WO2022148322A1

WO2022148322A1 - System for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior

Info

Publication number: WO2022148322A1
Application number: PCT/CN2021/143853
Authority: WO
Inventors: Junwei Zhang
Original assignee: Yanfeng International Automotive Technology Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2021-01-05
Filing date: 2021-12-31
Publication date: 2022-07-14

Abstract

A system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior is provided. The component comprises a base (10) providing an opening with a cover (30) configured to move between closed position and open position and a support (40) configured to move between raised position and lowered position and a mechanism (20). The mechanism (20) may comprise a cam (23)/follower and /or linkage; the mechanism (20) may comprise a cover mechanism and a support mechanism; the mechanism (20) may comprise a gear set operated by a motor (50); the mechanism (20) may be actuated by a switch. The mechanism (20) with single motor (50) may be configured to move independently the cover (30) of the support (40). The support (40) may maintain the raised position when the cover (30) is opened /closed; and the cover (30) may maintain the open position when the support (40) is lowered/raised. A sensor may detect position of the cover (30) and /or presence of a mobile device. The component may comprise wireless charger for the mobile device.

Description

SYSTEM FOR HOLDING A MOBILE DEVICE IN A VEHICLE INTERIOR

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in full the following patent applications: (a) Chinese Patent Application No. 202110007650.9 filed January 5, 2021 and (b) Chinese Patent Application No. 202120012725.8 filed January 5, 2021 (now Chinese Utility Model No. CN214112421U) .

FIELD

The present invention relates to a system for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior.

The present invention also relates to a system/apparatus for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior.

The present invention also relates to a system/apparatus for holding a mobile device for wireless charging in a vehicle interior.

BACKGROUND

It is known to provide a holder for a mobile device such as a mobile phone in a vehicle interior. It is also known to provide an apparatus for wireless charging of a mobile phone.

It would be advantageous to provide an improved system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior.

It would also be advantageous to provide an improved system/component for holding a mobile device that is able to be efficiently operated and aesthetically integrated within the vehicle interior.

It would also be advantageous to provide an improved system/component for holding a mobile device that is efficient in operation to provide for holding of the mobile device and wireless charging of the mobile device.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base providing an opening; and a cover configured to move relative to the base along the directional axis between a closed position covering the opening and an open position and a support configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position and a mechanism comprising a cam configured to engage the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position by rotation at the cam; the mechanism may be configured to engage with the support to drive movement of the support between the lowered position and the raised position; the support may be configured with the mechanism to maintain the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position; the cover may be configured with the mechanism and to maintain the open position when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position. The component may comprise a system. The support may comprise a bracket. The mechanism may comprise a linkage. The mechanism may comprise a cam mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a linkage mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a follower. The support may comprise a groove. The mechanism may comprise a follower for the cam. The mechanism may comprise a groove and a pin; the support may be configured to be maintained at the raised position and may be configured to move between the lowered position and the raised position in response to position of the pin in the groove. The groove may comprise a straight segment connected with an arc segment. The support may be configured to move between the lowered position and the raised position when the pin moves in the straight segment. The support may be maintained at the raised position when the pin moves in the arc segment. The center of the arc segment may be coincident with an axis of the pin of the mechanism. The opening of the base may be configured for a mobile device. The mechanism may comprise a follower pin for a groove for the support may comprise an arcuate segment and a straight segment; the base may comprise a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening for passage of the follower pin of the mechanism; the rectangular opening may be configured to cover a travel path of the straight segment when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening may be configured for alignment with the arc segment when the support may be at the raised position. The component may comprise a motor with a shaft configured to engage a gear set of the mechanism; the gear set of the mechanism may be configured to asynchronously drive movement of the cover and movement of the support. The mechanism may comprise a gear set connecting a follower pin. The component may comprise a motor configured to actuate the mechanism to alternately drive movement of the cover and movement of the support. The support may comprise a platform. The cover may comprise a door; may comprise at least one sensor to detect position of the door. The component may comprise a sensor to detect presence of a mobile device. The component may comprise a holder for a mobile device. The component may be configured to comprise a wireless charger for a mobile device.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior configured for a device comprising a base and a support within the base configured for the device and to move between a raised position and a lowered position and a cover configured to move between a closed position to cover an opening and an open position for the opening and a mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position. The cover may be configured to prevent access to the support when the cover may be in the closed position; the cover may be configured to provide access to the support when the cover may be in the open position. The mechanism may be configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position. The mechanism may comprise a cam mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a gear set. The component may comprise a motor configured to actuate the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a support mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position and a cover mechanism configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position. The component may comprise a motor configured to actuate may comprise the support mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position and the cover mechanism configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position. The support may be configured to be lowered and raised within the base. The component may comprise a sensor configured to detect a mobile device at the support and to send a signal to the mechanism to move the support toward the lowered position. The mechanism may be configured to hold the support in the lowered position for a duration of time after removal from a mobile device from the support. The sensor may comprise an infrared sensor. The component may comprise a sensor configured to detect a presence of a mobile device; the sensor may be configured to send a signal to the mechanism to move the support toward the lowered position when the sensor senses the presence of the mobile device. The mechanism may be configured to hold the support in the lowered position for a duration of time after the sensor senses absence of the mobile device. The mechanism may be configured to move the support toward the raised position after a duration of time after the sensor senses absence of the mobile device. The mechanism may be configured to coordinate movement of the support and the cover. The mechanism may be actuated by a single motor to alternate movement of the support and movement of the cover. The mechanism may be configured to asynchronously move the support along a path and to move the cover along a path. The mechanism may comprise a cam and a follower. The follower may comprise a pin coupled to the support. The mechanism may comprise a gear set configured to move the pin to move the support. The mechanism may comprise a cam coupled to the cover. The mechanism may comprise a gear set configured to move the cam to move the cover. The gear set may be operated by a single motor. The mechanism may comprise a pin coupled to the support and a cam coupled to the cover and a gear set; the gear set may be configured to move the pin and the cam to alternate movement of the support and movement of the cover. The component may comprise a wireless charging system for the device. The component may comprise a charger configured to provide wireless charging capability for the device when the support may be in the lowered position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a console; (b) a floor console; (c) a tunnel console; (d) an armrest; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door; (g) a door panel.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a cam mechanism comprising a cam and a follower; the cam may comprise a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove on the cone; the track groove may be configured to drive the follower along a directional axis; the central axis intersects the directional axis in a direction non-perpendicular to the directional axis. The follower may comprise a shaft pin configured to engage the track groove; the follower may be configured to remain stationary as the shaft pin moves in the track groove and/or moves with the rotation of the cam. The track groove may comprise an arc segment and an extension segment. The arc segment may be located at a conical height of the cone. The extension segment extends from the arc segment. The extension segment may vary along the conical height. The arc segment may comprise a circular arc segment. The center of the circular arc segment may be located on the central axis; the follower may be kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment. The follower may move with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment. The follower may comprise a moving member. The cam mechanism may comprise a transmission kinematic pair. The component may comprise a holder for a mobile device.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a cam transmission kinematic pair comprising a cam and a moving member such as a follower; the cam may comprise a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone; the track groove may be matched with the moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis and the central axis intersects and may be not perpendicular to the directional axis. The moving member may comprise a pin engaged with the track groove; the moving member may be kept stationary in response to the position of the pin in the track groove or moves with the rotation of the cam. The track groove may comprise a circular arc segment located at the same conical height of the cone and an extension segment extending from the circular arc segment and varying over the conical height. The center of the circular arc segment may be located on the central axis; the moving member may be kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment. The moving member moves with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base providing an opening and a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position covering the opening and an open position uncovering the opening and a support configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position and a mechanism may comprise a cam connected with the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position through the rotation of the cam. The mechanism may be connected with the support to drive movement of the support between the lowered position and the raised position; the support may be kept connected with the mechanism and kept at the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position; the cover may be kept connected with the mechanism and kept at the open position when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position. The support may comprise a bracket; the bracket may comprise a groove, the mechanism may comprise a linkage mechanism; the linkage mechanism may comprise a pin; the bracket may be kept at the raised position and moves between the lowered position and the raised position in response to the position of the pin in the groove. The groove may have a straight segment and an arc segment connected with each other; the center of the arc segment may be coincident with an axis of the pin; the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position when the pin moves in the straight segment; the bracket may be kept at the raised position when the pin moves in the arc segment. The base may comprise a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening for passage of the pin; the rectangular opening covers a travel path of the straight segment when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening may be aligned with the arc segment when the bracket may be at the raised position. The linkage mechanism may comprise a gear set connecting the pin and the cam to drive the rotation of the pin and the cam through the rotation of the gear set. The component may comprise a motor to drive a gear set of the mechanism; the gear set of the mechanism may be configured to asynchronously drive movement of the cover and movement of the support. The mechanism may comprise a cover mechanism to drive movement of the cover and a support mechanism to drive movement of the support. The component may comprise a motor to drive a gear set of the mechanism; the gear set of the mechanism may be configured to alternately drive movement of the cover through the cover mechanism and movement of the support through the support mechanism. The component may comprise a switch to actuate movement of the cover from the closed position to the open position. The component may comprise a switch to actuate movement of the support from the lowered position to the raised position. The component may comprise a control system to operate the mechanism and a sensor to detect presence of a device; so that the sensor provides a signal to the control system for the mechanism to move the support from the raised position to the lowered position upon detection of the device.

