Login| Sign Up| Help| Contact|

Patent Searching and Data


Title:
VEHICLE INTERIOR COMPONENT
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/178249
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A component for a vehicle interior is disclosed. The component may comprise a base comprising a compartment and a cover/door assembly moveable between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate/transition position with a force provided by a vehicle occupant. The component may comprise a mechanism configured to facilitate movement of the cover from the open position toward the intermediate position and from the intermediate position into a fully open position. The mechanism may be configured (e.g. designed, tuned, etc.) to provide a braking/restraining/resisting force and/or an assist/lifting/pulling force to facilitate movement of the cover in a track/guide between open/closed positions through the intermediate position so that operation is within a desired range of force/effort for the occupant. The base and/or door assembly may comprise the mechanism; the mechanism may comprise at least one spring.

Inventors:
CATLIN MICHAEL ROBERT (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2019/022079
Publication Date:
September 19, 2019
Filing Date:
March 13, 2019
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
SHANGHAI YANFENG JINQIAO AUTOMOTIVE TRIM SYTEMS CO LTD (US)
International Classes:
B60R7/04; B60N2/75; B60R7/00; B60R7/06; B60R11/00
Domestic Patent References:
WO2017196538A12017-11-16
Foreign References:
FR3000927A12014-07-18
US20110115246A12011-05-19
US20150184445A12015-07-02
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
AMIN, Himanshu S. (US)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

The invention claimed is

1. A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a base comprising a compartment; and

a cover configured to move relative to the base in a closing direction from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position;

wherein at least one of the cover or the base comprises a mechanism configured to bias the cover toward the intermediate position when the cover is in the open position.

2. The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism is configured to provide a force to move the cover from the closed position toward the intermediate position.

3. The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a spring configured to extend as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position.

4. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base comprises a guide; wherein the mechanism is configured to extend within the guide as the cover moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position.

5. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover is configured to separate from the mechanism as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position.

6. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a front edge and a rear edge; wherein the mechanism is configured to push the rear edge of the cover in the closing direction.

7. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base comprises a rear compartment configured to store the cover in the open position; wherein the mechanism is installed at the rear compartment.

8. The component of Claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a front portion and a rear portion; wherein the front portion of the cover comprises a tab; wherein the mechanism is configured to push the tab at the front portion of the cover in the closing direction.

9. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base comprises a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment and the mechanism is installed at at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

10. The component of Claim 9 wherein the mechanism comprises a tab extending from the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the cover.

11. The component of Claim 9 wherein the cover comprises a tab extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the mechanism.

12. The component of Claim 9 wherein the mechanism comprises a tab and the cover comprises a tab configured to engage the tab of the mechanism.

13. The component of Claim 9 wherein the mechanism comprises a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall.

14. The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism is configured to provide a force to oppose movement of the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position.

15. The component of Claim 1 wherein the mechanism comprises a spring configured to compress as the cover moves from the open position toward the intermediate position.

16. The component of Claim 15 wherein the cover comprises a front edge and a rear edge; wherein the rear edge of the cover is configured to extend the spring.

17. The component of Claim 1 wherein the base comprises the mechanism and wherein the cover is configured to initiate contact with the mechanism at the intermediate position as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position.

18. The component of Claim 1 wherein the component comprises a gap between the cover and the mechanism when the cover is in the closed position.

19. The component of Claim 1 wherein the component comprises at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest; and wherein the cover comprises at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind.

20. A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a base comprising a compartment; and

a cover configured for movement relative to the base from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position;

wherein at least one of the cover or the base comprises a mechanism configured to provide (a) a braking force to the cover as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) an assist force to the cover as the cover moves from the open position to the intermediate position.

21. A component for a vehicle interior comprising:

a base comprising a compartment; and

a cover configured for movement relative to the base from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position;

wherein at least one of the cover or the base comprises a mechanism configured to (a) increase a force to move the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) reduce a force to move the cover from the open position to the intermediate position.

22. A vehicle interior component for a vehicle configured to be operated by a force provided by an occupant comprising:

a base;

a cover configured for movement along a guide between a closed position and an open position to allow access into the base;

a spring mechanism configured to apply a force to the cover;

wherein the cover is configured so that movement of the cover from the open position toward the closed position comprises (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the cover and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the cover toward the closed position;

wherein the cover is configured so that movement of the cover from the closed position toward the open position comprises (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the cover toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the cover moves to the open position.

23. The component of Claim 22 wherein the cover comprises a door.

24. The component of Claim 23 wherein movement of the door from the open position comprises unlatching the door from the base.

25. The component of Claim 23 wherein movement of the door toward the closed position comprises securing the door to the base.

26. The component of Claim 23 wherein movement of the door into the open position is assisted by a mass gravity force.

27. The component of Claim 23 wherein the open position comprises a fully retracted position for the door relative to the base.

28. The component of Claim 23 wherein the open position comprises a stowed position for the door within the base.

29. The component of Claim 23 wherein the base comprises a recess configured to provide a stowed position for the door; wherein the mechanism comprises a spring at least partially within the recess and coupled to the base and to the door; and wherein the spring is configured to provide (a) a force to assist movement of the door toward the closed position as the door is moved from the stowed position and (b) a force to restrain movement of the door toward the open position as the door is moved into the stowed position.

