9, the rod 28a, 28c is fixedly mounted to the armrest cover 12 and the bush 28b, 28d is fixedly mounted to the armrest base 14.

[0099] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 9, the mounting arrangement 28a, 28b includes a first mounting arrangement 28a, 28b located on the first side 22c of the internal volume 22 and a second mounting arrangement 28c, 28d located on the opposing second side 22d of the internal volume 22. The first and second mounting arrangements 28a-d each include a rod 28a, 28c fixedly mounted to the armrest base 14 or the armrest cover 12 and a bush 28b, 28d fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12. Providing first and second mounting arrangements increases durability of the mounting arrangement 28a-d, and increases an allowable weight the mounting arrangement 28a-d can take, in use. Providing first and second mounting arrangements 28a-d also improves smoothness of sliding of the armrest cover 12 between the extended and retracted positions. Providing the first and second mounting arrangements 28a-d on opposing sides of the internal volume 22 increases the space efficiency of the armrest assembly 10.

[0100] The rods 28a, 28c extend along opposing first and second sides 12c, 12d of the armrest cover 12. The rods 28a, 28c extend between the first and second ends 12a, 12b of the armrest cover 12. As illustrated in Figure 9, the armrest cover 12 includes a plurality of mounting sleeves 29 configured to mount the rods 28a, 28c to the armrest cover 12. The rods 28a, 28c extend through the mounting sleeves 29. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable number of mounting sleeves 29 may be provided, or an alternative mounting arrangement may be used to fixedly mount the rods 28a, 28c to the armrest cover 12. The armrest base 14 includes recesses, illustrated in Figure 6, located on the first end 14a of the armrest base 14 for slidable receiving the rods 28a, 28c therethrough.

[0101] In the embodiment shown in Figures 8, two bushes 28b, 28d are provided. Two bushes 28b are provided on the first side 14c of the armrest base 14 for slidably receiving the rod 28a and two bushes 28d are provided on the second side 14d of the armrest base 14 for slidably receiving the rod 28c. The pairs of bushes 28b, 28b are located at opposing ends 22a, 22b of the internal volume 22. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable number of bushes 28b, 28d at any suitable location may be used.

[0102] It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, an alternative mounting arrangement 28a-d may be used to slidably mount the armrest cover 12 to the armrest 14. By way of example, a roller or wheel and guide arrangement may be used.

[0103] The armrest base 14 includes a recessed region 31 , illustrated in Figures 6 and 9 to 11 , extending into the internal volume 22 in a direction towards the armrest cover 12. The recess region 31 increases a space defined below the armrest base 14 for storage, thereby increasing the storage capability of the armrest assembly 10. The interior storage volume 28a, 28b is at least partially located below the recessed region 31 when the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position. In particular, as illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, the recessed region 31 is located above the second storage compartment 28b of the interior storage volume 28a, 28b. As such, a space defined between the armrest base 14 and the armrest support 16 is increased, thereby increasing the storage capacity of the internal storage volume.

[0104] As illustrated in Figure 6, the recessed region 31 is located between the first mounting arrangement 28a, 28b and the second mounting arrangement 28c, 28d. The recessed region 31 occupies a majority of a distance defined between the first and second mounting arrangements 28a-d in a direction extending between the first and second sides 22c, 22d of the internal volume 22. The recessed region 31 is at least partially located between the latching arrangement 26a, 26b and the damping arrangement 30a, 30b. The recessed region 31 in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 is a substantially rectangular recessed region 31 . The recessed region 31 includes a tapered perimeter wall 31a. The tapered perimeter wall 31a tapers in a direction towards the internal volume 22. The tapered perimeter wall 31 a tapers in a direction towards the internal volume 22. The mounting arrangement 28a- d and / or the biasing arrangement 24 may be located behind the tapered perimeter wall 31a, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 11 to 13. This helps to improve the space efficiency of the armrest assembly 10 whilst maximising the storage capabilities.

[0105] It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the recessed region 31 may be any suitable shape, and the tapered perimeter wall 31a may be omitted. In further alternative embodiments, the recessed region 31 may be omitted.

