Cooled cup holder arrangement for a vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) comprising a cup holder (110) for reducing the temperature of a beverage container (120) inserted into the cup holder (110) The cup holder (110) comprises a vertically extending side wall section (210) and a therewith connected horizontally extending bottom section (220). A cooling element (230) is integrated in at least one section (210, 220) of the cup holder (110). The side wall section (210) comprises a switch (240) configured to activate the cooling element (230) when the beverage container (120) is inserted into the cup holder (110). The cup holder (110) provides active cooling for beverages while maintaining easy access and convenience for the vehicle occupant.

Description

[0001] ACTIVE VEHICLE CUP HOLDER ARRANGEMENT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This document discloses a vehicle cup holder arrangement comprising a cup holder and a vehicle comprising the vehicle cup holder arrangement. More particularly, a cup holder for reducing the temperature of a beverage container inserted into the cup holder is disclosed.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Vehicle cup holders have become a common feature in modern vehicles, providing convenient storage for a beverage container while driving. These holders typically consist of a receptacle integrated into the vehicle's interior, often in the centre console or dashboard area.

[0006] Maintaining beverage temperature can be challenging in a vehicle environment. Conventional cup holders are passive devices that simply provide a holding space without any active temperature control capabilities. Cold drinks such as water, soft drinks, lemonade, soda, juice, etc. can warm up, especially on longer journeys or in extreme weather conditions. This leads to a less refreshing / enjoyable drinking experience for the driver. Potentially, over time, the driver may fall into a state of dehydration, which in turn may cause a decrease in driver attention / traffic safety.

[0007] Another issue with existing cup holders is that they may not provide sufficient stability for containers during sharp turns or sudden stops. This can result in spills that are not only inconvenient but also potentially dangerous if they distract the driver.

[0008] Drivers are sometimes tempted to solve the problem of avoiding lukewarm beverage by bringing either a cool box or a portable refrigerator into the cabin. These solutions may to some extent solve the problem; however, the driver is severely distracted from the environmental traffic situation while opening / closing the cool box / portable refrigerator. Even in case the driver succeeds in safely reaching a beverage can in the cool box / portable refrigerator, for example during a red light stop or similar occurrence, the beverage container will immediately start to warm up while the driver holds it in his / her hand or place it in the prior art cup holder.

[0009] It has been appreciated that a device is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.SUMMARY

[0010] It would be advantageous to achieve a convenient solution overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned drawback(s). In particular, it would be desirable to improve a vehicle cup holder arrangement for reducing the temperature of a beverage container inserted in a cup holder. To better address this concern, a vehicle cup holder arrangement having the features defined in the independent claims is provided.

[0011] The present disclosure provides a vehicle cup holder arrangement for reducing the temperature of a beverage container inserted into a cup holder of the arrangement. The cup holder comprises a vertically extending side wall section and a therewith connected horizontally extending bottom section. A cooling element is integrated in at least one section of the cup holder. The side wall section comprises a switch configured to activate the cooling element when the beverage container is inserted into the cup holder.

[0012] This configuration allows for automatic activation of cooling when a beverage container is placed in the cup holder, providing convenience and energy efficiency. The user does not have to handle a separate on / off control but is enabled to focus on the environmental traffic. By having the switch comprised in the side wall section of the cup holder instead of, for example, the bottom section, the switch remains engaged by the beverage container also in case of a road bump passage or other irregularities in the road.

[0013] Optionally, the cup holder may comprise an electricity source. The switch of the cup holder may be configured to be set into an engaged state when the beverage container is inserted into the cup holder, thereby providing electricity from the electricity source for activating the cooling element. Also, the switch of the cup holder may be configured to be set into a disengaged state when the beverage container is removed from the cup holder, thereby preventing electricity from the electricity source from activating the cooling element.

[0014] This arrangement ensures that cooling only occurs when the beverage container such as a cup, can, bottle, etc., is present in the cup holder, conserving energy and preventing unnecessary wear on the cooling functionality of the cooling element.

