Description:SMART VEHICLE FLOOR CONSOLE AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF
DESCRIPTION
Technical Field
[001] This disclosure relates generally to the field of vehicle design technology, and more particularly to a smart vehicle floor console and method of operating thereof.
Background
[002] In almost every modern vehicle, there is generally a floor console in between front seats or in dashboard to store objects like, phone, wallet, cup, etc. However, since currently designed floor consoles are of fixed size, the objects being placed within the floor console may not fit entirely within the floor console depending upon the size of the floor console and size of the objects being placed within the floor console. This is because the floor console may be designed of a pre-defined size to hold specific objects. In case the objects being placed in the floor console are of smaller size than that of the floor console, then the objects may continue to move during movement of the vehicle. For instance, a cup holder in the floor console may be designed for a specific dimension of cup and cup with different dimensions may not firmly fit in the cup holder. In this case when the cup does not firmly fit within the cup holder in the floor console, i.e., when the cups are loosely placed within the cup holder, a bverege filled within the cup may spill during road modulation encountered throughout the journey while the vehicle is in motion. Similarly, other objects placed on the console, such as mobile phone and wallet, may also move around when the vehicle travels over bumps and the like, and may hit walls of the consoles or may even fall.
[003] Currently, some existing techniques focus on overcoming exising problem of cup movement within the cup holders, such as lid mechanism configured for opening and closing lid attached to cup holders, extendible cupholder mechanism, rubber base cup holders, and the like. Moreover, these existing techniques used for firmly holding cups in the floor console are not generic. Furthermore, these existing techniques primarily focus on holding of the cups in the floor console and do not focus on other objects, like, mobile phones, wallets, etc. In order to place these objects firmly within the vehicle, user needs to use different console attachements. However, these existing additional console attachements are not efficient and may be costly. Moreover, these existing technqiues fail to provide a console that can hold objects of various sizes intact.
SUMMARY
[004] In one embodiment, a vehicle floor console assembly is disclosed. In one example, the vehicle floor console assembly may include a console floor, and a first sensor coupled to the console floor. It should be noted that, the first sensor may be configured to identify placement of an object on the console floor. The vehicle floor console assembly may further include a set of latch arms. Each latch arm may include a distal end and a proximal end oppositely disposed to the distal end. The set of latch arms may be configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode. The vehicle floor console assembly may further include an actuator operatively coupled to each of the set of latch arms. The actuator may be configured to transition the set of latch arms between the concealed mode and the deployed mode. The vehicle floor console assembly may further include, a controller communicatively coupled to the first sensor and the actuator. The controller may be configured to receive a first signal indicating placement of the object on the console floor from the first sensor and control the actuator to transition the set of latch arms from the concealed mode to the deployed mode in response to receiving the first signal.
[005] In another embodiment, a smart kit for a vehicle console is disclosed. In one example, the smart kit for a vehicle console may include a plurality of sensors. A first sensor may be configured to identify placement of an object on a console floor of the vehicle console and generate a first signal related to identification of placement of the object on the console floor. A set of second sensors may be configured to identify position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor and generate a second signal including details of the position and the dimensions of the object. The smart kit for the vehicle console may further include a set of latch arms configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode. The smart kit for the vehicle console may further include an actuator configured to operatively couple to each of the set of latch arms and transition the set of latch arms between the deployed mode and the concealed mode.
[006] In yet another embodiment, a vehicle is disclosed. In one example, the vehicle may include a cabin floor, and a floor console coupled to the cabin floor. The floor console may include a first sensor coupled to a console floor. The first sensor may be configured to identify placement of an object on the console floor. The vehicle may further include a set of latch arms. The set of latch arms may include a distal end, and a proximal end oppositely disposed to the distal end. It should be noted that, the set of latch arms may be configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode. The vehicle may further include an actuator. The actuator may be operatively coupled to the set of latch arms. Further, the actuator may be configured to transition the set of latch arms between the concealed mode and the deployed mode. The vehicle may further include a controller communicatively coupled to the first sensor, the set of second sensors, and the actuator. The controller may be configured to receive a first signal indicating placement of the object on the console floor from the first sensor and control the actuator to transition the set of latch arms from the concealed mode to the deployed mode in response to receiving the first signal.