30. The component of Claim 23 wherein the base comprises the guide.

31. The component of Claim 23 wherein the spring mechanism comprises at least one spring.

32. The component of Claim 31 wherein the spring mechanism comprises a coil spring.

33. The component of Claim 32 wherein the coil spring is coupled at one end to the base and at one end to the door.

34. The component of Claim 23 wherein the door is configured so that movement of the door comprises (a) a transition position between the open position and the closed position wherein the spring mechanism is configured to transition from engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to assist movement to disengagement from the door and (b) a transition position between the closed position and the open position wherein the spring mechanism is configured to transition from disengagement with the door to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement.

35. The component of Claim 22 wherein the cover is in a generally vertical orientation when in the open position.

36. The component of Claim 22 wherein the cover is stowed in a recess in the base when in the open position.

37. The component of Claim 22 wherein the cover is in a generally horizontal orientation when moving to the closed position.

38. The component of Claim 22 wherein the cover is in a generally horizontal position when in the closed position.

39. The component of Claim 22 wherein the guide comprises a track.

40. A vehicle interior component for a vehicle configured to be operated by a force provided by an occupant comprising:

a base;

a door assembly comprising (a) a door configured for movement along a guide between a closed position and an open position to allow access into the base and (b) a mechanism configured to apply a force to the door/cover;

wherein the door assembly is configured so that movement of the door from the open position toward the closed position comprises (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the door and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the closed position;

wherein the door assembly is configured so that movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position comprises (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the door moves to the open position.

41. The component of Claim 40 wherein the mechanism comprises a spring mechanism comprising at least one spring.

42. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door is configured for movement to a transition position between the closed position and the open position; wherein at the transition position the mechanism is configured to transition to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement.

43. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door is configured for movement to a transition position between the open position and the closed position; wherein at the transition position the mechanism is configured to transition to disengagement from the door.

44. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door is configured for movement to a transition position between the closed position and the open position; wherein at the transition position the mechanism is configured to transition from disengagement with the door to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement.

45. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door is configured for movement to a transition position between the open position and the closed position; wherein at the transition position the mechanism is configured to transition from engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to assist movement to disengagement from the door.

46. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door assembly is configured to provide (a) a transition position between the zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and the zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism as the door is moved from the open position to the closed position and (b) a transition position between the zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and the zone of movement restrained by the force from the mechanism as the door is moved from the closed position to the open position.

47. The component of Claim 40 wherein the base comprises the mechanism.

48. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door assembly is contained in the base; wherein the base comprises a recess configured to provide a stowed position for the door; wherein the mechanism comprises a spring at least partially within the recess and coupled to the base and to the door; and wherein the spring is configured to provide (a) a force to assist movement of the door between the open position and the closed position as the door is moved from the stowed position and (b) a force to restrain movement between the closed position and the open position as the door is moved into the stowed position.

49. The component of Claim 40 wherein the base comprises a console.

50. The component of Claim 40 wherein the door comprises a cover.

Description:
PATENT APPLICATION

VEHICLE INTERIOR COMPONENT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference in full the following patent application: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/642,870 titled “VEHICLE INTERIOR COMPONENT” filed March 14, 2018.

FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component.

BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known to provide a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base and a cover configured to move relative to the base from an open position to expose a compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment.

[0004] It would be advantageous to provide an improved component for a vehicle interior. It would also be advantageous to provide a component comprising a base and a cover/door configured to move relative to the base from an open position to expose a compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate/transition and with a mechanism configured to facilitate movement of the cover/door between the open position the closed position.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base comprising a compartment and a cover configured to move relative to the base in a closing direction from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position; at least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism configured to bias the cover toward the intermediate position when the cover is in the open position. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to extend as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. The base may comprise a guide; the mechanism may be configured to extend within the guide as the cover moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The cover may be configured to separate from the mechanism as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position. The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge; the mechanism may be configured to push the rear edge of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a rear compartment configured to store the cover in the open position; the mechanism may be installed at the rear compartment. The cover may comprise a front portion and a rear portion; the front portion of the cover may comprise a tab; the mechanism may be configured to push the tab at the front portion of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment and the mechanism may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The mechanism may comprise a tab extending from the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the cover. The cover may comprise a tab extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a tab and the cover may comprise a tab configured to engage the tab of the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to compress as the cover moves from the open position toward the intermediate position. The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge; the rear edge of the cover may be configured to extend the spring. The base may comprise the mechanism and the cover may be configured to initiate contact with the mechanism at the intermediate position as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position. The component may comprise a gap between the cover and the mechanism when the cover is in the closed position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest; and the cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind.

[0006] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base comprising a compartment and a cover configured for movement relative to the base from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position; at least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism configured to provide (a) a braking force to the cover as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) an assist force to the cover as the cover moves from the open position to the intermediate position.

[0007] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base comprising a compartment and a cover configured for movement relative to the base from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position; at least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism configured to (a) increase a force to move the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) reduce a force to move the cover from the open position to the intermediate position.

