Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] This disclosure relates generally to the field of automobiles, and more particularly to a vehicle console assembly assembled in interior of the automobiles.
BACKGROUND
[002] The evolution of automobiles has witnessed a significant shift towards enhancing the overall comfort and convenience of passengers during their journeys. The proliferation of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and other portable gadgets has led to an increasing demand for charging solutions within the automobile. Furthermore, the need for convenient and secure storage of receptacles such as beverage containers, including water bottles, coffee cups, and other similar items, has become paramount as more individuals rely on their automobiles as a means of daily transportation.
[003] Traditionally, the interior of the automobile may be equipped with utility modules such as a separate rudimentary bottle/cup holder, and separate basic power outlets installed at a central console to charge the gadgets. The utility modules may be installed separately. However, there is an inherent shortcoming in the above-mentioned arrangement of the utility modules in the central console. The user may need to avail more than one utility in the central console and due to space constraints, it may not be feasible to provide more than one utility module separately in the console.
[004] Therefore, there is a need for a more space-efficient vehicle console assembly that may offer interchangeable utilization of more than one utility in the console space of the automobile.
SUMMARY
[005] In an embodiment, a console assembly is disclosed. The console assembly may include a case configured to rotatably confine at least one utility assembly. Further, the case may include a slot. Further, the utility assembly may include a first utility module and a second utility module. The second utility module may be coupled coaxially in a vertically opposite direction to the first utility module using one or more telescopic joints. In an embodiment, the first utility module or the second utility module may include a pin that may be slidingly engaged within a slot provided in the case. Further, a rotary mover may be coupled to the utility assembly to rotate the utility assembly between a first position and a second position. While the utility assembly may be in the first position, the first utility module may be positioned vertically upwards, and the second utility module may be positioned vertically downwards. Further, while the utility assembly may be in the second position, the second utility module may be positioned vertically upwards, and the first utility module may be positioned vertically downwards. In an embodiment, utility assembly may rotate from the first position to the second position to simultaneously expand the one or more telescopic joints as the pin may slide progressively within the slot.
[006] In an embodiment, a vehicle comprising a console assembly is disclosed. The vehicle may include a case accommodated in a housing formed in a console floor of a vehicle. Further, a utility assembly may be rotatably confined in the case. Further, the case may include a slot. Further, the utility assembly may include a first utility module and a second utility module. The second utility module may be coupled coaxially in a vertically opposite direction to the first utility module using one or more telescopic joints. In an embodiment, the first utility module or the second utility module may include a pin that may be slidingly engaged within a slot provided in the case. Further, a rotary mover may be coupled to the utility assembly to rotate the utility assembly between a first position and a second position. While the utility assembly may be in the first position, the first utility module may be positioned vertically upwards, and the second utility module may be positioned vertically downwards. Further, while the utility assembly may be in the second position, the second utility module may be positioned vertically upwards, and the first utility module may be positioned vertically downwards. In an embodiment, utility assembly may rotate from the first position to the second position to simultaneously expand the one or more telescopic joints as the pin may slide progressively within the slot.
[007] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
[009] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a console assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[010] FIG.2A illustrates a first-perspective view of the console assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[011] FIG.2B illustrates a second perspective view of the console assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[012] FIG.3 illustrates an exploded view of the console assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[013] FIG.3B illustrates another side view of a console assembly in a second configuration of a slot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[014] FIG.3C illustrates another side view of a console assembly in a third configuration of a slot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[015] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[016] FIG. 4B illustrates a front view of the side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[017] FIG. 4C, illustrates a side view of the side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[018] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of the base, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[019] FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of the base, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[020] FIG.6A illustrates a perspective view of the internal side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[021] FIG.6B illustrates a side view of the internal side panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[022] FIG.7 illustrates a front view of a rack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[023] FIG.8A illustrates a perspective view of the receptacle cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[024] FIG.8A illustrates a receptacle cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[025] FIG.8B illustrates a top view of the receptacle cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[026] FIG. 8C illustrates a side view of the receptacle cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[027] FIG. 9A, illustrates a perspective view of a receptacle base, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[028] FIG. 9B, illustrates a side view of the receptacle base, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[029] FIG. 9C, which illustrates a top view of the receptacle base in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[030] FIG. 10A illustrates a perspective view of a bezel of the first utility module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[031] FIG. 10B illustrates a top view of the bezel of the first utility module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[032] FIG. 11A, illustrates a perspective view of a charging interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[033] FIG. 11B, illustrates a side view of the charging interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[034] FIG. 11C, illustrates a top view of the charging interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[035] FIG. 11D, illustrates another side view of the charging interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[036] FIG. 12A illustrates a front view of a driven gear in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[037] FIG. 12B illustrates a side view of the driven gear, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[038] FIG. 13A, illustrates a front view of a rack gear, as an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[039] FIG. 13B, illustrates a side view of the rack gear, as an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[040] FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective view of a sliding knob, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure,
[041] FIG. 14B illustrates a top view of the sliding knob, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[042] FIG. 14C illustrates a perspective view of the sliding knob, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[043] FIG. 15A illustrates a sectional view of the console assembly, when the utility assembly is positioned in the second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[044] FIG. 15B illustrates a perspective view of the console assembly accommodating a receptacle, when the utility assembly is positioned in the second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[045] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of the console assembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
[046] FIG. 16B, illustrates a side view of the console assembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
[047] FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of the console assembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
[048] FIG. 17B illustrates a side view of the console assembly in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
[049] FIG. 18A illustrates a first internal view of the automobile, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and
[050] FIG. 18B illustrates a second internal view of the automobile, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[051] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims. Additional illustrative embodiments are listed.