[007] In yet another embodiment, a method of operation of a vehicle floor console is disclosed. In one example, the method may include receiving a first signal from a first sensor in response to placement of an object on a console floor of the vehicle floor console, and a second signal from a set of second sensors by a controller. The second signal include details of a position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor. The method may further include deploying a set of latch arms to interface with surface of the object placed on the console floor based on the first signal and the second signal by the controller via an actuator. The method of deploying the set of latch arms may further include transitioning the set of latch arms from a concealed mode to a deployed mode based on the first signal. The method of deploying the latch arm may further position the set of latch arms to interface with the surface of the object based on the second signal via the actuator.
[008] 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
[009] 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.
[010] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary vehicle floor console assembly, in accordance with some embodiments.
[011] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary latch arm, in accordance with some embodiments.
[012] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary representation of a vehicle floor console assembly implemented within a vehicle console of a vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments.
[013] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow chart of a method of operating a vehicle floor console, in accordance with some embodiments.
[014] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart of a method of transitioning a set of latch arms from a deployed mode to a concealed mode, in accordance with some embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[015] The foregoing description has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which forms the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying other devices, systems, assemblies and mechanisms for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that, such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristics of the disclosure, to its device or system, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.
[016] The terms “including”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “comprising of” or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a system or a device that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
[017] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals have been used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIGs. 1-5. It is to be noted that the system may be employed in any vehicle including but not limited to a passenger vehicle, a utility vehicle, commercial vehicles, and any other vehicle with an exhaust system. For a sake of clarity, a vehicle is not shown.
[018] Referring now to FIG. 1, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary vehicle floor console assembly 100 is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments. In an embodiment, the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may be configured to firmly hold objects of different shape and size, thereby avoiding movement of objects while a vehicle is in motion. The vehicle floor console assembly 100 may be integrated within a vehicle console 102 of the vehicle. Examples of the vehicle may include, but is not limited to, cars, buses, trucks, aircrafts, trains, and the like. By way of an example, when the vehicle is a car, the vehicle console 102 may correspond to a center console of the car (e.g., a console provided between a driver seat and a co-driver seat). By way of another example, when the vehicle is an aircraft, the vehicle console 102 may correspond to an operating console on an arm rest, back rest or cladding of the aircraft seat. In some embodiments, the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may be also referred as a vehicle floor console, a floor console, or a smart kit.
[019] As depicted via FIG.1, the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may include a console floor 104. In addition to the console floor 104, the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may further include a first sensor 106. The first sensor 106 may be coupled to the console floor 104. In an example, the first sensor 106 may be coupled to a bottom of the console floor 104. The first sensor 106 may be configured to identify placement of an object on the console floor 104. In other words, the first sensor 106 may determine that the object is being placed on the console floor 104. Examples of the objects may include, but is not limited to, a beverage cup, a water bottle, a mobile phone, a wallet, and the like. In an embodiment, the first sensor 106 may correspond to a load sensor. In addition to determining the placement of the object, the first sensor 106 may determine load, i.e., a weight of the object being placed on the console floor 104.
[020] The vehicle floor console assembly 100 may further include a set of latch arms 108. In an embodiment, the vehicle console 102 may house the set of latch arms 108 on side walls of the vehicle console 102. Further, each of the set of latch arms 108 may include a distal end 108A and a proximal end 108B. As depicted via the present FIG.1, the proximal end 108B may be oppositely disposed to the distal end 108A. An exemplary representation of a latch arm is further depicted and explained in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[021] In an embodiment, each of the set of latch arms 108 may be configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode. The concealed mode may correspond to a condition when the set of latch arms 108 is concealed within the vehicle console 102. In other words, the concealed mode may correspond to a mode when the object is not placed on the console floor 104 of the vehicle console 102 and the set of latch arms 108 are within the vehicle console 102. On the other hand, the deployed mode may correspond to a condition when the set of latch arms 108 interface with surface of the object placed on the console floor 104. In other words, the deployed mode may correspond to a mode when the set of latch arms 108 may be firmly holding the object placed on the console floor 104. Further, as depicted via the present FIG. 1, each of the set of the latch arms 108 may include a soft cushion padding 110 to prevent any damage to the object placed on the console floor 104 when the set of latch arms 108 is in the deployed mode.