[0106] In some embodiments, the armrest assembly 10 includes a support arrangement 33a, 33b illustrated in Figure 6. The support arrangement 33a, 33b is configured to provide support to the armrest assembly 10 and to control stopping of the armrest cover 12 as the armrest cover 12 abuts against a surface of the armrest support 16. The support arrangement 33a, 33b may include support members 33a, 33b. The support members 33a, 33b may be formed from an elastomeric material, for example a rubber material.

[0107] As illustrated in Figure 6, axial support members 33a are provided to abut against the surface of the armrest support 16 when the armrest cover 12 moves from the retracted position into the extended position. The axial support members 33a are located at the first end 12a of the armrest cover 12. The axial support members 33a protrude from the first end 12a in the second axial direction D2 such that the axial support members 33a abut against the surface of the armrest support 16 before the first end 12a of the armrest cover 12. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the axial support members 33a are substantially rounded hollow support members, however any suitable configuration of axial support members 33a may be used.

[0108] As illustrated in Figure 6, transverse support members 33b, or support feet 33b, are provided to abut against a surface of the armrest support 16. The transverse support members 33b provide support to the armrest assembly 10 in a direction extending transversely to the first and second axial directions D1 , D2 and transversely to a direction extending between the first and second sides 14c, 14d of the armrest base 14. The armrest base 14 includes a lowermost surface 15b located closest to the actuation surface 36 in the first rotational position and an uppermost surface 15a located furthest away from the actuation surface 36 in the first rotational position. The transverse support members 33b extend from the lowermost surface 15b in a direction towards the armrest support 16 when the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position.

[0109] It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable support arrangement 33a, 33b may be used, or the support arrangement 33a, 33b may be omitted.

[0110] Figure 10 illustrates the steps of a method 100 according to an embodiment of the present teachings. The method 100 of operating an armrest assembly will be described hereafter.

[0111] The method includes step S110 of sliding the armrest cover 12 from the extended position into the refracted position to move the latching arrangement 26a, 26b into the latched position. At step S120, the armrest cover 12 is slid from the refracted position in a direction D1 away from the extended position to move the latching arrangement 26a, 26b into the unlatched position such that the biasing arrangement 24 biases the armrest cover 12 into the extended position. It shall be appreciated that the method 100 may be suitable for use with the armrest assembly 10 of Figures 2 to 9 and 11 to 13.

[0112] Figures 11 to 13 illustrate a rocker arrangement 32 for the armrest assembly 10. It shall be appreciated that the rocker arrangement 32 may be combined with any of the teachings described above in relation to Figures 1 to 10. The rocker arrangement 32 is configured to restrict movement of the of the armrest cover 12 with respect to the armrest base 14 when the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position. It shall be appreciated that in some embodiments, the rocker arrangement 32 may be omitted, or an alternative mechanism may be used to restrict movement of the armrest cover 12 with respect to the armrest base 14. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, the rocker arrangement 32 is partially located in the internal volume 22, i.e. between the armrest cover 12 and the armrest base 14 when the armrest cover 12 is in the extended position. The armrest assembly 10 includes an actuation surface 36, illustrated in Figure 11 to 13. The actuation surface 36 extends substantially parallel to the armrest base 14 when the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the armrest base 14 may be angled with respect to the actuation surface 36. The armrest base 14 is pivotable with respect to the actuation surface 36 between the first rotational position, shown in Figures 11 and 12, and the second rotational position, shown in Figures 13. In particular, the armrest base 14 and armrest cover 12 pivot in a direction away from the actuation surface 36 from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. The actuation surface 16 is a surface of the armrest assembly 10, for example of the armrest support 16, that is fixed in relation to the vehicle 8. As such, the actuation surface 36 does not pivot and is not slidable with respect to the vehicle 8. In the embodiment shown in Figures 11 to 13, the actuation surface 36 is part of the support 16. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the actuation surface 36 may be provided as a separate surface to the support 16.

[0113] The armrest assembly 10 includes a pivot arrangement 50, illustrated in Figures 14A and 14B, configured to pivotally mount the armrest base 14 and armrest cover 12 with respect to the actuation surface 36. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the pivot arrangement 50 is configured to pivotally mount the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12 to the armrest support 16. The pivot arrangement 50 is located at the second end 14b of the armrest base 14. The pivot arrangement 50 includes a pivot member 52, a pivot biasing member 54, a pivot damping arrangement 56a, 56b and a pivot mount 58a-c. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any alternative pivot arrangement 50 may be used.

