CONSOLE FOR A VEHICLE INTERIOR

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a console for a vehicle interior.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] The present application claims priority from and the benefit of and incorporates by reference in entirety of the following application: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.

62/311,755 titled "CONSOLE FOR A VEHICLE INTERIOR" filed March 22, 2016. The entirety of these applications is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth fully herein.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Vehicle storage compartments may be positioned throughout an interior of a vehicle to store cargo and other small items (e.g. an overhead console may include a storage compartment suitable for storing sunglasses, driving classes, or other items). Other storage compartments may be located within a center console, an armrest, seats, door panels, or other areas of the vehicle interior. Storage compartments may include a cover such as a sliding door configured to secure the contents of the compartment and/or hide the contents from view when closed. A conventional sliding door may (when closed) create a recess which may collect dirt and or other undesired matter. [0004] It would be advantageous to provide an improved console with storage compartment for a vehicle interior with a sliding cover or door that may provide a "flush-fit" condition at the interface between the door and compartment when the door is closed.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior. The component may comprise a base providing a storage compartment; a door coupled to the base and configured to move relative to the storage compartment between a closed position and an open position; a first rail configured to guide movement of the door relative to the base; and a second rail configured to guide movement of the door relative to the base. The first rail may define a first path of movement for the door and the second rail may define a second path of movement for the door different from the first path. The first rail and the second rail may be coupled to a first wall of the base. The door may comprise a first portion and a second portion; the first portion of the door may be configured to move with respect to the second portion of the door as the door moves between the closed position and a released position. The first rail may be configured to guide movement of the first portion of the door relative to the second portion of the door. The second rail may be configured to guide movement of the second portion of the door relative to the storage compartment. The first portion of the door may comprise a pin configured to move within the first rail to guide movement of the first portion of the door relative to the second portion of the door. The second portion of the door may comprise at least one rib configured to move within the second rail to guide movement of the second portion of the door relative to the storage compartment. At least one of (a) the first rail, (b) the second rail may comprise a track configured to guide movement of the door relative to the base. The base may provide an edge configured to be engaged with the first portion of the door. An interface may be formed between an edge of the base and the door. The door may be configured to be engaged with the edge of the base when the door is in the closed position. The interface may be formed when the edge of the base is engaged with a first portion of the door. The door may be configured to be disengaged from the edge of the base when the door is in the open position. The door may comprise an outer surface facing the vehicle interior and the base may comprise an outer surface facing the vehicle interior. The outer surface of the door and the outer surface of the base are aligned to provide a substantially continuous surface when the door is in the closed position. The outer surface of the door may comprise a first outer surface and a second outer surface. The first outer surface of the door and the second outer surface of the door are configured to align with the outer surface of the base when the door is in the closed position. The first outer surface of the door is configured to move out of alignment with the second outer surface of the door and the outer surface of the base as the door moves from the closed position to a released position. An interface may be formed at an edge of the base and the door when the outer surface of the door and the outer surface of the base are aligned.

[0006] The present invention also relates to a console for a vehicle interior. The console may comprise a base and a door coupled to the base for movement between a closed position and an open position relative to the base. The door may comprise an outer surface facing the vehicle interior and the base may comprise an outer surface facing the vehicle interior. The outer surface of the door and the outer surface of the base may be aligned to provide a substantially continuous surface when the door is in the closed position. The outer surface of the door may comprise a first outer surface and a second outer surface; the first outer surface of the door and the second outer surface of the door may be configured to align with the outer surface of the base when the door is in the closed position. The first outer surface of the door may be configured to move out of alignment with the second outer surface of the door and the outer surface of the base as the door moves from the closed position to a released position.

[0007] The present invention further relates to a component for a vehicle interior. The component may comprise a base, a door comprising a first portion and second portion coupled to the base for movement between a closed position and an open position relative to the base. The first portion of the door may be configured to move relative to the base along a first path and the second portion of the door may be configured to move relative to the base along a second path different than the first path. The base may comprise (a) a feature configured to guide movement of the first portion of the door relative to the base and relative to the second portion of the door and (b) a track configured to guide movement of the second portion of the door relative to the base. The feature may comprise at least one of (a) a recess, (b) a tab, (c) a wall, (d) an inner surface of the base.

