DE102017211566A1 - Surface arrangement with a plurality of surface elements for forming an area in a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A surface assembly (1) for a vehicle forming a surface (T) and adjustably disposed on a vehicle assembly (2) has a plurality of surface elements (10) aligned with each other to support the surface (T) are, wherein the surface elements (10) for adjusting the surface (T) are adjustable and at least one of the surface elements (10) comprises a cushion member (16). In this way, a surface arrangement is provided which can be used to provide (optionally flexibly adjustable) surfaces in a vehicle.

Description

The invention relates to a surface arrangement for a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such a surface arrangement forms an area and is adjustably arranged on a vehicle assembly.

In a forming a surface arrangement tray table, as he, for example, from DE 10 2011 056 355 A1 is known, surface elements are lined up in the form of slats together and can be extended to provide a table along a guideway of guide rails.

The object of the present invention is to provide a surface arrangement which, beyond a delivery table, can be used to provide (optionally flexibly adjustable) surfaces in a vehicle.

This object is achieved by an article having the features of claim 1.

Accordingly, the surface arrangement has a plurality of surface elements, which are lined up to one another for forming the surface and supported against each other, wherein the surface elements are adjustable for adjusting the surface and at least one of the surface elements comprises a cushion member.

By virtue of the fact that one surface element or several surface elements have one or more cushion elements, it becomes possible to provide, by the surface arrangement, a padded surface for providing, for example, a seating surface or support means such as an armrest or the like, by adjusting the surface elements relative to each other Adapted shape and possibly also in a vehicle structure, for example in a vehicle floor or a housing of a console or the like, can be sunk.

The upholstery element can be arranged, for example, as a cushion or upholstery on the surface element, for example glued to the surface element. The cushioning member provides a soft padded portion on the sheet member.

The surface elements may be formed, for example, by elongate lamella elements. Such lamellar elements may extend along a longitudinal direction and be lined up along a direction of movement transverse to the longitudinal direction. However, the surface elements can also have a different, rectangular or even square shape.

In one embodiment, the surface elements are received in a retracted position in or on the vehicle assembly, wherein the surface elements are movable along a direction of movement to the vehicle assembly to transfer the surface elements from the retracted position to an extended position. In the extended position, the surface elements are supported against each other in such a way that the surface elements form a loadable surface.

The surface of the surface arrangement is formed by surface elements that are flexible relative to each other depending on operation. The fact that the surface arrangement is composed of surface elements, results in an arrangement that can optionally be rolled up for stowage in the retracted position, so that the surface arrangement can be accommodated in space-saving (at least largely) within the vehicle assembly. To extend the surface elements can be moved and moved in the direction of movement from the vehicle assembly out. In the extended position, the surface elements form the surface and are supported on each other in such a way that the surface arrangement is sufficiently resilient and thus can serve as a seat, cover or storage, for example.

By means of the surface elements of the surface arrangement, a surface is provided which preferably extends freely in the vehicle and is supported at only one end on the vehicle assembly. The power flow for support is in this case formed directly between the surface elements by adjacent surface elements are supported (exclusively) together. The surface arrangement thus extends in the extended position of the vehicle assembly, without further support in the vehicle.

The surface elements can be lined up along a first direction, so that an arrangement results of surface elements adjoining one another along the first direction. In extension of such a one-dimensional sequencing, however, the surface elements can also be lined up along different spatial directions. Thus, first surface elements along a first direction can be lined up with each other, wherein at least a first surface element along a direction transverse to the first direction, second direction, a second surface element adjoins the at least one first surface element and is adjustable to the at least one first surface element , It results in a through the surface elements formed surface that can be flexibly adjusted in their curvature both along the first direction and along the second direction.

The surface elements are, in one embodiment, pivotable relative to one another about joint axes which extend transversely to the direction of movement. By adjusting the surface elements to each other about the hinge axes thus the shape of the surface can be adjusted, in particular to the arrangement of the surface elements to each other between the retracted position and the extended position to change, on the one hand to provide a compact storage for the surface arrangement in the retracted position but to provide an area of desired shape in the extended position.

In a first advantageous embodiment, surface elements can be articulated to each other via joints. In this case, adjacent surface elements are fixed to each other via joints and held together.

According to an advantageous aspect, adjacent surface elements can be detached from one another at the joints, which can improve the manageability of the surface arrangement. Thus, the releasability of the joints, that under excessively large load area elements can separate from each other without causing irreversible breakage of the surface elements. By restoring the articulated connection to the joints, the surface arrangement can in turn be converted into an operative state, which can take place, for example, automatically when retracting the surface arrangement into the vehicle assembly.

The surface elements are supported in the extended position in such a way that they form the surface. In the extended position, at least some of the surface elements are free from the vehicle assembly and thereby preferably supported only to one another, but not in each case on a guide rail. The surface formed by the surface elements thus extends freely from the vehicle assembly while supporting the surface elements together.

To provide such a support, the surface elements, for example, each have at least one stop surface, which is offset in particular perpendicular to the hinge axis and perpendicular to the direction of movement to an associated joint of the respective surface element. In the extended position, the abutment surfaces of adjacent surface elements abut one another, so that above the surface elements are supported against each other and torques acting in the loading direction of the located between the adjacent surface elements joint, thus can be absorbed and derived via the stop surfaces. The surface elements are thus held in position by abutment of the stop surfaces in position, so that a suitable surface is formed.

