U.S. patent application number 12/619929 was filed with the patent office on 2010-05-20 for adjustable stowage compartment.
This patent application is currently assigned to FAURECIA INTERIOR SYSTEMS U.S.A., INC.. Invention is credited to Robert C. Fitzpatrick.
Application Number | 20100123327 12/619929 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42171408 |
Filed Date | 2010-05-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100123327 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fitzpatrick; Robert C. |
May 20, 2010 |
Adjustable Stowage Compartment
Abstract
An adjustable stowage compartment that can be maneuvered from a
closed to various open positions, for use in a vehicle that
provides a temporary easily accessible stowage compartment that
functions to provide stowage space, secure and reduce the jostling
or shifting of personal items, food and liquids, by a person or the
motions of a moving vehicle.
Inventors: |
Fitzpatrick; Robert C.;
(Holland, MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GIBSON & DERNIER LLP
900 ROUTE 9 NORTH, SUITE 504
WOODBRIDGE
NJ
07095
US
|
Assignee: |
FAURECIA INTERIOR SYSTEMS U.S.A.,
INC.
Auburn Hills
MI
|
Family ID: |
42171408 |
Appl. No.: |
12/619929 |
Filed: |
November 17, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61115315 |
Nov 17, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
296/37.8 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 7/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
296/37.8 |
International
Class: |
B60R 7/00 20060101
B60R007/00 |
Claims
1. An adjustable stowage compartment, comprising: a stationary
panel; an anchoring apparatus that couples the stationary panel to
an object; a moveable panel in an opposing, spaced apart, and
substantially parallel relationship with respect to the stationary
panel; and a coupling mechanism operating to move the moveable
panel between: (i) a closed position at which a distance between
the stationary panel and the moveable panel is at a substantial
minimum, and (ii) one or more open positions at which the distance
between the stationary panel and the moveable panel increases to
form a compartment for storing items.
2. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 1, wherein the
coupling mechanism includes: one or more bracket arms, each being
coupled to, and pivoting, at one end to the stationary panel and at
an opposite end to the moveable panel, wherein the bracket arms
maintain the substantially parallel orientation of the stationary
panel and the moveable panel through the closed and open
positions.
3. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 2, wherein: the
bracket arms pivot to a substantially parallel orientation with
respect to the stationary panel and the moveable panel at the
closed position; and the bracket arms pivot to a transverse
orientation with respect to the stationary panel and the moveable
panel at the one or more open positions.
4. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 2, wherein the
coupling mechanism includes at least one of: a respective hinge
mechanism for coupling each end of the respective bracket arms to
the stationary panel; and a respective hinge mechanism for coupling
each end of the respective bracket arms to the moveable panel.
5. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 4, wherein at least
one of the hinge mechanisms include: a ledge member extending
transversely from one of the stationary panel and the moveable
panel; and a pivot shaft extending from one of the ledge member and
the respective bracket arm, and rotationally engaging an aperture
located in the other of the ledge member and the respective bracket
arm.
6. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 5, wherein the ledge
member extends from a lower edge of the one of the stationary panel
and the moveable panel.
7. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 2, further
comprising a movement retarding mechanism that operates to resist
movement of the moveable panel from the closed position and the one
or more open positions.
8. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 7, wherein the
movement retarding mechanism includes at least one detent apparatus
located at one or more of the ends of the bracket arms.
9. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 8, wherein the
detent apparatus is selected from the group consisting of a
spring-loaded detent and a snap closure detent.
10. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 9, wherein the
movement retarding mechanism includes at least one ratchet
apparatus located at one or more of the ends of the bracket
arms.
11. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 1, further
comprising at least one of: a peripheral panel coupled along an
edge thereof to an edge of the stationary panel, and coupled along
an opposite edge thereof to an edge of the moveable panel; and a
lower panel coupled along an edge thereof to an edge of the
stationary panel, and coupled along an opposite edge thereof to an
edge of the moveable panel.
12. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 11, wherein at
least one of the peripheral panel and the lower panel pivot at the
respective edges thereof as the moveable panel moves between the
closed and open positions.
13. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 11, further
comprising a flexible cover overlying at least portions of one or
more of the stationary panel, the moveable panel, the peripheral
panel, and the lower panel.
14. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 13, wherein
respective portions of the flexible cover itself form at least one
of the peripheral panel and the lower panel.
15. The adjustable stowage compartment of claim 1, wherein the
anchoring apparatus operates to removably couple the stationary
panel to the object.
16. The adjustable stowage compartment according to claim 1,
wherein the object is a center console of a vehicle.
17. An adjustable stowage compartment, comprising: a stationary
panel; an anchoring apparatus that couples the stationary panel to
an object; a moveable panel in an opposing, spaced apart, and
substantially parallel relationship with respect to the stationary
panel; and a coupling mechanism operating to move the moveable
panel between: (i) a closed position at which a distance between
the stationary panel and the moveable panel is at a substantial
minimum, and (ii) one or more open positions at which the distance
between the stationary panel and the moveable panel increases to
form a compartment for storing items.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/115,315, filed Nov. 17, 2008, the
entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The instant invention is related to an adjustable stowage
compartment that functions to provide a stowage area, for example
in the cockpit area of an automotive vehicle, that can be adjusted
from a closed position to various open positions dependent upon the
size of the stowage area desired by a user.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Vehicle cockpits employ a number of stowage compartments,
most typically at least a glove box, a center console
armrest/stowage box, and one or more cubby holes. In upscale
vehicles, the cockpit may also employ additional stowage
compartments built into the instrument panel and/or center console.
To keep the cost of manufacture low for lower scale and/or
entry-level vehicles, automakers typically provide cockpits that
are sparse and lack many of the typical stowage compartments. Thus,
a user of the lower scale and/or entry-level vehicle typically must
endure a spartan console that lacks desirable amenities.
[0004] Additionally, users usually differ on the amount of stowage
space they desire. For example, users that do not normally have
many items to stow may prefer a more spacious passenger cabin such
as additional leg room. However, these same users may at some point
desire additional temporary stowage space on those occasions when
they have more than their typical amount of items to be stored.
Alternatively, users may find that they always prefer additional
stowage compartments over leg room and would prefer a cockpit with
more stowage space.
[0005] Furthermore, providing sufficient easily accessible stowage
compartments are important for effective and comfortable user
interaction within the vehicle. Awkward and uncomfortable movements
of the user required to reach or grab items that are loose in the
vehicle can result in inefficient operation, and can place a driver
and passengers into distracting, unsafe situations, which can
result in accidents, injury, or the like.
[0006] Normally, a driver places his or her personal items such as
a purse or business bag on the empty passenger seat or on the floor
of the passenger side foot well. This is usually done because it is
convenient and the driver can gain quick access to an item in the
purse or business bag. Often the purse or business bag will have
shifted out of the driver's reach during travel and may result in
the driver having to bend and stretch in an unsafe manner (during
operation of the vehicle) in order to retrieve the purse or
business bag.
[0007] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a console that is
cost-effective for the manufacturer and provides adaptable
ergonomic characteristics and preferences to a user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Generally described, a user of embodiments of the instant
invention is provided with an adjustable stowage compartment that
is easily accessible and allows the user to adapt the stowage space
according to the user's needs. Additionally, the embodiments of the
instant invention are cost effective because they may be formed
from soft flexible materials that are lighter in weight than
typical manufactured molded hard plastic or metal forms thus
reducing the overall weight of the vehicle.
[0009] One or more embodiments of the present invention employs an
adjustable stowage compartment that provides a compartment that may
open and unfold to form a stowage area that can store an item
between the adjustable stowage compartment and the vehicle
architecture. The compartment may be situated in a location, such
as the passenger side foot well, that provides for safe stowage
that does not obstruct the driver, but at the same time, is easily
accessed with little or no unsafe movement required by the driver.
When the user desires to remove the item from the collapsible
compartment, it can be folded back to lay flush with the center
console to allow for passenger leg room.
[0010] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
invention, an adjustable stowage compartment includes a compartment
that may be attached to an object, such as a portion of a vehicle
cockpit, by an anchoring apparatus. The adjustable stowage
compartment may include a plurality of surfaces including a
stationary surface, an opposing moveable surface, a peripheral
surface and a lower surface. The surfaces may be in such
orientation to one another that they form a stowage area. The
stowage compartment may be maneuvered through a series of positions
including a closed position and one or more open positions, each
open position set to a particular stowage area size. It is
contemplated that a user may position the compartment to the
stowage area size that is desired.