[052] References will now be made to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same numerals have been used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIGs. 1-8B.
[053] As explained earlier, generally a vehicle may not offer more than one utility module in a console space, and hence, utility modules may be installed separately. However, when the user may need to avail more than one utility in the central console and due to space constraints, it may not be feasible to provide more than one utility module separately in the console.
[054] To this end, a console assembly is disclosed. Now referring to FIG. 1 illustrating a perspective view 100 of a console assembly 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The console assembly 101 may include a housing 102. Further, the console assembly 101 may include a utility assembly 104 rotatably confined in the housing 102. In an embodiment, the utility assembly 104 may include a first utility module 112 and a second utility module (not shown) coupled co-axially in a vertically opposite direction using one or more telescopic joints.
[055] As explained earlier, the utility assembly 104 may be disposed in the housing 102. In an embodiment, the housing 102 may be formed as a cuboidal shape structure. The housing 102 may further include a pair of front panels 106 adjoined to a side panels 120. Further, the housing 102 may include a top bezel 110 to cover the console assembly 101 from the top of the housing 102. Further, the housing 102 may include a base 116. The base 116 may cover the console assembly 101 from a bottom thereof. In an embodiment, the pair of front panels 106 may extend from one or more lateral sides of the base 116. In an embodiment, the utility assembly 104 may further include a sliding knob 114. The sliding knob 114, when actuated, may be configured to rotate the utility assembly 104 between a first position and a second position.
[056] In an embodiment, the first position may be defined as a configuration in which the first utility module 112 may be positioned in a vertically upward direction. Precisely, in the first position of the utility assembly 102, the first utility module 112 may face in an opposite direction from the base 116 of the housing 102. Accordingly, the second utility module may be disposed vertically opposite to the utility assembly 104, and thus may be positioned in a vertically downward direction. More precisely, the second utility module may face towards the base 116 of the housing 102.
[057] In an embodiment, the second position may be defined as a configuration in which the second utility module may be positioned in a vertically upward direction. Precisely, in the second position of the utility assembly 102, the first utility module 112 may face towards the base 116 of the housing 102. Accordingly, the second utility module may be disposed vertically opposite to the utility assembly 104 and thus may be positioned in a vertically upward direction. More precisely, the second utility module may face a direction opposite the base 116 of the housing 102.
[058] Now, referring to FIG. 2A, which illustrates a first-perspective view 200A of the console assembly 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, referring to FIG. 2B, which illustrates a second perspective view 200B of the console assembly 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[059] In an embodiment, the utility assembly 104 may be disposed in a case. Further, the case may be disposed of in the housing 102 (refer to FIG. 1). In an embodiment, the case may be formed by adjoining a pair of internal side panels 204a, 204b sideways to the utility assembly 104. In an embodiment, the case may further define a slot 202. Particularly, the slot 202 may be engraved on each of the side panels 204a, 204b. Further, the slot 202 may be designed as a combination of a curvilinear section and a rectilinear section. In an embodiment, the slot 202 may be designed in one or more configurations, based on one or more combinations of the curved section and the linear section. In an embodiment, the slot 202 may start with the curved section and may end at a semi-circular arc. At the end of the curved section, a linear section of the slot 202 may be formed, which may give the slot 202 a distant resemblance to a question mark.
[060] In an embodiment, the utility assembly may include a pin 206. Particularly, the pin 206 may extend as a protrusion from the utility assembly 104, and may be further slidingly engaged to the slot 202. For example, the pin 206 may extend from the first utility module 112, and configured to engage with the slot 202 such that the pin 206 may progressively slide within the slot 202 as the utility assembly 104 may rotate from the first position to the second position, and vice-versa.
[061] In an embodiment, in addition to the pin 206, a rotating shaft 222 may also extend through the utility assembly 104. For example, the rotating shaft 222 may extend through the second utility assembly 220. In an embodiment, the each of the side panel from the pair of internal side panels 204a, 204b may include a shaft groove (not shown in figure) which may allow passage of the rotating shaft 222 therethrough.