In one embodiment, the surface elements each have at least one guide member. For example, the surface elements may each have two guide members, which are arranged at the ends of the respective surface element and, for example, establish the articulated connection to adjacent surface elements. About the guide members, the surface elements may be performed, for example, on a guide rail of the vehicle assembly, wherein the guide members extended to extend the surface assembly of the guide rail and then retracted to retract the surface assembly in the guide rail.

The guide members preferably form the joints between each adjacent surface elements. In this case, a guide member may have a first joint element on a first side and a second joint element on a second side remote from the first side. The guide element can be connected to a second joint element of an adjacent surface element arranged on the first side via the first joint element, while the guide element can be coupled to a first joint element of an adjacent surface element arranged on the second side via the second joint element.

The guide members of the (most) surface elements are preferably of identical construction. Each guide member has a first hinge element and a second hinge element, which enable adjacent surface elements articulated and preferably releasably coupled to each other.

The joint elements can be formed, for example, on the one hand by a hinge pin and on the other hand by a joint shell into which the hinge pin of the other joint element can engage. The associated joint elements can thus be inserted into one another and are hinged together in the inserted state, wherein the articulated connection can be achieved by removing the joint elements from each other. For this purpose, for example, a sufficient elasticity, for example in the joint shell, can be provided on the joint elements, so that the joint elements can be reversibly disengaged.

In one embodiment, the surface elements via a clamping element, for example in the form of an elastic element, for example, a rubber cord or rubber bands, biased to each other. This has the particular advantage that the surface elements, when the articulated connection between two adjacent surface elements is dissolved, not completely from each other, but at least held together by the clamping element. This makes it possible to restore by retracting the surface elements in the retracted position, the articulated connection between dissolved surface elements by a dissolved surface element is pulled along when retracted due to the action of the tensioning element and automatically comes back into articulated engagement with an adjacent surface element when the surface elements, for example, in a Guide rails are fed.

In a second advantageous embodiment, adjacent surface elements are not fixed to one another via a specific joint with a defined hinge pin, but lie flat against each other via abutment surfaces in such a way that the surface elements can be pivoted relative to each other (in this case, virtual) hinge axes. The articulation is in this case provided by appropriate shaping of the contact surfaces, for which purpose each surface element may, for example, have a concave-shaped first contact surface on a first side and a convex-shaped second contact surface on an opposite, second side. The first abutment surfaces of the surface elements are complementary to the second abutment surfaces of the surface elements, so that the convex shaped second abutment surface of a surface element can engage in the associated, complementary, concave shaped first abutment surface of an adjacent surface element and above a pivotal connection between the surface elements is provided.

The support of the surface elements to each other in the extended position takes place in this case on the contact surfaces, which may form friction surfaces, for example, so that between the surface elements a friction pairing exists, due to which there is a (adhesive) friction between adjacent surface elements, leading to a support of the Surface elements leads to each other. By virtue of the fact that there is (significant) friction between adjacent surface elements, it is achieved when the surface arrangement is extended that the surface elements are held in position relative to one another, at least for a load of the surface which does not exceed a maximum load.

Alternatively or additionally, form-fitting elements, for example in the form of a toothing section or the like, can be made available on the contact surfaces, which effect a support between the surface elements when the surface arrangement is extended.

In one embodiment, the surface arrangement on a clamping element which braces the surface elements against each other. About the clamping element, the support is adjusted to the contact surfaces of the surface elements, via the clamping element, for example, the (adhesive) friction can be specified at the contact surfaces by adjusting the clamping force or brought by action of the clamping element interlocking elements on the contact surfaces with each other or disengaged can be.

The tension on the tensioning element can be variable during movement of the surface elements of the surface arrangement, so that, for example, when the surface elements are extended, the tension on the tensioning element and thus between the surface elements is automatically increased. For this purpose, the clamping element may for example be designed elastically, so that upon extension of the surface elements, an elastic stress on the clamping element is effected. Alternatively, the tensioning element, for example realized by a Bowden cable, may be guided such that in the extended position an elongation of the tensioning element (for example the core of a Bowden cable opposite the Bowden sheath) and above this an increased tension on the tensioning element is effected.

Preferential references the tension on the clamping element via a clamping device is changeable. In this way it can be achieved that the supporting forces acting on the contact surfaces can be changed and adjusted in order to provide a resilient surface on the one hand in the extended position of the surface arrangement, but on the other hand to allow a change in the shape of the surface and a pivoting when retracting the surface arrangement allow the surface elements to each other, so that the surface elements can be stowed in a space-saving manner within the vehicle assembly.

Such a clamping device can be configured in very different ways and acts on the clamping element in order to specify the tensile forces acting on the clamping element. The tensioning element may be formed, for example, by a cable element, belt element or belt element and may extend, for example, from the tensioning device through openings in the surface elements to an end side, away from the tensioning device, last Extend surface element. By changing the clamping force on the clamping element, the bias of the surface elements can be adjusted against each other, so that on the one hand in the extended position reaches a sufficient support between the surface elements and on the other hand, a pivoting between the surface elements can be provided.

The variability of the clamping effect allows different operating variants.