[0011] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
invention the surfaces of the compartment may include a frame
optionally enclosed by a cover. It is contemplated that the cover
may either be a soft flexible covering or a semi-rigid or rigid
molded covering.
[0012] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
invention, the frame may include a stationary panel, an outer
panel, and at least one lower pivoting bracket arms. It is
contemplated that the panels are connected by the pivoting brackets
through a plurality of joints having a hinge mechanism. The joints
may connect the ends of the brackets to a stationary ledge member
extending transversely from the stationary panel and an outer ledge
member extending transversely from the outer panel. It is
contemplated that the frame is operative to move from the closed
position to one or more open positions by rotating about a pivot
shaft of the hinge mechanism.
[0013] Additionally, the frame may also include a peripheral panel
that corresponds to the peripheral surface. It is contemplated that
when the frame is used in combination with the flexible cover the
peripheral surface may be soft and flexible (e.g., without a frame)
or rigid (e.g., with a frame) to provide strength and shape to the
collapsible compartment.
[0014] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
invention, the joints may include a variety of movement retarding
mechanisms that operate to lock and hold the compartment in the
closed and various open positions. A small to medium amount of
force would be needed to maneuver the compartment through the
different positions. Such movement retarding mechanisms may
include, but are not limited to, a detent apparatus or a ratchet
apparatus.
[0015] It is contemplated that the various panels of the frame are
rigid such that it maintains its shape, and is resistant to
breaking or snapping. The panels may include cut-outs of various
shapes and sizes that are dispersed amongst structural supports and
function to maintain rigidity while reducing the overall weight of
the panels. In another example, the panels may be solid throughout
and serve as the walls of the collapsible compartment.
[0016] It is contemplated that a portion of one or more of the
panels and brackets of the frame, and optionally a section of the
vehicle cockpit may be covered with the flexible cover that
operates to provide a soft and secure stowage area and provide an
aesthetically pleasing cockpit. It is contemplated that the
flexible cover may be adhered or attached to the panels at specific
connection points that function to allow the flexible cover to fold
and separate from the frame panels when opening or closing the
collapsible compartment. As the compartment is maneuvered from the
closed to open positions, it is contemplated that the flexible
cover may fold and unfold along foldable crease lines that operate
to fold the flexible cover in a flat and flush orientation. It is
contemplated that the flexible cover may be removable and thus
provides the user with the option to use the adjustable stowage
compartment without the flexible cover.
[0017] It is also contemplated that one or more of the panels and
brackets may be covered with a semi-rigid or rigid covering. Each
panel having the rigid covering may be connected to another panel
through various mechanisms including but not limited to a joint
apparatus or a hinged mechanism as is known to the skilled
artisan.
[0018] It is also contemplated that a combination of flexible
covers and semi-rigid or rigid coverings may be used for a
collapsible compartment. For example, a rigid covering may be used
to cover the lower pivoting brackets while a flexible cover may be
used to cover the outer panel and peripheral panel.
[0019] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
invention, the anchoring apparatus for coupling the compartment to
the vehicle may include at least one fastening mechanism disposed
on the stationary panel. The fastening mechanism may securely
attach to corresponding apertures on the stationary panel and
vehicle. For example, it is contemplated that a shaft, such as a
screw or bolt may be inserted through apertures disposed on the
stationary surface and corresponding apertures on the center
console of a vehicle interior.
[0020] In another embodiment, the fastening mechanism may permit
permanent or removable connection of the compartment to the
vehicle. The ability to remove the adjustable stowage compartment
allows the user to reduce any bulk that the adjustable stowage
compartment may create, and allows the user the option to position
the adjustable stowage compartment at a plurality of positions in
the vehicle cockpit capable of attaching the adjustable stowage
compartment. For example, the fastening mechanism may be in the
form of a push-nut assembly and operates by fastening the
stationary surface and the vehicle together by a shaft, the shaft
having a first deformable stop member and a second stop member.
When the compartment is placed on the vehicle, the shaft and first
deformable stop member may be forced through an aperture on the
vehicle such that the stationary panel may be held snugly in place
by the first deformable stop member and the second stop member.