FIGURES

FIGURES 1A and 1B are schematic perspective views of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 2A and 2B are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 3A through 3G are schematic perspective views of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 4A through 4H are schematic perspective views of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 5 is a schematic perspective view of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 6 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 7 is a schematic partial exploded perspective view of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 8 is a schematic perspective view of a support for a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 9 is a schematic perspective view of a cam element for a mechanism of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURE 10 is a schematic perspective view of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 11A through 11C are schematic diagrams of operation of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 12A through 12C are schematic diagrams of operation of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 13A through 13C are schematic diagrams of operation of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 14A through 14C are schematic diagrams of operation of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 15A through 15H are schematic perspective views of operation of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 16A and 16B are schematic perspective views of operation of a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGURES 17A and 17B are schematic block diagrams of a system for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION

According to a preferred embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1A-1B and 2A-2B, a vehicle V comprising an interior I may comprise trim/interior components such as panels shown as instrument panel IP or door panel DP, a console shown as floor console FC, etc.; the system/component C shown as a mobile device holder/charger system (e.g. a vehicle-mounted mobile phone charging system/unit/box) may be provided for an interior component such as the console shown as floor console FC, a trim panel such as instrument panel IP or door panel DP, etc. See FIGURES 2A-2B.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B and 5, the system/component C (shown as mobile device holder/charger C) may be provided for operation within floor console FC; in operation the system/component C may provide a cover/door T for an opening OP in base B; with cover/door T open a device/mobile device MP (shown as a mobile phone) may be placed into the opening (and on a support/platform SP) . See also FIGURES 3C-3E and 4C-4F. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2B, 3C-3E and 4C-4F, a vehicle occupant/user may insert the device MP within the opening OP of the system/component shown as holder/charger C for holding/charging of the device MP.

As shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, a system/component C for holding a mobile device MP in a vehicle interior may comprise a base providing an opening OP with a cover T configured to move (between closed position and open position) and a support SP configured to move (between raised position and lowered position) and a mechanism CM.

As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, the system/component C is configured to provide a mechanism CM/20 operated by a motor MT/50 through a gear set GR to actuate a cover T/30 (with a cover mechanism MS) for movement between a closed position and an open position to expose an opening OP and to actuate a support SP/40 (with a support mechanism MS) for movement between a raised position and a lowered position. See also FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 14A-14C, 15A-15H and 16A-16B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C, the CM mechanism may comprise a cam/follower and/or linkage; the mechanism CM may comprise a cover mechanism MC and a support mechanism MS; the mechanism may comprise a gear set GR operated by a motor MT; the mechanism may be actuated by a switch. See also FIGURES 14A-14C, 15A-15H, 16A-16B and 17A-17B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C, the mechanism (with single motor) may be configured to move the cover independently of the support; the support may maintain the raised position when the cover is opened/closed; the cover may maintain the open position when the support is lowered/raised. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17B, sensor may detect position of the cover and/or presence of a mobile device; the component may comprise wireless charger for the mobile device.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A, 5, 6, 10 and 11A-11C, the system/component C may provide through operation of mechanism CM for the cover T/30 to move from a closed position to an open position to provide an opening OP for insertion of a mobile device MP. See also FIGURES 17A-17B (cover mechanism MC of mechanism CM operated through motor MT with gear set GR) .

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A, 5, 6, 10 and 12A-12C, the system/component C may provide through operation of mechanism CM with cover T/30 in an open position with opening OP to allow placement/insertion of a mobile device MP onto the support/bracket SP/40 in a raised position. See also FIGURES 17A-17B.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2B, 6, 10 and 13A-13C, the system/component C may provide through operation of mechanism CM with mobile device MP inserted into opening OP to allow support/bracket SP/40 to move from the raised position to a lowered position. See also FIGURES 17A-17B (support mechanism MS of mechanism CM operated through motor MT with gear set GR) .

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2B and 6, the system/component C with mobile device MP on support/bracket SP/40 in the lowered position may provide for wireless charging through charger 60. See also FIGURE 17B.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2A, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6 and 10, the system/component C may provide through operation of mechanism CM for the support/bracket SP/40 to move from the lowered position to the raised position to allow removal of the mobile device MP and then cover T/30 to move from the open position to the closed position. See also FIGURES 17A-17B (support mechanism MS and cover mechanism MC of mechanism CM operated through motor MT with gear set GR) .