[022] Further, each of the set of latch arms 108 may include a set of second sensors 112. In an embodiment, a second sensor of the set of second sensors 112 may be coupled to a latch arm of the set of latch arms 108. Further, as depicted via the present FIG. 1, the second sensor may be coupled to the distal end 108A of each of the set of latch arms 108. In an embodiment, each of the set of second sensors 112 may be configured to capture data indicative of position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor 104. By way of an example, when the object is a beverage cup, then the set of second sensors 112 may be configured to determine position and dimensions of the beverage cup being placed on the console floor 104. The set of second sensors 112 may be a mini ultrasonic sensor or a photoelectronic sensor. In other words, the set of second sensors 112 may enable the set of latch arms 108 to decide positioning of the set of latch arms 108 to grip the beverage cup firmly based on the determined position and dimensions of the beverage cup.
[023] The vehicle floor console assembly 100 may further include a third sensor 114. The third sensor 114 may be configured to identify proximity of a user hand relative to the console floor 104. In an embodiment, the third sensor 114 may correspond to a motion sensor or a proximity sensor. By way of an example, when the user brings his hand close to the console floor 104 to remove or pick the object, e.g., the beverage cup placed on the console floor 104, the third sensor 114 may sense that the user hand is reaching the console floor 104. Further, based on sensing of the user hand near the console floor 104, the set of latch arms 104 may get transitioned from the deployed mode to the concealed model, in order to enable the user to pick the object placed on the console floor 104.
[024] The vehicle floor console assembly 100 may further include an actuator plate 116. In other words, the vehicle console 102 of the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may house the actuator plate 116. As depicted via the present FIG. 1, a first face 116A of the actuator plate 116 may be operatively coupled to an actuator 118. In an embodiment, the actuator 118 may correspond to a solenoid actuator. Further, a second face 116B of the actuator plate 116 may be coupled to the proximal end 108B of each of the set of latch arms 108. The actuator 118 may configured to actuate the actuator plate 116 based on sensing by the first sensor 106, the set of second sensors 112, and the third sensor 114. In other words, the actuator 118 may be configured to transition the set of latch arms 108 to the deployed mode or the concealed mode based on actuation of the actuator plate 116.
[025] As will be appreciated, the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may not affect styling, i.e., design of the vehicle console 102 as the vehicle floor console assembly 100 components, i.e., the set of latch arms 108, the actuator, etc. are concealed within the vehicle console 102 in the concealed mode. In one implementation, as depicted via the FIG. 1, the console floor 104 may include an opening corresponding to each of the set of latch arms 108 for transition of the set of latch arms 108 into the deployed mode or the concealed mode. In another implementation, each of the set of latch arms 108 may be concealed within side walls of the vehicle console 102. An implementation of the vehicle floor console assembly 100 in the vehicle console 102 of a vehicle is further depicted and explained in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 3.
[026] Further, the vehicle floor console assembly 100 may include a controller (not shown). The controller may be coupled to the first sensor 106 and the actuator 118. In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to receive a first signal from the first sensor 106 indicating placement of the object on the console floor 104. In addition, the controller may be configured to control the actuator 118 to transition the set of latch arms 108 from the concealed mode to the deployed mode in response to receiving the first signal.
[027] By way of an example, when the user may place the object, e.g., a beverage cup of the console floor 104, then the first sensor 106 may be configured to capture data corresponding to the place of the beverage cup on the console floor 104. The data capture by the first sensor 108 indicative of the placement of the beverage cup may be sent to the controller in a form of the first signal. Further, based on the received first signal, the controller may determine placement of the beverage cup on the console floor 104. Upon determining the placement of the beverage cup, the controller may be configured to instruct the actuator to transition the set of latch arms 108 from the concealed mode to the deployed mode.
[028] Further, the controller may be configured to receive a second signal from the set of second sensors 112 while the set of latch arms 108 are being transitioned to the deployed mode. In an embodiment, the second signal may include details usable to identify the position and the dimensions of the object. In other words, the second signal may be indicative of the position and dimensions of the object. Further, based on the details in the second signal, the controller may be configured to control the actuator to position the set of latch arms 108 to interface with surface of the object. In other words, the controller may decipher the details received as part of the second signal to identify the position and the dimensions of the object and consequently control movement of the set of latch arms 108. As will be appreciated, each of the set of latch arms 108 may firmly interface with the surface of the object to avoid damaging of the object.