When the user desires to detach the compartment the user may do so
by pulling loose the compartment by providing sufficient force to
pull the shaft and the first deformable stop member back through
the aperture.
[0021] In another embodiment, the adjustable stowage compartment
may include one or more of a power connection, a signal connection
and a docking station for electronic devices. Through the use of
conductors and terminals, the power and/or signal connection may be
located in the compartment or on the console portion directly in
contact with the adjustable stowage compartment. For example, a
portable music device may be connected to a vehicle sound system
and charged via a docking station (having both a power and signal
connection) within the compartment. Other electronic devices that
may be connected in this manner include, but are not limited to,
cellular telephones, GPS navigation devices, notebook computers,
portable data storage devices, electronic books and digital
cameras.
[0022] Other aspects, features, advantages, etc. will become
apparent to one skilled in the art when the description of the
invention herein is taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] For the purposes of illustration, there are forms shown in
the drawings that are presently preferred, it being understood,
however, that the invention is not limited to the precise
arrangements and instrumentalities shown.
[0024] FIG. 1 is a side view of an adjustable stowage compartment
in an open position attached to a vehicle console in accordance
with at least one aspect of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a side view of the adjustable stowage compartment
of FIG. 1 in a closed position;
[0026] FIG. 3 is a top view of the adjustable stowage compartment
of FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a frame, shown in an
open position, that is suitable for use with one or more
embodiments herein in accordance with at least one aspect of the
present invention;
[0028] FIG. 5 is a side view of the frame of FIG. 4 in a closed
position;
[0029] FIG. 6 is a side view of a frame having an alternative
configuration in accordance with at least one further aspect of the
present invention;
[0030] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a frame having a further
alternative configuration in accordance with at least one further
aspect of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 8A is a partial front view of the frame of FIG. 7 in
the open position;
[0032] FIG. 8B top view of a stationary ledge of the frame of FIG.
8A, where the frame includes a detent apparatus in accordance with
at least one aspect of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an adjustable stowage
compartment having a soft covering in closed and open positions in
accordance with at least one aspect of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an adjustable stowage
compartment having a semi-rigid or rigid molded cover in closed and
open positions in accordance with at least one aspect of the
present invention; and
[0035] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an adjustable stowage
compartment having a soft covering in a closed position and
integrated with a vehicle console in accordance with at least one
aspect of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0036] In this document, for the purposes of explanation, specific
numbers, materials and configurations are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of the invention. It will be
apparent, however, to one having ordinary skill in the art, that
the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In
some instances, well known features may be omitted or simplified so
as not to obscure the present invention. Furthermore, reference in
the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that
a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in
connection with the embodiment is included in at least one
embodiment of the invention. The appearance of the phrase "in an
embodiment" in various places in the specification are not
necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
[0037] For the purposes of describing various aspects of the
present invention, reference may be made to using an adjustable
stowage compartment in a center console of a vehicle. It will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the various
embodiments of the adjustable stowage compartment described and
claimed herein may have application to many other areas, including
the center section of the rear passenger seats, various consoles
located in other vehicles including trucks, vans, semi-truck,
buses, boats, motor vehicle, or the like.
[0038] In particular, the adjustable stowage compartment of the
present invention is directed to providing a user with additional
temporary stowage space on the vehicle console according to his or
her preference.
[0039] In one embodiment, the compartment is situated in a location
that provides for safe stowage that does not obstruct the driver,
but at the same time, is easily accessed with little or no physical
movement required by the driver. FIGS. 1-3 are interior views of an
automotive vehicle showing a center console of the instrument
panel/cockpit employing an adjustable stowage compartment 20. For
example, the adjustable stowage compartment 20 may be positioned
and attached to a portion of the center console 10 adjacent to the
passenger side foot well.
[0040] As depicted in FIGS. 1-3 the adjustable stowage compartment
20 includes a stationary surface 210, an opposing moveable surface
220, and an anchoring apparatus 300. As shown, the stationary
surface 210 may be spaced apart and substantially parallel to the
opposing moveable surface 220, the stationary surface 210 and the
opposing moveable surface 220 are connected by a coupling mechanism
having one or more pivoting bracket arms 640A and 640B and one or
more hinge mechanisms at joints 650A, 650B, 650C and 650D. The
adjustable stowage compartment 20 may further include a peripheral
surface 230 extending between and in communication with the
stationary surface 210 and opposing moveable surface 220, and a
lower surface 240.