Exemplary Embodiments -A

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 3A-3G and 4A-4H, the system/component shown as holder/charger C may be configured to provide two modes of operation/use: (1) inserting the device MP for holding/charging and (2) removing the device MP for use. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A and 4A, with system/component C in a closed state, the cover T/30 is in a closed position covering the opening OP. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3B and 4B, with system/component C in an open state, the cover T/30 is moved to an open position and the device MP may be placed into the opening OP to be received on a support for holding/charging. See also FIGURES 3C-3G, 4C-4H and 17A-17B.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3A-3B and 4A-4B, to transition the system/component C from the closed state to the open state for insertion of the device MP, the user will actuate the cover T to open to provide the opening OP (e.g. such as by actuation of physical switch, touch control switch, sensor, etc. ) ; a mechanism for the system/component C may drive the cover T/30 to move from the closed position to the open position uncovering the opening OP. See also FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 17A-17B. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3C and 4C, the user may be able to insert the device MP into the opening OP and onto support SP/40 which is in a raised position; when a sensor detects that the user may have inserted the device MP into opening OP and onto support SP/40, a signal is provided to the mechanism to drive the support SP/40 to move from the raised position to a lowered position. See also FIGURES 11A-11C and 12A-12C. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2B, 3D, 4D and 13A-13C, the device MP may be charged (e.g. by a charging system) while in the lowered position within the system/component C. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 3E, 3F and 17B, the device MP may be charged until the user removes the device; a sensor may provide a signal to the mechanism to move the support SP/40 from the lowered position to the raised position. As indicated schematically, the user may direct the system/component C (e.g. by a physical switch or a touch control switch, sensor, etc. ) to move the cover T/30 from the open position to the closed position. See FIGURES 3G and 17B.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4F-4H, to transition the system/component C for removal of the device MP, the user will actuate the support SP/40 from the lowered position to the raised position (e.g. such as by actuation of physical switch, touch control switch, sensor, etc. ) ; a mechanism for the system/component C may drive the support SP/40 to move from the lowered position to the raised position to facilitate removal of the device MP through opening OP; when a sensor detects that the user may have removed the device MP from opening OP, a signal may be provided to the mechanism to drive the cover T/30 to move from the open position to the closed position. See FIGURES 4F-4H and 17B.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 5 and 6, the system/component C may comprise a base B/10, a mechanism CM/20, the cover T/30, the support/bracket SP/40 and a motor MT/50. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 5, 6, 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C, the cover T/30 is configured to move between the open position and the closed position relative to the base 10, the support/bracket SP/40 is configured to move between the raised position and the lowered position relative to the base 10; and the mechanism CM/20 is connected with the motor 50 to be driven so that the cover T/30 moves between the open position and the closed position (with cover mechanism MC) and the support/bracket SP/40 moves between the raised position and the lowered position (with support mechanism MS) . See also FIGURES 14A-14C, 15A-15H and 16A-16B.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6 and 10, the base 10 may comprise an upper base 11 and a lower base 12 (e.g. detachably connected) ; the mechanism CM/20 may comprise a shaft pin 21, a gear set GR and a cam 23; the shaft pin 21 may be connected with the support/bracket SP/40; the cam 23 may be connected with the cover T/30; the gear set GR may be connected with the shaft pin 21 and the cam 23. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 5, 6 and 10, the cover T/30 may be connected with the upper base 11 by three first round tubes 13 extending in the direction of movement of the cover T/30 so that the cover T/30 moves between the open position and the closed position relative to the upper base 11 along the first round tubes 13. The upper base 11 provides the opening OP and covers the opening OP when the cover T/30 is in the closed position and uncovers the opening OP when the cover T/30 is in the open position. As shown schematically in FIGURES 6 and 10, the cover T/30 may have a cover shaft pin 31, the cam 23 may comprise a cone 231 and a track groove 232 located on the cone 231, and the track groove 232 may be matched with the cover shaft pin 31 so that the rotation of the cam 23 may drive the position of the cover shaft pin 31 in the track groove 232 (e.g. drive/move/change the position of the cover T/30) . As shown schematically in FIGURE 9, the track groove 232 may comprise a circular arc segment 2321 (from a starting point ZA to a transition point ZB) located at the same height of the cone 231 and an extension segment 2322 (from the transition point ZB to an end point ZC) extending from one end of the circular arc segment 2321 (e.g. in a direction in which the height of the cone/cam descends) . See also FIGURES 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C. As indicated schematically in FIGURE 10, when the cover shaft pin 31 is located within the circular arc segment 2321, as the cam 23 rotates the cover T/30 is kept stationary (e.g. because the center of the circular arc segment 2321 may be coincident with the axis of the cam 23) ; when the cover shaft pin 31 is located within the extension segment 2322, the cover T/30 moves accordingly as the cam 23 rotates. See also FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C.

As indicated schematically in FIGURES 6 and 7, the mechanism CM/20, the support/bracket SP/40 and the motor 50 may be connected with the lower base 12. As shown schematically in FIGURE 7, the lower base 12 may comprise an upper case 121 and a lower case 122, the mechanism CM/20 and the motor 50 may be arranged between the upper case 121 and the lower case 122; the support/bracket SP/40 may be connected to below the lower case 122 by two second round tubes 14 extending in a direction of the movement of the support/bracket SP/40 so that the support/bracket SP/40 moves between the raised position and the lowered position along the second round tubes 14 relative to the lower case 122. See also FIGURES 5, 6 and 10. As shown schematically in FIGURE 8, the support/bracket SP/40 may comprise a groove 41; the shaft pin 21 passes through the lower case 122 to match the groove 41 of the support/bracket SP/40 so that the movement of the support/bracket SP/40 may be driven by the movement of the shaft pin 21 along the groove 41; the groove 41 may have a straight segment 411 and an arc segment 412; as the support/bracket SP/40 is configured, the shaft pin 21 moves in the straight segment 411 and the support/bracket SP/40 is kept stationary (e.g. because the center of the arc segment 412 may be coincident with the axis of the shaft pin 21 when the shaft pin 21 moves in the arc segment 412) . See also FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C.