[029] In addition to the first signal and the second signal, the controller may be configured to receive a third signal from the set of second sensors 112. The third signal may include data corresponding to distance of each of the distal end 108A of each of the set of latch arms 108 from corresponding surface portion of the object. Upon receiving the third signal, the controller may be configured to determine distance of the distal end 108A from the corresponding surface portion of the object for each of the set of latch arms 108 based on the third signal received from the set of second sensors 112. Once the distance is determined, the controller may be configured to control the actuator 118 to cease movement of at least one of the set of latch arms 108, when the distance from the corresponding surface portion of the object is equal to zero. It should be noted that, the movement of the at least one of the set of latch arms 108 may be ceased to stop the at least one of the set of latch arms from going extremely close to the object in way that will squash the object placed on the console floor 104.
[030] As will be appreciated, in an embodiment, the second signal may be emitted by the second set of sensors 112 when the set of latch arms 108 may not be moving towards the object. In other words, the second signal emitted by the set of second sensors 112 may be used by the controller to determine position and dimensions of the object, before the set of latch arms 108 starts moving towards the object, i.e., before deployment of the set of latch arms 108. The second signal may be used by the controller to determine the shape and size of the object. Furthermore, the third signal may be periodically emitted by the set of second sensors 112 when the set of latch arms 108 starts moving towards the object, i.e., during deployment of the set of latch arms 108. The third signal may be used by the controller to determine the distance of the set of latch arms 108 from the surface of the object.
[031] The controller is further configured to receive a fourth signal from the third sensor 114. The fourth signal may include data corresponding to distance of the user hand relative to the console floor 104. In an embodiment, the data received from the third sensor 114 via the fourth signal may contain information about proximity of the user hand with respect to the object place on the console floor 104. By way of an example, when the user brings his hand closer to the object placed on the console floor 104 that is held by the set of latch arms 108, then the third sensor 114 may sense the data corresponding to an obstacle, such as, the user hand with respect to the object. The third sensor 114 may send this data corresponding to the obstacle to the controller in a form of the fourth signal. Further, based on the fourth signal received from the third sensor 114, the controller may be configured to determine the distance of the user hand from the object. Further, based on the strength of the fourth signal emitted by the third sensor 114, the controller may be configured to determine distance of the user hand with respect to the console floor 104. Further, the third sensor 114 may send this data to the controller in a form of the fourth signal.
[032] Upon receiving the data with respect to the distance of the user hand, the controller may compare the received distance with a predefined proximity threshold. Further, based on the comparison of the distance received for the user hand with the pre-defined proximity threshold, the controller may be configured to instruct the actuator 118 to transition the set of latch arms 108 from the deployed mode to the concealed mode, when the distance between the user hand and console floor 104 is below the predefined proximity threshold.
[033] By way of an example, suppose the predefined proximity threshold may be set to be 3 centimeters (cm). Now consider a scenario, when the object, e.g., the beverage cup may be placed on the console floor 104 and is firmly held by the set of latch arms 108. In this case, when the user may bring his hand closer to the console floor 104 to pick up the beverage cup, then the third sensor 114 may sense data corresponding to the distance (for example: say 2cm) of the user hand with respect to the console floor 104. The data sensed by the third sensor 114 may be shared with the controller as the fourth signal. In an embodiment, the data sensed corresponding to the distance of the user hand with respect to the console floor 104 may represent a value/magnitude of the fourth signal. For example, when the user hand may be within a range of ‘2cm’ with respect to the console floor 104, then the value of the fourth signal may be high. Upon sensing the user hand, the third sensor 114 may send the fourth signal (e.g., an electrical signal) indicative of the data corresponding to the distance of the user hand’ to the controller. Further, upon receiving the fourth signal, the controller may be configured to determine distance of the user hand from the console floor 104, for example, 2cm . The controller may compare the determined distance, i.e., 2cm with the predefined proximity threshold, i.e., 3cm. Further, based on the comparison upon identifying the distance of the user hand to be less that the predefined proximity threshold, the controller may instruct the actuator 118 to transition the set of latch arms 108 from the deployed mode to the concealed mode, in order to enable the user to pick-up the beverage cup.