[0041] The adjustable stowage compartment 20 may be positioned in
various open and closed positions. For example, when the adjustable
stowage compartment 20 is in a closed position (e.g., little or no
stowage capability), the opposing moveable surface 220 lays in a
substantially flat and flush parallel orientation to the stationary
surface 210 (FIG. 2). In one embodiment when closed, the lower
surface 240 may be folded and also lay in a substantially flat and
flush orientation disposed between the stationary surface 210, the
opposing moveable surface 220 and the peripheral surface 230. When
a user desires to stow an item in the adjustable stowage
compartment 20, the adjustable stowage compartment 20 may be
positioned in a number of open positions. In an open position,
various sized stowage areas 40 may be created by moving the
opposing moveable surface 220 in a direction away from the
stationary surface 210 to a spaced apart position while still
maintaining a parallel orientation (FIG. 3). As the distance
increases between the stationary surface 210 and opposing moveable
surface 220, the peripheral surface 230 and lower surface 240
become transversely oriented to the stationary surface 210 and
opposing moveable surface 220, thereby forming the stowage area 40.
When the stowage area 40 is no longer desired, the opposing
moveable surface 220 may be moved back towards the stationary
surface 210 to a flat and flush parallel orientation.
[0042] As depicted in FIGS. 4-6, the adjustable stowage compartment
20 may include a frame 600. The illustrations of the device 20
shown in FIGS. 1-3 do not show the frame 600 because, if employed,
the frame 600 is hidden by at least of the stationary surface 210,
opposing moveable surface 220, peripheral surface 230 and lower
surface 240. For example, in FIGS. 1-3, the frame 600 may be
enclosed by a cover. If such cover is employed, it may be a soft
flexible covering or a semi-rigid or rigid molded covering as will
be discussed later in this description. As shown in FIGS. 4-6,
however, the frame 600 is not covered. The frame 600 may include a
stationary panel 610 and a moveable panel 620. The stationary panel
610 and moveable panel 620 may be parallel to one another and
connected by one or more pivoting brackets 640A, 640B, each having
first and second terminal ends, 642 and 644, respectively. The
stationary panel 610 may include a transversely extending
stationary ledge member 612. The moveable panel 620 may include a
transversely extending outer ledge member 622. In one embodiment,
the stationary ledge 612 and the outer ledge 622 may be disposed
along an entire length of, or a portion of, a corresponding bottom
edge 614 and 624 of the respective stationary panel 610 and
moveable panel 620. It is contemplated that the stationary panel
610 and the moveable panel 620 are oriented with respect to one
another such that the stationary ledge 612 and outer ledge 622 are
directed towards each other.
[0043] As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 7, communication between the
lower pivoting brackets 640A and 640B and the stationary panel 610
or moveable panel 620 may be made at one of a plurality of joints
650A, 650B, 650C and 650D, each joint having a hinge mechanism.
Preferably, the joints 650 may be established via connection of the
first and second terminal ends 642 and 644 of the brackets 640A and
640B to pre-determined positions on the stationary ledge 612 and
the outer ledge 622, respectively. As the frame 600 is maneuvered
between the closed and various open positions, the brackets 640A
and 640B and outer ledge 622 rotate about the joints 650 and the
stationary ledge 612. The length of the outer ledge 622 and
stationary ledge 612 extending from their respective panels may be
sized and shaped such that the brackets 640 are sandwiched in a
substantially flush orientation with the panels 610 and 620 when
the frame 600 is in the closed position. The terminal ends 642 and
644 of the brackets 640 are sized and shaped such that the brackets
640 can freely rotate about the joints 650 from the closed to the
various open positions. For example, the terminal ends 642 and 644
may be angled or curved to provide sufficient clearance between the
brackets 640 and the stationary panel 610 and moveable panel
620.
[0044] It is contemplated that the various panels of the frame 600
are rigid and may be formed of metal, plastic, wood or any suitable
material that maintains its shape, and is resistant to breaking or
snapping. The panels 610, 620 may be formed in sheets, mesh, or
other suitable configurations, as will be apparent to a skilled
artisan. In one example, the panel 620 may include cut-outs 602A,
602B and 602C of various shapes and sizes that function to maintain
rigidity while reducing the overall weight of the panel.