[0015] Optionally, the switch of the cup holder may comprise a spring mechanism arranged to activate the cooling element when the beverage container is inserted into the cup holder by allowing displacement of the switch from the disengaged state to the engaged state. Also, the spring mechanism may be arranged to deactivate the cooling element when thebeverage container is removed from the cup holder, thereby returning the switch from the engaged state to the disengaged state.

[0016] The spring mechanism provides a reliable, yet technically robust means of controlling activation of the cooling element via the switch when the beverage container is inserted / removed from the cup holder.

[0017] Optionally, the spring mechanism of the cup holder switch may be arranged to exert a lateral force on the inserted beverage container, thereby releasably fixating the inserted beverage container in the cup holder.

[0018] This feature improves stability of the beverage container during vehicle movements, reducing the risk of spills, thereby avoiding disturbing and / or annoying the driver, which enhances safety.

[0019] Optionally, the vertically extending side wall section of the cup holder may comprise one or several spring-loaded container stabilizers, arranged to exert a lateral force on the inserted beverage container, thereby releasably fixating the inserted beverage container in the cup holder. Possibly, the one or several spring-loaded container stabilizers may operate in conjunction with the spring mechanism of the cup holder switch.

[0020] An increased capacity of safely holding beverage containers of different sizes and / or shapes in the cup holder is provided. The risk of spill and splash in the cabin is thereby reduced.

[0021] Optionally, the cooling element of the cup holder may comprise a medium channel connected to an inlet port and an outlet port. The switch may be configured to allow refrigerant / coolant from a climate control system of the vehicle to enter the inlet port and to allow the refrigerant to return to the climate control system of the vehicle via the outlet port, thereby activating the cooling element. The switch may also be correspondingly configured to disallow refrigerant from the climate control system to enter the inlet port and to disallow the refrigerant to return to the climate control system via the outlet port, thereby deactivating the cooling element.

[0022] This integration with the vehicle's existing climate control system provides efficient cooling without requiring a separate cooling apparatus, which reduces the involved costs and provides a substantial chilling capacity to the cup holder arrangement.Optionally, the vehicle cup holder arrangement may comprise a compressor, a condenser and the cooling element, connected to each other via a medium channel. The compressor may be configured to circulate refrigerant through the medium channel. The cooling element may be configured to absorb heat from inside the cup holder, and the condenser may be configured to release heat from the circulated refrigerant. The electricity source of the vehicle cup holder arrangement may provide electricity to the compressor when the switch is set into the engaged state, thereby activating the cooling element.

[0023] By integrating the compressor, the condenser and the cooling element into the vehicle cup holder arrangement, a self-contained cooling system is created, which is independent from the cooling system of the vehicle. As no connection and / or interaction has to be made to the vehicle cooling system, the vehicle cup holder arrangement could be placed at a convenient place in the cabin.

[0024] This self-contained cooling system allows for flexibility. The vehicle cup holder arrangement may for example alternatively provide conditions for being detacheable from the original position in the cabin and e.g. be brought outside the vehicle, or be moved to another position within the vehicle, for example.

[0025] Optionally, the cooling element of the cup holder may comprise a Peltier element. The electricity source of the cup holder may be arranged for providing electricity to the Peltier element when the switch activates the cooling element, i.e. when the switch is set in to the engaged state. Correspondingly, when the switch is set into the disengaged state when the beverage container is removed from the cup holder, electricity from the electricity source may be prevented from being provided to the Peltier element.

[0026] The use of a Peltier element offers a compact and efficient cooling solution with no moving parts, increasing reliability.

[0027] Optionally, the cup holder may comprise a flexible annular sealing, attached to an upper vertical end of the side wall section.

[0028] This sealing helps insulating the cup holder, improving cooling efficiency and preventing splash from the beverage container from leaving the cup holder. Also, the flexible annular sealing assists in releasably fixating the position of the beverage container.Optionally, the cup holder may comprise an electric circuit connected to the switch. The electric circuit may be configured to delay deactivation of the cooling element for a predetermined time period when the beverage container is removed, at least temporarily, from the cup holder.

[0029] This feature of the electric circuit maintains cooling during brief removals of the beverage container, enhancing user convenience.