[034] Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross sectional view 200 of an exemplary latch arm 202 is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG.2 is explained in conjunction with FIG.1. With reference to FIG. 1, the latch arm 202 depicted via the present FIG. 2 may be one of the set of latch arms 108 of the vehicle floor console assembly 100. As will be appreciated, the latch arm 202 may be designed to hold a variety of objects of different dimensions and shapes. In an embodiment, the latch arm 202 may include a first portion, i.e., a proximal portion 204, and a second portion, i.e., a distal portion 208. Further, the proximal portion 204 of the latch arm 202 may include a proximal end 206 (corresponding to the proximal end 108B). With reference to FIG. 1, the proximal portion 204 of the latch arm 202 may be coupled to the actuator via the proximal end 206. In addition, the distal portion 208 may include a distal end 210 (corresponding to the distal end 108A). In an embodiment, the proximal portion 204 and the distal portion 208 may be operatively coupled by a pivot 212. The pivot 212 may enable movement of the distal portion 208 based on motion of the proximal portion 204.
[035] Further, the proximal portion 204 may move perpendicular to a console floor 214 (corresponding to the console floor 104). In other words, the proximal portion 204 may move vertically with respect to the console floor 214. Furthermore, the distal portion 208 may rotate around the pivot 212 based on the motion of the proximal portion 204. Further, a second sensor 216 (corresponding to the second sensor 110) may be coupled to the distal end 210 of the distal portion 208. The second sensor 216 may be configured to identify the position and the dimension of an object 218 placed on the console floor 214. Further, the proximal end 206 may be coupled to an actuator (corresponding to the actuator 118) via an actuator plate (corresponding to the actuator plate 116). As will be appreciated, the actuator may enable movement of the proximal portion 204. Further, based on the movement of the proximal portion, the distal portion 208 may rotate around the pivot 212 and will move perpendicular to the console floor 212 to firmly hold the object 218.
[036] With reference to FIG. 2, in another implementation, each of the latch arm 202 (corresponding to the set of latch arms 108) may be housed within a side wall 222 of the vehicle console 102. The side wall 222 may have an opening 220 to enable movement of the latch arm 202. The movement of the latch arm 202 may enable transition of the latch arm 202 between one of two modes, i.e., the deployed mode and the concealed mode. In the deployed mode, the distal portion 208 may emerge out from the opening 220 to interface with the surface of the object 218 placed on the console surface 214. Further, in the concealed mode, the distal portion 208 may roll back inside the side wall 222 of the vehicle console (i.e., the vehicle console 102).
[037] With reference to FIG. 2, this functionality of the latch arm 202 may keep the vehicle console 102 tidy as no parts of the vehicle floor console assembly 100 is visible in the concealed mode. Further, in an embodiment, in the deployed mode of the latch arm 202, the second sensor 216 integrated with the distal end 210 of the latch arm 202 may send the second signal to the controller to indicate the latch arm 202 to stop moving when the distance between the distal end 210 and the surface of the object 218 is zero. The transition of the latch arm 202 between the deployed mode and the concealed mode may be enabled by the actuator 118 coupled with the proximal end 206 through the actuator plate 116 of the vehicle floor console assembly 100.
[038] Referring now to FIG. 3, an exemplary representation 300 of a vehicle floor console assembly 302 implemented within a vehicle console 304 of a vehicle is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments. With reference to FIG.1, the vehicle console 304 may correspond to the vehicle console 102. The vehicle console 304 may be coupled to, such as mounted on, a cabin floor of the vehicle. Further, the vehicle floor console assembly 302 may correspond to the vehicle floor console assembly 100. As depicted via the present FIG. 3, the vehicle floor console assembly 302 may be implemented within the vehicle console 304 in such a way that a set of latch arms (corresponding to the set of latch arms 108), an actuator (corresponding to the actuator 118), and the like, may not be visible when the vehicle floor console assembly 302 is in the concealed mode. In other words, the vehicle floor console assembly 302 may be implemented within the vehicle console 304 in such a way that cabin design or center console design (i.e., design of the vehicle console 304) of the vehicle may not get affected. In some embodiment, the vehicle floor console assembly 302 may be also referred as a vehicle floor console, a smart kit, or a floor console.
[039] The vehicle floor console assembly 304 may have an opening 306 corresponding to each of the set of latch arms (corresponding to the set of latch arms 108) in a console floor 308. The console floor 308 may be analogous to the console floor 104 as depicted in FIG. 1. Further, the opening 306 may enable transition of the set of latch arms 104 between the concealed mode and the deployed mode. With reference to FIG.2, the opening 306 may be analogous to the opening 220. In one embodiment, in the deployed mode, when the object is placed on the console floor 308, then the set of latch arms may emerge out from a corresponding opening 306, upon sensing the placement of the object on the console floor 308. In another embodiment, in the concealed mode, when no object is placed on the console floor 308, then the set of latch arms may roll back into a console housing 310 underneath the console floor 308.