[062] In an embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 2A-2B, to the rotating shaft 222, a rotary mover may be connected. In an embodiment, the rotary mover may be formed by coupling a driven gear 208 to the rotating shaft 222, or using a gear-train arrangement. Further, to the driven gear 208, a rack gear 218 may be meshed in a rack and pinion arrangement, such that the linear movement of the rack gear 218 may rotate the driven gear 208 accordingly. In an embodiment, the sliding knob 114 (refer to FIG.1) may be operatively coupled to the rack gear 218. Thus, by sliding the sliding knob 114, the rack gear 218 may be configured to slide, and further rotate the driven gear 208. Accordingly, rotation of the driven gear 208 may rotate the rotating shaft 222. Further rotation of the rotating shaft 222 may rotate the second utility module 220, thereby rotating the utility assembly 104. In an embodiment, the rack gear may include a knob protrusion, which may be configured to engage with the sliding knob 114.
[063] In an embodiment, a track 212 may be defined at the side panel 204a. In an embodiment, the rack gear 218 may include a guideway (not shown in figure) that may further engage the track 212 when the sliding knob 114 may slide across the side panel 204a. The track 212 may act as a guide to the guideway when the sliding knob 114 may slide across the side panel 204a, or the rack gear 218 may slide across the side panel 204a to rotate the utility assembly 104 from the first position to the second position, and vice-versa.
[064] In an embodiment, the pair of internal side panels 204a, and 204b may include a plurality of attachment points 214a, 214b, and 214c, 214d respectively. The plurality of attachment points 214a, 214b, 214c and 214d may include a threaded groove configured to receive and engage a plurality of fasteners (not shown in figure), to fasten the pair of internal side panels 204a, 204b to the base 116.
[065] Further, in an embodiment, as the pin 206 may move along the curvilinear section the utility assembly 104 may undergo pure rotation along with the rotating shaft 222. However, while the pin 206 moves along the rectilinear section, the utility assembly 104 may either undergo pure lateral translation or a combination of rotation and lateral translation depending upon the orientation of the linear section. The movement of the pin 206 along various configurations of the slot 202 is explained in detail in later embodiments. Thus, by sliding the sliding knob 114, the rotary mover may rotate the shaft 220 which may result in rotation of the utility assembly 104, due to one or more telescopic joints coupling the first utility module to the second utility module.
[066] Now, with continued reference to FIGs. 2A-2B, in an exemplary scenario, when the utility assembly 104 may be rotated from the first position to the second position, the sliding knob 114 may be subjected to a sliding motion up to a predefined distance on the top bezel 110. Accordingly, the driven gear 208 may undergo a rotary motion up to a predefined angle corresponding to the sliding motion of the sliding knob 114. During the rotary motion of driven gear 208, the rotating shaft 222 may also be rotated, which may result in the rotation of the utility assembly 104. During rotation of the utility assembly 104, the pin 206 may progressively slide within the curvilinear section of the slot 202.
[067] In an embodiment, by actuating the knob protrusion 210, the driven gear 208 may be rotated and consequently, the pin 206 may move through the curvilinear section. During the motion of the pin 206 through the curvilinear section, the utility assembly 104 may be rotated such that the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may rotatably move from a vertical axis to a horizontal axis, preferably when the pin 206 may reach to a middle portion of the curve. The telescopic joint may be contracted when the utility assembly 104 may be translated to the horizontal axis. Therefore, contraction of the telescopic joint may decrease the distance between the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 when the pin 206 may reach a middle portion of the curved section of the slot 202. In an embodiment, the decrease in the distance between the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may seamlessly rotate the utility assembly 104 within the case.
[068] As the pin 206 may progressively translate through the middle portion to the lower portion of the curved region of the slot 202, the second utility module 220 may be rotated from the vertically downward direction, facing the base 116 to the vertically upwards direction, facing in the opposite direction to the base 116. During this translation, the telescopic joint may be expanded and the distance between the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may increase. At the end of the translation, the utility assembly 104 may be positioned in the second position as illustrated by FIG. 2B.
[069] In an embodiment, after use, the sliding knob 114 may be slid back resulting in a backward movement of the rack gear 218, which may cause a reverse rotation of the driven gear 208. Thus, the pin 206 may move to the initial position of the curved portion, changing the utility assembly 104 back from the second position to the first position as illustrated by FIG. 2A.
[070] In an embodiment, the first utility module 112 may include a charging interface that may be electronically connected to the gadget through a wired or a wireless medium. In an embodiment, the charging interface may also be referred to as a charging pad, which may include an inbuilt induction coil to generate a time-varying magnetic field which may generate a current in a charging circuit of the gadget. To facilitate the charging, the first utility module 112 may be equipped with a charging module (not shown in the figure). In an embodiment, the charging module may be mounted below the first utility module 112. In an embodiment, the gadget such as a smartphone may be placed at the charging interface or may be maintained in close vicinity of the charging interface to electrically charge a battery thereof. A person skilled in the art may appreciate that the first utility module 112 may not be limited to a charging interface, and may include other utilities commonly required by the user while traveling using the automobile.
[071] In an embodiment, the second utility module 220 may include a receptacle holder, to hold and accommodate a receptacle such as but not limited to a bottle, a cup, and the like. utility assembly 104utility assembly 104utility assembly 104utility assembly 104. Further, the second utility module 220 may also include an opening and a base (not shown) for placing the receptacle therein. A person skilled in the art may appreciate that the second utility module 220 may not be limited to a receptacle holder, and may include other utilities commonly required by the user while traveling using the automobile.
[072] In an exemplary embodiment, in the transient state of the automobile, there may be spillage of a content including liquid contained in one or more receptacles. The liquid may percolate to damage the charging module or the charging interface in the first utility module 112. To avoid percolation of the liquid from the base to the first utility module 112, a collapsible sheet (not shown in the figure) may be disposed along the at least one side panel from the pair of side panels 204a, 204b. The collapsible sheet may be configured to isolate the first utility module 112 from the second utility module 220. A person skilled in the art may appreciate that this may avoid percolation of the liquid at the wireless module while switching a position of the utility assembly module or due to an accidental shock in the transient state of the automobile.
[073] Now, referring to FIG. 3, illustrating an exploded view 300 of the console assembly 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, as explained earlier, the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may be connected co-axially using a telescopic joint. The telescopic joint may be formed by unison of a first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d extending from the first utility module 112 with the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d extending from the second utility module 220. Accordingly, the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may slide to and from within the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, to increase or distance between the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220. For example, when the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may slide into the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, the distance between the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may decrease. In contrast, when the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may slide outwards from the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, the distance between the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may increase accordingly. In an embodiment, the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may be connected using a set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d. The set of biasing members may include tension springs, which may be configured to mutually constrain the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220. In an embodiment, the set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d may be expanded when the telescopic joint expands. For example, the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may slide outwards from the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, the set of a set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d may be expanded accordingly. As may be appreciated, when the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may slide into the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, the set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d may be retracted accordingly.
[074] In an embodiment, with continuous reference to FIG.3, the base 116 may include a bottom panel 308. Further, the base 116 may include a plurality of receiver points 310a, 310b, 310c and 310d adjoined to the bottom panel 308. The plurality of receiver points 310a, 310b, 310c, and 310d may be configured to engage the plurality of attachment points 214a, 214b, 214c, and 214d respectively, using one or more fasteners, to confine the utility assembly 104 therein.
[075] In an embodiment, the internal side panels 204a, 204b may include a shaft groove 312. The shaft groove 312 may be configured to accommodate, and allow passage of the rotating shaft 222, as explained earlier and by way of example, may extend from the second utility module 204. In an embodiment, the rotating shaft 222 may be rotatably fixed within the shaft groove 312 and may be further connected to the driven gear 208 of the rotary mover.
[076] In an embodiment, with continuous reference to FIG.3, the second utility module 204 may include a receptacle cover 314, which may be adjoined to the receptacle base 316. The receptacle cover 314 may include an opening to allow passage of the receptacle, which may be as explained earlier, a bottle or a cup. Further, the base may be fastened to the receptacle cover 314, such that the receptacle base 316 may be configured to support the receptacle.
[077] Now, referring to FIG. 4A, illustrating a perspective view 400A of the side panel 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 4B illustrating a front view 400B of the side panel 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 4C, illustrating a side view 400C of the side panel 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[078] In an embodiment, as explained earlier, the rotating shaft 222 may also extend through the internal side panel 204a. Further, the rotating shaft 222 may also extend to a shaft support groove 402 of the side panel 108, such that the rotating shaft 222 may be rotatably supported when accommodated in the shaft support groove 402. In an embodiment, the internal side panel 204a may also include a plurality of fastening slots 404a and 404b. In an embodiment, the plurality of fastening slots 404a and 404b may be adjoined to the corresponding fastening points (not shown in the figures) of the side panel 108, to support and fixate the side panel 108 to the internal side panel 204a. In an embodiment, the side panel 108 may include a plurality of wedges 406a and 406b, which may be configured to adjoin the base 116, which is explained in detail with conjunction to FIGs. 5A-5C.
[079] Now, referring to FIG. 5A illustrating a perspective view 500A of the base 116, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 5B illustrating a side view 500B of the base 116, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[080] In an embodiment, as explained earlier, the pair of side panels 106a, and 106b may be adjoined, or extended from the lateral edges of the base 116. In an embodiment, the pair of side panels 106a, and 106b may include a plurality of wedge-attachment points 502a and 502b. In an embodiment, the plurality of wedge-attachment points 502a and 502b may be configured to engage the plurality of wedges 406a and 406b, such that the internal side panel 204a may be attached to the base 116.
[081] Now, referring to FIG. 6A illustrating a perspective view 600A of the internal side panel 204a, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 6B illustrating a front view 600B of the internal side panel 204a, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 6B illustrating a side view 600C of the internal side panel 204a, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7 illustrating a perspective view 700 of the internal side panel 204b, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[082] In an embodiment, the internal side panel 204a may include a plurality of panel fastening wedges 602a, 602b. The plurality of panel fastening wedges 602a, 602b may protrude from the surface of the internal side panel 204a. Further, the plurality of panel fastening wedges 602a, 602b may be coupled and fastened to the plurality of fastening slots 404a, 404b of the side panels 108 respectively, to fixate the side panels 108 to the internal side panel 204a.
[083] In an embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 7, another plurality of fastening wedges (not shown in figure) similar to plurality of panel fastening wedges 602a, 602b may also protrude from the side panel 204b. As may be appreciated, the plurality of fastening wedges of the side panels 204b may be attached to another side panel 108 in a similar fashion as the internal side panel 204a attached with the side panel 108.
[084] Therefore, between the assembly of the internal side panels 204a, 204b, base 116, and front panels 106, the utility assembly may be confined accordingly. In an embodiment, as explained earlier, the utility assembly may be rotatably confined within the case formed by the assembly of the internal side panels 204a, 204b, base 116, and front panels 106. The utility assembly, as explained earlier, may include the first utility module 112, and the second utility module 220, respectively. In an embodiment, the first utility module 112 and the second utility module 220 may be assembled using separate components, which is explained in detail with conjunction with FIGs. 8A-11D.
[085] Now, referring to FIG. 8A illustrating a perspective view 800A of the receptacle cover 314, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8B illustrating a top view 800B of the receptacle cover 314, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 8C illustrating a side view 800C of the receptacle cover 314, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[086] In an embodiment, the second utility module 220 may be formed by adjoining the receptacle cover 314 and the receptacle base 316 accordingly. In an embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 8A-8C, the receptacle cover 314 may include a receptacle opening 802. Further, the receptacle opening 802 may allow entry of the receptacle, which may be, as described earlier, the bottle or the cup into the second utility module 220.
[087] In an embodiment, the receptacle cover 314 may further include the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d. In an embodiment, the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d may extend from lateral edges of the receptacle cover 314 in a vertical direction. Further, the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d may include a hollow cylinders which may be configured to accommodate the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d to form a telescopic joint. The assembly of the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d with the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c is illustrated in detail with conjunction to FIGs. 10A-10B. In an embodiment, an internal diameter of the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d may be sufficiently greater than an external diameter of the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, such that the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c may easily move within the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d.
[088] Again, referring to FIGs. 8A-8C, the receptacle cover 314 may include a pair of side sections 804a, and 804b. Further, in an embodiment, it may be seen that the rotating shaft 222 may extend from the receptacle cover 314, particularly from the pair of side sections 804a, and 804b. In an embodiment, the pair of side sections 804a, and 804b may be designed parallel and positioned offset to the to the internal side panels 204a, 204b (not shown in figure), so as to allow a seamless rotation of the second utility module 220 between the internal side panel 204a, 204b. The rotating shaft 222, as explained earlier, may be configured to engage the shaft groove 312 of the internal side panel 204a, as well as shaft support groove 402 of the side panels 108.
[089] Now, referring to FIG. 9A, which illustrates a perspective view 900A of the receptacle base 316, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to FIG. 9B, which illustrates a side view 900B of the receptacle base 316, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and referring to FIG. 9C, which illustrates a top view 900C of the receptacle base 316 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[090] In an embodiment, the receptacle base 316 may include a plurality of fastening points 902a, 902b, 902c, and 902d. In an embodiment, the fastening points 902a, 902b, 902c, and 902d may extend from the receptacle base 316 in a transverse direction and may be configured to engage the receptacle cover 314 in a region formed between the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d. In an embodiment, when the receptacle base 316 may be attached to the receptacle cover 314, the positioning of the plurality of fastening points 902a, 902b, 902c, and 902d after getting affixed to the receptacle cover 314, the receptacle cover 314, and the receptacle base 316 may be separated by a predefined distance. The distance between the receptacle cover 314 and the receptacle base 316 may result in a space formed therebetween, which may be sufficient to hold receptacles up to a volume of 250 milliliters. In an embodiment, the surface of the receptacle base 316 may be grooved/abrased to increase the coefficient of friction which may avoid an accidental sliding of the receptacle due to a shock load caused by an acceleration or deceleration of the automobile.
[091] Now, referring to FIG. 10A illustrating a perspective view 1000A of a bezel 1002 of the first utility module 112, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and to FIG. 10B illustrating a top view 1000B of the bezel 1002 of the first utility module 112, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[092] In an embodiment, the bezel 1002 may be formed as a singular structure, which may be configured to accommodate a charging interface and an electronic module connected to the charging interface (not shown in figure). In an embodiment, the pin 206 may extend from the bezel 1002 in a horizontal direction. As explained earlier, the pin 206 may be configured to engage and slide along the slot 202 of the internal side panel 204a.
[093] Now, as explained earlier, the first utility module 112 may be coupled co-axially to the second utility module 220 using one or more telescopic joints. In an embodiment, and illustrated earlier by way of an example, the one or more telescopic joints may be formed by an assembly of the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d with the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 306d. In an embodiment, the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may extend in a perpendicular direction from the bezel 1002. In an embodiment, the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may extend in a perpendicular direction which may be co-axial to the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, such that the first set of cylinders 304a, 304b, 304c, and 304d may be accommodated in the second set of cylinders 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d.
[094] In an embodiment, the bezel 1002 may include a plurality of snap-fitting points 1004a, 1004b, 1004c, and 1004d. In an embodiment, the plurality of snap-fitting points 1004a, 1004b, 1004c, and 1004d may be configured to engage the charging interface, such that the charging interface may be adjoined to the bezel 1002.
[095] Now referring to FIG. 11A, illustrating a perspective view 1100A of a charging interface 1102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 11B, illustrating a side view 1100B of the charging interface 1102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 11C, illustrating a top view 1100C of the charging interface 1102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 11D, illustrating another side view 1100D of the charging interface 1102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[096] In an embodiment, the charging interface 1102 may be a rectangular-shaped structure, which may be configured to accommodate gadgets, such as a smartphone having a screen size up to 6.5 inches, to facilitate wireless charging of the said gadget. In an embodiment, the charging interface 1102 may include a plurality of snap pins 1104a, 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d. In an embodiment, the plurality of snap pins 1104a, 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d may extend from a bottom surface of the charging interface 1102 and may be positioned close to the corners of the charging interface 1102. In an embodiment, the plurality of snap pins 1104a, 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d may be configured to engage or snap-fitted into the plurality of snap-fitting points 1004a, 1004b, 1004c, and 1004d of the bezel 1002 (refer to FIGs. 10A-10B), so that the charging interface 1102 may be affixed to the bezel 1002.
[097] As explained earlier, the console assembly 101 may be operated by rotating the utility assembly 104 from the first position (illustrated by FIG. 2A) to the second position (illustrated by FIG. 2B). Also, as explained earlier, the utility assembly 104 from the first position (illustrated by FIG. 2A) to the second position using a rotary mover, which is explained in detail in conjunction with FIGs. 12A-13B.
[098] As explained earlier, the rotary mover may be formed by an assembly of driven gear 208 with the sliding knob 114. Now referring to FIG. 12A illustrating a front view 1200A of the driven gear 208 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 12B illustrating a side view 1200B of the driven gear 208, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[099] In an embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 12A-12B, the driven gear 208 may include a spur gear or a helical gear mounted on the rotating shaft 222. Furthermore, the driven gear 208 may include but is not limited to an involute type or a cycloidal type teeth configuration. The one or more teeth 1204 of the driven gear 208 may be configured to engage with the one or more teeth of the rack gear 218. Further, the rotary mover may be coupled to the rotating shaft 222 through a key and slot arrangement 1202, in which a key (not shown) may act as a pivot to transfer torque from the driven gear 208 to the rotating shaft 222 during rotation of the driven gear 208. Further, the rotating shaft 222 may be formed of but not limited to a metal including aluminum, medium carbon steel, and high carbon steel.
[0100] In an embodiment, now referring to FIG. 13A, which illustrates a front view 1300A of the rack gear 218, as an embodiment of the present disclosure, and to FIG. 13B, which illustrates a side view 1300B of the rack gear 218, as an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the rack gear 218 may include one or more teeth 1302 arranged in a straight line having a center of curvature lying at infinity in principle. The one or more teeth 1302 of the rack gear 218 may also be in an involute or a cycloidal configuration to ensure a smooth engagement and disengagement with the one or more teeth 1204 of the driven gear 208.
[0101] In an embodiment, the rack gear 218 may include a notch 1304 which may be configured to engage the track 212 to ensure a stable orientation of the rack gear 218, especially when the rack gear 218 may be subjected to a sliding motion to rotate the driven gear 208. In an exemplary embodiment, rack gear 218 may be configured to be locked along track 212 to restrict the movement of the rack gear 218 during the sliding motion.
[0102] The rack gear 218 may be subjected to a sliding force by sliding a sliding knob 114 (refer to FIG. 1). In an embodiment, the sliding knob 114 may be coupled to the knob protrusion 210. Now, referring to FIG. 14A, which illustrates a perspective view 1400A of the sliding knob 114, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 14B, which illustrates a top view 1400B of the sliding knob 114, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 14C, which illustrates a perspective view 1400C of the sliding knob 114, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0103] In an embodiment, the sliding knob 114 may be positioned on the top bezel 110 (refer to FIG.1). Further, the sliding knob 114 may be configured to slide on the top bezel 110 to slide the rack gear 218, thereby rotating the driven gear 208. In an embodiment, the sliding knob 114 may include a knob cover 1402 that may include a knurled protrusion 1404. The knob cover 1402 may include a hollow section (not shown in the figure), which may be configured to engage the knob protrusion 210.
[0104] As may be appreciated, the sliding of the sliding knob 114 may slide the rack gear 218, which may further rotate the driven gear 208, thereby rotating the utility assembly 104. It must be noted that the sliding of the sliding knob 114 may be achieved manually by a manual application of a push/pull force on the knurled protrusion 1404 of the sliding knob 114. In an alternative embodiment, the rotary mover may be replaced by a motor, or a similar automated driving means coupled to the rotating shaft 222, such that the utility assembly 104 may be rotated by the rotational motion generated by the motor. However, the utility assembly 104 may revert to the first position, especially during the transient state of the automobile, or by an accidental actuation of the sliding knob 114. Such reversion of the utility assembly 104 may be undesired.
[0105] Now, referring to FIG. 15A illustrating a sectional view 1500A of the console assembly 101, when the utility assembly 104 may be positioned in the second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and to FIG. 15B, illustrating a perspective view 1500B of the console assembly 101 accommodating a receptacle 1502, when the utility assembly 104 may be positioned in the second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0106] In an embodiment, as explained earlier and with continued reference to FIG. 15A, the first utility module 112, and the second utility module 220 may be connected using the set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d, in addition to the telescopic joints. Further, as the utility assembly 104 may be translated from the first utility module 112 to the second utility module 220, the set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d may be compressed from an initial state to a compressed state as the telescopic joint may be contracted, and be retained to the initial state as the telescopic joint may be expanded until the utility assembly 104 may be switched to the second position. As explained earlier, this position may accompany the undesired rotation of the utility assembly 104.
[0107] In an embodiment, with continuous reference to FIG. 15B, to lock the utility assembly 104 in the second position to prevent undesired rotation of the utility assembly 104, the one or more receptacles 1502 may be placed within the second utility module 220. The weight of the receptacles 1502 may push the receptacle base 316 vertically downwards, such that the set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d may be extended. In addition to the extension of the set of biasing members 302a, 302b, 302c, and 302d, the weight of the receptacles 1502 may lead to lowering of the pin 206 along the linear section of the slot 202, thereby restricting the pin 206 within the linear section of the slot 202. Therefore, the undesired rotation of the utility assembly 104 may be prevented accordingly, especially when the utility assembly 104 is positioned in the second position. Further, to revert to the first position, one or more receptacles 1502 may be lifted off the second utility module 220. After lifting off the one or more receptacles 1502, the pin 206 may travel vertically upwards within the slot 202 and may re-enter the curved section of the slot 202.
[0108] Now referring to FIG. 16A illustrating a perspective view 1600A of the console assembly 101 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16B, illustrating a side view 1600B of the console assembly 101 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. Further referring to FIG. 17A illustrating a perspective view 1700A of the console assembly 101 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 17B illustrating a side view 1700B of the console assembly 101 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0109] In an alternative embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 16A-16B, the slot 202 may be designed as a curved-shaped structure. The pin 206 may be configured to translate to and from along the curved-shaped structure when the utility assembly 104 may be rotated from the first position to the second position, and vice versa.
[0110] In an alternative embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 17A-17B, the slot 202 may be designed as another combination of a curvilinear section and a linear section. Particularly, the linear section may be designed transversely to an axis perpendicular to the console assembly 101 by a predefined angle. In an embodiment, the pin 206 may be configured to translate along the curvilinear section when the utility assembly 104 may be rotated from the first position to the second position, and may be further translated to the transverse linear section when the console assembly 101 is to be locked in the second position.
[0111] Now referring to FIG. 18A illustrating a first internal view 1800A of the automobile, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 18B illustrating a second internal view 1800B of the automobile, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0112] In an embodiment, the console assembly 101 may be installed in a console space 1802 also referred to as a console floor of a vehicle. It is to be noted that the console space 1802 in the automobile cabin, may be located above a transmission module of the vehicle, in between a front passenger seat and a driving seat of the automobile. In an embodiment, with reference to FIG. 18A, the console assembly 101 may be in the first position, where the first utility module 112 or the charging module may be in the upward position. As explained in previous embodiments, the mobile phone may be recharged through the charging interface. Further, after recharging the mobile phone, in an exemplary case, the user may slide the sliding knob 114 which may switch the utility assembly 104 to the second position. With continued reference to FIG. 18B, in the second position, the second utility module 220 may be in an upward position and the first utility module 112 may be in the downward position.
[0113] Thus, the console assembly 101 may provide one or more utilities for e.g., holding the receptacle, and/or charging the gadget including the mobile phone interchangeably in a console space of a vehicle, utilizing a lower amount of space within the automobile.
[0114] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for the sake of clarity.
[0115] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."
[0116] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
, C , Claims:I/We claim:

1. A console assembly (101) comprising:
a case defining:
a slot (202);
utility assembly (104) rotatably confined in the case, comprising:
a first utility module (112);
a second utility module (220) coupled co-axially in a vertically opposite direction to the first utility module (112) using one or more telescopic joints, and wherein the first utility module (112) or the second utility module (220) comprises:
a pin (206) slidingly engaged within the slot (202); and
a rotary mover coupled to the utility assembly (104) and configured to rotate the utility assembly (104) between:
a first position wherein the first utility module (112) is positioned vertically upwards, and a second utility module (220) is positioned vertically downwards; and
a second position wherein the second utility module (220) is positioned vertically upwards, and the first utility module (112) is positioned vertically downwards,
wherein the utility assembly module rotates from the first position to the second position to simultaneously expand the one or more telescopic joints when the pin (206) slides progressively within the slot (202).

2. The console assembly (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the case comprises:
a pair of front panels (106a, 106b); and
a pair of side panels (204a, 204b) adjoined to the pair of front panels (106a, 106b), and wherein the slot (202) is formed on at least one side panel from the pair of side panels (106a, 106b).

3. The console assembly (101) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the slot (202) defines:
a curved section.

4. The console assembly (101) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the slot (202) defines:
a linear section adjacently formed to the curved section, such that one or more telescopic joints are expanded when the pin (206) slides progressively along the linear section within the slot (202).

5. The console assembly (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotary mover comprises:
a rack and pinion assembly,
a gear train assembly, or
a motor drive assembly.

6. The console assembly (101) as claimed in claim 2, wherein a collapsible sheet is disposed along at least one side panel from the pair of side panels (204a, 204b) to isolate the first utility module (112) from the second utility module (204).

7. The console assembly (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second utility module (220) comprises:
a base (316), wherein:
a distance between the base (316) and the second utility module (204) increases due to expansion of the one or more telescopic joints when the pin (206) slides along the linear section of the slot (202).

8. A vehicle, comprising:
a console floor (1802); and
a housing formed in the console floor (1802), to accommodate:
a case, defining:
a slot (202);
utility assembly (104) rotatably confined in the case, comprising:
a first utility module (112);
a second utility module (220) coupled co-axially in a vertically opposite direction to the first utility module (112) using one or more telescopic joints, and wherein the first utility module (112) or the second utility module (204) comprises:
a pin (206) slidingly engaged within the slot (202); and
a rotary mover coupled to the utility assembly (104) and configured to rotate the utility assembly (104) between:
a first position wherein the first utility module (112) is positioned vertically upwards, and a second utility module (220) is positioned vertically downwards;
a second position wherein the second utility module (220) is positioned vertically upwards, and the first utility module (112) is positioned vertically downwards, and
wherein the utility assembly module rotates from the first position to the second position to simultaneously expand one or more telescopic joints when the pin (206) slides progressively within the slot (202).

9. The vehicle as claimed in claim 7, wherein the case comprises:
a pair of front panels (106a, 106b); and
a pair of side panels (204a, 204b) adjoined to the pair of front panels (106a, 106b), and wherein the slot (202) is formed on at least one side panel from the pair of side panels (106a, 106b).

10. The vehicle as claimed in claim 8, wherein the slot (202) defines:
a curved section.

11. The vehicle as claimed in claim 10, wherein the slot (202) defines:
a linear section adjacently formed to the curved section, such that one or more telescopic joints are expanded when the pin (206) slides progressively along the linear section within the slot (202).

12. The vehicle as claimed in claim 7, wherein the rotary mover comprises:
a rack and pinion arrangement,
a gear train arrangement, or
a motor drive arrangement.

13. The vehicle as claimed in claim 8, wherein a collapsible sheet is disposed along at least one side panel from the pair of side panels (204a, 204b) to isolate the first utility module (112) from the second utility module (220).

14. The vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein the second utility module (220) comprises:
a base (316), wherein:
a distance between the base (316) and the second utility module (220) increases due to expansion of the one or more telescopic joints when the pin (206) slides along the rectilinear section of the slot (202).