[0114] The pivot member 52 may be a pivot pin 52. The pivot pin 52 extends through the armrest base 14 and through the pivot mount 58a-c to pivotally mount the armrest base 14 to the pivot mount 58a-c. The pivot mount 58a-c includes opposing first and second upstands 58a, 58b located on opposing sides of the armrest base 14, and the pivot pin 52 extends through the opposing first and second upstands 58a, 58b. As such, the armrest base 14 is able to pivot about the pivot pin 52 with respect to the pivot mounts 48a, 58b. The pivot mount 58a-c includes a mounting plate or bracket 58c for mounting the pivot member 52 to the armrest support 16. In particular, the mounting plate 58c mounts the first and second upstands 58a, 58b to the armrest support 16 so as to pivotally mount the pivot pin 52 with respect to the armrest support 16. The mounting plate 58c may be mounted to the armrest support 16 using any suitable fastener arrangement.

[0115] The pivot biasing member 54 is configured to bias the armrest base 14 into the second rotational position. It is the engagement of the rotational latching member 20 behind the aperture 21 which prevents the armrest base 14 from being automatically rotated into the second rotational position by the pivot biasing member 54. In the embodiment shown in Figure 14A, the pivot biasing member 54 is a spring 54, in particular a torsional spring, configured to bias the armrest base 14 in a direction towards the second rotational position. The pivot biasing member 54 extends around the pivot member 52. As such, when a user rotates the armrest base 14 from the first rotational position, the pivot biasing member 54 automatically biases the armrest base 14 in a direction towards the second rotational position. In particular, if the rotational latching member 20 is in the latched position, the operator presses the rotational actuation member to rotate the rotational latching member 20 out of the aperture 21 , and the armrest base 14 is automatically biased in a direction towards the second rotational position.

[0116] The pivot damping arrangement 56a, 56b is configured to provide a damping force as the armrest base 14 moves from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. This helps to facilitate smooth and controlled movement of the armrest base 14 from the first rotational position into the second rotational position. The pivot damping arrangement 56a, 56b includes a catch member 56a formed from a rigid material, for example a rigid plastics material such as polyoxymethylene (POM). The pivot damping arrangement 56a, 56b also includes a flexible strip 56b, for example a flexible metal strip, connected to the catch member 56a. The armrest base 14 engages the catch member 56a as the armrest base 14 moves from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. This extends the flexible strip in the first direction D1 , which exerts a damping force on the armrest base 14 via the catch member 56a.

[0117] As illustrated in Figures 14A and 14B, the armrest base 14 includes a retention member 57 configured to engage the catch member 56a. In particular, the catch member 56a is configured to retain the retention member 57 when the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position. This is advantageous because when the vehicle 10 is parked or driven along an incline, for example a hill, the biasing force exerted by the pivot biasing member 54 on the armrest base 14 may be overcome and the armrest base 14 may begin to rotate towards the first rotational position. The retention of the resilient catch 57 by the catch member 56a helps fix the armrest base 14 in the second rotational position, thereby helping to hold the armrest base 14 in the second rotational position. The retention member 57 is a protrusion 57 extending from the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction D1 such that the retention member 57 protrudes from the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction D1 . In particular, the protrusion 57 protrudes from the second end 14b of the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction D1 . The catch member 56a includes a recess or notch, illustrated in Figure 14B, which retains the retention member 57 therein when the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position. The retention member 57 is fixedly mounted to the armrest base 14. As such, when the armrest base 14 is rotated from the first rotational position into the second rotational position, the retention member 57 rotates with respect to the armrest support 16 towards the catch member 56a and engages the catch member 56a so as to be retained thereby. It shall be appreciated that the retention member 57 may be clipped or snap-fitted into the catch member 56a, or any alternative mechanism may be used to retain the retention member 57 with respect to the catch member 56a.

[0118] It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the retention member 57 may engage an alternative component to the catch member 56a. As such, the retention member 57 may be used in embodiments where the pivot damping arrangement 56a, 56b is omitted and vice versa.