[0030] Optionally, the cup holder comprises a heat-conducting, detachable inner cup, which is re-leasably insertable into the vehicle cup holder.

[0031] The detachable inner cup allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, improving hygiene and longevity of the cup holder.

[0032] Optionally, the vehicle cup holder is releasably arranged in the vehicle.

[0033] This allows for removal and replacement of the cup holder, facilitating maintenance and upgrades.

[0034] Optionally, the cooling element may be comprised in the horizontally extending bottom section.

[0035] Placing the cooling element in the bottom section provides efficient cooling from below the beverage container.

[0036] Optionally, the cooling element of the cup holder may be comprised in the vertically extending side wall section.

[0037] Integrating the cooling element in the side wall allows for more surface area contact with the beverage container, potentially improving cooling efficiency.

[0038] Optionally, the cup holder of the vehicle cup holder arrangement comprises a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature of the beverage container when inserted into the cup holder, and a temperature indicator, configured to output an indicated temperature of the liquid in the inserted beverage container. The temperature sensor may be communicatively connected to the temperature indicator.This feature provides users with real-time temperature information, enhancing control over beverage temperature.

[0039] Optionally, the vehicle cup holder arrangement also comprises a master control. The master control may be configured to temporarily disable the functionality of the switch and the cooling element upon activation.

[0040] It is thereby possible to disable the cooling functionality in case the driver desires to place a cup of warm beverage such as coffee or tea into the cup holder.

[0041] The present disclosure also provides a vehicle comprising a vehicle cup holder arrangement as described above, for reducing the temperature of liquid in the beverage container inserted into the cup holder.

[0042] Integrating this cup holder into a vehicle enhances the overall driving experience by providing convenient access to cooled beverages during travel, without hazarding vehicle safety.

[0043] Other advantages and additional novel features will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description.

[0044] FIGURES

[0045] Embodiments of the invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 A illustrates a side view of a vehicle with a vehicle cup holder arrangement for beverage cooling, according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 1B depicts a detailed view of a cup holder arrangement in a vehicle cabin of the vehicle, according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 2A shows a sectional view of a cup holder arrangement for cooling a beverage container inserted into a cup holder, according to an embodiment.

[0049] Figure 2B illustrates the cup holder of Figure 2A as regarded from above.

[0050] Figure 3 illustrates a sectional view of the cup holder with internal cooling components, according to an embodiment.Figure 4 depicts another sectional view of the cup holder showing additional cooling elements, according to an embodiment.

[0051] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Embodiments of the invention described herein are defined as a vehicle cup holder arrangement and a vehicle, which may be put into practice in the embodiments described below. These embodiments may, however, be exemplified and realised in many different forms and are not to be limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these illustrative examples of embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete.

[0053] Still other objects and features may become apparent from the following detailed description, considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the herein disclosed embodiments, for which reference is to be made to the appended claims. Further, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and, unless otherwise indicated, they are merely intended to conceptually illustrate the structures and procedures described herein. A feature appearing in one drawing may often with advantage be provided in another embodiment illustrated in another drawing, within the limitations of the appended claims only.

[0054] Figure 1A illustrates a scenario with an external lateral view of a vehicle 100, such as for example a truck, a trailer, and / or a bus. The expression “vehicle” is to be interpreted as a vessel in broad sense in this context. Other examples of vehicles are a car, a bike, a scooter, a train, an aircraft, a watercraft, an underwater vehicle / underwater vessel, a hoover, a spacecraft or other similar manned means of conveyance running on wheels, rails, air, water, space or similar media. Subsequently, the vehicle 100 is described as a truck.

[0055] Figure 1B illustrates an internal view of the vehicle 100 of Figure 1A according to various embodiment.