[0008] The present invention further relates to a component for a vehicle interior. The component may comprise a base; a door coupled to the base and configured to move relative to the base; a first track configured to guide movement of the door relative to the base; and a second track configured to guide movement of the door relative to the base. The first track may comprise a first section and a second section; the second track may comprise a first section that is substantially parallel to the first section of the first track and a top section that is not aligned with any section of the first track. The door may comprise a first portion and a second portion; the top section of the second track guides movement of the first portion of the door relative to the second portion of the door. FIGURES

[0009] FIGURE 1 A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] FIGURE IB is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle interior with a floor console according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] FIGURE 1C is a schematic perspective cut-away view of a vehicle with a vehicle interior providing a floor console with a door/cover in a closed position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIGURE ID is a schematic perspective cut-away view of a vehicle with a vehicle interior providing a floor console with a door/cover in an opened position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIGURES 2A to 2C are schematic perspective views of a console with a door moving from a closed position through an intermediate position to an opened position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 3 A is a schematic perspective view of a console with the door/cover in a closed position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIGURE 3B is a schematic perspective view of the door/cover and the console of FIGURE 3 A according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURE 3C is a schematic perspective view of a console with a door/cover in a closed position according to a conventional embodiment.

[0017] FIGURE 3D is a schematic perspective view of the door/cover and the console of FIGURE 3C according to an exemplary embodiment. [0018] FIGURE 4A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURE 4B is a schematic cross-section view of a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIGURES 5 A to 5E are schematic partial cross-section views of the console with a track configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIGURES 6A to 6C are schematic partial cross-section views of the console with the track configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURE 7A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURE 7B is a schematic cross-section view of a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURES 8A to 8E are schematic partial cross-section views of the console with a track configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURES 9A to 6C are schematic partial cross-section views of the console with the track configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION

[0026] Referring to FIGURES 1 A and IB, a vehicle V is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment including an interior I with instrument panel IP and floor console FC; the vehicle also provides seats S as shown schematically. The floor console FC provides an armrest as well as a storage compartment. The floor console FC comprises a door 12 (e.g. cover for storage compartment); sliding of the door 12 facilitates access to the storage compartment (e.g. by opening and/or closing the door). According to an exemplary embodiment, the door 12 may be a tambour door. As shown schematically in FIGURES 1C and ID according to an exemplary embodiment, the floor console FC comprises a base 10 to support the door 12 at the closed position (e.g. with storage compartment covered) and to contain the door 12 at the opened position (e.g. storage compartment uncovered). FIGURE 1C illustrates the door 12 in the closed positon and FIGURE ID illustrates the door 12 in the opened position.

[0027] As shown schematically in FIGURE 2A, the floor console FC may comprises a base 10 and a door 12 according to an exemplary embodiment. The door 10 may comprise a handle H, which may be used to move or slide the door 12. Force may be applied on the handle H by an occupant of the vehicle V to move or slide the door 12. FIGURE 2A illustrates the door 12 in a closed position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] As shown schematically in FIGURE 2A and 2B, the base 10 of the floor console FC provides a storage compartment 100 (shown in FIGURE 2B), which may store items, according to an exemplary embodiment. The door 12 is coupled to the base 10 to move or slide relative to the storage compartment 100 between the opened position and the closed position according to an exemplary embodiment. The closed position covers and conceals a storage compartment 100. A rear portion of the door 12 opposite the handle H may be flush against the base 10 creating a flush-fit interface F. That is, the door 12 is substantially flush or substantially continuous with the base 10, and the door 12 in the closed position, matches any contours or flat portions of the base 10. The rear portion of the door 12 may be level or even with the base 10 in the closed position due to the flush-fit interface F according to an exemplary embodiment. The door 12 may appear relatively similar to the base 10. According to an exemplary embodiment, the base 10 may comprise a vinyl or leather finish; the door 12 may also comprises a vinyl or leather finish so that the door 12 appears aesthetically similar to the base 10.

[0029] As shown schematically in FIGURE 2B, when an occupant of the vehicle V applies a force on the handle H to move the door 12 from the closed position to an opened position, the door 12 moves or slides from the closed position to an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment. FIGURE 2B illustrates the intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment. As the door 12 moves or slides from the closed position, the motion of the door 12 begins to reveal the storage compartment 100. Furthermore, the movement of the door 12 out of the closed position causes a gap G to appear at the rear of the door 12 in the intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] As shown schematically in FIGURE 2C, the door 12 is positioned in the opened position according to an exemplary embodiment. The door 12 may move or slide to the opened position either due to force applied by an occupant, or another force, such as a force provided by a spring. At the opened position, the handle H at the front of the door 12 may stop the door 12 from continued sliding by, for example, contacting the base 10. The door 12 is hidden from view by being stowed within the base 10. In the opened position, more of the storage compartment 100 is revealed than when the door 12 is in the intermediate position. [0031] As shown schematically in FIGURES 3A and 3B, the door 12 is shown in the closed position, and a rear end of the door 12 and an edge trim of base 10 form the flush-fit interface F according to an exemplary embodiment. The door 12 may include an outer surface or a top surface facing the vehicle interior I, and the base 10 may include an outer surface or a top surface also facing the vehicle interior. The flush-fit interface F may cause the top surface of the rear portion of the door 12 and the top surface of the base 10 to align such that the top surface of the door 12 and the top surface of the base 10 are substantially level or even (e.g. a substantially continuous surface). When in the closed position, a first outer surface corresponding to a first portion of the door 12 and a second outer surface corresponding to a second portion of the door 12 may be aligned with the outer surface of the base. When the door 12 moves out of the closed position, the first outer surface of the door 12 moves out of alignment with the second outer surface of the door 12 and the outer surface of the base.