[0119] The rocker arrangement 32 includes a rocking member 34 defining a first end 34a and a second end 34b. The first end 34a is configured to engage the actuation surface 36. The second end 34b is configured to engage a locking formation 40 of the armrest cover. The rocking member 34 is pivotable between a disengaged position, illustrated in Figures 11 and 12, in which the first end 34a is engaged by the actuation surface 36, and an engaged position, illustrated in Figure 13, in which the first end 34a is spaced apart from the actuation surface 36. When the armrest cover 12 is in the refracted position, movement of the armrest base 14 from the first rotational position into the second rotational position moves the rocking member 34 into the engaged position such that the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 engages the locking formation 40 of the armrest cover 12 and sliding of the armrest cover 12 with respect to the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction D1 is restricted. Restricted is taken to mean that the armrest cover 12 is unable to move with respect to the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction D1 . When the rocking member 34 is in the disengaged position, a clearance is defined between the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 and the locking formation 40 such that the armrest cover 12 is slidable between the extended and retracted position.

[0120] The restriction of the armrest cover 12 in the first axial direction D1 helps to prevent the armrest cover 12 from being moved past the retracted position when the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position and revealing interior components of the armrest assembly 10 located between the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12, which can be unsightly. This improves the aesthetics of the armrest assembly 10, and contributes to a “luxury feel” of the armrest assembly 10. In addition, this arrangement helps to prevent the ingress of dirt and / or debris into the internal volume 22 of the armrest assembly 10. The rocker arrangement 32 is a robust and compact arrangement for restricting movement of the armrest cover 12, and uses existing components and movements of the armrest assembly 10 to facilitate engagement and disengagement of the rocking member 34.

[0121] The rocker arrangement 32 is located towards the second end 14b of the armrest base 14. The rocker arrangement 32 is located at or towards an opposing end 22b of the internal volume 22 to the biasing arrangement 24. In particular, as illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, the rocker arrangement 32 and the biasing arrangement 24 are located at opposing ends of the recessed region 31 . Locating the biasing arrangement 24 and the rocker arrangement 32 at opposing ends provides a space efficient arrangement of the armrest assembly 10, and helps to prevent components of the rocker arrangement 32 obsfructing / interfering with the biasing arrangement 24, and vice versa. In addition, a space between the rocker arrangement 32 and the biasing arrangement 24 can be used for storage. In embodiments where the tapered perimeter wall 31a of the recessed region 31 is provided, the rocker arrangement 32 may be located behind the tapered perimeter wall 31a.

[0122] The rocker arrangement 32 includes a rocker biasing member 37. The rocker biasing member 37 is configured to bias the rocking member 34 into the engaged position. As such, when no external force, for example from the actuation surface 36, is exerted on the rocking member 34, the rocking member 34 is biased into the engaged position by the rocker biasing member 37. When the actuation surface 36 engages the first end 34a of the rocking member 34, the biasing force is overcome and the rocking member 34 moves into the disengaged position. The rocker biasing member 37 enables automatic movement of the rocking member 34 into the engaged position, thereby enabling automatic restriction of the armrest cover 12 as the armrest base 14 moves into the second rotational position. The rocker basing member 37 is configured to bias the first end 34a of the rocking member 34 in a direction towards the armrest cover 12 and the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 in a direction away from the armrest cover 12. Such movement of the rocking member 34 enables the second end 34b to automatically engage the locking formation 40 whilst the first end 34a moves away from the armrest cover 14 so as to restrict movement of the armrest cover 12 as the armrest base 14 moves into the second rotational position. In the embodiment shown in Figures 11 to 13, the rocker biasing member 37 is a spring 37 configured to bias the rocking member 34 in the engaged position. The spring 37 may be any suitable spring, for example a torsion spring, compression spring, coil spring or the like. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, alternative rocker biasing members may be used, or the rocker biasing member may be omitted.

[0123] The rocker arrangement 32 includes a rocker pivot member 38 located between the first end 34a and the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 and configured to pivotally mount the rocking member 34 to the armrest base 14. The rocking member 34 is pivotable between the engaged and disengaged positions about the rocker pivot member 38. In the embodiment shown in Figures 11 to 13, the rocker pivot member 38 is a pivot pin 38 extending through the rocking member 34. The rocker pivot member 38 is located closer to the first end 34a of the rocking member 34 than to the second end 34b of the rocking member 34, however in alternative embodiments the rocker pivot member 38 may be any suitable member located at any suitable location between the first and second ends 34a, 34b of the rocking member 34.