As shown schematically in FIGURE 7, the lower case 122 may comprise a rectangular opening 1221 and an arcuate opening 1222 for passage of the shaft pin 21; the rectangular opening 1221 covers a travel path of the straight segment 411 when the support/bracket SP/40 moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening 1222 may be aligned with the arc segment 412 when the support/bracket SP/40 is at the raised position.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 6, 10 and 14A-14C, the gear set may comprise a first driven gear 22, a first transmission gear 24, a second driven gear 25, a driving gear 26 and a second transmission gear 27; the pin shaft 21 is connected with the first driven gear 22 to respond to the rotation of the first driven gear 22 along the groove 41; the cam 23 is connected with the second driven gear 25 to respond to the rotation of the second driven gear 25; the driving gear 26 is connected with the motor 50; the first transmission gear 24 is connected with the second driven gear 25 and the driving gear 26; the second transmission gear 27 is connected with the first driven gear 22 and the driving gear 26; and the central axis of the cam 23 is coincident with the axis of the second driven gear 25 and the center of the circular arc segment 2321. See also FIGURES 11A-11C, 12A-12C and 13A-13C.

As shown schematically in FIGURE 6, the system/component C may comprise an infrared/distance sensor 71, stop sensors 72 and position sensors 73 with a control system for the motor 50; the infrared/distance sensor 71 may be connected to the support/bracket SP/40 to detect/sense the mobile phone MP has been placed in the support/bracket SP/40 (see FIGURES 3C-3E and 4C-4F) , the two stop sensors 72 may be connected with the lower base 12 to detect/sense that the support/bracket SP/40 is the raised position or the lowered position; two position sensors 73 may be connected with the lower base 12 to detect/sense that the cover T/30 is in the closed position or the open position of the cover T/30. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2 and 5, the system/component C may comprise a charging module 60 located below the lower case 122 of the lower base 12 to charge the inserted mobile phone MP. See also FIGURES 3D and 4D.

As indicated schematically in FIGURE 15A, the cover T/30 is in the closed position covering the opening OP; the cover shaft pin 31 of the cover T/30 is located on the extension segment 2322 of the track groove 232; the support/bracket SP/40 is in the raised position and the shaft pin 21 is located on the arc segment 412 of the groove 41. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 6, 11A-11C and 17B, to operate the system/component C, the vehicle occupant/user will operate a switch or a touch control switch, so that the motor 50 may drive the driving gear 26, sequentially driving the rotation of the first transmission gear 24, the second driven gear 25 and the cam 23 and sequentially driving the rotation of the second transmission gear 27, the first driven gear 22 and the shaft pin shaft 21. The position of the shaft pin 21 in the arc segment 412 changes as the shaft pin 21 rotates; the position of the shaft pin 21 in the arc segment 412 changes without causing the movement of the support/bracket SP/40 because the center of the arc segment 412 is coincident with the axis of the shaft pin 21. The position of the cover shaft pin 31 on the extension segment 2322 changes as the cam 23 rotates; the change in the position of the cover shaft pin 31 on the extension segment 2322 causes the cover T/30 to move (e.g. because the extension segment 2322 extends at a different height of the cone 231) . As shown schematically in FIGURE 12B, when the cover shaft pin 31 is located at a designated position (corresponding to ZB in FIGURE 9) of the extension segment 2322 and the circular arc segment 2321, the shaft pin 21 moves to the designated position of the arc segment 412 and the straight segment 411; the cover T/30 moves to the open position, uncovering the opening OP; the position sensor 73 senses that the cover T/30 is located at the open position and sends a signal to turn off the motor 50.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 15C-15D, when the vehicle occupant/user places the mobile phone MP in the support/bracket SP/40 below the opening OP, the infrared/distance sensor 71 senses the mobile phone MP, and sends a signal to initiate the motor 50 to drive the gear set and the cam 23 and the shaft pin 21 to rotate continuously; the cover shaft pin 31 enters the circular arc segment 2321 from the designated position of the extension segment 2322 and the circular arc segment 2321; the position of the cover pin in the circular arc segment 2321 changes (e.g. the center of the circular arc segment 2321 is coincident with the axis of the cam 23) , the position change of the cover shaft pin 31 in the circular arc segment 2321 does not cause the cover T/30 to move; the shaft pin 21 moves into the straight segment 411 from the designated position of the arc segment 412 and the straight segment 411 and changes the position in the straight segment 411, driving the support/bracket SP/40 to move from the raised position to the lowered position. When the support/bracket SP/40 moves to the lowered position, the stop sensor 72 senses that the support/bracket SP/40 may be at the lowered position and sends a signal to turn off the motor 50. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 2, 6 and 13A-13C, as support/bracket SP/40 is moved downward to the lowered position, the mobile phone MP will be in position to be charged (e.g. as detected/sensed) with the charging module 60.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 15E-15G, when the mobile phone MP is fully charged or the user wants to take/use the mobile phone MP, the user may remove the mobile phone MP; the infrared/distance sensor 71 will detect/sense that the mobile phone MP has been removed and will send a signal to initiate the motor 50. See also FIGURES 3A-3G and 4A-4H. As shown schematically in FIGURES 16A-16B, the user may initiate the motor 50 (e.g. by a physical switch and a touch control switch to reverse/drive) for the support/bracket SP/40 to move to the raised position and then remove the mobile phone MP. See also FIGURES 3A-3G and 4A-4H. After the motor 50 is initiated/operated, the shaft pin 21 may be driven by the gear set to move to the designated position of the straight segment 411 and the arc segment 412; the cam 23 may be driven to rotate until the cover shaft pin 31 is located at the designated position of the extension segment 2322; the circular arc segment 2321; the support/bracket SP/40 moves from the lowered position to the raised position; and the cover T/30 is kept stationary. When the support/bracket SP/40 moves to the raised position, the stop sensor 72 detects the position and provides a signal to turn off the motor 50. See also FIGURE 17B.

As shown schematically in FIGURE 15H, when the mobile phone MP is removed, the infrared/distance sensor 71 detects/senses that the mobile phone MP is removed and sends a signal to initiate the motor 50 to drive the cam 23 and the shaft pin 21 (e.g. rotate/reverse through the gear set) so that the shaft pin 21 moves in the arc segment 412 and does not drive the support/bracket SP/40; the support/bracket SP/40 is kept at the raised position. The cam 23 is driven by the gear set to cause the cover shaft pin 31 to change the position in the extension segment 2322 to drive the cover T/30 from the open position to the closed position. When the cover T/30 moves to the closed position, the position sensor 73 detects the position and provides a signal to turn off the motor 50. See also FIGURE 17B.