[0032] The flush-fit interface F is a significant improvement over a door 22 shown in FIGURES 3C and 3D, which leaves a visual gap or recess R between the door 22 and a base 20. As a result of the visual gap or recess R, dirt or other undesired matter may collect in the recess R.

[0033] Referring to FIGURE 4A, the floor console comprises a base 10, a door 12, a track system 16, and a rear panel 14.

[0034] As shown schematically in FIGURE 4A, the base 10 comprises at least two opposing walls that provide a storage compartment 100, and the base 10 may cover the track system 16. The base 10 includes an opening revealing the storage compartment 100, and the door 12 slides relative to the storage compartment 100 along the track system 16. The door 12 reveals or covers the storage compartment 100 when the door 12 is in the opened position or the closed position, respectively. [0035] The door 12 comprises a plurality of ribs 124 and a guide 122 according to an exemplary embodiment. Protrusions 126 are provided at both ends of each rib 124; a protrusion or pin 128 is provided at both ends of the guide 122. The door 12 may comprise a flexible section 123, which may be a cushion or pad, covering the ribs 124 and the guide 122. Furthermore, the door 12 may comprise a cover layer 127 that provides a decorative cover for the door 12, and the cover layer 127 may also provide an additional layer of cushion. The door 12 may also comprise tips 125 that engage a release at the front of the base 10 to hold the door 12 in the closed position. An occupant of the vehicle may activate the handle H causing the releases to disengage from the tips 125, thereby allowing the door 12 to move to a released position. In addition, the door 12 may comprise hooks 129 that engage the base 10 when the door 12 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the hooks 129 may assist to create the flush-fit interface F.

[0036] The panel 14 may be attached to the rear surface of the base 10 to form a rear face of the floor console FC. In some embodiments, the panel 14 and the base 10 are formed from the same mold. According to an exemplary embodiment, the panel 14 may be attached to the base 10 by means of clasps 142 that are configured to engage mating connectors formed on the base 10. The panel 14 may also include a series of tracks 144 that may guide the hooks 129 as the door 12 moves between the opened position and the closed position.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, the track system 16 may comprise two rails 160, one or both rails 160 may include a first track 162 and a second track 164, and each of the first and second tracks 162, 164 are configured to guide movement of the door 12 relative to the base 10. The door 12 slides within the track system 16 when sliding between the opened position and the closed position. The rails 160 may have a C-shaped cross-section and may be coupled to the side panels of the base 10 or integrally formed within the slide panels of the base 10. [0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, The track 162 may comprise a substantially horizontal track section that extends parallel to the top surface of the base 10 in a region near the opening, a vertical track section that extends substantially parallel to panel 14, and a curved track section that connects the horizontal section to the vertical section.

[0039] As shown schematically in FIGURE 4B, the protrusions 126 of the ribs 124 and the tips 125 engage and slide within the first track 162, whereas the protrusions 128 of the guide 122 may engage and slide within the second track 164. The cushion 123 of the door 12 enables the door 12 to flex or bend to accommodate a different path that the guide 122 takes as the door 12 slides between the opened and closed positions.

[0040] As shown schematically in FIGURE 4B and 5 A through 5E, a path of a rear portion 12a (e.g. the non-flexible portion where the guide 122 is attached) of the door 12 is different from a path of a remaining portion 12b of the door 12 (e.g. the portion of the door made with parallel ribs 124). According to an exemplary embodiment, the rail 160 or the first track 162 may guide movement of the first portion 12a of the door 12 relative to the second portion 12b of the door 12, and the rail 160 or the second track 164 is configured to guide movement the second portion 12b of the door 12 relative to the storage compartment 100. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second portion 12b of the door 12 may include the protrusion 128 that moves within the rail 160 to guide movement of the second portion 12b of the door 12 relative to the first portion 12a of the door 12. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second portion 12b of the door 12 may include the ribs 124 configured to move within the rail 160 to guide movement of the second portion 12b of the door 12 relative to the storage compartment 100. According to another exemplary embodiment, the first portion 12a of the door 12 comprises the protrusion 128, and the second portion 12b of the door 12 comprises the ribs 124. [0041] As shown schematically in FIGURE 4B, the first track 162 substantially follows the contour of the rails 160. Furthermore, the first track 162 extends farther forward toward the front of the base 10 than the second track 164. The first track 162 extends substantially to the forward extending position of the door 12 when the door 12 is in the closed position. In contrast, the second track 164 includes a substantially vertical bottom section and a curved top section. The substantially vertical bottom section of the second track 164 follows the contour of the rails 160, but the curved top section of the second track 164 does not. Instead, the curved top section of the second track 164 bends upward away from the curved contour of the rails 160 and toward the top surface of the base 10. The protrusions 128 rest in a recess at the top of the second track 164 when the door 12 is in the closed position. According to an exemplary embodiment, the curved top section of the second track 164 pushes the guide 122 upward, which in turn, pushes the rear portion 12a of the door 12 upward, thereby creating the flush-fit interface F. According to an exemplary embodiment, the curved top section guides movement of the rear portion 12a of the door 12 relative to the front portion 12a of the door 12.