[0045] In another embodiment as depicted in FIG. 6, the frame 600
may include a peripheral panel 630. The stationary panel 610 and
moveable panel 620 may be connected by the peripheral panel 630
such that in the closed position the peripheral panel 630 is in a
flush and flat orientation with the stationary panel 610 and
moveable panel 620. In the open position, the peripheral panel 630
is transverse to the stationary panel 610 and moveable panel 620
(in a similar orientation as surface 230 in FIG. 3). It is
contemplated that the stationary panel 610 and/or the moveable
panel 620 may be connected to the peripheral panel 630 by fasteners
632 such as but not limited to a hinge mechanism, or any other
mechanism that is well known to a skilled artisan. Such fasteners
may be formed of metal, plastic, flexible material or any suitable
material that maintains its shape and is resistant to tearing,
ripping, breaking or snapping.
[0046] FIGS. 7 and 8A illustrate a frame 600A having an alternative
configuration. FIG. 7 illustrates the frame 600A in an exploded
view, while FIG. 8A shows a partial front view thereof. The joints
650 may include an aperture sized and shaped to receive a pivot
shaft that may be held in place by a nut or the like, about which
the moveable panel 620 and lower pivoting brackets 640 may rotate
relative to the stationary panel 610. The adjustable stowage
compartment 20 may further include a movement retarding mechanism
660 adjacent to the joints 650, which are operative to hold the
panels 610 and 620 and the lower pivoting brackets 640 in the
closed or various pre-determined open positions. As shown, the
pivoting brackets 640 are bent in such a way as to allow the
pivoting brackets 640 to be oriented in a flush configuration when
in the closed position.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 7, the movement retarding mechanism 660 may
be a snap over detent apparatus. The snap over detent apparatus may
include mechanisms and techniques known to one skilled in the art.
The snap over detent may be positioned adjacent to one or more
joints 650. In this example, the snap over detent may lock and hold
the frame 600A in the closed position such that when the snap over
detent is released, the frame 600 may freely open to any open
position.
[0048] Now referring to FIGS. 8A-8B the movement retarding
mechanism 660 may be a spring-loaded detent apparatus. The detent
apparatus may include mechanisms and techniques known to one
skilled in the art. In one example, the detent apparatus may
include a plurality of spaced apart receptacles 672 disposed on one
or more of the stationary ledge 612 and/or outer ledge 622, that
are sized and shaped to receive a protrusion 673. As is known in
the art, the protrusion 673 may be spring loaded such that it is
biased toward and, engages the receptacle 672 to create a locked
holding orientation. A plurality of locked holding orientations are
preferably provided when the adjustable stowage compartment 20 is
in the closed position and one of a plurality of the pre-determined
open positions. Thus, the receptacles 672 are preferably disposed
along respective paths over which the protrusions 673 travel as the
brackets 640A, 640B pivot. Maneuvering the adjustable stowage
compartment 20 to different positions requires applying sufficient
force to disengage the protrusions 673 from given receptacles 672,
pivoting the brackets 640A, 640B to a new position such that the
protrusions 673 engage different receptacles 672 and snap into a
new locked holding orientation.
[0049] To use the adjustable stowage compartment 20 a user
maneuvers the frame 600 or 600A from the closed to an open
position, or vice versa, by applying sufficient force to release
the detent apparatus movement retarding mechanism 660 from the
locked holding orientation such that the outer panel 620,
peripheral panel 630 and pivoting brackets 640 rotate about the
joints 650 relative to the stationary panel 610. During
maneuvering, the spring-loaded detent apparatus urges the
protrusion 673 to engage one of the receptacles 672. Once in the
locked holding position, the detent apparatus functions to hold the
frame 600 or 600A in the held position until the user desires to
change such position. The stowage area 40 is thus created so the
user may insert any item the user wishes to safely stow and have
easy access to.