Exemplary Embodiments -B

As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, a component/system C for a vehicle interior is provided; the component/system may comprise a base providing an opening; and a cover configured to move relative to the base along the directional axis between a closed position covering the opening and an open position and a support configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position and a mechanism comprising a cam configured to engage the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position by rotation at the cam; the mechanism may be configured to engage with the support to drive movement of the support between the lowered position and the raised position; the support may be configured with the mechanism to maintain the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position; the cover may be configured with the mechanism and to maintain the open position when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position. The component may comprise a system. The support may comprise a bracket. The mechanism may comprise a linkage. The mechanism may comprise a cam mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a linkage mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a follower. The support may comprise a groove. The mechanism may comprise a follower for the cam. The mechanism may comprise a groove and a pin; the support may be configured to be maintained at the raised position and may be configured to move between the lowered position and the raised position in response to position of the pin in the groove. The groove may comprise a straight segment connected with an arc segment. The support may be configured to move between the lowered position and the raised position when the pin moves in the straight segment. The support may be maintained at the raised position when the pin moves in the arc segment. The center of the arc segment may be coincident with an axis of the pin of the mechanism. The opening of the base may be configured for a mobile device. The mechanism may comprise a follower pin for a groove for the support may comprise an arcuate segment and a straight segment; the base may comprise a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening for passage of the follower pin of the mechanism; the rectangular opening may be configured to cover a travel path of the straight segment when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening may be configured for alignment with the arc segment when the support may be at the raised position. The component may comprise a motor with a shaft configured to engage a gear set of the mechanism the gear set of the mechanism may be configured to asynchronously drive movement of the cover and movement of the support. The mechanism may comprise a gear set connecting a follower pin. The component may comprise a motor configured to actuate the mechanism to alternately drive movement of the cover and movement of the support. The support may comprise a platform. The cover may comprise a door; may comprise at least one sensor to detect position of the door. The component may comprise a sensor to detect presence of a mobile device. The component may comprise a holder for a mobile device. The component may be configured to comprise a wireless charger for a mobile device.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, a component/system C for a vehicle interior is provided; the component/system C may comprise a base and a support within the base configured for the device and to move between a raised position and a lowered position and a cover configured to move between a closed position to cover an opening and an open position for the opening and a mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position. The cover may be configured to prevent access to the support when the cover is in the closed position; the cover may be configured to provide access to the support when the cover is in the open position. The mechanism may be configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position. The mechanism may comprise a cam mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a gear set. The component may comprise a motor configured to actuate the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a support mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position and a cover mechanism configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position. The component may comprise a motor configured to actuate may comprise the support mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position and the cover mechanism configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position. The support may be configured to be lowered and raised within the base. The component may comprise a sensor configured to detect a mobile device at the support and to send a signal to the mechanism to move the support toward the lowered position. The mechanism may be configured to hold the support in the lowered position for a duration of time after removal from a mobile device from the support. The sensor may comprise an infrared sensor. The component may comprise a sensor configured to detect a presence of a mobile device; the sensor may be configured to send a signal to the mechanism to move the support toward the lowered position when the sensor senses the presence of the mobile device. The mechanism may be configured to hold the support in the lowered position for a duration of time after the sensor senses absence of the mobile device. The mechanism may be configured to move the support toward the raised position after a duration of time after the sensor senses absence of the mobile device. The mechanism may be configured to coordinate movement of the support and the cover. The mechanism may be actuated by a single motor to alternate movement of the support and movement of the cover. The mechanism may be configured to asynchronously move the support along a path and to move the cover along a path. The mechanism may comprise a cam and a follower. The follower may comprise a pin coupled to the support. The mechanism may comprise a gear set configured to move the pin to move the support. The mechanism may comprise a cam coupled to the cover. The mechanism may comprise a gear set configured to move the cam to move the cover. The gear set may be operated by a single motor. The mechanism may comprise a pin coupled to the support and a cam coupled to the cover and a gear set; the gear set may be configured to move the pin and the cam to alternate movement of the support and movement of the cover. The component may comprise a wireless charging system for the device. The component may comprise a charger configured to provide wireless charging capability for the device when the support is in the lowered position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a console; (b) a floor console; (c) a tunnel console; (d) an armrest; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door; (g) a door panel.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, a component/system C for a vehicle interior is provided; the component/system may comprise a cam mechanism comprising a cam and a follower; the cam may comprise a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove on the cone; the track groove may be configured to drive the follower along a directional axis; the central axis intersects the directional axis in a direction non-perpendicular to the directional axis. The follower may comprise a shaft pin configured to engage the track groove; the follower may be configured to remain stationary as the shaft pin moves in the track groove and/or moves with the rotation of the cam. The track groove may comprise an arc segment and an extension segment. The arc segment is located at a conical height of the cone. The extension segment extends from the arc segment. The extension segment may vary along the conical height. The arc segment may comprise a circular arc segment. The center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis; the follower is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment. The follower may move with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment. The follower may comprise a moving member. The cam mechanism may comprise a transmission kinematic pair. The component may comprise a holder for a mobile device.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, a component/system C for a vehicle interior is provided; the component/system may comprise a cam transmission kinematic pair comprising a cam and a moving member such as a follower; the cam may comprise a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone; the track groove is matched with the moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis and the central axis intersects and is not perpendicular to the directional axis. The moving member may comprise a pin engaged with the track groove; the moving member is kept stationary in response to the position of the pin in the track groove or moves with the rotation of the cam. The track groove may comprise a circular arc segment located at the same conical height of the cone and an extension segment extending from the circular arc segment and varying over the conical height. The center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis; the moving member is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment. The moving member moves with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment.

As shown schematically in FIGURES 2A-2B, 3A-3G, 4A-4H, 5, 6, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 17A-17B, a component/system C for a vehicle interior is provided; the component/system may comprise a base providing an opening and a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position covering the opening and an open position uncovering the opening and a support configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position and a mechanism may comprise a cam connected with the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position through the rotation of the cam. The mechanism is connected with the support to drive movement of the support between the lowered position and the raised position; the support is kept connected with the mechanism and kept at the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position; the cover is kept connected with the mechanism and kept at the open position when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position. The support may comprise a bracket; the bracket may comprise a groove, the mechanism may comprise a linkage mechanism; the linkage mechanism may comprise a pin; the bracket is kept at the raised position and moves between the lowered position and the raised position in response to the position of the pin in the groove. The groove may have a straight segment and an arc segment connected with each other; the center of the arc segment is coincident with an axis of the pin; the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position when the pin moves in the straight segment; the bracket is kept at the raised position when the pin moves in the arc segment. The base may comprise a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening for passage of the pin; the rectangular opening covers a travel path of the straight segment when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening is aligned with the arc segment when the bracket is at the raised position. The linkage mechanism may comprise a gear set connecting the pin and the cam to drive the rotation of the pin and the cam through the rotation of the gear set. The component may comprise a motor to drive a gear set of the mechanism; the gear set of the mechanism is configured to asynchronously drive movement of the cover and movement of the support. The mechanism may comprise a cover mechanism to drive movement of the cover and a support mechanism to drive movement of the support. The component may comprise a motor to drive a gear set of the mechanism; the gear set of the mechanism is configured to alternately drive movement of the cover through the cover mechanism and movement of the support through the support mechanism. The component may comprise a switch to actuate movement of the cover from the closed position to the open position. The component may comprise a switch to actuate movement of the support from the lowered position to the raised position. The component may comprise a control system to operate the mechanism and a sensor to detect presence of a device; so that the sensor provides a signal to the control system for the mechanism to move the support from the raised position to the lowered position upon detection of the device.