[0042] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5A and 6A, the door 12 is shown in the closed position according to an exemplary embodiment. The hook 129 engages the top of the base 10, and the protrusions 128 of the guide 122 are resting in the recess at the top of the second track 164. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown in FIGURES 5 A and 5B, because the guide 122 is being pushed upward by the curved top portion of the second track 164, the guide 122 pushes upward the rear portion 12a of the door 12 upward, thereby generating the flush-fit interface F. In addition, like FIGURE 4 A, FIGURE 5 A schematically shows that the protrusions 126 of the ribs 124 and the tip 125 are engaging the first track 162 [0043] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5B and 6B, the door 12 begins movement away from the closed position and moves into a released position. The tip 125 disengages from a release holding the door 12 in the closed position in response to, for example, an occupant engaging a latch on the handle H. As the door 12 begins rearward sliding to the released position, the protrusions 128 of the guide 122 disengage from the recess at the top of the second track 164. According to an exemplary embodiment, because the guide 122 may move downward by the curved top portion of the second track 164 in the released position, the guide 122 and a first portion 12a of the door 12, which may be a non-flexible portion, follow a first path thereby generating a gap G. The gap G may occur as a result of the first portion 12a disengaging from an edge of the base 10. The first portion 12a moves with respect to the second portion 12b, and the first portion 12 may bend like a hinge at a bendable portion of the door 12. In contrast, the protrusions 126 and a second portion 12b of the door 12 slide within the first track 162 and follow a second path. The second path may substantially correspond with and be defined by the first track 162, and the first path may substantially correspond with and be defined by the second track 164; the first path may also be different from the second path.

[0044] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5C and 6C, the door 12 continues movement away from the closed position. As the door 12 continues rearward sliding, the protrusions 128 of the guide 122 continue the downward path (i.e. first path) caused by the curved top portion of the second track 164, and the gap G may widen. The widened gap G in FIGURE 5C may allow the rear portion 12a of the door to move below a rear lip of the base 10 so that the door 12 may continue sliding. The protrusions 126 and a second portion 12b of the door 12 continue to slide within the first track 162 and follow the second path. [0045] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5D, the door 12 continues movement away from the closed position; the protrusion 128 exits from the curved top portion of the second track 164 and slides within the substantially vertical portion of the second track 164. Protrusion 128, protrusions 126, first portion 12a of the door 12, and the second portion 12b of the door 12 may all move along the same path. More specifically, the second portion 12b of the door 12 may slide around a curved portion of the first track 162. The first path and the second path may converge at the intermediate position illustrated by FIGURE 5D.

[0046] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5E, the door 12 is in the open position; handle H at the first portion 12b of the door 12 may engage an edge of the base 10 at the flush-fit interface F to stop the sliding movement of the door; the door 12 is substantially vertical and substantially concealed within the base 10.

[0047] Referring to FIGURE 7A, the floor console FC comprises a base 30, a door 32, a track system 36, and a rear panel 34.

[0048] The base 30 comprises at least two opposing walls that provide a storage compartment 300, and the base 30 may cover the track system 36. As shown schematically in FIGURE 7A, the base 30 according to an exemplary embodiment includes an opening revealing the storage compartment 300, and the door 32 slides relative to the storage compartment along the track system 36. The door 32 reveals or covers the storage compartment 300 when the door 12 is in the opened position or the closed position, respectively.

[0049] As shown schematically, the door 32 comprises a plurality of ribs 324 and a guide 322 according to an exemplary embodiment. Protrusions 326 are provided at both ends of each rib 324. The door 32 also comprises a guide 322. The door 32 may comprises a flexible section 323, which may be a cushion or pad, covering the ribs 324. Furthermore, the door 32 may comprises a cover layer 327 that provides a decorative cover for the door 32, and the cover layer 327 may also provide an additional layer of cushion. The door 32 may also comprise tips 325 that engage a hook at the front of the base 30 to hold the door 32 in the closed position. An occupant may activate a portion of the handle H that causes the hooks to disengage from the tips 325, thereby allowing the door 32 to slide from the closed position.