Thus, for example, by means of a suitable sensor system on one or more surface elements or else on a further subassembly independent of the surface arrangement, an adjustment request of a user can be recognizable. If an adjustment request is detected, the support between the surface elements can be reduced, so that a user can change the shape of the surface according to his wishes. If the change has taken place, the support can then be raised again by the action of the tensioning device so that the surface remains in the set shape.

If the surface arrangement is to be retracted, this can be detected by a suitable, other sensor, so that when driving in the support between the surface elements is reduced or eliminated and the surface elements can be stowed in a flexible manner.

Such a sensor may, for example, contain one or more capacitive sensors which are arranged on one or more surface elements. For example, capacitive sensors can be arranged on a frontmost, surface-area element. Additionally or alternatively, capacitive sensors can also be arranged on other surface elements. By means of such capacitive sensors, it can be recognized, for example, that a user touches the surface arrangement with both hands, which can signal that the user wants to adjust the surface arrangement, so that a drive device can be driven, for example, to retract the surface arrangement or reduces a voltage between surface elements can be changed so that the user can change the shape of the surface arrangement.

If necessary, a crash case can also be detected via another sensor system. If a crash is detected, the support between the surface elements may be canceled, so that the surface arrangement collapses and in particular no longer protrudes, for example, from a dashboard. This can increase safety in the event of a crash.

The adjustment of the surface elements for predetermining the shape of the surface can also be effected actuation by means of a suitable adjusting device which, for example, acts between adjacent surface elements. For example, can act between adjacent surface elements electric motors, the surface elements can be adjusted by an electric motor to each other. Alternatively, between the surface elements, for example, a cable pull act, which is adjustable via a suitable drive means to adjust a shape of the surface, for example, a curved shape.

In one embodiment, at least one of the surface elements is guided on a guide rail of the vehicle assembly. Along the guide rail, the continuous arrangement of the surface elements can be moved to transfer the surface elements between the retracted position and the extended position. The guide rail is curved, for example, so that the surface elements of the surface arrangement are guided during retraction along a predetermined curve by the guide rail and are lined up in the retracted position along the predetermined by the guide rail curve to each other.

For example, a given by the guide rail curve may be helical, so that the surface elements are held in the retracted position in a compact manner to each other.

In an advantageous embodiment, the surface arrangement has two guide rails extending parallel to one another, wherein the surface elements are guided, for example, in the region of a first end in a first of the guide rails and in the region of a second end in a second of the guide rails. The guide rails thus guide the surface elements between them and support the surface elements.

Irrespective of the configuration and design of the surface arrangement, the surface arrangement preferably has a drive device with a motor and a drive element operatively connected to the surface elements. The drive means serves to move the surface elements along the direction of movement and thus between the retracted position and the extended position. The adjustment of the surface arrangement can thus be carried out by an electric motor.

Different embodiments of such a drive device are conceivable and possible.

In one embodiment, the drive device, for example via a drive element in Shape of a gear interact with toothed portions in the form of racks on the surface elements. By acting on the toothed portions, the surface elements can thus be moved along the direction of movement between the retracted position and the extended position. The toothed portions of the surface elements are hereby lined up and together form a toothed rod extended along the direction of movement, on which the drive device acts.

Due to the positive engagement of the drive device in the toothed sections formed by the toothed portions of the surface elements, a support of the surface elements in the extended position is additionally provided. In particular, the surface elements are held in their position by the positive engagement of the drive device with the rack formed by the surface elements.

Other drives are possible, for example, a drive in the form of a cable drive using, for example, a Bowden cable or a revolving cable, as in a cable-powered window. It is also conceivable to use push rods for adjusting the arrangement.

A surface arrangement of the type described can be used in a very different manner in or on a vehicle. For example, such a surface arrangement can be part of a vehicle seat or form a vehicle seat by providing a seat surface of the vehicle seat by the surface arrangement. By retracting the surface arrangement in this case the vehicle seat can be retracted completely or partially, for example, in a vehicle floor.

In an alternative embodiment, the surface arrangement may also be part of a storage device, for example an armrest of a vehicle, for example on a center console of a vehicle. The surface arrangement can in this case be extendable out of the armrest in order to provide, for example, a storage surface, for example a table, on the armrest.

In yet another embodiment, the surface arrangement can also realize a covering device in a vehicle loading space.

Such a surface arrangement can be extended, for example, in a starting position flat along a vehicle floor of the vehicle loading space. From this initial position out the surface arrangement can be deformed, for example, to lock or cover objects in the vehicle boot.

In another arrangement, such a surface arrangement can also realize a luggage compartment cover, for example in a combined vehicle. For this purpose, the boot cover realizing surface arrangement between a retracted position and an extended position can be adjusted to cover the trunk in the extended position and to hide, for example, against insights from the outside.

• 1A eine Ansicht einer Flächenanordnung in einer ausgefahrenen Stellung;
• 1B die Anordnung gemäß 1A, ohne ein Gehäuse einer Fahrzeugbaugruppe;
• 1C eine gesonderte Ansicht einer Kette von Führungsgliedern, in der ausgefahrenen Stellung;
• 2A eine Ansicht der Flächenanordnung in einer teilweise eingefahrenen Stellung;
• 2B die Anordnung gemäß 2A, ohne ein Gehäuse der Fahrzeugbaugruppe;
• 3C eine gesonderte Ansicht der Kette der Führungsglieder, in der teilweise eingefahrenen Stellung;
• 3A eine Ansicht der Flächenanordnung in eingefahrener Stellung
• 3B die Anordnung gemäß 3A, ohne ein Gehäuse der Fahrzeugbaugruppe;
• 3C eine gesonderte Ansicht der Kette der Führungsglieder, in der eingefahrenen Stellung;
• 4A eine Ansicht von zwei gelenkig miteinander verbundenen Führungsgliedern zweier benachbarter Flächenelemente;
• 4B die Führungsglieder in zueinander verschwenkter Stellung;
• 4C eine Schnittansicht entlang der Linie I-I gemäß 4B;
• 5A eine Ansicht eines anderen Ausführungsbeispiels einer Flächenanordnung, in ausgefahrener Stellung;
• 5B die Anordnung gemäß 5A, bei anders geformter Fläche;
• 5C die Flächenanordnung, bei wiederum anders geformter Fläche;
• 6 eine Ansicht der Flächenanordnung gemäß 5A bis 5C, darstellend eine Spanneinrichtung zum Spannen der Flächenelemente der Flächenanordnung gegeneinander;
• 7 eine Ansicht einer Flächenanordnung mit Flächenelementen, an denen jeweils ein Polsterelement angeordnet ist;
• 8 eine Ansicht einer in einen Fahrzeugboden einfahrbaren bzw. aus dem Fahrzeugboden ausfahrbaren Flächenanordnung;
• 9 eine schematische Ansicht einer Flächenanordnung, mit entlang zweier Raumrichtungen aneinander angereihten Flächenelementen;
• 10 eine Ansicht eines durch eine Flächenanordnung ausgebildeten Fahrzeugsitzes;
• 11 eine Ansicht einer durch eine Flächenanordnung in einem Fahrzeugladeraum gebildeten Abdeckeinrichtung;
• 12 die Abdeckeinrichtung gemäß 11 in anderen Stellungen der Flächenanordnung;
• 13 eine Ansicht einer Armauflage mit zwei daran angeordneten Flächenanordnungen;
• 14 die Armauflage, mit einem umgeklappten, endseitigen Flächenelement, an dem ein Polsterelement angeordnet ist;
• 15 eine Ansicht der Armauflage, mit zwei umgeklappten Flächenelementen;
• 16 eine Ansicht der Armauflage, mit einer zu einer Seite ausgefahrenen Flächenanordnung;
• 17A eine schematische Ansicht eines Flächenelements mit einem integral daran angeformten, durch tentakelähnliche Strukturen verwirklichten Polsterelement; und
• 17B eine ausschnittsweise vergrößerte Ansicht der Anordnung gemäß 17B.

The idea underlying the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the figures illustrated embodiments. Show it:

• 1A a view of a surface arrangement in an extended position;
• 1B the arrangement according to 1A without a housing of a vehicle assembly;
• 1C a separate view of a chain of guide members, in the extended position;
• 2A a view of the surface arrangement in a partially retracted position;
• 2 B the arrangement according to 2A without a housing of the vehicle assembly;
• 3C a separate view of the chain of guide members, in the partially retracted position;
• 3A a view of the surface arrangement in the retracted position
• 3B the arrangement according to 3A without a housing of the vehicle assembly;
• 3C a separate view of the chain of guide members, in the retracted position;
• 4A a view of two hingedly interconnected guide members of two adjacent surface elements;
• 4B the guide members in mutually pivoted position;
• 4C a sectional view taken along the line II according to 4B ;
• 5A a view of another embodiment of a surface arrangement, in the extended position;
• 5B the arrangement according to 5A , with a different shaped surface;
• 5C the surface arrangement, in turn, differently shaped surface;
• 6 a view of the surface arrangement according to 5A to 5C , representing a tensioning device for tensioning the surface elements of the surface arrangement against each other;
• 7 a view of a surface arrangement with surface elements, on each of which a cushion element is arranged;
• 8th a view of a retractable in a vehicle floor or extendable from the vehicle floor surface arrangement;
• 9 a schematic view of a surface arrangement, with along two spatial directions juxtaposed surface elements;
• 10 a view of an area formed by a vehicle seat arrangement;
• 11 a view of a cover formed by a surface arrangement in a vehicle boot space;
• 12 the cover according to 11 in other positions of the surface arrangement;
• 13 a view of an armrest with two surface arrangements arranged thereon;
• 14 the armrest, with a folded, end-side surface element on which a cushioning element is arranged;
• 15 a view of the armrest, with two folded surface elements;
• 16 a view of the armrest, with an extended to one side surface arrangement;
• 17A a schematic view of a surface element with an integrally formed thereon, realized by tentakelähnliche structures pad member; and
• 17B a fragmentary enlarged view of the arrangement according to 17B ,

1A-1C to 4A-4C show a first embodiment of a surface arrangement 1 attached to a vehicle assembly 2 is arranged and along a direction of movement B between an extended position ( 1A to 1C) and a retracted position ( 3A to 3C) can be adjusted.

The surface arrangement 1 has a plurality of along the direction of movement B staggered, hinged surface elements 10 which are each elongated and at both ends guide members 11 have over which the surface elements 10 about joint axes G connected to each other.

In the extended position ( 1A to 1C) stands the arrangement of the surface elements 10 from the vehicle assembly 2 before, without the surface elements 10 outside the vehicle assembly 2 are guided over a guide rail or the like. Rather, the surface elements 10 form solely on the basis of a support to each other from a surface T, which can serve as a shelf inside the vehicle, for example.

As from the separate representations according to 4A to 4C As can be seen, the guide links 11 adjacent surface elements 10 about a joint 110 connected with each other. The guide members 11 are over attachment points 111 arranged on strip-shaped bodies of the surface elements 10 and fixedly connected to the surface elements 10.

The guide members 11 the surface elements 10 (except the 1A to 1C apparent end members 12 an end-side lamella group) are preferably, but not necessarily of identical construction and each have a first joint element 113 in the form of a hinge pin and, on an opposite side, a second hinge element 114 in the form of a joint shell. One each guide member 11 can over the first joint element 113 with a second hinge element 114 a guide member 11 a surface element adjacent thereto 10 and over the second hinge element 114 with a first joint element 113 an arranged on the other side, adjacent surface element 10 be connected articulated, so that a chain of guide links 11 is created, which connect the surface elements 10 hinged together.

The connection between adjacent guide links 11 is hereby releasable, that the first joint element 113 from the second joint element 114 the associated, adjacent guide member 11 can be solved. The first joint element 113 in the form of the joint shell, this is sufficiently elastic, so that a release of the joint 110 reversible can be done and the joint especially can be restored.

The solubility of the joint 110 reduces the risk of breakage due to excessive load on the surface arrangement 1 or if handled improperly. If the object is too heavy on the surface T of the surface arrangement 1 arranged, so the connection between two adjacent surface elements 10 without causing any breakage at the joints 110 comes.

The restoration of the connection between the surface elements 10 can automatically when retracting the surface arrangement 1 respectively. So extends through openings 115 in the guide members 11 through a clamping element 13 For example, in the form of an elastic tension element (for example, a rubber band), the arrangement of the surface elements 10 holds together. The tensioning element 13 This can be between an end member 12 (see for example 1B) and one of the end member 12 distant, first surface element 10 on the side of the vehicle assembly 2 through all the aligned guide links 11 and thus extend the chain of guide members 11 (elastic) connect together. Will, after loosening a joint 110 between two adjacent surface elements 10 , the arrangement of the surface elements 10 against the direction of movement B into the vehicle assembly 2 retracted, so when retracting due to the pulling action on the clamping element 13 and by inserting the guide members 11 in an associated guide rail 200 an associated housing part 20 the vehicle assembly 2 (see for example 2 B and 2C) the first joint element 113 automatically engaged again with the second hinge element 114 the associated, dissolved guide member 11 snap, so that the articulated connection is automatically restored.

In the retracted position (see 3A to 3C) is the arrangement of the surface elements 10 at least as far as possible in the vehicle assembly 2 edged. The chains of the guide links 11 on both sides of the surface elements 10 are each in an associated guide rail 200 an associated housing part 20 retracted, with the surface elements 10 pivoted to each other and are stowed space favorable space.

Upon extension, the guide links become 11 like this from the transition of 3A to 3C towards 1A to 1C it can be seen from the guide rails 200 extended so that the chains of the guide links 11 in extended position ( 1A to 1C) free from the vehicle assembly 2 extend. In the extended position are as out 4 seen, stop surfaces 112 below the joints 110 neighboring leaders 11 in contact with each other, so that about the leaders 11 and thus the adjacent, associated surface elements 10 are supported against each other. In the extended position thus a resilient surface T is created due to the support.

When retracting, the guide links 11 like this 4B can be seen, with removal of the stop surfaces 112 be pivoted from each other, thereby others, above the joints 110 arranged stop surfaces 116 neighboring leaders 11 be approximated and thus, with maximum pivoted guide members 11 , again a defined support between adjacent guide members 11 consists. A panning like in 4B allows a space-saving stowage of the surface arrangement 1 within the vehicle assembly 2 under pivoting of surface elements 10 to each other.

The adjustment of the surface arrangement 1 between the retracted position and the extended position via a drive device 14 that is schematically in 1C is shown. The drive device 14 includes a motor 140 , which is a drive element via a motor shaft 141 in the form of a gear wheel. The drive element 141 is in operative connection with toothed sections 117 on the underside of the guide links 11 (please refer 4C) , so by turning the drive element 141 and by acting on the gearing sections 117 on the guide rails 11 the surface arrangement 1 along the direction of movement B can be adjusted.

The drive device 14 acts to adjust the surface elements 10 by engagement in the juxtaposed toothed sections 117 the leaders 11 the surface elements 10 , This can be done on both sides of the surface elements 10 one drive device each 14 be provided, these drive means 14 For example, electronically synchronized with each other. Alternatively, a common drive device 14 be provided, each with a drive element 141 in the juxtaposed toothing sections 117 the leaders 11 on both sides of the surface elements 10 engages, wherein the electric motor 140 for example, via flexible shafts with the drive elements 141 can be coupled in the form of gears.

The drive device 14 serves on the one hand for adjusting the surface elements 10 for moving between the retracted position and the extended position. In addition, the drive device stops 14 due to the positive engagement of the drive element 141 in the lined up by the serrated sections 117 formed rack the surface elements 10 in the extended position in position and thus it supports, on the one hand against retraction and, if appropriate, also against a downward load.

By extending the surface elements 10 reach the stop surfaces 112 on the guide rails 11 due to gravity acting automatically in storage, so that at least partially planar surface T (see 1A) is created, which can serve as a table in a vehicle, for example. Also, the pivoting of the surface elements 10 when retracted automatically by inserting the guide links 11 in the associated guide rails 200 ,

The actuation of the drive device 14 can be done for example via a suitable, user-operable control device.

5A-5C and 6 show a second embodiment of a surface arrangement 1 , in turn, surface elements 10 about joint axes G pivotally interconnected and between a retracted position and an extended position with respect to a vehicle assembly 2 can be adjusted.

In the embodiment according to 5A-5C and 6 are the surface elements 10 about an arrangement of clamping elements 151 a clamping device 15 , as in 6 represented, held together and interconnected. Adjacent surface elements 10 lie here about contact surfaces 100 . 101 to each other, with each surface element 10 a first, concavely curved contact surface 100 and a second, convexly curved contact surface 101 each having a complementary abutment surface of an adjacent surface element 10 in plant. The first contact surface 100 of a surface element 10 stands here with an associated, second contact surface 101 an adjacent surface element 10 engaged while the second bearing surface 101 with an associated first contact surface 100 of the adjacent surface element in another direction 10 engaged.

By flat contact of the contact surfaces 100 . 101 adjacent surface elements 10 to each other are the surface elements 10 pivotally mounted to each other and about (virtual) hinge axes G movable to each other.

The pivotable arrangement of the surface elements 10 one another allows for a space-saving stowage of the surface elements 10 in retracted position. In addition, the surface elements 10 be positioned in an extended position in different ways to each other to create a user-desired area.

The clamping device 15 serves to create a bias between the surface elements 10 adjust. A plurality of clamping elements 151 in the form of, for example, traction cables extends from a strip element 150 through the surface elements 10 through to an end surface element 10A with which the clamping elements 151 are firmly connected. The distance between the strip element 150 and a bar element 150 facing first surface element 10B is a clamping device 153 adjustable, which in the illustrated embodiment one with a spindle nut 155 on the first surface element 10B engaged, rotatable spindle 154 and by turning the spindle 154 a variable adjustment of the distance between the strip element 150 and the first surface element 10B allows.

Between the strip element 150 and the first surface element 10B continue to act two spring elements 152 However, in the illustrated embodiment, which serve primarily for damping the clamping movement and in the tensioned state of the clamping device 15 are largely ineffective.

For tensioning the surface elements 10 with each other, via the tensioning device 153 , the inguinal element 150 from the first surface element 10B pushed away, so that the clamping elements 151 be stretched in the form of, for example, traction cables and above the surface elements 10 mutually pressed into contact with each other. About the contact surfaces 100 . 101 , which may be formed for example as a friction surfaces for adjusting a friction pair, there is thus a (sufficient) (adhesive) friction between the contact surfaces 100 . 101 so that the surface elements 10 held in position to each other and the surface arrangement 1 thus forms a resilient surface.

When retracting the surface arrangement 1 the tension is reduced by the inguinal element 150 and the first surface element 10B be approximated (against the action of the spring elements 152 ), so that the contact pressure between adjacent surface elements 10 reduces and thus the supporting effect between adjacent surface elements 10 is reduced. The surface elements 10 thus retractable and, for example, for stowage within the vehicle assembly 2 be wound up.

The variable adjustability of the supporting effect between the surface elements 10 allows different actuation variants.

So can on a surface element 10 or on several surface elements 10 a suitable sensor system may be provided, for example in the form of a capacitive proximity sensor or touch sensor, which can detect a user's attack and a user's adjustment request. At a predetermined attack gesture, for example attacking for a predetermined period of time (eg, longer than 5 Seconds), for example, the voltage between the surface elements 10 be reduced so that the user through the surface elements 10 created area T in a desired shape, for example, from a flat shape ( 5A) in a curved shape ( 5B) For example, to allow the storage of a beverage bottle, or in an inclined form as a reading or Schreibpultfläche ( 5C) ,

Such a sensor, which can detect a desire to adjust the user can, on the surface elements 10 can be arranged, but can also be separated from the surface arrangement 1, for example on a housing portion of the vehicle assembly 2 be provided.

Additionally or alternatively, a collapse of the surface arrangement 1 be effected when a crash event is detected by another sensor in the vehicle. In a crash, it is necessary to prevent the surface arrangement 1 protruding from the dashboard to a vehicle occupant and thereby possibly represents a danger to the occupant. If a crash is detected, the tension between the surface elements can 10 be reduced so that the surface arrangement 1 collapses because the surface elements 10 are no longer positionally supported against each other.

The surface arrangement 1 is on guide rails 200 led, as shown schematically in 6 and thereby between the extended position and the retracted position relative to the vehicle assembly 2 movable. When retracting, for example, a winding or other pivoting of the surface elements 10 done to each other to a space-saving stowage of the surface elements 10 within the vehicle assembly 2 to enable.