Exemplary Embodiments -C

According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in the FIGURES, a system/component for holding a mobile device in a vehicle interior may be provided. The system/component may comprise a base providing an opening with a cover configured to move (between closed position and open position) and a support configured to move (between raised position and lowered position) and a mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a cam/follower and/or linkage; the mechanism may comprise a cover mechanism and a support mechanism; the mechanism may comprise a gear set operated by a motor; the mechanism may be actuated by a switch. The mechanism (with single motor) may be configured to move the cover independently of the support. The support may maintain the raised position when the cover is opened/closed; the cover may maintain the open position when the support is lowered/raised. A sensor may detect position of the cover and/or presence of a mobile device. The component may comprise wireless charger for the mobile device.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in the FIGURES, a system/component shown as a mobile device holder/charger C may comprise a cam transmission kinematic pair comprising a cam; the cam may comprise a cone that may rotate around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone, the track groove may be matched with a moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis, and the central axis intersects and is not perpendicular to the directional axis. In the vehicle interior trim comprising the cam transmission kinematic pair according to the present invention, a bracket is kept connected with a linkage mechanism and at a raised position when a cover moves between a closed position and an open position; the cover is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and at the open position when the bracket moves between a lowered position and the raised position. In the cam transmission kinematic pair according to the present invention, the track groove may drive the moving member to be movable along the directional axis intersecting and not perpendicular to the central axis of the cam. In the vehicle interior trim according to the present invention, the linkage mechanism may drive the cover and the bracket independently while being kept connected.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in the FIGURES, a system/component shown as a mobile device holder/charger C may comprise a cam transmission kinematic pair comprising a cam a cam and a moving member/follower; the cam may comprise a cone that may rotate around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone, the track groove is matched with the moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis, and the central axis intersects and is not perpendicular to the directional axis. According to an exemplary embodiment, the moving member may have a shaft pin engaged with the track groove, and the moving member is kept stationary in response to the position of the shaft pin in the track groove or moves with the rotation of the cam. According to an exemplary embodiment, the track groove may comprise a circular arc segment located at the same conical height of the cone and an extension segment extending from the circular arc segment and varying over the conical height. According to an exemplary embodiment, the center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis, and the moving member is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment. According to an exemplary embodiment, the moving member moves with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a system/component may comprise a mechanism comprising a cam transmission kinematic pair/arrangement; the system/component may comprise a base providing an opening; a cover providing the moving member moving relative to the base along the directional axis between a closed position covering the opening and an open position fully uncovering the opening; a bracket moving relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position; and a linkage mechanism comprising the cam connected with the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position through the rotation of the cam around the central axis, the linkage mechanism is connected with the bracket to drive movement of the bracket between the lowered position and the raised position; the bracket is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and kept at the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position; the cover is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and kept at the open position when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position. According to an exemplary embodiment, the bracket may comprise a groove, the linkage mechanism may have a shaft pin, and the bracket is kept at the raised position and moves between the lowered position and the raised position in response to the position of the shaft pin in the groove. According to an exemplary embodiment, the groove may have a straight segment and an arc segment connected with each other, the center of the arc segment is coincident with an axis of the shaft pin; the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position when the shaft pin moves in the straight segment; the bracket is kept at the raised position when the shaft pin moves in the arc segment. According to an exemplary embodiment, the base may comprise a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening communicated with each other for passage of the shaft pin therethrough; the rectangular opening covers a travel path of the straight segment when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening is aligned with the arc segment when the bracket is at the raised position.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the linkage mechanism may comprise a gear set connecting the shaft pin and the cam to simultaneously drive the rotation of the shaft pin and the cam through the rotation of the gear set.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the gear set may comprise a first driven gear, a first transmission gear, a second driven gear, a driving gear and a second transmission gear, the pin shaft is connected with the first driven gear to respond to the rotation of the first driven gear, the cam is connected with the second driven gear to respond to the rotation of the second driven gear, the first transmission gear is connected with the second driven gear and the driving gear, the second transmission gear is connected with the first driven gear and the driving gear, and the central axis of the cam is coincident with the axis of the second driven gear.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a system/component may comprise a mechanism comprising a cam transmission kinematic pair/arrangement in which the track groove may drive the moving member to be movable along the directional axis intersecting and not perpendicular to the central axis of the cam; the linkage mechanism may drive the cover and the bracket independently while being kept connected. The cam transmission kinematic pair may comprise a cam and a moving member; the cam may comprise a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone; the track groove is matched with the moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis, and the central axis may intersect and may not be perpendicular to the directional axis; the moving member may comprise a shaft pin engaged with the track groove, and the moving member is kept stationary in response to the position of the shaft pin in the track groove or may move with the of the cam; the track groove may comprise a circular arc segment located at the same conical height of the cone and an extension segment extending from the circular arc segment and varying over the conical height; the center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis, and the moving member is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment; the moving member may move with rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a vehicle interior trim component may comprise the cam transmission kinematic pair, a base providing an opening, a cover providing a moving member moving relative to the base along a directional axis between a closed position covering the opening and an open position fully uncovering the opening, a bracket configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position and a linkage mechanism comprising the cam connected with the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position through the rotation of the cam around the central axis; the linkage mechanism is connected with the bracket to drive movement of the bracket between the lowered position and the raised position; the bracket is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and kept at the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position; the cover is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and kept at the open position when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the bracket may comprise a groove, the linkage mechanism may comprise a shaft pin, and the bracket is kept at the raised position and move between the lowered position and the raised position in response to the position of the shaft pin in the groove; the groove may have a straight segment and an arc segment connected with each other, the center of the arc segment is coincident with an axis of the shaft pin; the bracket may move between the lowered position and the raised position when the shaft pin moves in the straight segment; the bracket is kept at the raised position when the shaft pin moves in the arc segment; the base may comprise a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening communicated with each other for passage of the shaft pin therethrough; the rectangular opening may cover a travel path of the straight segment when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position; the arcuate opening is aligned with the arc segment when the bracket is at the raised position; the linkage mechanism may comprise a gear set connecting the shaft pin and the cam to drive the rotation of the shaft pin and the cam through the rotation of the gear set.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a system/component may comprise a mechanism providing a cam transmission kinematic pair/arrangement. The system/component may provide that a device such as a mobile phone is stored on a lifting bracket and is covered by a cover body so that space in the vehicle interior may be more effectively utilized and with an attractive appearance and a high freedom degree. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system component with mechanism may be configured to be actuated by a single motor so as to provide a potential cost reduction (in comparison to mechanism/mechanisms that may require multiple motors) .