[0050] As shown schematically in FIGURES 7A and 7B, the panel 34 may be attached to the rear surface of the base 30 to form a rear face of the floor console FC according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, the panel 34 and the base 30 are formed from the same mold. According to an exemplary embodiment, the panel 34 is attached to the base 30 by means of clasps 342 that are configured to engage mating connectors formed on the base 30. The panel 34 may also include a recess 344 at the top of the panel 34, and the recess 344 may provide a latch for the guide 322 as the door 32 moves toward the closed position. The recess 344 may be formed within a curved lip portion that is connected to the panel 34. Protrusions of the guide 322 may engage the curved lip portion, and an extending member of the guide 322 may fit within the recess when the door 32 is positioned with closed position.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 7A and 7B, the track system 36 may comprise two rails 360, and each track may include a track 362. The door 32 slides within the track system 36 when sliding between the opened position and the closed position. The rails 360 may have a C-shaped cross-section and may be coupled to the side panels of the base 30 or integrally formed within the slide panels of the base 30. As shown schematically in FIGURE 7B, the protrusions 326 of the ribs 324 and the tips 325 engage and slide within the track 362. [0052] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 7B, the track 362 may comprise a substantially horizontal track section that extends parallel to the top surface of the base 30 in a region near the opening, a vertical track section that extends substantially parallel to panel 34, and a curved track section that connects the horizontal section to the vertical section

[0053] The guide 322 may engage the panel 34 as the door 12 slides between the closed position and the opened position. The guide 322 may also engage the recess 344 to push a rear portion of the door 32 upward to generate the flush-fit interface F. The cushion 323 of the door 32 enables the door 32 to flex or bend to accommodate a different path that the guide 322 takes as the door 32 slides between the opened and closed positions.

[0054] As shown schematically in FIGURE 7B and 8A to 8E, a path of a rear portion 32a (e.g. the non-flexible portion where the guide 322 is attached) of the door 32 may be different from a path of a remaining portion 32b of the door 32 (e.g. the portion of the door made with parallel ribs 324).

[0055] As shown schematically in FIGURE 7B, the track 362 substantially follows the contour of the rails 360. The track 362 extends substantially to the forward extending position of the door 32 when the door 32 is in the closed position.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 7B, the panel 34 and the recess 344 may have a curved profile similar to the curvature illustrated in the second track 164 of FIGURES 4-6. That is, the panel 34 may have a vertical bottom section that substantially follows the contour of the track 362, and the panel 34 may include a curved top section that bends upward away from the curved contour of the track 362. The recess 344 may have a contour that matches the curved top section of the panel 34. The curved top section of the panel 34 and the recess 344 may push the guide 322 upward, which in turn, pushes a flexible rear portion 323 of the door 12 upward, thereby creating the flush-fit interface F.

[0057] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8A and 9A, the door 32 is in the closed position. The guide 322 is resting in a cavity provided between the curved top section of the panel 34 and the recess 344. According to an exemplary embodiment, because the guide 322 is being pushed upward by the recess 344, the guide 322 pushes the rear portion of the door 32 upward, thereby generating the flush-fit interface F. In addition, like FIGURE 7B, FIGURE 8 A schematically shows that the protrusions 326 of the ribs 324 and the tip 325 are engaging the track 362

[0058] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8B and 9B, the door 32 according to an exemplary embodiment begins movement away from the closed position. The tip 325 disengages from a hook holding the door 32 in the closed position in response to, for example, an occupant engaging a latch on the handle H. As the door 32 begins rearward sliding, the guide 322 engages a feature, such as the curved top section of the panel 34. According to an exemplary

embodiment, the feature guides movement of the first portion 32a of the door relative to the base 30 and the second portion of the door 32b. FIGURES 8B and 9B schematically shows that the feature is the curved top section of the panel 34; the feature that guides movement of the first portion of the door 32a may also comprise the recess 344 in the base 32, the wall of the panel 34, an inner surface of the base 32, or a tab, or any combination of these features. According to an exemplary embodiment, because the guide 322 may move downward by the curved top portion of the panel 34, the guide 322 and a first portion 32a of the door 12, which may be a flexible portion, follow a first path thereby generating a gap G. In contrast, the protrusions 326 and a second portion 32b of the door 32 slide within the track 362 and follow a second path; the track 362 is configured to guide movement of the second portion of the door 32b relative to the base 32. The second path may substantially correspond with track 362, and the first path may substantially correspond with contour of the recess 344 and the contour of the curved top section of the panel 34.

[0059] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8C and 9C, the door 32 continues movement away from the closed position. As the door 32 continues rearward sliding, the guide 322 continues the downward path (i.e. first path) caused by the recess 344 and the curved top section of the recess 34, and the gap G may widen. The door 32 may include soft material that compresses and the door 32 may compress in response to engaging the recess 344. The protrusions 326 and a second portion 32b of the door 32 continue to slide within the track 362 and follow the second path.