[0056] The vehicle 100 comprises a vehicle cup holder arrangement 101. The vehicle cup holder arrangement 101 comprises a cup holder 110 configured to reduce the temperature of an inserted beverage container 120. The beverage container 120 may be a can, a bottle, a mug, a glass, etc. The cup holder 110 comprises a cooling functionality, designed to actively cool the contents of the beverage container 120 placed within the cup holder 110. The cooling functionality may be embodied in different manners as will be illustrated in the appendedfigures and discussed in the corresponding sections of the description. The cooling functionality may be realised by a cooling element, which decreases or at least maintain the temperature of the beverage container 120 when inserted in the cup holder 110.

[0057] The cup holder 110 is positioned within the vehicle 100 to provide convenient access for a driver while operating the vehicle 100; and / or a passenger of the vehicle 100. By incorporating the active cooling functionality, the cup holder 110 allows for extended temperature control of beverages during travel, enhancing comfort, convenience and sufficient hydration of the driver.

[0058] The cup holder 110 may be strategically positioned for easy access by the driver / passenger. The cup holder 110 may be integrated into the vehicle's cabin, typically near the steering wheel or centre console area, allowing the driver to conveniently reach the cup holder 110 while operating the vehicle 100.

[0059] The placement and design of the cup holder 110 within the vehicle 100 advantageously takes ergonomics and safety considerations into account. The cup holder 110 may with additional advantage be positioned to minimize driver distraction while still providing easy access to the beverage container 120 during operation of the vehicle 100.

[0060] The cup holder 110 is designed to accommodate the beverage container 120, which may be of a standardised size or slightly different therefrom. The cup holder 110 may be arranged to adapt to beverage containers of at least slightly different sizes.

[0061] A temperature sensor may be arranged to measure the temperature of the beverage container 120 when inserted into the cup holder 110. A corresponding temperature indicator 130 may be connected to the temperature sensor. The temperature indicator 130 may be incorporated into or associated with the cup holder 110. The temperature indicator 130 may be positioned in a visible location, allowing the driver and / or passenger to easily monitor the temperature of the beverage container 120 placed in the cup holder 110.

[0062] The vehicle cup holder arrangement 101 may comprise a master control 140, configured to temporarily disable the functionality of the switch and the cooling element upon activation. The driver is thereby enabled to put a cup of hot beverage such as coffee or tea in the cup holder 110 without decreasing the temperature.The cooling functionality integrated into the cup holder 110 maintains or reduces the temperature of the beverage container 120 and its content, ensuring that the content remain at a chilled temperature throughout the vehicle journey.

[0063] Figure 2A schematically illustrates a vehicle cup holder arrangement 101 and a section view of a cup holder 110 for beverage containers 120 according to various embodiments.

[0064] The cup holder 110 comprises a vertically extending side wall section 210 and a horizontally extending bottom section 220 attached to each other, thereby forming a receptive cavity. The vertically extending side wall section 210 provides support and containment for the beverage container 120. The horizontally extending bottom section 220 forms the base of the cup holder 110, supporting the weight of the beverage container 120.

[0065] A cooling element 230 is integrated in at least one section 210, 220 of the cup holder 110, for example in the horizontally extending bottom section 220, as illustrated in Figure 2. In other embodiments, the cooling element 230 may be integrated in the vertically extending side wall section 210 of the cup holder 110, or in both the side wall section 210 and the bottom section 220. The arrangement of the vertically extending side wall section 210 and the attached horizontally extending bottom section 220 allows for secure containment of the beverage container 120 while facilitating efficient heat transfer through the integrated cooling element 230. Also, the side wall section 210 and / or the bottom section 220 may be heat insulated, for example by double outer walls with an air gap in between; by a Styrofoam insulation, etc.

[0066] The cooling element 230 may comprise a Peltier element in some embodiments.

[0067] The Peltier element, also known as a thermoelectric cooler, is a solid-state device that uses the Peltier effect to transfer heat. The Peltier elements may comprise two ceramic plates with an array of semiconductor materials sandwiched between them. When an electric current passes through the element, it creates a temperature difference between its two sides. One side, directed towards the interior of the cup holder 110 becomes cooler while the other side becomes warmer. This effect is dependent on the direction of the current flow provided by an electricity source 250. The electricity source 250 may provide electricity to the Peltier element when a switch 240 is displaced by the beverage container 120 when inserted in the cup holder 110.The electricity source 250 may be exclusive for the cup holder 110 in some embodiments, comprising a replaceable and / or rechargeable battery. In other embodiments, the electricity source 250 may be a vehicle battery, for example accessible via a plug / socket in the vehicle 100.