[0008] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component for a vehicle configured to be operated by a force provided by an occupant comprising a base and a cover configured for movement along a guide between a closed position and an open position to allow access into the base and a spring mechanism configured to apply a force to the cover; the cover may be configured so that movement of the cover from the open position toward the closed position may comprise (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the cover and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the cover toward the closed position; the cover may be configured so that movement of the cover from the closed position toward the open position may comprise (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the cover toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the cover moves to the open position. The cover may comprise a door. Movement of the door from the open position may comprise unlatching the door from the base; movement of the door toward the closed position may comprise securing the door to the base; movement of the door into the open position may be assisted by a mass gravity force. The open position may comprise a fully retracted position for the door relative to the base. The open position may comprise a stowed position for the door within the base. The base may comprise a recess configured to provide a stowed position for the door; the mechanism may comprise a spring at least partially within the recess and coupled to the base and to the door; and the spring may be configured to provide (a) a force to assist movement of the door toward the closed position as the door is moved from the stowed position and (b) a force to restrain movement of the door toward the open position as the door is moved into the stowed position. The base may comprise the guide. The spring mechanism may comprise at least one spring. The spring mechanism may comprise a coil spring. The coil spring may be coupled at one end to the base and at one end to the door. The door may be configured so that movement of the door may comprise (a) a transition position between the open position to the closed position the spring mechanism may be configured to transition from engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to assist movement to disengagement from the door and (b) a transition position between the closed position and the open position the spring mechanism may be configured to transition from disengagement with the door to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement. The cover may be in a generally vertical orientation when in the open position; the cover may be stowed in a recess in the base when in the open position; the cover may be in a generally horizontal orientation when moving to the closed position; the cover may be in a generally horizontal position when in the closed position. The guide may comprise a track.

[0009] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component for a vehicle configured to be operated by a force provided by an occupant comprising a base and a door assembly comprising (a) a door configured for movement along a guide between a closed position and an open position to allow access into the base and (b) a mechanism configured to apply a force to the door/cover; the door assembly may be configured so that movement of the door from the open position toward the closed position may comprise (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the door and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the closed position; the door assembly may be configured so that movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position may comprise (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the door moves to the open position. The mechanism may comprise a spring mechanism comprising at least one spring. The door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the closed position and the open position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement. The door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the open position and the closed position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition to disengagement from the door. The door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the closed position and the open position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition from disengagement with the door to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement.

The door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the open position and the closed position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition from engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to assist movement to disengagement from the door. The door assembly may be configured to provide (a) a transition position between the zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and the zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism as the door is moved from the open position to the closed position and (b) a transition position between the zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism the zone of movement restrained by the force from the mechanism as the door is moved from the closed position to the open position. The base may comprise the mechanism. The door assembly may be contained in the base; the base may comprise a recess configured to provide a stowed position for the door; the mechanism may comprise a spring at least partially within the recess and coupled to the base and to the door; the spring may be configured to provide (a) a force to assist movement of the door between the open position and the closed position as the door is moved from the stowed position and (b) a force to restrain movement between the closed position and the open position as the door is moved into the stowed position. The base may comprise a console. The door may comprise a cover.

[0010] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base comprising a compartment and a cover configured to move relative to the base in a closing direction from (a) an open position to expose the compartment to (b) a closed position to cover the compartment through (c) an intermediate position. At least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism configured to bias the cover toward the intermediate position when the cover is in the open position. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to extend as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. The base may comprise a guide. The mechanism may be configured to extend within the guide as the cover moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The cover may be configured to separate from the mechanism as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position.

The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The mechanism may be configured to push the rear edge of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a rear compartment configured to store the cover in the open position. The mechanism may be installed at the rear compartment. The cover may comprise a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the cover may comprise a tab. The mechanism may be configured to push the tab at the front portion of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment. The mechanism may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The mechanism may comprise a tab extending from at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the cover. The cover may comprise a tab extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a tab and the cover may comprise a tab configured to engage the tab of the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to compress as the cover moves from the open position toward the intermediate position. The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The rear edge of the cover may be configured to extend the spring. The base may comprise the mechanism. The cover may be configured to initiate contact with the mechanism at the intermediate position as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position. The component may comprise a gap between the cover and the mechanism when the cover is in the closed position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind.

[0011] The present invention also relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base comprising a compartment and a cover configured to move relative to the base in a closing direction from (a) an open position to expose the compartment to (b) a closed position to cover the compartment through (c) an intermediate position. At least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism configured to provide (a) a breaking force to the cover as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) an assist force to the cover as the cover moves from the open position to the intermediate position.

The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to extend as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. The base may comprise a guide. The mechanism may be configured to extend within the guide as the cover moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The cover may be configured to separate from the mechanism as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position. The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The mechanism may be configured to push the rear edge of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a rear compartment configured to store the cover in the open position. The mechanism may be installed at the rear compartment. The cover may comprise a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the cover may comprise a tab. The mechanism may be configured to push the tab at the front portion of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment. The mechanism may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The mechanism may comprise a tab extending from at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the cover. The cover may comprise a tab extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a tab and the cover may comprise a tab configured to engage the tab of the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to compress as the cover moves from the open position toward the intermediate position. The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The rear edge of the cover may be configured to extend the spring. The base may comprise the mechanism. The cover may be configured to initiate contact with the mechanism at the intermediate position as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position. The component may comprise a gap between the cover and the mechanism when the cover is in the closed position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind.

[0012] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior comprising a base comprising a compartment and a cover configured to move relative to the base in a closing direction from (a) an open position to expose the compartment to (b) a closed position to cover the compartment through (c) an intermediate position. At least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism configured to (a) increase a force to move the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) reduce a force to move the cover from the open position to the intermediate position. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to extend as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. The base may comprise a guide. The mechanism may be configured to extend within the guide as the cover moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. The cover may be configured to separate from the mechanism as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position.