[0060] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8D, the door 32 continues movement away from the closed position. The guide 322, the protrusions 326, the first portion 32a of the door 32, and the second portion 32b of the door 32 all move along the same path. That is, the first path and the second path converge after the point illustrated in FIGURE 8C. More specifically, the second portion 32b of the door 32 may slide around a curved portion of the track 362.

[0061] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8E, the door 32 is in the open position; handle H may engage a lip of the base 30 at the flush-fit interface F to stop the sliding movement of the door; the door 32 is substantially vertical and substantially concealed within the base 30.

Exemplary Embodiment

[0062] Referring to FIGURES 1 A and IB, a vehicle V is shown schematically including an interior I with instrument panel IP and floor console FC; vehicle also provides seats S. The floor console FC provides an armrest as well as a storage compartment. Floor console FC comprises a door 12 (e.g. cover for storage compartment); sliding of the door 12 facilitates access to the storage compartment (e.g. opening and/or closing the door). As shown schematically in

FIGURES 1C and ID according to an exemplary embodiment, the floor console FC comprises a base 10 to support the door 12 at the closed position (e.g. with storage compartment covered) and to contain the door 12 at the open position (e.g. storage compartment uncovered). As shown schematically in FIGURES 1C and 2A, the door 12 is in the closed position; as shown

schematically in FIGURE 2B, the door 12 is in the open position.

[0063] As shown schematically in FIGURE 2 A, the base 10 of the floor console FC provides a storage compartment 100 (e.g. as to be used to store items). See FIGURES 2B and 2C. At the closed position the door 12 blocks access to the storage compartment 100 (e.g. conceals items in the storage compartment from view). As shown schematically in FIGURE 2B, the door 12 is at an intermediate position between the closed position and the open position; the storage compartment 100 is partially exposed at an intermediate position. As shown schematically in FIGURE 2C, the door is at the open position; a handle H at the front end of the door 12 stops the door 12; the door 12 is substantially hidden from view; the storage compartment is fully exposed.

[0064] As shown schematically in FIGURES 3 A and 3B according to an exemplary

embodiment, the door 12 is at the closed position; the end of the door 12 and the edge trim of base 10 form a flush-fit interface F (e.g. the cover surface of the door 12 and the top surface of the base 10 are substantially level or even). As shown schematically in FIGURES 3 A and 3B, closure of door 12 of floor console FC provides tight closure at the interface with a flush-fit condition F (rather than a pronounced visible gap or recess) where door 12 of floor console FC meets the surrounding trim of base 10.

[0065] As shown schematically in FIGURES 3C and 3D, floor console FC comprises a base 20 and a door 22 movable to a closed position; door 22 at the closed position covers the storage compartment opening of floor console FC. The door 22 and the edge trim of base 20 form a visible gap or recess R; as indicated, dirt and/or other undesired matter may collect in recess R.

[0066] Referring to FIGURE 4A, floor console FC comprises base 10 and door 12. Base 10 provides a storage compartment 100. The floor console FC further comprises a track system 16 and a rear panel 14. Track system 16 comprises two rails 160; each rail 160 comprises a track 162 and a track 164. Door 12 comprises a series of ridges 124 and a guide 122.

[0067] Protrusions 126 are provided at both ends of each ridge 124; protrusions 128 are provided at both ends of guide 122. Door 12 also comprises a flexible section 123 (e.g. cushion, pad, etc.) covering ridges 124 and guide 122. A cover layer 127 is provided to be a decorative cover for door 12 and also a protective layer for cushion 123. See FIGURES 4A and 4B. Door 12 further comprises a handle H and tips 125 at the front and a series of hooks 129 at the rear. See

FIGURES 4 A and 4B. Panel 14 may be attached to the rear surface of base 10 to form a rear face of console FC. See FIGURES 4 A and 4B. Panel 14 may be attached to base 10 by means of corresponding clasps 142 configured to engage in mating connectors provided at the rear of base 10. See FIGURE 4A. The panel may also be molded together as part of the base. Panel 14 comprises a series of tracks 144; tracks 144 may guide the corresponding hooks 129 of door 12 as door 12 moves towards the closed position. See FIGURE 4 A. [0068] As shown schematically in FIGURES 4 A and 4B, base 10 may include at least one track system 16 configured to move door 12 between the open position and the closed position.

According to an exemplary embodiment, track system 16 comprises a rail 160 on each side wall. Rail 160 comprises a track 162 and a track 164; rail 160 may have a C-shaped cross section and may be coupled to the side panels of base 10 or integrally formed within the side panels of base 10. The parallel ridges 124 of door 12 may include protrusions 126 which engage track 162 and support the door 12; guide 122 of door 12 may include protrusions 128 which engage track 164 and guide door 12; cushion 123 of door 12 enables door 12 to flex to accommodate the contours of the opening provided in the top surface and the contour of the track system 16. See FIGURE 4B.