[0068] The cup holder 110 comprises a switch 240 positioned along the vertically extending side wall section 210. The switch 240 may be configured to activate the cooling element 230 when the beverage container 120 is inserted into the cup holder 110, thereby setting the switch 140 into an engaged state. Also, correspondingly, the switch 240 may be configured to deactivate the cooling element 230 when the beverage container 120 is removed from the cup holder 110 thereby setting the switch 140 into a disengaged state. This mechanism ensures that the cooling system is activated only when the beverage container 120 is inserted and present in the cup holder 110, promoting energy efficiency.

[0069] However, in some embodiments, the cup holder 110 may comprise an electric circuit 260 connected to the switch 240. The electric circuit 260 may be configured to delay deactivation of the cooling element 230 for a predetermined time period when the beverage container 120 is, temporarily, removed from the cup holder 110. It is thereby avoided that the cooling element 230 is caused to flip between deactivation / activation each time the driver removes the beverage container 120 for an occasional sip and then return it.

[0070] The cup holder 110 may comprise a temperature sensor 135 in some embodiments, which may be arranged to measure the temperature of the beverage container 120 when inserted into the cup holder 110. The temperature sensor 135 may in these embodiments be connected with the temperature indicator 130 configured to indicate temperature of the liquid in the inserted beverage container 120. The temperature sensor 135 may be integrated with the side wall section 210 and / or the bottom section 220 of the cup holder 110, directed to measure the temperature of the surface of the beverage container 120.

[0071] The switch 240 may be a spring-loaded switch 240 in some embodiments, positioned along the vertically extending side wall section 210. The spring-loaded switch 240 may serve as a tensioned holder that triggers when a beverage container 120 is inserted into the cup holder 110.

[0072] The vertically extending side wall section 210 of the cup holder 110 may comprise one or several spring-loaded container stabilizers 270, arranged to exert a lateral force on theinserted beverage container 120 in some embodiments, thereby releasably fixating the inserted beverage container 120 in the cup holder 110.

[0073] The one or several spring-loaded container stabilizers 270, as illustrated in Figure 2B may in some embodiments be configured to operate in conjunction with the switch 240, spring loaded or not.

[0074] Figure 3 illustrates a vehicle cup holder arrangement 101 and a sectional view of a cup holder 110 showing internal components and a cooling circulation system according to various embodiments.

[0075] The cup holder 110 comprises a vertically extending side wall section 210 that form the main container cavity. The vertically extending side wall section 210 may have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, although other cross-sectional shapes are possible, for example elliptical, hexagonal, octagonal, quadratic, etc.

[0076] The vertically extending side wall section 210 comprises an upper vertical end 310. In the illustrated embodiment, a flexible annular sealing 350 may be attached to / arranged at the upper vertical end 310. The flexible annular sealing 350 may be made of for example rubber, silicone, Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE), Polyurethane, Neoprene, etc. The flexible annular sealings 350 may provide a secure fit for various sizes of beverage containers 120 into the cup holder 110 while maintaining thermal efficiency.

[0077] The cooling element 230 may comprise a medium channel 340 connected to an inlet port 320 and an outlet port 330, as schematically illustrated in Figure 3. The switch 240 may be configured to allow refrigerant from a climate control system of the vehicle 100 to enter the inlet port 320 and to allow the refrigerant to return to the climate control system of the vehicle 100 via the outlet port 330, thereby activating the cooling element 230. The switch 240 may for example allow entrance of refrigerant via the inlet port 320 by providing electricity from the electricity source 250 to an electrically controlled valve or similar structural element, for opening the valve, when the switch 240 is set into an engaged state by the beverage container 120 being inserted into the cup holder 110.