[0050] It is also contemplated that the movement retarding
mechanism 660 as depicted in FIG. 7 may include a ratchet apparatus
having a first and second opposing set of teeth that operates to
maneuver the frame 600A through a closed position to a series of
open positions corresponding to the sized teeth of the ratchet
apparatus. For example, the first set of teeth may be disposed on
the stationary ledge 612 around the joint 650 and the opposing
second set of teeth disposed on the pivoting bracket 640 around the
joint 650. The first and second opposing set of teeth engage each
other when the pivoting bracket 640 is connected to the stationary
ledge 612 at the joint 650. The movement retarding mechanism 660
further includes a ratchet release mechanism that operates to
disengage the teeth and allow the ratchet to reset the frame 600A
to the open or closed position.
[0051] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the apparatus may include
a soft flexible cover 400 that encloses one or more of the panels
and brackets of the frame 600. For example, the flexible cover 400
may enclose the moveable panel 620 and the peripheral panel 630.
Alternatively, when the adjustable stowage compartment 20 does not
include the peripheral panel 630, the flexible cover 400 may be
employed to provide the peripheral surface 230. The flexible cover
400 may be sized and shaped to slip over the panels and brackets to
a snug orientation. It is also contemplated that the flexible cover
400 may be attached to the various panels by cover connectors (not
shown) that operate to hold the flexible cover 400 in place during
movement of the moveable panel 620, the brackets 640, and in some
instances the peripheral panel 630, in order to allow the necessary
movement of the parts to result in the desired folding pattern. The
flexible cover 400 may further include foldable creases 420 that
may be positioned along the flexible cover 400, for example, at
locations corresponding to where the various panels and brackets
meet and move relative to one another. For example, as the frame
600 is maneuvered between the closed and various open positions,
the flexible cover 400 is guided by the moving frame 600 and the
foldable creases 420 and further separates from the frame 600 to
fold or bend in the desired folding pattern such that the flexible
cover 400 lays flat. The specific folding pattern of the flexible
cover 400 results in a flat orientation that does not obstruct the
passenger leg room. When the frame 600 is maneuvered to the open
position, the flexible cover 400 is guided by the moving frame 600
and the foldable creases 420 and unfolds into the open
orientation.
[0052] The pre-positioned cover connectors may take various forms.
For example, the cover connectors may be an adhesive holding one of
the panels and flexible cover 400 together. In another example, the
cover connectors may include any fastener known to a skilled
artisan such as hook and loop fasteners, stitching, buttons, clips,
pins or the like.
[0053] The flexible cover 400 may be formed from a flexible
material, such as fabric of vinyl, cotton canvas, laminated cotton,
leather, carbon fiber, nylon, or other synthetic fiber, all of
which may be coated, waterproofed, impregnated with fire-retardant
material or the like.
[0054] In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 10, the cover may be
a rigid molded surface covering 500 disposed around one or a
combination of the stationary panel 610, moveable panel 620,
peripheral panel 630 and pivoting brackets 640. It is contemplated
that the molded surface covering 500 may be attached to the frame
600 by a plurality of the cover connectors (not shown). The molded
surface 500 may be formed of rigid structured material, such as
metal, plastic, wood or any material that maintains its shape, and
is resistant to breaking or snapping. The suitable material is
formed in sheets, mesh, or other suitable configuration, as will be
apparent to a skilled artisan.
[0055] In another embodiment, the frame 600 may include a
combination of the flexible cover 400 and the rigid molded surface
covering 500. For example, the lower pivoting brackets 640,
moveable panel 620 and peripheral panel 630 may be enclosed by the
flexible cover 400, and the stationary panel 610 may be enclosed by
the rigid molded surface 500. A variety of combinations are
available to suit a particular application.
[0056] Now referring back to FIGS. 7 and 8A the anchoring apparatus
300 includes one or more fastening devices that operate to securely
and snugly attach one or more panels of the frame 600A to an
object, for example, a portion of the center console 10. For
example, the fastening device may include a shaft, such as a screw,
that is sized and shaped to engage corresponding apertures on the
frame 600A and center console 10. The anchoring apparatus 300 may
be disposed on the stationary panel 610 which then may be attached
to the center console 10 such that the fastening device creates a
flush and secure connection. As depicted in FIG. 7, the stationary
panel 610 includes at least two fastening devices.