[0069] As shown schematically in FIGURES 4B and 5A to 5E, the path of the rear portion (e.g. the non-flexible portion where the guide 122 is attached) of door 12 is different from the path of the remaining part of door 12 (e.g. the portion of door 12 made with parallel ridges 24). Track 162 may guide and support the parallel ridges 124 of door 12; track 162 provides a substantially horizontal section that extends parallel to the top surface of base 10 where an opening is provided on the top surface of the base 10; track 162 further comprises a substantially vertical section that extends substantially parallel to panel 14. A curved section of track 162 connects the horizontal section and the vertical section. See FIGURE 4B. The parallel ridges 124 of door 12 are guided along the path defined by track 162.

[0070] As shown schematically in FIGURE 4B, track 164 that is provided to the guide 122 at the non-flexible portion of door 12. Track 164 comprises a curved top section and a substantially vertical bottom section. The top section of track 164 has a recess at the top where protrusions 128 rest at the closed position; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible" portion) of door 12 is guided along the path defined by track 164. At the closed position, the flush- fit interface F is provided between the end of door 12 and the outer surface of base 10 when guide 122 is at the top track 164. See FIGURE 4B.

[0071] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5A, door 12 is at the closed position. Hook 129 is latched on to the top of track; protrusion 128 on guide 122 is resting in the recess at the top of track 164. See also FIGURE 6A. Tip 125 at the front of door 12 rests at the front end recess of track 162. See FIGURE 5 A.

[0072] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5B, door 12 is released from the closed position. Protrusion 128 on guide 122 disengages from the recess at the top of track 164; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of door 12 moves downward parallel ridges 124 transition towards the rear of floor console FC; hook 129 is disengaged from track. See also FIGURE 6B.

[0073] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5C, protrusion 128 on guide 122 exits from the recess at the top of track 164 to allow door 12 to move towards the open position from the closed position. The generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of the door 12 moves/travels downwards. The parallel ridges 124 transition towards the rear of the floor console FC. Parallel ridges 124 remain substantially in the horizontal section of the track 162. See also FIGURE 6C.

[0074] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5D, door 12 moves towards the open position from the closed position; protrusion 128 on guide 122 exits from the curved section of track 164 and enters the vertical section of the track 164; the non-flexible portion of door 12 moves/travels downwards; parallel ridges 124 begin to enter the curve portion of track 162.

[0075] As shown schematically in FIGURE 5E, door 12 is at the open position; handle H on door 12 acts as a stop for door 12; door 12 is substantially vertical and substantially concealed within floor console FC. [0076] In FIGURE 6 A, track 162 and track 164 of the track system 16 are shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment. At the closed position, protrusion 128 rests in the recess at the top of track 164; hook 129 is latched onto the surrounding trim of base 10; the parallel ridges 124 of the door are supported by the track 162.

[0077] As shown schematically in FIGURE 6B, door 12 is released from the closed position. Protrusion 128 on guide 122 disengages from the recess at the top of track 164; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of door 12 begins to rotate downward; the parallel ridges 124 of door 12 transition towards the rear of floor console FC. See FIGURE 6B. Parallel ridges 124 remain substantially within the horizontal section of track 162; hook 129 is disengaged from track 144.

[0078] As shown schematically in FIGURE 6C, door 12 moves toward the open position from the closed position. Protrusion 128 on guide 122 exits from the recess at the top of track 164. The non-flexible portion of door 12 moves/travels downward. The parallel ridges 124 of door 12 transition towards the rear of floor console FC; the parallel ridges 124 remains substantially within the horizontal section of track 162.

[0079] Referring to FIGURE 7A, floor console FC comprises a base 30 and a door 32 with a track system 36 and a rear panel 34 as shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment. Track system 36 comprises two rails 360; each rail 360 comprises a track 362. Base 30 provides a storage compartment 300. Door 32 comprises a series of ridges 324 and a guide 322; protrusions 326 are at both ends of each ridge 324. See FIGURE 7A. Door 32 also comprises a flexible section 323 (e.g. cushion, pad, etc.) covering the ridges 324 and the non- flexible portion of door 32. See FIGURES 7A and 7B. A cover layer 327 is provided as a decorative cover for door 32 (and also a protective layer for cushion 323). See FIGURES 7A and 7B. Door 32 further comprises a handle H and tips 325 at the front of door 32. Panel 34 may be attached to the rear surface of base 30 to form a rear face of floor console FC; panel 34 may be attached to base 30 by means of corresponding clasps 342 configured to engage in mating connectors provided at the rear of base 30. See FIGURE 7A. Panel 34 comprises a recess 344 at the top; the recess 344 may provide a latch for guide 322 as door 32 moves towards the closed position. See FIGURES 7B and 8C. As shown schematically in FIGURES 7A and 7B, base 30 may include at least one track system 36 configured to guide the door 32 between open position and closed position.