[0078] The medium channel 340 enables the circulation of refrigerant through the cooling element 230 and thereby reduces temperature of the liquid comprised in the beverage container 120. Correspondingly the switch 240 may be configured to interrupt electricity from the electricity source 250 from reaching the electrically controlled valve or similar structural element,allowing e.g. a spring or gravity to close the valve, which in turn disallows refrigerant from the climate control system to enter the inlet port 320 and disallows the refrigerant to return to the climate control system via the outlet port 330, thereby deactivating the cooling element 230.

[0079] Figure 4 illustrates a sectional view of yet another embodiment of the vehicle cup holder arrangement 101 comprising the cup holder 110. The illustrated embodiment comprises a compressor (not shown) a condenser 420 and the cooling element 230, connected to each other via a medium channel 340. The medium channel 340 is passing the cooling element 230, which is acting as an evaporator, absorbing heat from the inserted beverage container 120. An expansion valve (not shown) may be included as well as is well-known in the art. The compressor 410 may be configured to circulate refrigerant through the medium channel 340. The cooling element 230, via the refrigerant in the medium channel 340, is configured to absorb heat from inside the cup holder 110, and the condenser 420 may be configured to release heat from the circulated refrigerant, thereby removing heat from the refrigerant after compression, allowing for efficient cooling cycles. The electricity source 250 may also be comprised for providing electricity to the compressor 410 when the switch 240 is activated by the beverage container 120 being inserted into the cup holder 110.

[0080] A detachable inner cup 430 may be releasably insertable into the vehicle cup holder 110 in various embodiments. The detachable inner cup 430 may be made in a heat-conducting material such as aluminium, copper, steel, or other similar metal, or an alloy thereof; or a non-metallic conductor such as carbon fibre, graphene or similar material. Thanks to the detachable inner cup 430, efficient heat transfer from the beverage container 120 to the cooling element 230 is facilitated, yet cleaning of beverage spill is easily made by removing the inner cup 430 for cleaning.

[0081] The detachable inner cup 430 may also easily be replaced and possibly be supported in different thickness to achieve a better fit of the driver's preferred size of the beverage container 120.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the cooling element 230 is positioned both within the vertically extending side wall section 210 and the horizontally extending bottom section 220, allowing for increased surface area contact with the beverage container 120, in comparison with restricting the cooling element 230 to only the bottom section 220, thereby enhancing the cooling efficiency.The switch 240 may be integrated into the structure of the cup holder 110. When a beverage container 120 is inserted, the switch 240 may activate the compressor unit 250 in some embodiments. The compressor unit 250 may then initiate the cooling cycle, circulating the refrigerant through the cooling element 230 via the medium channel 340.

[0083] The refrigerant flows through the cooling element 230, absorbing heat / energy from the beverage container 120. The heated refrigerant then passes through the condenser 420, where the absorbed heat is dissipated. This cooling cycle may continue as long as the beverage container 120 remains in the cup holder 110, maintaining the desired cool temperature of the contained beverage.

[0084] The arrangement of these components within the cup holder 110 allows for a compact and efficient cooling system. The integration of the detachable inner cup 430 maximize the cooling surface area while maintaining ease of use and cleaning. The combination of the compressor, condenser 420, and cooling element 230 creates a closed-loop cooling system that can effectively maintain or reduce the temperature of the beverage container 120 during vehicle operation. Also, the cup holder 110 may be removed from the vehicle 100 for example when the driver is taking a driving break or making a stop for a meal and desire to continue drinking cooled beverage.

[0085] In all the discussed embodiments, the cooling element 230 is activated when the beverage container 120 is occupying the cup holder 110, or only temporarily removed therefrom. This mechanism ensures energy-efficient operation of the cooling system, as it only functions when the beverage container 120 is present in the cup holder 110.

[0086] The cup holder 110 may be designed with various temperature control options to enhance user experience and functionality. In some embodiments, the cup holder 110 may comprise adjustable temperature settings, allowing the driver or passenger to select a desired temperature range for the beverage container 120. This feature may be implemented through a control panel or interface integrated into the vehicle's dashboard or centre console, thereby regulating the activation / deactivation of the cooling element 230.

[0087] The optional temperature indicator 130 may be configured to display the current temperature of the beverage container 120 as measured by the temperature sensor 135, and / or the set temperature of the cooling of the cup holder 110. In some embodiments, the temperature indicator 130 may be a digital display, providing precise temperature readings. Alternatively,the temperature indicator 130 may use colour-coded LED lights to indicate different temperature ranges, offering a quick visual reference for the user.

[0088] Integration with the vehicle's climate control system may be implemented in some embodiments. This integration may allow for more efficient energy usage and improved overall cooling performance. For example, the cup holder 110 may be connected to the vehicle's air conditioning system, utilizing the existing cooling infrastructure to maintain the temperature of the beverage container 120.

[0089] The switch 240 may be spring-loaded in some embodiments, optionally designed with adjustable sensitivity. This feature may allow the cup holder 110 to accommodate beverage containers 120 of different weights and sizes, ensuring proper activation of the cooling system for a wide range of container types.

[0090] In some embodiments, the medium channel 340 may be designed with multiple parallel channels or a serpentine configuration to increase the cooling surface area. This design may enhance the efficiency of heat transfer between the cooling element 230 and the beverage container 120.

[0091] The flexible annular sealing 350 may be interchangeable in some embodiments, allowing users to select different sizes, colours and / or materials to best fit their preferred beverage container 120. This feature may enhance the versatility of the cup holder 110 and improve its thermal efficiency for various container types.

[0092] In some embodiments comprising a compressor, the compressor may be designed with variable speed capabilities. This feature may allow adjustment of the cooling intensity provided by the cooling element 230, based on factors such as ambient temperature, desired beverage temperature, and / or energy efficiency settings.

[0093] The detachable inner cup 430 may be offered in various materials, colours, wall thickness and / or with different surface treatments in some embodiments. For example, a copper-lined inner cup may provide enhanced thermal conductivity, while a ceramic-coated version may offer improved durability and ease of cleaning.

[0094] In some embodiments, the cup holder 110 may comprise a humidity control feature to prevent condensation on the beverage container 120. This may be achieved through the use ofmoisture-absorbing materials or a small dehumidification system integrated into the cup holder 110 design.

[0095] The cup holder 110 may also incorporate a sanitization feature in some embodiments. This may comprise ultraviolet (UV) light, for example UV-C LED lights integrated into the vertically extending side wall section 210 or the horizontally extending bottom section 220, capable of sanitizing the surface of the beverage container 120 when activated. By emitting UV light, viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens that may be placed on the surface of the cup holder 110 and / or the beverage container 120 is pacified and becomes microbiologically inactive.

[0096] In terms of accessibility, the cup holder 110 provides easier access to drinks while driving compared to using a refrigerator or cooling box. The strategic placement of the cup holder 110 within the vehicle cabin, typically near the driver's seat or centre console, allows for convenient reach without significant distraction from the road. This positioning eliminates the need for the driver to turn away from the steering wheel or reach behind the seat, as would be necessary when accessing a refrigerator typically located in the rear of the vehicle cabin.

[0097] The cup holder 110 may be designed with an ergonomically friendly shape and placement that aligns with the natural arm movement of the driver, further enhancing ease of access. In some embodiments, the cup holder 110 may be adjustable or mounted on a swivel base, allowing the driver to customize its position for optimal reach and comfort.

[0098] The terminology used in the description of the embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting of the described vehicle cup holder arrangement 101 and / or vehicle 100. Various changes, substitutions and / or alterations may be made, without departing from invention embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0099] As used herein, the term “and / or” comprises any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items illustrated in different Figures. The term “or” as used herein, is to be interpreted as a mathematical OR, i.e., as an inclusive disjunction; not as a mathematical exclusive OR (XOR), unless expressly stated otherwise. In addition, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are to be interpreted as “at least one”, thus also possibly comprising a plurality of entities of the same kind, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including” and / or “comprising”, specifies the presence of stated features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The mere fact that certainmeasures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS1. A vehicle cup holder arrangement (101 ) for reducing the temperature of a beverage container (120) inserted into a cup holder (110) of the arrangement (101), wherein the cup holder (110) comprisesa vertically extending side wall section (210) and a therewith connected horizontally extending bottom section (220); anda cooling element (230) integrated in at least one section (210, 220) of the cup holder (110); and whereinthe side wall section (210) comprises a switch (240) configured to activate the cooling element (230) when the beverage container (120) is inserted into the cup holder (110).

2. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to claim 1, wherein the cup holder (110) comprises an electricity source (250); and wherein the switch (240) of the cup holder (110) is configured tobe set into an engaged state when the beverage container (120) is inserted into the cup holder (110), thereby providing electricity from the electricity source (250) for activating the cooling element (230); andbe set into a disengaged state when the beverage container (120) is removed from the cup holder (110), thereby preventing electricity from the electricity source (250) from activating the cooling element (230).

3. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the switch (240) of the cup holder (110) comprises a spring mechanism (245), arranged toactivate the cooling element (230) when the beverage container (120) is inserted into the cup holder (110) by allowing displacement of the switch (240) from the disengaged state to the engaged state; anddeactivate the cooling element (230) when the beverage container (120) is removed from the cup holder (110), thereby returning the switch (240) from the engaged state to the disengaged state.

4. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to claim 3, wherein the spring mechanism (245) of the switch (240) is arranged to exert a lateral force on the inserted beverage container (120), thereby releasably fixating the inserted beverage container (120) in the cup holder (110).

5. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vertically extending side wall section (210) of the cup holder (110) comprises one or several spring-loaded container stabilizers (270), arranged to exert a lateral force on the inserted beverage container (120), thereby releasably fixating the inserted beverage container (120) in the cup holder (110).

6. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling element (230) comprises a medium channel (340) connected to an inlet port (320) and an outlet port (330), wherein the switch (240) is configured to allow refrigerant from a climate control system of the vehicle (100) to enter the inlet port (320) and to allow the refrigerant to return to the climate control system of the vehicle (100) via the outlet port (330), thereby activating the cooling element (230); and disallow refrigerant from the climate control system to enter the inlet port (320) and to disallow the refrigerant to return to the climate control system via the outlet port (330), thereby deactivating the cooling element (230).

7. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of claims 2-5, comprising a compressor, a condenser (420) and the cooling element (230), connected to each other via a medium channel (340); and wherein the compressor is configured to circulate refrigerant through the medium channel (340); wherein the cooling element (230) is configured to absorb heat from inside the cup holder (110), and the condenser (420) is configured to release heat from the circulated refrigerant; and wherein the electricity source (250) provides electricity to the compressor when the switch (240) activates the cooling element (230).

8. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of claims 2-5, wherein the cooling element (230) comprises a Peltier element; and wherein the electricity source (250) is arranged to provide electricity to the Peltier element when the switch (240) activates the cooling element (230).

9. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a flexible annular sealing (350), attached to an upper vertical end (310) of the side wall section (210).

10. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an electric circuit (260) connected to the switch (240), wherein the electric circuit (260) is configured to delay deactivation of the cooling element (230) for apredetermined time period when the beverage container (120) is, at least temporarily, removed from the cup holder (110).

11. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a heat-conducting, detachable inner cup (430), which is releasably insertable into the cup holder (110).

12. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims 7-11, wherein the cup holder (110) is releasably arranged in the vehicle (100).

13. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling element (230) is comprised in the horizontally extending bottom section (220) of the cup holder (110).

14. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling element (230) is comprised in the vertically extending side wall section (210) of the cup holder (110).

15. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cup holder (110) comprises a temperature sensor (135) configured to measure temperature of the beverage container (120) when inserted into the cup holder (110), and a temperature indicator (130), configured to output an indicated temperature of the liquid in the inserted beverage container (120).

16. The vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a master control (140), configured to temporarily disable the functionality of the switch (240) and the cooling element (230) upon activation.

17. A vehicle (100) comprising a vehicle cup holder arrangement (101) according to any one of the claims 1-16, for reducing the temperature of liquid in a beverage container (120) inserted into a cup holder (110).

Images