The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The mechanism may be configured to push the rear edge of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a rear compartment configured to store the cover in the open position. The mechanism may be installed at the rear compartment. The cover may comprise a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the cover may comprise a tab. The mechanism may be configured to push the tab at the front portion of the cover in the closing direction. The base may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment. The mechanism may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The mechanism may comprise a tab extending from at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the cover. The cover may comprise a tab extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a tab and the cover may comprise a tab configured to engage the tab of the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall. The mechanism may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position. The mechanism may comprise a spring configured to compress as the cover moves from the open position toward the intermediate position. The cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The rear edge of the cover may be configured to extend the spring. The base may comprise the mechanism. The cover may be configured to initiate contact with the mechanism at the intermediate position as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position. The component may comprise a gap between the cover and the mechanism when the cover is in the closed position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind.

FIGURES

[0013] FIGURE 1 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 1B is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIGURE 1C is a schematic perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover in a closed position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURES 1D to 1E are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an intermediate position and an open position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIGURES 1F to 1G are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an intermediate position and a closed position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIGURE 2A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior.

[0019] FIGURE 2B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a mechanism of a component for a vehicle interior.

[0020] FIGURE 2C is a partial schematic perspective view of a mechanism of a component for a vehicle interior.

[0021] FIGURES 3A to 3C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURES 4A to 4C are schematic partial section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURES 5A to 5C are schematic partial section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURE 6 is a schematic representation of a diagram providing a graph

representational of force to open a cover of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURES 7A to 7C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an open position and a closed position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment. [0026] FIGURES 8A to 8C are partial schematic section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an open position and a closed position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURES 9A to 9C are partial schematic section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an open position and a closed position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURE 10 is a schematic representation of a diagram providing a graph representational of force to close a cover of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURE 11 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a component for a vehicle interior.

[0030] FIGURES 12 A to 12C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURES 13A to 13C are schematic partial section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIGURES 14A to 14C are schematic partial section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURE 15 is a schematic representation of a diagram providing a graph representational of force to open a cover of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURES 16A to 16C are schematic perspective views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an open position and a closed position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURES 17A to 17C are schematic partial section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an open position and a closed position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURES 18A to 18C are schematic partial section views of a component for a vehicle interior with a cover moved between an open position and a closed position through an intermediate position according to an exemplary embodiment. [0037] FIGURE 19 is a schematic representation of a diagram providing a graph representational of force to close a cover of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] FIGURES 20A to 20C are schematic and representational diagrams of force to move the cover/door assembly between the open position and closed position according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1A to 1B, a vehicle V is shown including an interior with a vehicle interior component or floor console FC. Floor console FC may comprise a base B and a cover shown as a tambour door T.

[0040] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 1C to 1E, a component C (e.g. vehicle trim component, console, center console, floor console, storage compartment, arm rest, etc.) for a vehicle interior may comprise a base B and a cover shown as a tambour door T. Cover T may be configured to conform to a curved structure of base B as cover T moves between a closed position and an open position to facilitate access to a storage compartment. According to an exemplary embodiment, a hand H may exert an external force to move cover T from a closed position as shown schematically in FIGURE 1C to an open position as shown schematically in FIGURE 1E through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 1D. According to an exemplary embodiment, a hand H may exert an external force to move cover T from an open position as shown schematically in FIGURE 1E to a closed position as shown schematically in FIGURE 1G through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 1F.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 2A, a component C (e.g. vehicle trim component, console, center console, floor console, storage compartment, arm rest, etc.) for a vehicle interior may comprise a base B, a cover T (e.g. a door, a tambour door, a shade, a blind, a roller blind) and a mechanism SM. Cover T may be configured to move relative to base B in a closing direction from (a) an open position to expose the compartment to (b) a closed position to cover the compartment through (c) an intermediate position. At least one of cover T or base B may comprise mechanism SM. Mechanism SM may be configured to bias cover T toward the intermediate position when cover T is in the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide (a) a breaking force to cover T as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) an assist force to cover T as cover T moves from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to (a) increase a force to move cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) reduce a force to move cover T from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to move cover T from the closed position toward the intermediate position. Cover T may be configured to separate from mechanism SM as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position. Cover T may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. Mechanism SM may be configured to push the rear edge of cover T in the closing direction. Base B may comprise a rear compartment configured to store cover T in the open position. Mechanism SM may be installed at the rear compartment. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position. Mechanism SM may comprise a spring configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Cover T may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The rear edge of cover T may be configured to extend the spring. Base B may comprise mechanism SM. Cover T may be configured to initiate contact with mechanism SM at the intermediate position as cover T moves from the closed position toward the open position. Component C may comprise a gap between cover T and mechanism SM when cover T is in the closed position. Component C may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console,

(e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 2B, mechanism SM may comprise a spring SG and a tab TB. Tab TB may comprise an attachment feature F, a slot SL and a surface SF. Spring SG may attach to tab TB at attachment feature F. Spring SG may be configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Base B may comprise a guide RC and an attachment feature. Mechanism SM may be configured to extend within guide RC as cover T moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. Spring SG may attach to base B at the attachment feature.