[0080] According to an exemplary embodiment, track system 36 comprises a rail 360 on each side wall. Rail 360 comprises a track 362; rail 360 may have a C-shaped cross section and may be coupled to the side panels of base 30 or integrally formed within the side panels of base 30. Parallel ridges 324 of door 32 may include protrusions 326 which engage track 362 and support door 32; guide 322 of door 32 may engage with recess 344 on back panel 34 to guide door 32; cushion 323 of door 32 enables door 32 to flex and to accommodate the contours of the opening provided in the top surface and the contour of the track system 36. See FIGURE 7B.

[0081] As shown schematically in FIGURES 7B and 8A to 8E, the path of the portion (e.g. the non-flexible portion where the guide 322 is attached) of door 32 is different from the path of the remaining part of door 32 (e.g. portion of door 32 made with parallel ridges 324). Track 362 may guide and support the parallel ridges 324 of door 32; track 362 provides a substantially horizontal section that extends parallel to the top surface of base 30 where an opening is provided on the top surface of base 30; track 362 further comprises a substantially track section that extends substantially parallel to panel 34. A curved section of track 362 connects the horizontal section and the vertical section. See FIGURE 7B. Parallel ridges 324 of door 32 are guided along the path defined by track 362.

[0082] As shown schematically in FIGURE 7B, a cavity between panel 34 and rail 360 is formed. The shape of the cavity is substantially parallel to the vertical section and the curved section of track 362. Cavity is provided to the guide 322 and the generally rigid (e.g. "non- flexible") end portion of door 32. At the closed position, guide 322 rests at recess 344 located at the top of cavity; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of door 32 is guided along the path defined by cavity; flush-fit interface F is provided between the end of door 32 and the outer surface of base 30 when guide 322 is within recess 344 of panel 34. See FIGURE 7B.

[0083] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8A, door 32 is at the closed position. Guide 322 is latched on to recess 344 of panel 34. See also FIGURE 9A. Tip 325 at the front of the door 32 rests at front recess of track 362. See FIGURE 8A.

[0084] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8B, door 32 is released from the closed position. Guide 322 disengages from recess 344 at the top of cavity. The non-flexible portion of door 32 begins to move/travel downward; parallel ridges 324 of door 32 transition towards the rear of the floor console FC. See FIGURE 9B.

[0085] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8C, guide 322 exits from recess 344 to allow door 32 to move/travel towards the open position from the closed position; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of door 32 moves/travels downward; the parallel ridges 324 transition towards the rear of floor console FC. Parallel ridges 324 remain substantially in the horizontal section of track 362. See also FIGURE 9C.

[0086] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8D, door 32 moves towards the open position from the closed position; guide 322 exits from the curved section of cavity and enters the vertical section of cavity; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of door 32 moves/travels downward. The parallel ridges 324 enter the curve portion of track 362.

[0087] As shown schematically in FIGURE 8E, door 32 is at the open position. Handle H on door 32 acts as a stop for door 32; door 32 is substantially vertical and substantially concealed within floor console FC.

[0088] In FIGURE 9A, track 362 of the track system 36 is shown schematically according to an exemplary embodiment. At the closed position guide 322 is latched in recess 344 at the top of cavity; parallel ridges 324 of the door 32 are supported by track 362.

[0089] As shown schematically in FIGURE 9B, door 32 is released from the closed position; guide 122 disengages from recess 344 at the top of cavity; the generally rigid (e.g. "non- flexible") portion of door 32 turns or rotates downward. Parallel ridges 324 of door 32 transition towards the rear of floor console FC; parallel ridges 324 remains substantially within the horizontal section of track 362. See FIGURE 6B.

[0090] As shown schematically in FIGURE 9C, door 12 moves towards the open position from the closed position. Guide 322 exits from recess 344; the generally rigid (e.g. "non-flexible") portion of door 32 moves/travels downward. The parallel ridges 324 of door 32 transition towards the rear of floor console FC; parallel ridges 324 remain substantially within the horizontal section of track 362.

IRAFT PRIVILEGED/CONFIDENTIAL

* * *

[0091] It is important to note that the construction and demise arrangement of the elements of the inventive concepts and inventions as described in this application and as shown in the figures above is illustrative only. Although some embodiments of the present inventions have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. Accordingly, all such

modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present inventions.

[0092] It is important to note that the apparatus of the present inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. as implemented in present configuration) or any other applicable technology (present or future) that has the capability to perform the functions and

processes/operations indicated in the FIGURES. All such technology is considered to be within the scope of the present inventions and application.