* * *

It is important to note that the present inventions (e.g. inventive concepts, etc. ) have been described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document according to exemplary embodiments; the embodiments of the present inventions are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present inventions. The construction and/or arrangement of the elements of the inventive concepts embodied in the present inventions as described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES is illustrative only. Although exemplary embodiments of the present inventions have been described in detail in the present patent document, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that equivalents, modifications, variations, etc. of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments and alternative embodiments are possible and contemplated as being within the scope of the present inventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc. ) is intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. It should also be noted that various/other modifications, variations, substitutions, equivalents, changes, omissions, etc. may be made in the configuration and/or arrangement of the exemplary embodiments (e.g. in concept, design, structure, apparatus, form, assembly, construction, means, function, system, process/method, steps, sequence of process/method steps, operation, operating conditions, performance, materials, composition, combination, etc. ) without departing from the scope of the present inventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc. ) is intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. The scope of the present inventions is not intended to be limited to the subject matter (e.g. details, structure, functions, materials, acts, steps, sequence, system, result, etc. ) described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document. It is contemplated that the claims of the present patent document will be construed properly to cover the complete scope of the subject matter of the present inventions (e.g. including any and all such modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc. ) ; it is to be understood that the terminology used in the present patent document is for the purpose of providing a description of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments rather than as a limitation on the scope of the present inventions.

It is also important to note that according to exemplary embodiments the present inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. as implemented and/or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc. ) or may comprise any other applicable technology (present and/or future) with suitability and/or capability to perform the functions and processes/operations described in the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES. All such technology (e.g. as implemented in embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc. ) is considered to be within the scope of the present inventions of the present patent document.

Claims

A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a base providing an opening;

a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position covering the opening and an open position;

a support configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position; and

a mechanism comprising a cam configured to engage the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position by rotation at the cam;

wherein the mechanism is configured to engage with the support to drive movement of the support between the lowered position and the raised position;

wherein the support is configured with the mechanism to maintain the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position;

wherein the cover is configured with the mechanism and to maintain the open position when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the support comprises a bracket.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a linkage.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a cam mechanism.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a linkage mechanism.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a follower.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the support comprises a groove.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a follower for the cam.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a groove and a pin; wherein the support is configured to be maintained at the raised position and is configured to move between the lowered position and the raised position in response to position of the pin in the groove.
The component of Claim 9 wherein the groove comprises a straight segment connected with an arc segment.
The component of Claim 10 wherein the support is configured to move between the lowered position and the raised position when the pin moves in the straight segment.
The component of Claim 10 wherein the support is maintained at the raised position when the pin moves in the arc segment.
The component of Claim 10 wherein a center of the arc segment is coincident with an axis of the pin of the mechanism.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the opening of the base is configured for a mobile device.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a follower pin for a groove for the support comprising an arcuate segment and a straight segment; wherein the base comprises a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening for passage of the follower pin of the mechanism; wherein the rectangular opening is configured to cover a travel path of the straight segment when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position; wherein the arcuate opening is configured for alignment with the arc segment when the support is at the raised position.
The component of Claim 1 further comprising a motor with a shaft configured to engage a gear set of the mechanism; wherein the gear set of the mechanism is configured to asynchronously drive movement of the cover and movement of the support.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a gear set connecting a follower pin.
The component of Claim 1 further comprising a motor configured to actuate the mechanism to alternately drive movement of the cover and movement of the support.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the support comprises a platform.
The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a door; and further comprising at least one sensor to detect position of the door.
The component of Claim 1 comprising a sensor to detect presence of a mobile device.
The component of Claim 1 comprising a holder for a mobile device.
The component of Claim 1 configured to comprise a wireless charger for a mobile device.
A component for a vehicle interior configured for a device comprising:

(a) a base;

(b) a support within the base configured for the device and to move between a raised position and a lowered position; and

(c) a cover configured to move between a closed position to cover an opening and an open position for the opening;

(d) a mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position;

wherein the cover is configured to prevent access to the support when the cover is in the closed position;

wherein the cover is configured to provide access to the support when the cover is in the open position.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism is configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism comprises a cam mechanism.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism comprises a gear set.
The component of Claim 24 further comprising a motor configured to actuate the mechanism.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism comprises (1) a support mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position and (2) a cover mechanism configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position.
The component of Claim 29 further comprising a motor configured to actuate comprises (1) the support mechanism configured to move the support between the raised and lowered position and (2) the cover mechanism configured to move the cover between the closed position and open position.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the support is configured to be lowered and raised within the base.
The component of Claim 24 further comprising a sensor configured to detect a mobile device at the support and to send a signal to the mechanism to move the support toward the lowered position.
The component of Claim 32 wherein the mechanism is configured to hold the support in the lowered position for a duration of time after removal from a mobile device from the support.
The component of Claim 32 wherein the sensor comprises an infrared sensor.
The component of Claim 24 further comprising a sensor configured to detect a presence of a mobile device; wherein the sensor is configured to send a signal to the mechanism to move the support toward the lowered position when the sensor senses the presence of the mobile device.
The component of Claim 35 wherein the mechanism is configured to hold the support in the lowered position for a duration of time after the sensor senses absence of the mobile device.
The component of Claim 35 wherein the mechanism is configured to move the support toward the raised position after a duration of time after the sensor senses absence of the mobile device.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism is configured to coordinate movement of the support and the cover.
The component of Claim 38 wherein the mechanism is actuated by a single motor to alternate movement of the support and movement of the cover.
The component of Claim 38 wherein the mechanism is configured to asynchronously move the support along a path and to move the cover along a path.
The component of Claim 40 wherein the mechanism comprises a cam and a follower.
The component of Claim 40 wherein the follower comprises a pin coupled to the support.
The component of Claim 42 wherein the mechanism further comprises a gear set configured to move the pin to move the support.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism comprises a cam coupled to the cover.
The component of Claim 44 wherein the mechanism further comprises a gear set configured to move the cam to move the cover.
The component of Claim 45 wherein the gear set is operated by a single motor.
The component of Claim 24 wherein the mechanism comprises a pin coupled to the support and a cam coupled to the cover and a gear set; wherein the gear set is configured to move the pin and the cam to alternate movement of the support and movement of the cover.
The component of Claim 24 further comprising a wireless charging system for the device.
The component of Claim 24 further comprising a charger configured to provide wireless charging capability for the device when the support is in the lowered position.
The component of Claim 24 comprising at least one of (a) a console; (b) a floor console; (c) a tunnel console; (d) an armrest; (e) an instrument panel; (f) a door; (g) a door panel.
A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a cam mechanism comprising a cam and a follower;

wherein the cam comprises a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove on the cone;

wherein the track groove is configured to drive the follower along a directional axis;