[0057] The adjustable stowage compartment 20 may be attached to the
center console 10 at various locations. For example, the adjustable
stowage compartment 20 may be attached to the center console 10
near the passenger leg well such that it opens into the passenger
leg well. When in the open position, the adjustable stowage
compartment 20 may be in communication, and flush, with the floor
of the passenger leg well so that as items are placed in the
stowage area 40, the frame 600A is supported by passenger leg well
floor. In another example, it is contemplated that the adjustable
stowage compartment 20 may be in a position away from the passenger
cabin floor such that items in the stowage area 40 may be more
easily accessible.
[0058] In another embodiment, it is contemplated that a portion of
the center console 10 operates as a stationary panel to which the
outer panel 620, pivoting brackets 640 and peripheral panel 630 are
mounted, and about which such elements are rotated. In such
embodiment, the center console 10 would also include an edge on
which joints are disposed that function to connect to the brackets
640.
[0059] In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the fastening
device may be removable such that the adjustable stowage
compartment 20 may be removed from the cockpit when desired. It is
also contemplated that the center console 10 may be modified to
include a plurality of locations where the frame 600 may be
attached.
[0060] Now referring to FIG. 8A, the removable fastening device may
include one or more of: a push-nut assembly, a screw assembly such
as a quarter turn screw, a snap closure assembly, a buckle
assembly, or other suitable assembly known to a skilled artisan.
For example, the push-nut assembly as depicted in FIG. 8A includes
a shaft 310 which further includes a flexible first stop member 312
and a second stop member 314. The stationary panel 610 includes a
fastening aperture 320 sized and shaped to receive the push-nut
assembly shaft 310 such that the second stop member 314 cannot
travel through the fastening aperture 320. The apertures 330 of the
center console 10 are sized and shaped to snugly engage the
push-nut assembly shaft 310. The push-nut assembly shaft 310 and
the flexible first stop member 312 are sized to fit through the
fastening apertures 320 and 330, while the second stop member 314
cannot. The flexible first stop member 312 fits through the
apertures 320 and 330 by way of being temporarily deformed. A
moderate pushing force is applied to temporarily deform the
flexible first stop member 312. The second stop member 314 and
flexible first stop member 312 are situated on the push-nut
assembly shaft 310 such that, as the flexible first stop member 312
is forced through the fastening apertures 320 and 330, the second
stop member 314 prevents the push-nut assembly shaft 310 from
traveling completely through. The distance between the flexible
first stop member 312 and the second stop member 314 along the
push-nut assembly shaft 310 is adjusted so that a tight and snug
fit between the stationary panel 610 and the center console 10 is
maintained.
[0061] In another embodiment, the adjustable stowage compartment 20
may further include fasteners (not shown) that may attach a portion
of the adjustable stowage compartment 20 to the center console 10
when in the open position operative to enhance the rigidity of the
open position. Alternatively, the fasteners may be attached when in
the closed position operative to reinforce the closed position and
prevent inadvertent opening of the adjustable stowage compartment
20. Based on the disclosure herein, a skilled artisan would
understand how to implement an attachment/anchoring system design
suitable to achieve the desired added strength to the adjustable
stowage compartment 20. For example, any one of the fasteners may
be applied in a similar fashion.
[0062] In another embodiment, the adjustable stowage compartment 20
may include an electrical connection, a signal connection and a
docking station for electronic devices. It is contemplated that
adjustable stowage compartment 20 may include plug receptacles that
are connected to various electronic systems of the vehicle. For
example, a portable music device may be connected to a vehicle
sound system and charged by docking the portable music device in
the adjustable stowage compartment 20 docking station having both a
power and signal connection. Other electronic devices that may be
connected in this manner include, but are not limited to cellular
telephones, GPS navigation devices, notebook computers, portable
data storage devices, electronic books and digital cameras.
[0063] Now referring to FIG. 11, the flexible cover 400 may extend
beyond the adjustable stowage compartment 20 as a cover extension
430 and attach to and/or integrate with a portion of the center
console 10. As shown, the flexible cover 400 extends from the
peripheral surface 230 and extends rearward along the length of the
center console 10. Additionally, the flexible cover 400 may be in
parts such that one part of the flexible cover 400 operates to
cover the stationary panel 610 while another part of the flexible
cover 400 operates to cover the moveable panel 620 and the
peripheral panel 630 (and optionally, the pivoting brackets
640).
[0064] Although the invention herein has been described with
reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and
applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be
understood that numerous modifications may be made to the
illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *