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. 62/823,319 titled “VEHICLE INTERIOR COMPONENT” filed March 25, 2019.

FIELD

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

[0003] The present invention also relates to vehicle interior component comprising a base and a cover movable relative to the base.

BACKGROUND

[0004] It is known to provide a vehicle interior component such as a floor console comprising a base providing a compartment and a cover movable relative to the base to provide access to the compartment within the base.

[0005] It would be advantageous to provide an improved vehicle interior component comprising a base and a cover movable relative to the base with an improved hinge mechanism configured to guide movement of the cover relative to the base between a closed position and an open/raised position.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component comprising a base; a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; and a hinge mechanism comprising a hinge configured to couple the base and the cover. The hinge may be configured to guide movement of the cover relative to the base between the closed position and the open position. The hinge mechanism may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the closed position. The hinge mechanism may comprise a spring mechanism configured to guide movement of the cover relative to the base. The spring mechanism may be configured to actuate movement of the cover relative to the base. The open position may comprise a raised position; the closed position may comprise a lowered position. When the cover is in the lowered position the spring mechanism may be configured to bias the cover toward the raised position. When the cover is moving from the lowered position toward the raised position the spring mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position. When the cover is in the raised position the spring mechanism may be configured to retain the cover in the raised position. When the cover is moving from the raised position toward the lowered position the spring mechanism may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the lowered position. In the raised position, the cover may be in a generally vertical orientation. The open position may comprise an inverted position. The open position may comprise a raised position and an inverted position. In the inverted position the cover may be in a generally horizontal orientation. In the inverted position the cover may be configured to provide at least one of (a) a cupholder and/or (b) a device holder and/or (c) a surface. The hinge mechanism may comprise a bearing mechanism configured to facilitate positioning of the cover relative to the base. The bearing mechanism may comprise a brake mechanism. The bearing mechanism may comprise a bearing area. The bearing mechanism may comprise a retainer providing a surface and a disk providing a surface; the bearing area may be provided between the surface of the retainer and the surface of the disk. The bearing mechanism may comprise a spring configured to bias the disk and the retainer into engagement to provide the bearing area. The disk may be provided by the cover and the retainer may be provided by the base. The disk may be provided by the base and the retainer may be provided by the cover. The hinge mechanism may comprise the spring mechanism and the bearing mechanism. The closed position may comprise a lowered position; the open position may comprise a raised position and an inverted position. The spring mechanism may comprise a spring providing a first segment and a second segment. When the cover is in the lowered position the first spring segment may be engaged with the cover and the second spring segment may be disengaged with the cover. When the cover is moving from the lowered position toward the raised position the first spring segment may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position. When the cover is in the raised position the first spring segment may be engaged with the cover and the second spring segment may be engaged with the cover. The spring mechanism may be configured to retain the cover in the raised position. When the cover is moving from the raised position toward the inverted position the second spring segment may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the inverted position. When the cover is moving from the inverted position toward the raised position the second spring segment may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position. When the cover is moving from the raised position toward the lowered position the first spring segment may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the lowered position. The hinge may comprise a retainer and a disk; the retainer may be configured to provide a force against the disk. The retainer may comprise a set of retainers and the disk may comprise a set of disks. The component may comprise a shaft; the set of retainers may be coupled to the shaft and the set of disks may be coupled to the shaft. The component may comprise a set of springs; the set of springs may be configured to provide a set of forces through the set of retainers against the set of disks. The component may comprise a spring; the spring may be configured to provide a force through the retainer against the disk. The spring may comprise at least one of (a) a coil spring; (b) a compression spring. The retainer may be configured to retain the spring to (a) the base or (b) the cover. The retainer may comprise a tab configured to retain the spring to (a) the base or (b) the cover. The retainer may comprise a tab configured to prevent rotation of the retainer. The component may comprise a compression spring and a torsion spring; the compression spring and the torsion spring may be configured to hold the cover in at least one position between the closed position and the open position. The cover may be configured to move relative to the base between the open position and an inverted position. The hinge may comprise a spring. The spring may be configured to provide a brake force when the cover moves toward the closed position; the spring may be configured to provide a brake force when the cover moves toward the inverted position; the spring may be configured to provide an assist force when the cover moves toward the open position. The spring may comprise a double torsion spring. The spring may comprise a left leg and a right leg. The left leg may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the lowered position toward the open position. The right leg may be configured to provide a force to move the cover from the inverted position toward the open position. The left leg may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the closed position. The right leg may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the inverted position. The left leg may be configured to engage the cover when the cover is in the closed position. The left leg may be configured to disengage from the cover as the cover moves from the closed position toward the open position. The left leg may be disengaged from the cover (a) when the cover is in the open position and (b) when the cover is in the inverted position. The right leg may comprise a right spring segment and the left leg may comprise a left spring segment. The spring mechanism may comprise the spring. The hinge mechanism may comprise the retainer and the disk. 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.

FIGURES

[0007] FIGURE 1A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0008] FIGURE IB is a schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0009] FIGURES 2A and 2B are schematic partial side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] FIGURES 3A to 3C are schematic partial side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] FIGURES 4 A to 4C are schematic partial perspective views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIGURE 4D is a schematic exploded partial perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIGURE 4E is a schematic diagram of a hinge assembly for a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 5 is a schematic exploded partial perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] FIGURE 6A is a schematic partial section view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] FIGURES 6B and 6C are schematic partial section views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] FIGURE 6D is a schematic exploded partial perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] FIGURES 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams of a hinge assembly for a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURES 8 and 9 are schematic diagrams of operation of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] FIGURES 10A, IOC and 10E are schematic partial side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] FIGURES 10B, 10D and 10F are schematic partial section views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] FIGURES 11 A and 1 IB are schematic flow diagrams of methods for forming a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment. [0023] FIGURE 12 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for forming a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] FIGURES 13A to 13C are schematic partial perspective views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] FIGURE 14 is a schematic exploded partial perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] FIGURES 15 A, 15C, 15E, 15G and 151 are schematic partial side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] FIGURES 15B, 15D, 15F, 15H and 15J are schematic partial perspective views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIGURE 16 is a schematic diagram of operation of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIGURES 17A, 17C, 17E, 17G and 171 are schematic partial side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIGURES 17B, 17D, 17F, 17H and 17J are schematic partial perspective views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIGURE 18 is a schematic diagram of operation of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment,

[0032] FIGURE 19A is a schematic partial section view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] FIGURE 19B is a schematic exploded partial perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0034] FIGURES 19C and 19D are schematic partial section views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] FIGURES 20A and 20B are schematic diagrams of a hinge assembly for a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] FIGURES 21A, 21C and 21E are schematic partial side views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0037] FIGURES 21B, 21D and 21F are schematic partial section views of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] FIGURES 22A and 22B are schematic flow diagrams of methods for forming a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment. [0039] FIGURE 23 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for forming a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION

[0040] Referring to FIGURES 1A and IB, a vehicle V is shown comprising an interior I providing vehicle interior components shown as floor console C/FC.

[0041] As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 2A- 2B and 3A-3C, the component C may comprise a cover T coupled by a hinge/hinge mechanism H to a base B and configured to be movable from a lowered/closed position (e.g. a generally horizontal orientation as in FIGURES 2 A and 3 A) such as to provide

functionality (e.g. conceal a compartment within the base, provide an armrest/surface, etc.) to a raised/open position (e.g. a generally vertical position as in FIGURES 2B and 3B) such as to provide functionality (e.g. allow access to a compartment within the base, etc.); as indicated, the cover may be configured for movement to an inverted/open position (e.g. a generally horizontal orientation as in FIGURE 3C) such as to provide functionality (e.g. allow access to a compartment within the base, provide a cup holder CH or device holder or platform or surface, etc.). See also FIGURES 4A-4C, 8, 9, 13A-13C, 15A-15J, 16, 17A-17J and 18.

[0042] As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURES 4A and 4D-4E, the hinge/hinge mechanism H of the component C may comprise a spring mechanism/arrangement SM and/or a bearing mechanism/arrangement BM; the spring mechanism SM and/or the bearing mechanism BM may be configured to facilitate opening and closing of the cover T relative to the base B (e.g. movement between lowered/closed position and raised/inverted/open positions). See FIGURES 6A-6D, 7A-7B, 10A-10F, 19A- 19D and 20A-20B and 21A-21E.

[0043] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4A, 4D-4E, 5 and 15, the spring mechanism SM of the hinge H may comprise a spring ST (shown as a torsion spring on an axle assembly SA/SB); the spring mechanism SM may be configured to facilitate operation of the hinge H during movement of the cover T relative to the base B. See also FIGURES 6A-6D, 7A-7B, 10A-10F, 19A-19D and 20A-20B and 21A-21E.

[0044] As indicated schematically in FIGURES 4A, 4D-4E, 5 and 14, the bearing mechanism BM of the hinge H may comprise a spring CS (shown as a compression/coil spring on an axle assembly SA/SB) with a cap/retainer R and a washer/disk D; the bearing mechanism BM may be configured to facilitate operation of the hinge H during movement of the cover T relative to the base B with spring CS configured to urge a surface SR of retainer R and a surface SD of disk D into engagement/bearing (e.g. frictional engagement at a bearing area BA). See also FIGURES 6A-6D, 7A-7B, 10A-10F, 19A-19D and 20A-20B and 21A-21E.

[0045] As indicated schematically, the vehicle interior component may comprise the base B and the cover T movable relative to the base B with a hinge mechanism/assembly H configured to couple the base B and the cover T for movement between a closed/lowered position and an open position; the open position may comprise a raised position and an inverted position. See FIGURES 4A-4E, 5, 10A-10F, 14 and 13A-13C. The hinge mechanism H may be configured to restrain movement of the cover toward the closed position. The hinge mechanism may comprise a spring mechanism configured to guide movement of the cover; the spring mechanism may comprise a torsion spring and/or multi segment spring. See FIGURES 5 and 14. The hinge mechanism may comprise a bearing mechanism configured to facilitate positioning of the cover; the bearing mechanism may comprise a brake mechanism such as a bearing area. See FIGURES 6A-6D, 7A-7B, 19A- 19D and 20A-20B.

[0046] As indicated according to an exemplary embodiment, when the cover is in the lowered position the spring mechanism may be configured to bias the cover toward the raised position; when the cover is moving from the lowered position toward the raised position the spring mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position; when the cover is moving from the raised position toward the lowered position the spring mechanism may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the lowered position. See FIGURES 8 and 9. As indicated according to an exemplary embodiment, the spring mechanism may comprise a spring providing a first segment and a second segment; when the cover is in the lowered position the first spring segment may be engaged with the cover and the second spring segment may be disengaged with the cover; when the cover is moving from the lowered position toward the raised position the first spring segment may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position; when the cover is in the raised position the first spring segment may be engaged with the cover and the second spring segment may be engaged with the cover; when the cover is moving from the raised position toward the inverted position the second spring segment may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the inverted position; when the cover is moving from the inverted position toward the raised position the second spring segment may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position; when the cover is moving from the raised position toward the lowered position the first spring segment may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the lowered position. See FIGURES 16 and 18.

[0047] In the inverted position the cover may be configured to provide at least one of a cup/device holder and/or a surface. See FIGURES 13C and 15J.

[0048] The component may comprise at least one of a vehicle trim component, console, storage compartment, an armrest, etc. See FIGURES IB, 2A-2B, 3A-3C, 4A-4C and 13A- 13C.

Assemblv/Qperation - A

[0049] As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 5, the component C may be assembled from the base B providing a frame/bracket BB and the cover T comprising a frame/bracket BT coupled by the hinge/hinge mechanism H; as indicated schematically, the hinge mechanism H may be configured to secure cover T by bracket BT to base B by bracket BB. See also FIGURES 4A-4C, 11A-11B and 12. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 5, 11A-11B and 12, the spring mechanism SM is assembled with torsion spring ST installed on an axle assembly comprising a tube/shaft SA on an axle/shaft SB as frame/bracket BT of the cover T (with aperture A) is fit onto frame/bracket BB of the base B (with aperture A); at each end the bearing mechanism BM with disk D (e.g. by snap- fit and bushing) and coil spring CS is assembled onto the axle assembly with retainer R with tabs TA and TB fit (e.g. by snap-fit and bushing) into frame/bracket BB; the hinge H may be configured to secure cover T by bracket BT to base B by bracket BB as retained by fasteners shown as washers W secured on shaft SB of the axle assembly. See also FIGURES 6A-6D and 7A-7B (showing bearing area BA within bearing mechanism BM). As indicated schematically in FIGURES 8, 9 and 10A-10F, cover T may be movable relative to base B about the axle mechanism of hinge H (e.g. as facilitated/constrained by spring mechanism SM and/or bearing mechanism BM).

[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment, modes of system function/operation of the component of FIGURES 4A-4C, 5, 8, 9 and 10A-10F are indicated in TABLE A.

[0051] As indicated schematically, the open position may comprise a raised position (see FIGURES 2 A, 8 and 9); the closed position may comprise a lowered position (see FIGURES 2B, 8 and 9).

[0052] As indicated schematically, when the cover is in the lowered position the spring mechanism may be configured to bias the cover toward the raised position. See FIGURE 8.

[0053] As indicated schematically, when the cover is moving from the lowered position toward the raised position the spring mechanism may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position. See FIGURE 8.

[0054] As indicated schematically, when the cover is in the raised position the spring mechanism may be configured to retain the cover in the raised position. See FIGURES 8 and 9.

[0055] As indicated schematically, when the cover is moving from the raised position toward the lowered position the spring mechanism may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the lowered position. See FIGURE 9.

Assembly/Operation - B

[0056] As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment in FIGURE 14, the component C may be assembled from the base B providing a frame/bracket BB and the cover T comprising a frame/bracket BT coupled by the hinge/hinge mechanism H; as indicated schematically, the hinge mechanism H may be configured to secure cover T by bracket BT to base B by bracket BB. See also FIGURES 13A-13C, 22A-22B and 23. As indicated schematically in FIGURES 14 and 22A-22B and 23, the spring mechanism SM may be assembled with torsion spring ST installed on an axle assembly comprising a tube/shaft SA on an axle/shaft SB as frame/bracket BT of the cover T (with aperture A) is fit onto frame/bracket BB of the base B (with aperture A); at each end the bearing mechanism BM with disk D (e.g. by snap-fit and bushing) and coil spring CS is assembled onto the axle assembly with retainer R with tabs TA and TB fit (e.g. by snap-fit and bushing) into frame/bracket BT ; the hinge H may be configured to secure cover T by bracket BT to base B by bracket BB as retained by fasteners shown as washers W secured on shaft SB of the axle assembly. See also FIGURES 19A-19D and 20A-20B (showing bearing area BA within bearing mechanism BM). As indicated schematically in FIGURES 15A-15J, 16, 17A-17J, 18 and 21A-21F, cover T is movable relative to base B about the axle mechanism of hinge H (e.g. as facilitated/constrained by spring mechanism SM and/or bearing mechanism BM).

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, modes of system function/operation of the component of FIGURES 13A-13C, 14, 15A-15J, 16, 17A-17J, 18 and 21A-21F are indicated in TABLE B.

[0058] As indicated schematically, the closed position may comprise a lowered position (see FIGURES 3A, 15A-15B, 16, 17I-17J and 18); the open position may comprise a raised position (see FIGURES 3B, 15C-15H, 16, 17C-17H and 18) and an inverted position (see FIGURES 3C, 15I-15J, 16, 17A-17B and 18); the spring mechanism SM may comprise a spring ST providing a first segment and a second segment. See FIGURE 14. [0059] As indicated schematically, when the cover is in the lowered position the first spring segment is engaged with the cover and the second spring segment is disengaged with the cover. See FIGURES 16 and 18.

[0060] As indicated schematically, when the cover is moving from the lowered position toward the raised position the first spring segment may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position. See FIGURE 16.

[0061] As indicated schematically, when the cover is in the raised position the first spring segment is engaged with the cover and the second spring segment is engaged with the cover. See FIGURES 16 and 18

[0062] As indicated schematically, the spring mechanism may be configured to retain the cover in the raised position. See FIGURES 16 and 18.

[0063] As indicated schematically, when the cover is moving from the raised position toward the inverted position the second spring segment may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the inverted position. See FIGURE 16.

[0064] As indicated schematically, when the cover is moving from the inverted position toward the raised position the second spring segment may be configured to provide a force to move the cover toward the raised position. See FIGURE 18.

[0065] As indicated schematically, when the cover is moving from the raised position toward the lowered position the first spring segment may be configured to provide a force to restrain movement of the cover toward the lowered position. See FIGURES 18.

Exemplary Embodiments - A

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 2A,

2B, 4A-4C, 5, 6A-6D, and 7A-7F, a vehicle interior component C may comprise a base B and a cover T configured to move relative to base B between a lowered position and a raised position.

Cover T may comprise an armrest.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, component C may comprise a hinge mechanism/assembly H configured to join cover T and base B. Base B may comprise a bracket BB. Bracket BB may be formed from at least one of (a) magnesium; (b) steel; (c) reinforced plastic; (d) plastic; (e) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); (f) a polymer; (g) a thermoplastic polymer. Bracket BB may comprise at least one aperture A. [0068] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, base B may comprise a retainer R. Retainer R may comprise a cap.

Retainer R may be formed from at least one of (a) plastic; (b) polyoxymethylene (POM); (c) acetal; (d) polyacetal; (e) polyformaldehyde; (f) a thermoplastic; (g) an engineering thermoplastic. Retainer R may be configured to couple to bracket BB at aperture A. Retainer R may comprise at least one tab TA configured to prevent rotation of retainer R relative to bracket BB. Tab TA may comprise an anti-rotation feature. Tab TA may be configured for a snap-fit to bracket BB. Retainer R may comprise at least one tab TB configured to prevent disassembly of retainer R from bracket BB. Tab TB may be configured for a snap-fit to bracket BB. Retainer R may comprise a bushing. Bushing of retainer R may comprise at least one of (a) a projection; (b) a tube; (c) a hollow cylinder; (d) a sleeve.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, base B may comprise at least one spring CS. Spring CS may comprise a compression spring. Spring CS may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) spring steel. Retainer R may be configured to couple spring CS to bracket BB. Spring CS may be configured to be compressed between a surface of retainer R and a surface of bracket BB.

[0070] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, base B may comprise at least one spring ST. Spring ST may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) spring steel. Spring ST may comprise a torsion spring. Spring ST may comprise a double torsion spring. Spring ST may be configured to couple to bracket BB. Spring ST may be configured to provide a brake force when cover T moves toward the lowered position; spring ST may be configured to provide an assist force when cover T moves toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to bias cover T toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to provide a force to move cover T toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to exert torque to move cover T toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to increase a force to move cover T toward the lowered position; spring ST may be configured to provide a force to restraint movement of cover T toward the lowered position; spring ST may be configured to reduce a force to move cover T toward the raised position. See FIGURES 8 and 9.

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, cover T may be configured so that movement of cover T from the lowered position toward the raised position comprises (a) a zone of movement assisted by force from spring ST and assisted by force from an occupant to lift cover T and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by force from spring ST and assisted by force from an occupant to move cover T toward the raised position. See also FIGURES 8 and 9. Cover T may be configured to twist spring ST as cover T moves from the raised position to the lowered position.

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, base B may comprise a shaft SA. Shaft SA may be formed from at least one of (a) plastic; (b) polyoxymethylene (POM); (c) acetal; (d) polyacetal; (e)

polyformaldehyde; (f) a thermoplastic; (g) an engineering thermoplastic. Shaft SA may be configured for assembly of spring ST to bracket BB.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, cover T may comprise a bracket BT. Bracket BT may be formed from at least one of (a) magnesium; (b) steel; (c) reinforced plastic; (d) plastic; (e) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); (f) a polymer; (g) a thermoplastic polymer. Bracket BT may comprise at least one aperture A.

[0074] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 5, 6A- 6D and 10A-10F, cover T may comprise at least one disk D. Disk D may comprise a washer. Disk D may be formed from at least one of (a) plastic; (b) reinforced plastic; (c) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); (d) a polymer; (e) a thermoplastic polymer. Disk D may be integrally formed with bracket BT. Disk D may be configured to couple to bracket BT at aperture A. Disk D may be configured for a snap-fit to bracket BT. Disk D may comprise a bushing. Bushing of disk D may comprise at least one of (a) a projection; (b) a tube; (c) a hollow cylinder; (d) a sleeve. Spring CS may be configured to provide a force to retainer R and disk D. Retainer R may comprise a surface SR. Disk D may comprise a surface SD. Spring CS may be configured to provide a friction force between surface SR and surface SD as cover T moves between the lowered position and the raised position. Retainer R may comprise a bearing area BA. Disk D may comprise a bearing area. Spring CS may be configured to provide a friction force between bearing area BA of retainer R and bearing area BA of disk D as cover T moves between the lowered position and the raised position. Spring CS and spring ST may be configured to hold cover T in at least one position between the lowered position and the raised position. Component C may comprise a shaft SB. Shaft SB may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) reinforced plastic; (c) plastic. Shaft SB may be configured to join cover T and base B. Shaft SB may extend through bushing of disk D; bushing of retainer R and shaft SA of base B. Component C may comprise at least one fastener F coupled to shaft SB. Fastener F may be configured for a press-fit to shaft SB. Fastener F may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) spring steel. Fastener F may comprise at least one of (a) a nut; (b) a set of opposed nuts. Shaft SA may be configured to prevent contact between spring ST and shaft SB. Retainer R may comprise a set of retainers. Spring CS may comprise a set of springs. Disk D may comprise a set of disks. Fastener F may comprise a set of fasteners.

[0075] 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.

Exemplary Embodiments - B

[0076] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 10A- 10C, 11, 12A-12D, and 13A-13F, a vehicle interior component C may comprise a base B and a cover T configured to move relative to base B between a lowered position and a raised position.

[0077] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, cover T may be configured to move relative to base B between the raised position and an inverted position. Cover T may comprise an armrest.

[0078] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, component C may comprise a hinge mechanism/assembly H configured to join cover T and base B. Base B may comprise a bracket BB. Bracket BB may be formed from at least one of (a) magnesium; (b) steel; (c) reinforced plastic; (d) plastic; (e) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); (f) a polymer; (g) a thermoplastic polymer. Bracket BB may comprise at least one aperture A.

[0079] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, base B may comprise at least one disk D. Disk D may comprise a washer. Disk D may be formed from at least one of (a) plastic; (b) reinforced plastic; (c) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); (d) a polymer; (e) a thermoplastic polymer. Disk D may be integrally formed with bracket BB. Disk D may be configured to couple to bracket BB at aperture A. Disk D may be configured for a snap-fit to bracket BB. Disk D may comprise a bushing. Bushing of disk D may comprise at least one of (a) a projection; (b) a tube; (c) a hollow cylinder; (d) a sleeve.

[0080] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, base B may comprise at least one spring ST. Spring ST may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) spring steel. Spring ST may comprise a torsion spring. Spring ST may comprise a double torsion spring. Spring ST may be configured to couple to bracket BB. Spring ST may be configured to provide a brake force when cover T moves toward the lowered position; spring ST may be configured to provide a brake force when cover T moves toward the inverted position; spring ST may be configured to provide an assist force when cover T moves toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to bias cover T toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to provide a force to move cover T toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to exert torque to move cover T toward the raised position; spring ST may be configured to increase a force to move cover T toward the lowered position; spring ST may be configured to increase a force to move cover T toward the inverted position; spring ST may be configured to provide a force to restraint movement of cover T toward the lowered position; spring ST may be configured to provide a force to restraint movement of cover T toward the inverted position; spring ST may be configured to reduce a force to move cover T toward the raised position. See FIGURES 16 and 18.

[0081] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, cover T may be configured so that movement of cover T from the lowered position toward the raised position comprises (a) a zone of movement assisted by force from spring ST and assisted by force from an occupant to lift cover T and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by force from spring ST and assisted by force from an occupant to move cover T toward the raised position. See also FIGURES 16 and 18. Cover T may be configured so that movement of cover T from the inverted position toward the raised position comprises (a) a zone of movement assisted by force from spring ST and assisted by force from an occupant to lift cover T and (b) a zone of movement unassisted by force from spring ST and assisted by force from an occupant to move cover T toward the raised position. See FIGURES 16 and 18. Cover T may be configured to twist spring ST as cover T moves from the raised position to the lowered position.

[0082] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, base B may comprise a shaft SA. Shaft SA may be formed from at least one of (a) plastic; (b) polyoxymethylene (POM); (c) acetal; (d) polyacetal; (e) polyformaldehyde; (f) a thermoplastic; (g) an engineering thermoplastic. Shaft SA may be configured for assembly of spring ST to bracket BB.

[0083] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, cover T may comprise a bracket BT. Bracket BT may be formed from at least one of (a) magnesium; (b) steel; (c) reinforced plastic; (d) plastic; (e) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); (f) a polymer; (g) a thermoplastic polymer. Bracket BT may comprise at least one aperture A. [0084] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, cover T may comprise a retainer R. Retainer R may comprise a cap. Retainer R may be formed from at least one of (a) plastic; (b) polyoxymethylene (POM); (c) acetal; (d) polyacetal; (e) polyformaldehyde; (f) a thermoplastic; (g) an engineering thermoplastic. Retainer R may be configured to couple to bracket BT at aperture A. Retainer R may comprise at least one tab TA configured to prevent rotation of retainer R relative to bracket BT. Tab TA may comprise an anti-rotation feature. Tab TA may be configured for a snap-fit to bracket BT. Retainer R may comprise at least one tab TB configured to prevent disassembly of retainer R from bracket BT. Tab TB may be configured for a snap-fit to bracket BT. Retainer R may comprise a bushing. Bushing of retainer R may comprise at least one of (a) a projection; (b) a tube; (c) a hollow cylinder; (d) a sleeve.

[0085] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, cover T may comprise at least one spring CS. Spring CS may comprise a compression spring. Spring CS may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) spring steel. Retainer R may be configured to couple spring CS to bracket BT. Spring CS may be configured to be compressed between a surface of retainer R and a surface of bracket BT. Spring CS may be configured to provide a force to retainer R and disk D. Retainer R may comprise a surface SR. Disk D may comprise a surface SD. Spring CS may be configured to provide a friction force between surface SR and surface SD as cover T moves between the lowered position and the raised position. Spring CS may be configured to provide a friction force between surface SR and surface SD as cover T moves between the inverted position and the raised position. Retainer R may comprise a bearing area BA. Disk D may comprise a bearing area. Spring CS may be configured to provide a friction force between bearing area BA of retainer R and bearing area BA of disk D as cover T moves between the lowered position and the raised position. Spring CS may be configured to provide a friction force between bearing area BA of retainer R and bearing area BA of disk D as cover T moves between the inverted position and the raised position. Spring CS and spring ST may be configured to hold cover T in at least one position between the lowered position and the raised position. Spring CS and spring ST may be configured to hold cover T in at least one position between the inverted position and the raised position.

[0086] According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGURES 14, 19A-19D and 21A-21F, component C may comprise a shaft SB. Shaft SB may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) reinforced plastic; (c) plastic. Shaft SB may be configured to join cover T and base B. Shaft SB may extend through bushing of retainer R; bushing of disk D and shaft SA of base B. Component C may comprise at least one fastener F coupled to shaft SB. Fastener F may be configured for a press-fit to shaft SB. Fastener F may be formed from at least one of (a) steel; (b) spring steel. Fastener F may comprise at least one of (a) a nut; (b) a set of opposed nuts. Shaft SA may be configured to prevent contact between spring ST and shaft SB. Retainer R may comprise a set of retainers. Spring CS may comprise a set of springs. Disk D may comprise a set of disks. Fastener F may comprise a set of fasteners. Cover T may comprise a storage compartment shown as a cupholder CH. Storage compartment/holder CH may be configured for access when cover T is in the inverted position.

[0087] 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.

* * *

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.