wherein the central axis intersects the directional axis in a direction non-perpendicular to the directional axis.
The component of Claim 51 wherein the follower comprises a shaft pin configured to engage the track groove; and wherein the follower is configured to remain stationary as the shaft pin moves in the track groove and/or moves with the rotation of the cam.
The component of Claim 51 wherein the track groove comprises an arc segment and an extension segment.
The component of Claim 53 wherein the arc segment is located at a conical height of the cone.
The component of Claim 53 wherein the extension segment extends from the arc segment.
The component of Claim 55 wherein the extension segment varies along the conical height.
The component of Claim 53 wherein the arc segment comprises a circular arc segment.
The component of Claim 57 wherein the center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis; and wherein the follower is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment.
The component of Claim 53 wherein the follower moves with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment.
The component of Claim 51 wherein the follower comprises a moving member.
The component of Claim 51 wherein the cam mechanism comprises a transmission kinematic pair.
The component of Claim 51 comprising a holder for a mobile device.
A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a cam transmission kinematic pair comprising a cam and a moving member;

wherein the cam comprises a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone;

wherein the track groove is matched with the moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis and the central axis intersects and is not perpendicular to the directional axis.
The component of Claim 63 wherein the moving member comprises a pin engaged with the track groove; and wherein the moving member is kept stationary in response to the position of the shaft pin in the track groove or moves with the rotation of the cam.
The component of Claim 64wherein the track groove comprises a circular arc segment located at the same conical height of the cone and an extension segment extending from the circular arc segment and varying over the conical height.
The component of Claim 65 wherein the center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis; and wherein the moving member is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment.
The component of Claim 65 wherein the moving member moves with the rotation of the cam when the pin moves within the extension segment.
A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a base providing an opening;

a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position covering the opening and an open position uncovering the opening;

a support configured to move relative to the base between a lowered position and a raised position; and

a mechanism comprising a cam connected with the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position through the rotation of the cam;

wherein the mechanism is connected with the support to drive movement of the support between the lowered position and the raised position;

wherein the support is kept connected with the mechanism and kept at the raised position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position;

wherein the cover is kept connected with the mechanism and kept at the open position when the support moves between the lowered position and the raised position.
The component of Claim 68wherein the support comprises a bracket; wherein the bracket comprises a groove, wherein the mechanism comprises a linkage mechanism; wherein the linkage mechanism comprises a pin; and wherein the bracket is kept at the raised position and moves between the lowered position and the raised position in response to the position of the pin in the groove.
The component of Claim 69 wherein the groove has a straight segment and an arc segment connected with each other; wherein the center of the arc segment is coincident with an axis of the pin; wherein the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position when the pin moves in the straight segment; wherein the bracket is kept at the raised position when the pin moves in the arc segment.
The component of Claim 70 wherein the base comprises a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening for passage of the pin; wherein the rectangular opening covers a travel path of the straight segment when the bracket moves between the lowered position and the raised position; wherein the arcuate opening is aligned with the arc segment when the bracket is at the raised position.
The component of Claim 70wherein the linkage mechanism further comprises a gear set connecting the pin and the cam to drive the rotation of the pin and the cam through the rotation of the gear set.
The component of Claim 68 further comprising a motor to drive a gear set of the mechanism; wherein the gear set of the mechanism is configured to asynchronously drive movement of the cover and movement of the support.
The component of Claim 68 wherein the mechanism comprises a cover mechanism to drive movement of the cover and a support mechanism to drive movement of the support.
The component of Claim 74further comprising a motor to drive a gear set of the mechanism; wherein the gear set of the mechanism is configured to alternately drive movement of the cover through the cover mechanism and movement of the support through the support mechanism.
The component of Claim 68 further comprising a switch to actuate movement of the cover from the closed position to the open position.
The component of Claim 68 further comprising a switch to actuate movement of the support from the lowered position to the raised position.
The component of Claim 68 further comprising a control system to operate the mechanism and a sensor to detect presence of a device; so that the sensor provides a signal to the control system for the mechanism to move the support from the raised position to the lowered position upon detection of the device.
A cam transmission kinematic pair, comprising a cam and a moving member, wherein the cam comprises a cone rotating around a central axis and a track groove located on the cone, the track groove is matched with the moving member to drive the moving member to move along a directional axis, and the central axis intersects and is not perpendicular to the directional axis.
The cam transmission kinematic pair according to claim 79, wherein the moving member has a shaft pin engaged with the track groove, and the moving member is kept stationary or moves with the rotation of the cam in response to the position of the shaft pin in the track groove.
The cam transmission kinematic pair according to claim 80, wherein the track groove comprises a circular arc segment located at the same conical height of the cone and an extension segment extending from the circular arc segment and varying over the conical height.
The cam transmission kinematic pair according to claim 81, wherein the center of the circular arc segment is located on the central axis, and the moving member is kept stationary when the shaft pin moves within the circular arc segment.
The cam transmission kinematic pair according to claim 81, wherein the moving member moves with the rotation of the cam when the shaft pin moves within the extension segment.
A vehicle interior trim comprising the cam transmission kinematic pair according to any of claims 79–83, comprising:

a base providing an opening;

a cover providing the moving member and moving relative to the base along the directional axis between a closed position covering the opening and an open position fully uncovering the opening;

a bracket moving relative to the base between a low position and a high position; and

a linkage mechanism comprising the cam connected with the cover to drive movement of the cover between the closed position and the open position through the rotation of the cam around the central axis, wherein the linkage mechanism is connected with the bracket to drive movement of the bracket between the low position and the high position;

the bracket is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and kept at the high position when the cover moves between the closed position and the open position;

the cover is kept connected with the linkage mechanism and kept at the open position when the bracket moves between the low position and the high position.
The vehicle interior trim according to claim 84, wherein the bracket comprises a groove, the linkage mechanism has a shaft pin, and the bracket is kept at the high position or moves between the low position and the high position in response to the position of the shaft pin in the groove.
The vehicle interior trim according to claim 85, wherein the groove has a straight segment and an arc segment connected with each other, the center of the arc segment is coincident with an axis of the shaft pin; the bracket moves between the low position and the high position when the shaft pin moves in the straight segment; the bracket is kept at the high position when the shaft pin moves in the arc segment.
The vehicle interior trim according to claim 86, wherein the base comprises a rectangular opening and an arcuate opening interconnected with each other for passage of the shaft pin therethrough; the rectangular opening covers a travel path of the straight segment when the bracket moves between the low position and the high position; the arcuate opening is aligned with the arc segment when the bracket is at the high position.
The vehicle interior trim according to claim 85, wherein the linkage mechanism further comprises a gear set connecting the shaft pin and the cam to simultaneously drive the shaft pin and the rotation of the cam through the rotation of the gear set.