[0043] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in an opening direction from a closed position as shown schematically in FIGURE 3A to an open position to uncover a

volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 3C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 3B. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 3A to 3C, mechanism SM may be configured to provide a breaking force to cover T as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to increase a force to move cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position. Base B may comprise a rear compartment configured to store cover T in the open position as shown schematically in FIGURE 3C. Mechanism SM may be installed at the rear compartment. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position. Spring SG may be configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Cover T may comprise rear edge. The rear edge of cover T may be configured to extend spring SG as shown schematically in FIGURES 3B and 3C.

[0044] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in an opening direction from a closed position as shown schematically in FIGURE 4A to an open position to uncover a

volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 4C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 4B. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 4A to 4C, cover T may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. The rear edge of cover T may be configured to extend spring SG as shown schematically in FIGURE 4C. Cover T may be configured to initiate contact with mechanism SM at the intermediate position as cover T moves from the closed position toward the open position as shown schematically in FIGURE 4B. Component C may comprise a gap between cover T and mechanism SM when cover T is in the closed position as shown schematically in FIGURE 4A.

[0045] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in a closing direction from an open position to expose

volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 7A to a closed position to cover volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 7C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 7B.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 7A to 7C, mechanism SM may be configured to bias cover T toward the intermediate position when cover T is in the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide an assist force to cover T as cover T moves from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to reduce a force to move cover T from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to move cover T from the closed position toward the intermediate position.

[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in a closing direction from an open position to expose

volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 8A to a closed position to cover volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 8C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 8B.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 8A to 8C, cover T may be configured to separate from mechanism SM as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position as shown schematically in FIGURES 8B and 8C. Cover T may comprise a front edge and a rear edge. Mechanism SM may be configured to push the rear edge of cover T in the closing direction as shown schematically in FIGURES 8 A and 8B. Component C may comprise a gap G between cover T and mechanism SM when cover T is in the closed position as shown schematically in FIGURE 8C. Spring SG may be configured to compress as cover T moves from the open position toward the intermediate position.

[0047] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURE 11, a component C (e.g. vehicle trim component, console, center console, floor console, storage compartment, arm rest, etc.) for a vehicle interior may comprise a base B, a cover T (e.g. a door, a tambour door, a shade, a blind, a roller blind) and a mechanism SM. Cover T may be configured to move relative to base B in a closing direction from (a) an open position to expose the compartment to (b) a closed position to cover the compartment through (c) an intermediate position. At least one of cover T or base B may comprise mechanism SM. Mechanism SM may be configured to bias cover T toward the intermediate position when cover T is in the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide (a) a breaking force to cover T as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) an assist force to cover T as cover T moves from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to (a) increase a force to move cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) reduce a force to move cover T from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to move cover T from the closed position toward the intermediate position. Cover T may be configured to separate from mechanism SM as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position. Base B may comprise a rear compartment configured to store cover T in the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position.

Mechanism SM may comprise a spring or set of springs SG configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Base B may comprise mechanism SM. Cover T may be configured to initiate contact with mechanism SM at the intermediate position as cover T moves from the closed position toward the open position. Component C may comprise a gap between cover T and mechanism SM when cover T is in the closed position. Cover T may comprise a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of cover T may comprise a tab or set of tabs. Mechanism SM may be configured to push the tab or set of tabs at the front portion of cover T in the closing direction. Base B may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment. Mechanism SM may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. Mechanism SM may comprise a tab or set of tabs TB extending from at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage cover T. Cover T may comprise a tab or set of tabs extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage mechanism SM. Mechanism SM may comprise a tab or set of tabs TB and cover T may comprise a tab or set of tabs configured to engage tab or set of tabs TB of mechanism SM. Mechanism SM may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall. Component C may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest. The cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind. Tab or set of tabs TB may comprise an attachment feature, a slot and a surface. Spring or set of springs SG may attach to tab or set of tabs TB at the attachment feature. Spring or set of springs SG may be configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Base B may comprise a guide or set of guides G and an attachment feature or set of attachment features F. Mechanism SM may be configured to extend within guide or set of guides G as cover T moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. Spring or set of springs SG may attach to base B at attachment feature or set of attachment features F.

[0048] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in an opening direction from a closed position to cover a volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 12A to an open position to expose volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 12C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 12B. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 12A to 12C, mechanism SM may be configured to provide a breaking force to cover T as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to increase a force to move cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position. Base B may comprise a rear compartment configured to store cover T in the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of cover T from the intermediate position toward the open position. Mechanism SM may comprise a spring or set of springs SG configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Base B may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment. Mechanism SM may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. Mechanism SM may comprise a tab or set of tabs TB extending from at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage cover T. Mechanism SM may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in an opening direction from a closed position to cover a volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 13A to an open position to expose volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 13C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 13B. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 13A to 13C, mechanism SM may comprise a spring or set of springs SG configured to extend as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. Cover T may be configured to initiate contact with mechanism SM at the intermediate position as cover T moves from the closed position toward the open position as shown schematically in FIGURE 13B. A tab or set of tabs of cover T may be configured to engage a tab or set of tabs TB as shown schematically in FIGURE 13B.

[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in a closing direction from an open position to expose

volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 16A to a closed position to cover volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 10C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 16B. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 16A to 16C, mechanism SM may be configured to bias cover T toward the intermediate position when cover T is in the open position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide an assist force to cover T as cover T moves from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to reduce a force to move cover T from the open position to the intermediate position. Mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to move cover T from the open position toward the intermediate position. Cover T may be configured to separate from mechanism SM as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment, cover T of component C may be configured to move relative to base B in a closing direction from an open position to expose volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 17A to a closed position to cover volume/receptacle/compartment VR/CM as shown schematically in FIGURE 11C through an intermediate position as shown schematically in FIGURE 17B. According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 17A to 17C, cover T may be configured to separate from mechanism SM as cover T moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position. Mechanism SM may be configured to push a tab or set of tabs at the front portion of cover T in the closing direction. Tab or set of tabs TB may be configured to engage the tab or set of tabs at the front portion of cover T. Spring or set of springs SG may be configured to compress as cover T moves from the open position toward the intermediate position.

Exemplary Embodiments

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C and 11, a component C for a vehicle interior may comprise a base B comprising a compartment CM and a cover T configured to move relative to the base in a closing direction from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position; at least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism SM configured to bias the cover toward the intermediate position when the cover may be in the open position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 7A-7C and 12A- 12C, 16A-16C (e.g. component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through intermediate/transition positions) and FIGURES 20B-20C.

[0053] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the mechanism SM may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the closed position toward the intermediate position; the mechanism may comprise a spring configured to extend as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 11, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 14A-14C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to resist/restrain movement of cover/door)

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base B may comprise a guide TR; the mechanism may be configured to extend within the guide as the cover moves from the closed position toward the intermediate position. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism) and FIGURES 4A-4C and 13A-13C.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the cover may be configured to separate from the mechanism as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the closed position; the cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge; the mechanism may be configured to push the rear edge of the cover in the closing direction. See e.g. FIGURES 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C and 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically in movement from open position through intermediate position to closed position); see also FIGURES 10 and 19.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base may comprise a rear compartment configured to store the cover in the open position; the mechanism may be installed at the rear compartment (see FIGURES 2A-2C) the base may comprise a structure comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall to define the compartment and the mechanism may be installed with at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall (see FIGURE 11).

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the cover may comprise a front portion and a rear portion; the front portion of the cover may comprise a tab; the mechanism may be configured to push the tab at the front portion of the cover in the closing direction. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism).

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the mechanism may comprise a tab extending from the at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the cover; the cover may comprise a tab extending into at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall to engage the mechanism; the mechanism may comprise a tab and the cover may comprise a tab configured to engage the tab of the mechanism. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism).

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the mechanism may comprise a first mechanism installed at the first sidewall and a second mechanism installed at the second sidewall. See e.g. FIGURES 11, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 14A-14C (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and operation of mechanism shown as spring mechanism). [0060] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the mechanism may be configured to provide a force to oppose movement of the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position (see FIGURES 2A-2C and 11); the mechanism may comprise a spring configured to compress as the cover moves from the open position toward the intermediate position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 7A-7C and 12A-12C, 16A-16C (e.g. component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through

intermediate/transition positions). (The component may comprise a gap between the cover and the mechanism when the cover is in the closed position. See FIGURE 9C.)

[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the cover may comprise a front edge and a rear edge; the rear edge of the cover may be configured to extend the spring. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism); see also FIGURES 5A-5C, 9A-9C and 14A-14C, 18A-18C.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base may comprise the mechanism and the cover may be configured to initiate contact with the mechanism at the intermediate position as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position. See e.g. FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C and 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically in movement from closed position to open position); see also FIGURES 6 and 15.

[0063] According to an exemplary embodiment indicated schematically, the component may comprise at least one of (a) a vehicle trim component, (b) a console, (c) a floor console, (d) a center console, (e) a storage compartment, (f) an arm rest; and the cover may comprise at least one of (a) a door, (b) a tambour door, (c) a shade, (d) a blind, (e) a roller blind. See e.g. FIGURES 1A-1C.

[0064] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C and 11, a component C for a vehicle interior may comprise a base B comprising a compartment and a cover T configured for movement relative to the base from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position; at least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism SM configured to provide (a) a braking force to the cover as the cover moves from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) an assist force to the cover as the cover moves from the open position to the intermediate position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 7A-7C and 12A-12C, 16A-16C (e.g. component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through intermediate/transition positions) and FIGURES 19 and 20.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C and 11, a component C for a vehicle interior may comprise a base B comprising a compartment and a cover T configured for movement relative to the base from an open position to expose the compartment to a closed position to cover the compartment through an intermediate position; at least one of the cover or the base may comprise a mechanism SM configured to (a) increase a force to move the cover from the intermediate position toward the open position and (b) reduce a force to move the cover from the open position to the intermediate position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 7A-7C and 12A-12C, 16A-16C (e.g. component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through

intermediate/transition positions) and FIGURES 20B-20C.

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C and 11, a vehicle interior component C for a vehicle configured to be operated by a force provided by an occupant comprising a base B and a cover T configured for movement along a guide TR between a closed position and an open position to allow access into the base and a spring mechanism SM configured to apply a force to the cover; the cover may be configured so that movement of the cover from the open position toward the closed position may comprise (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the cover and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the cover toward the closed position; the cover may be configured so that movement of the cover from the closed position toward the open position may comprise (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the spring mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the cover toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the cover moves to the open position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 7A-7C and 12A-12C, 16A-16C (e.g. component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through intermediate/transition positions) and FIGURES 6, 10, 15, 19 and 20B-20C.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the cover may comprise a door T. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism). Movement of the door from the open position may comprise unlatching the door from the base; movement of the door toward the closed position may comprise securing the door to the base; movement of the door into the open position may be assisted by a mass gravity force. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 11, 16A-16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to assist movement of cover/door) and FIGURES 20B-20C.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the open position may comprise a fully retracted position for the door relative to the base; the open position may comprise a stowed position for the door within the base. See e.g. FIGURE 2A-2C and 4C.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base B may comprise a recess configured to provide a stowed position for the door T ; the mechanism SM may comprise a spring SG at least partially within the recess and coupled to the base and to the door; and the spring may be configured to provide (a) a force to assist movement of the door toward the closed position as the door may be moved from the stowed position and (b) a force to restrain movement of the door toward the open position as the door may be moved into the stowed position. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 11, 16A-16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to assist movement of cover/door).

[0070] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base B may comprise the guide TR. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism).

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the spring mechanism SM may comprise at least one spring SG (see FIGURES 2A-2C and 11); the spring mechanism SM may comprise a coil spring; the coil spring may be coupled at one end to the base and at one end to the door. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 11, 16A- 16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to assist movement of cover/door).

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door may be configured so that movement of the door may comprise (a) a transition position between the open position to the closed position the spring mechanism may be configured to transition from engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to assist movement to disengagement from the door and (b) a transition position between the closed position and the open position the spring mechanism may be configured to transition from disengagement with the door to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 11, 12A-12C, 13A-13C and 14A-14C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to resist/restrain movement of cover/door); see also FIGURES 20B-20C.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the cover may be in a generally vertical orientation when in the open position; the cover may be stowed in a recess in the base when in the open position; the cover may be in a generally horizontal orientation when moving to the closed position; the cover may be in a generally horizontal position when in the closed position. See e.g. FIGURES 1C-1E.

[0074] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the guide may comprise a track. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement).

[0075] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C and 11, a vehicle interior component C for a vehicle configured to be operated by a force provided by an occupant may comprise a base B and a door assembly DS comprising a door T configured for movement along a guide TR between a closed position and an open position to allow access into the base and a mechanism SM configured to apply a force to the door/cover; the door assembly may be configured so that movement of the door from the open position toward the closed position may comprise (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the door and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the closed position; the door assembly may be configured so that movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position may comprise (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the door moves to the open position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 7A-7C and 12A-12C, 16A-16C (e.g.

component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through

intermediate/transition positions) and FIGURES 20B-20C.

[0076] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the mechanism may comprise a spring mechanism SM comprising at least one spring SG. See e.g. FIGURES 2A- 2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and

cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism). [0077] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the closed position and the open position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement. See e.g.

FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C and 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically in movement from closed position to open position); see also FIGURES 6, 15 and 20B-20C.

[0078] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the open position and the closed position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition to disengagement from the door. See e.g. FIGURES 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C and 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically in movement from open position to closed position); see also FIGURES 10, 19 and 20B-20C.

[0079] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the closed position and the open position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition from disengagement with the door to engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to restrain movement. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 11, 12A-12C, 13A- 13C and 14A-14C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to resist/restrain movement of cover/door); see also FIGURES 6, 15 and 20A-20B.

[0080] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door may be configured for movement to a transition position between the open position and the closed position; at the transition position the mechanism may be configured to transition from engagement with the door to provide a force to the door to assist movement to disengagement from the door. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C, 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 11, 16A-16C, 17A-17C and 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically with mechanism to provide force to assist movement of cover/door); see also FIGURES 10, 19 and 20A-20B.

[0081] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door assembly DS may be configured to provide (a) a transition position between the zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and the zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism as the door may be moved from the open position to the closed position and (b) a transition position between the zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism the zone of movement restrained by the force from the mechanism as the door may be moved from the closed position to the open position. See FIGURES 20A-20B.

[0082] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base B may comprise the mechanism SM. See e.g. FIGURES 2A-2C and 11 (construction of base/assembly with guide/track arrangement and cover/door/assembly and mechanism shown as spring mechanism).

[0083] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the door assembly may be contained in the base; the base may comprise a recess configured to provide a stowed position for the door; the mechanism may comprise a spring at least partially within the recess and coupled to the base and to the door; the spring may be configured to provide (a) a force to assist movement of the door between the open position and the closed position as the door may be moved from the stowed position and (b) a force to restrain movement between the closed position and the open position as the door may be moved into the stowed position. See FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 7A-7C, 11, 12A-12C, 16A-16C (e.g.

component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions through

intermediate/transition positions); see also FIGURES 6, 10, 15, 19 and 20A-20B.

[0084] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the base may comprise a console; the door may comprise a cover. See e.g. FIGURES 1B-1G, 2A-2C, 3A-3C, 7A- 7C, 11, 12A-12C, 16A-16C.

Operation of Component/Mechanism

[0085] According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGURES 1C-1G, 2A-2C and 11, a vehicle interior component C comprises a cover/door T movable along a guide TR between a closed position and an open position relative to a base B; the cover/door is configured to be operated by a force/effort provided by an occupant (e.g. to allow or restrict/block access into a compartment in the base). See e.g. FIGURES 1C-1E, 3A-3C, 6, 7A-7C, 10, 12A-12C, 15, 16A-16, 19 and 20A-20C.

[0086] According to an exemplary embodiment as indicated schematically and

representationally, the forces encountered in movement of the cover/door relative to the base in addition to by any force/effort provided by the occupant may be determined (e.g. assisted, increased, supplemented, reduced, restrained/restricted, braked, etc.) based on factors related to the design/configuration of the component/assembly, including the mass/gravity effect of the door/assembly, the form/contour of the track/guide, the configuration of the door/assembly as engaged with the track/guide (e.g. internal friction/binding, braking, etc.), changes in the form/shape of the door in travel along the track/guide (e.g. bending, flexing, lengthening, straightening, etc.), direction of movement, orientation of installation, environmental and use/wear effects, material selection/durability, etc. See e.g. FIGURES 20A-20C.

[0087] As indicated schematically and representationally according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 6, 10, 15, 19 and 20A-20B, the component/assembly will have a level of force required for movement of the door between the open/closed positions (e.g. force/effort to be supplied by the occupant in use in the operating conditions); for the component/assembly there may be a desired range of effort for force to be applied by the occupant (e.g. force/effort that in a range that is determined to be suitable for operation by a range of expected occupants). See FIGURES 20A-20B (indicating

schematically/representationally the desired force level for operation for a door

configuration). As indicated schematically and representationally for a door configuration comprising a generally horizontal closed position and a generally vertical open/stowed position, movement from the fully open position to the fully closed position may require force to lift the door vertically to overcome mass/gravity (see e.g. FIGURES 1E-1G and 20 A) and then continued movement to the fully closed position may require relatively less force/effort to slide the door horizontally to overcome the force/effect of friction, etc. (see e.g. FIGURES 1G and 20A); movement from the fully closed position to the fully open position may require force/effort to slide the door horizontally to overcome the force/effect of friction, etc. (see e.g. FIGURES 1C-1D and 20A) and then continued movement to the fully opened position may require relatively less force/effort to slide the door vertically as the force/effect of mass/gravity assists movement of the door toward and into the fully opened position (see e.g. FIGURES 1D-1E and 20A). As indicated schematically and

representationally in FIGURE 20A, the force/effect of the mass/gravity of the door/assembly in movement to the vertical fully opened/stowed position may overcome other forces present such that no other forces are required for continued movement of the door into the fully opened/stowed position (e.g. creating a potential uncontrolled/run- away condition that may not be desirable). As indicated schematically in FIGURES 20A, with the door/assembly the force/effort required by the vehicle occupant to move the door may be outside of a desired effort range (e.g. requiring additional assisting/lifting force/effort to move from the fully open position and requiring restraining/braking force/effort to prevent the run-away condition to move the door to the fully-opened position). [0088] As indicated schematically and representationally in FIGURES 1B-1G, 2A-2C, 11 and 20B, the component may comprise a mechanism (shown as a spring mechanism SM) configured to apply a force to the door/cover. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C, 6, 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 10, 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, 15, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C and 19 (e.g. component/assembly comprising door/cover operable by effort/force applied by vehicle occupant and with mechanism to move between open/closed positions).

[0089] As indicated schematically and representationally in FIGURES 6, 15 and 20B, the door/assembly may be configured so that movement of the door from the closed position toward the open position may comprise (a) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the open position and (b) a zone of movement restrained by the force from the spring mechanism as the door moves to the open position. See also FIGURES 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 5A-5C and 12A- 12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically and representationally in movement from closed position A through intermediate/transition position B to open position C). As indicated schematically in FIGURES 6, 15 and 20B, with the door/assembly with mechanism (as configured, designed, tuned, etc.) the force/effort required by the vehicle occupant to move the door is within a desired effort range.

[0090] As indicated schematically and representationally in FIGURES 10, 19 and 20B, the door/assembly with mechanism may be configured so that movement of the door from the open position toward the closed position may comprise (a) a zone of movement assisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force by the occupant to lift the door and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by the force from the mechanism and assisted by the force from the occupant to slide the door toward the closed position. See also FIGURES 7A-7C, 8A-8C, 9A-9C and 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C (cover/door of component/assembly shown schematically and representationally in movement from open position A through the transition/intermediate point B to closed position C). As indicated schematically in

FIGURES 10, 19 and 20B, with the door/assembly with mechanism (as configured, designed, tuned, etc.) the force/effort required by the vehicle occupant to move the door is within a desired effort range.

[0091] According to an exemplary embodiment as indicated schematically and

representationally in FIGURES 20A-20C, the door/assembly for the component may be configured with a mechanism (such as a spring mechanism) designed so that the force/effort required from the occupant for movement is generally linear/constant across the range of motion from the fully-opened position to fully-closed position (e.g. regardless of direction of movement and through the transition position where the mechanism/spring is engaged and/or disengaged). See also FIGURES 6, 10, 15 and 19 (movement shown in generally horizontal lines). As indicated schematically and representationally in FIGURE 20C, a component with a door without a mechanism (movement shown in broken lines with down-slope/up-slope segments beginning at transition approaching the fully-opened position) may provide a less- ideal performance with respect to force/effort from the vehicle operator than the component with door/assembly with the mechanism (movement shown in generally horizontal solid lines from fully-opened position through transition to fully-closed position). See also FIGURES 1B-1G, 2A-2C and 11.

* * *

[0093] 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. [0094] 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.