The adjustment can be electromotively by a suitable drive means, for example, in turn, using a drive element in the form of a gear, with the toothed sections on the side of the surface elements 10 is engaged (as previously for the embodiment according to 1A-1C to 4A-4C described), whereby other drives, for example in the form of cable drives (as usual with window regulators) can be used.

Instead of contact surfaces 100 . 101 in the form of friction surfaces between the surface elements 10 or possibly additionally, between the surface elements 10 For example, be provided form-fitting elements, for example in the form of toothing sections, which support the surface elements 10 cause each other and can be brought out of action by the tension between the surface elements 10 via a suitable clamping device 15 is adjusted.

In another exemplary embodiment, an additional adjusting device can also be used for the actuatory adjustment of the position of the surface elements 10 be provided to each other, for example in the form of a pulling device using a pull rope or the like.

To the area arrangement 1 be used in a flexible manner within a vehicle, is provided in accordance with the present invention, on at least one surface element 10 the surface arrangement 1 a cushioning element 16 , For example, in the form of a pillow or the like, which is a padding on the surface element 10 provides, as in 7 is shown. Through the surface arrangement 1 Thus, a padded surface T can be formed, which can be used in very different ways for different functions in a vehicle use.

Such a cushion element 16 can be attached to one or more surface elements 10 each preceding by means of 1 to 4 and 5 and 6 arranged embodiment, wherein padding elements 16 on one side or on both sides (top and bottom) on one or more surface elements 10 can be arranged.

Such a surface T may for example be part of a vehicle seat, as in 8th is shown. The surface arrangement 1 can do this in a vehicle assembly 2 in the form of a vehicle floor be retractable by the surface elements 10 formed area T through an opening 21 . 22 extended to transfer to an extended position of the vehicle floor or can be retracted to sink the vehicle seat. The vehicle seat can thus be retractable in the vehicle floor and is received in the retracted position within the vehicle floor.

Such a vehicle seat, for example, by two surface arrangements 1 to be created through two openings 21 . 22 can be extended. One through a first opening 21 to be moved surface arrangement 1 For example, it may provide a seating surface while one may pass through a second opening 22 to be moved surface arrangement 1 for example, represents a backrest.

surface elements 10 with upholstered elements arranged thereon 16 are along a first direction B as shown schematically in 9 is shown, lined up with each other and mutually adjustable, as with reference to the embodiments according to 1 to 6 has been described above. In addition, it may be provided along a transverse to the first direction B extended, second direction A further surface elements 102 to the surface elements 10 to be aligned, which are mutually adjustable, so that a curvature of the through the surface elements 10 . 102 created area T also along the second direction A can be adjusted.

The first direction B can here correspond to the direction of movement, along which the surface arrangement 1 is adjustable for retraction or extension. Along the second direction across it A can have one or more surface elements 102 to an assigned surface element 10 connect and articulated axes G to the surface element 10 be adjustable.

Such a two-dimensionally adjustable surface arrangement 1 For example, it may serve to provide a flexibly adjustable vehicle seat, as shown in FIG 10 is illustrated.

Basically, all surface elements 10 . 102 with a cushioning element 16 be provided. It is also conceivable and possible, but only a few of the surface elements 10 . 102 with a cushioning element 16 to provide.

11 and 12 show an embodiment of a surface arrangement 1 used as a cover in a vehicle compartment behind a rear seat assembly 3 is designed.

The surface arrangement 1 is in a starting position in a recess 23 in a vehicle floor 2 taken of the vehicle boot and can be adjusted out of this starting position, for example, an object 4 , as in 11 illustrated to lock in the vehicle boot or, as in 12 illustrated to provide an at least partial cover of the vehicle boot.

Again, upholstery elements 16 on at least some of the surface elements 10 arranged.

13 to 16 show an embodiment of a vehicle assembly 2 realizing armrest, the two surface arrangements 1 having.

The surface arrangements 1 have in this embodiment, in each case an end-side surface element 10A on that over a joint 103 to a neighboring, other surface element 10 is hinged, as in the transition from 13 to 16 is apparent.

At the end surface element 10A is a cushioning element 16 arranged in the retracted position of the associated surface arrangement 1 and with folded surface element 10A a padding on the armrest provides, as this particular 13 is apparent.

By unfolding the end surface element 10A ( 14 and 15 ) and by extending the surface arrangement 1 ( 16 ) can be provided on the armrest a storage surface, which can be retracted by retracting in the armrest.

The surface arrangements 1 , as in the embodiments according to 7 to 16 can be realized in their mechanical operation according to the embodiments according to 1 to 4 and 5 . 6 be configured, with other adjustment mechanisms are conceivable and possible.

Generally, the upholstery element 16 a soft, cushioned section using, for example, foam and a suitable cover or the like.

One or more upholstery elements 16 can be used as additional elements to one or more surface elements 10 be arranged. It is conceivable and possible, however, a cushion element 16 integral to a surface element 10 form, for example by molding soft sections on the surface element, for example in the form of tentacle-like structures. Decisive in the design of the upholstery element 16 is that it has a soft, cushioning effect.

This is in 17A and 17B illustrates the surface elements 10 in the form of lamellae, on which at a bottom cushion elements 16 by molding integral, tentacle-like structures 160 are formed. The upholstery element 16 is thus integral to each surface element 10 formed and realizes a soft, damping portion on the surface element 10 ,

The structures 160 in the form of tentacle-like threads or webs can in this case be designed so that when rolling up the surface elements 10 to create a compact stowage structure 160 to the respective assigned surface element 10 can create and thus in the rolled-up position of the surface elements 10 do not significantly increase the installation space.

The idea underlying the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can also be realized in a completely different kind of way.

A padded surface arrangement can basically completely different Provide surface structures in a vehicle available, such surface structures can be adjustable in shape and optionally retractable.

For example, such a surface arrangement also a headrest structure, a lower leg support, a booster seat for a small vehicle occupant (especially a child) or the like can be realized.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Surface arrangement (table arrangement)

10, 10A, 10B

surface elements

100, 101

Contact surfaces (friction surfaces)

102

surface elements

103

joint

11

guide members

110

joint

111

fastening point

112

stop surface

113

joint element

114

joint element

115

opening

116

stop surface

117

toothed section

12

end link

120

end strip

13

clamping element

14

driving means

140

engine

141

Drive element (gear)

15

tension assembly

150

bar item

151

clamping element

152

spring element

153

tensioning device

154

spindle

155

spindle nut

16

cushion element

160

structures

2

vehicle group

20

housing part

200

guide rail

21, 22

opening

23

deepening

3

Vehicle seat assembly

4

object

A

direction

B

movement direction

G

joint axis

T

area

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102011056355 A1 [0003]

Claims (24)

A surface arrangement (1) for a vehicle forming a surface (T) and adjustably arranged on a vehicle assembly (2), characterized by a plurality of surface elements (10) lined up and supported against one another to form the surface (T) , wherein the surface elements (10) for adjusting the surface (T) are adjustable and at least one of the surface elements (10) comprises a cushion member (16). Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 1 characterized in that the surface elements (10) are received in a retracted position in or on the vehicle subassembly (2), wherein the surface elements (10) are movable along a direction of movement (B) towards the vehicle subassembly (2) to move the surface elements (10). 10) from the retracted position to an extended position, in which the surface elements (10) are supported on one another in such a way that the surface elements (10) form the surface (T). Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the surface elements (10) are extended in the extended position of the vehicle assembly (2), wherein at least one of the surface elements (10) exclusively via an adjacent surface element (10) to the vehicle assembly (2) is supported. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that first surface elements (10) along a first direction (B) are lined up with each other, wherein at least one first surface element (10) along a transversely to the first direction (B) directed, the second direction (A) at least one second surface element (102), which is supported on the at least one first surface element (10) and adjustable to the at least one first surface element (10). Surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that adjacent surface elements (10) about a hinge axis (G) are mutually pivotable. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5 , characterized in that the surface elements (10) are articulated to each other via joints (110). Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 6 , characterized in that the surface elements (10) on the joints (110) are detachable from each other. Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 6 or 7 , characterized in that the surface elements (10) each have at least one stop surface (112) for supporting on an adjacent surface element (10). Surface arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 6 to 8th , characterized in that the surface elements (10) each have at least one guide member (11), wherein adjacent surface elements (10) via their guide members (11) are hinged together. Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 9 , characterized in that the at least one guide member (11) on a first side a first hinge element (113) and on a second side facing away from the first side, a second hinge element (114), wherein the first hinge element (113) for coupling with a second hinge element (114) of an adjacent surface element (10) arranged on the first side and the second hinge element (114) for coupling with a first hinge element (113) of an adjacent surface element (10) arranged on the second side. Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 10 characterized in that the first hinge member (113) is detachably connected to the second hinge member (114) of the adjacent surface member (10) disposed on the first side and the second hinge member (114) is detachably connected to the first hinge member (113) of the second one Side arranged, adjacent surface element (10) is connected. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5 , characterized in that the surface elements (10) via abutment surfaces (100, 101) lie flat against each other in such a way that the surface elements (10) are mutually pivotable. Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 12 , characterized in that each surface element (10) on a first side of a concave shaped first contact surface (100) and on a second side of a convex shaped second abutment surface (101). Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 12 or 13 , characterized in that the contact surfaces (100, 101) for supporting the surface elements (10) against each other to form the surface (T) rubbing abut each other. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface elements (10) via a clamping element (151) are braced against each other. Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 15 , characterized in that the tensioning element (13) is elastic. Surface arrangement (1) according to Claim 15 or 16 , characterized in that the voltage on the clamping element (151) via a clamping device (153) is variable. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 15 to 17 , characterized in that the tensioning element (13) is formed by a cable element, belt element or belt element. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the surface elements (10) on a guide rail (200) of the vehicle assembly (2) is guided. Surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a drive device (14) having a motor (140) and a drive element (141) operatively connected to the surface elements (10) for moving the surface elements (10) along the direction of movement (B ). Surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface elements (10) have a toothed portion (117) via which an adjusting force for moving along the direction of movement (B) can be introduced. Vehicle seat, with a surface (T) formed by a surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims. Storage device, in particular on an armrest of a vehicle, having a surface (T) formed by a surface arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims. A luggage compartment cover for a vehicle, having a surface (T) formed by a surface arrangement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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