[0124] As illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, the first end 34a of the rocking member 34 extends through the lowermost surface 15b of the armrest base 14 and the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 extends through the uppermost surface 15a of the armrest base 14. This arrangement enables the rocking member 34 to engage both the locking formation 40 of the armrest cover 12 and the actuation surface 36.

[0125] In the embodiment shown in Figures 11 to 13, the locking formation 40 of the armrest cover 12 is a protrusion 40 extending in a direction towards the armrest base 14. The protrusion 40 is configured to engage the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 to restrict sliding of the armrest cover 12 with respect to the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction D 1 . In particular, the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 is located in front of the protrusion 40 with respect to the first direction D1 . As such, the second end 34b engages the protrusion 40 to prevent the armrest cover 12 from moving beyond the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 in the first direction D1 . The protrusion 40 includes an angled surface 40a extending from the armrest cover 12. In particular, the angled surface 40a extends at an angle towards the first end 12a of the armrest cover 12. The second end 34b of the rocking member 34 includes a corresponding angled surface for engaging the angled surface 40a of the protrusion 40 when the armrest base 14 is in the second rotational position and the armrest cover 12 is moved from the retracted position in the first direction D1 .

[0126] The rocker member 34 includes a protrusion 42 located at or towards the first end 34a. It shall be appreciated that “first end” is taken to mean that the actuation surface 36 may engage a location of the rocking member 34 which is at or near the first end 34a. The actuation surface 36 is configured to engage the protrusion 42 to rotate the rocking member 34 into the disengaged position. As illustrated in Figures 11 to 13, the protrusion 42 extends from the armrest base 14 in a direction away from the internal volume 22. When the armrest base 14 is in the first rotational position, the protrusion 42 extends in a direction towards the actuation surface 36. The protrusion 42 extends substantially transversely with respect to the armrest base 14. It shall be appreciated that the protrusion 42 may be any suitable shape for engaging the actuation surface 36. In the embodiment shown in Figures 11 to 13, the protrusion is substantially elongate, and engages the actuation surface 36 at a free end of the elongate protrusion 42.

[0127] The armrest base 14 includes an aperture 44, and the protrusion 42 of the rocking member 34 is moveably received within the aperture 44. The protrusion 42 is moveable between the engaged and disengaged positions relative to the aperture 44. The aperture 44 enables the rocking member 34 to extend from the internal volume 22 of the armrest assembly 10 to engage with the actuation surface 36 , which is located outside of the internal volume 22. In addition, the aperture 44 is simple to manufacture. The aperture 44 is located on the lowermost surface 15b of the armrest base 14 such that the protrusion 42 extends front the internal volume 22 and through the lowermost surface of the armrest base 14.

[0128] The protrusion 42 extends through the lowermost surface 15b of the armrest base 14. In the disengaged position, the protrusion 42 extends a greater distance through the lowermost surface 15b than in the engaged position. It shall be appreciated that in the engaged position, the protrusion 42 may not extend through the aperture 44. In some embodiments, the protrusion 42 may not extend through the lowermost surface 15b of the armrest base 14. In such embodiments, the actuation surface 36 may include a protrusion which extends into the aperture 44 in the engaged position to engage the protrusion 42. In further alternative embodiments, the protrusion 42 may be omitted from the rocking member 34, and instead the actuation surface 36 may include the protrusion 42.

[0129] The rocking member 34 includes a substantially non-linear body extending from the first end 34a to the second end 34b. Providing a non-linear body increases the space efficiency of the armrest assembly 10 whilst enabling the rocking member 34 to engage both the locking formation 40 in the engaged position and the actuation surface 36 in the disengaged position. The non-linear body of the rocking member 34 curves in a direction towards the armrest cover 12 from the first end 34a to the second end 34b. In particular, the rocking member 34 extends from the first end 34a substantially parallel to the lowermost surface 15b of the armrest base 14. The rocking member 34 curves at a location at or towards a midpoint thereof towards the armrest cover 12 such that the second end 34b is located closest to the armrest cover 12. It shall be appreciated that the shape of the rocking member 34 is exemplary, and any suitable shape of rocking member 34 may be used.

[0130] Figure 15 illustrates steps of a method 200 according to an embodiment of the present teachings. The method 200 of operating an armrest assembly will be described hereafter.

[0131] The method 200 includes step S210 of sliding the armrest cover 12 in the first axial direction D1 from the extended position to the refracted position. At step S220, the armrest base 14 and the armrest cover 12 are rotated from the first rotational position into the second rotational position to move the rocking member 34 into the engaged position such that the second end 34b of the rocking member 34 engages the locking formation 40 of the armrest cover 12 and sliding of the armrest cover 12 with respect to the armrest base 14 in the first axial direction is restricted.

[0132] 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. It should also be noted that whilst the appended claims set out particular combinations of features described above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the particular combinations hereafter claimed, but instead extends to encompass any combination of features herein disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An armrest assembly for a vehicle, the armrest assembly comprising: an armrest base; an armrest cover slidable with respect to the armrest base between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein an internal volume is defined between the armrest cover and the armrest base; a biasing arrangement located in the internal volume and configured to bias the armrest cover into the extended position; a latching arrangement located in the internal volume and moveable between a latched position in which the armrest cover is latched in the retracted position and an unlatched position; a mounting arrangement configured to slidably mount the armrest cover to the armrest base, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a rod fixedly mounted to the armrest base or the armrest cover and a bush fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base and the armrest cover; and wherein the rod is slidably received within the bush to facilitate sliding of the armrest cover with respect to the armrest base between the extended position and the retracted position.

2. The armrest assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the armrest cover is slidable in a first direction from the extended position to the retracted position and in an opposing second direction from the refracted position to the extended position, and wherein movement of the armrest cover from the refracted position in the first direction causes the latching arrangement to move into the unlatched position.

3. The armrest assembly according to claim 2, wherein the latching arrangement comprises a pin located on one of the armrest cover and the armrest base and a recess located on the other of the armrest cover and the armrest base, and wherein in the latched position, the pin is fixed in relation to the recess in the second direction and moveable relative to the recess in the first direction.

4. The armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the internal volume comprises a first end, a second end remote from the first end and first and second opposing sides extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the biasing arrangement comprises a spring extending at least partially between the first and second sides and located at the first end of the internal volume.

5. The armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first mounting arrangement located on a first side of the internal volume and a second mounting arrangement located on an opposing second side of the internal volume, and wherein the first and second mounting arrangements each comprise a rod fixedly mounted to the armrest base or the armrest cover and a bush fixedly mounted to the other of the armrest base and the armrest cover.

6. The armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the armrest base comprises a recessed region extending into the internal volume in a direction towards the armrest cover.

7. The armrest assembly according to claim 6 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the recessed region is located between the first mounting arrangement and the second mounting arrangement.

8. The armrest assembly according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the recessed region comprises a tapered perimeter wall, and wherein the tapered perimeter wall tapers in a direction towards the internal volume.

9. The armrest assembly according to claim 8, wherein the mounting arrangement and / or the latching arrangement are located directly behind the tapered perimeter wall.

10. The armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a damping arrangement having a base damping member located on the armrest base and a complimentary cover damping member located on the armrest cover, and wherein the base damping member engages the cover damping member during movement of the armrest cover between the extended and the retracted positions.11 . The armrest assembly according to claim 10, wherein the latching arrangement is located on a first side of the internal volume and wherein the damping arrangement is located on an opposing second side of the internal volume.

12. The armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the armrest assembly comprises a support arrangement comprising at least one support member formed from a resiliently deformable material, and wherein the at least one support member is configured to engage a surface of the vehicle to restrict or control movement of the armrest assembly with respect to a surface of the vehicle.

13. The armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the armrest base is formed from a metal alloy, optionally wherein the armrest base is formed from an aluminium alloy.

14. A vehicle comprising an armrest assembly according to any preceding claim located in an interior thereof.

15. A method of operating an armrest assembly according to any preceding claim, the method comprising: sliding the armrest cover from the extended position into the retracted position to move the latching arrangement into the latched position; sliding the armrest cover from the retracted position in a direction away from the extended position to move the latching arrangement into the unlatched position such that the biasing arrangement biases the armrest cover into the extended position.

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