[040] By way of an example, when a mobile phone may be placed on the console floor 308 of the vehicle. In this example, upon identifying placement of the object, the set of latch arms may emerge out from the corresponding opening 306 to firmly hold the object. Further, when the mobile phone is removed from the console floor 308, then the set of latch arms 104 may roll back into the console housing 310 underneath the console floor 308.
[041] Referring now to FIG. 4, a method 400 of operating a vehicle floor console is illustrated via a flowchart, in accordance with some embodiments. With reference to FIG. 1, the vehicle floor console may correspond to the vehicle floor console assembly 100. Further, the vehicle floor console may be implemented within the vehicle console 102 of the vehicle. Examples of the vehicle may include, but is not limited to, cars, buses, trucks, aircrafts, trains, and the like. By way of an example, when the vehicle is the car, then the vehicle console 102 may correspond to a center console of the car. By way of another example, when the vehicle is the aircraft, the vehicle console 102 may correspond to an operating console on an arm rest, back rest or cladding of the aircraft seat. In an embodiment, the method 400 of operating the vehicle floor console may be executed by a controller.
[042] In order to operate the vehicle floor console, initially at step 402, the controller may be configured to receive a first signal from a first sensor in response to placement of an object on a console floor of the vehicle floor console as mentioned via a step 402. With reference to FIG. 1, the first sensor may correspond to the first sensor 106. The console floor may correspond to the console floor 104. In an embodiment, the first sensor may be configured to identify placement of the object on the console floor.
[043] Upon identifying the placement of the object, the first sensor may send the first signal to the controller. In an embodiment, the first sensor may be a load sensor. Examples of load sensor may include, strain gauge load sensor, capacitive load sensors, and the like. Further, in addition to the first signal, at step 402, the controller may be configured to receive a second signal from a set of second sensors as mentioned via step 406. In an embodiment, the second signal may include details usable to identify position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor.
[044] With reference to FIG.1, the set of second sensors may correspond to the set of second sensors 112. In an embodiment, each of the set of second sensors may correspond to a mini ultrasonic sensor or a photoelectric sensor. Some examples of the mini ultrasonic sensor or the photoelectric sensors may include, but is not limited to, through-beam sensors, retro-reflective sensors, proximity sensors, and diffused sensors. In some embodiment, the controller herein may be, but not limited to, an electronic control unit already present in the vehicle to control operations of electronic parts of the vehicle.
[045] Upon receiving the first signal and the second signal, at step 408, a set of latch arms may be deployed. In an embodiment, the set of latch arms may be deployed to interface with surface of the object placed on the console floor. In an embodiment, the deployment of the set of latch arms may be done based on the first signal and the second signal. In order to deploy each of the set of latch arms, the controller may be configured to determine details with respect to position and dimension of the object, based on the second signal. Further, in order to deploy the set of latch arms, at step 410, the set of latch arms may be transitioned from a concealed mode to a deployed mode based on the first signal. Further, during transitioning of the set of latch arms to the deployed mode, at step 412, the set of latch arms may be positioned to interface with surface of the object, based on the second signal. In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to deploy the set of latch arms via an actuator.
[046] With reference to FIG. 1, the set of latch arms may correspond to the set of latch arms 108. The actuator may correspond to the actuator 118. In an embodiment, the actuator may be a solenoid actuator. Further, the second set of sensors may be coupled to the distal end 108A of each of the set of latch arms 108. As will be appreciated, the second signal may be received from the set of second sensors 112 while the set of latch arms 108 are being transitioned to the deployed mode. The transitioning of the set of latch arms from the concealed mode to the deployed mode via the actuator has been already explained in detail in conjunction with above FIGs. 1- 3.
[047] Referring now to FIG. 5, a flow chart 500 of a method of transitioning a set of latch arms from a deployed mode to a concealed mode is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments. In an embodiment, the method 500 may be executed by a controller. In order to transition the set of latch arms from the deployed mode to the concealed mode, initially at step 502, a fourth signal may be received from a third sensor. In an embodiment, the fourth signal may include data corresponding to distance of a user hand relative to the console floor. With reference to FIG. 1, the third sensor may correspond to the third sensor 114. The third sensor may be a proximity sensor. Examples of proximity sensors may include capacitive proximity sensor, inductive magnetic sensor, magnetic proximity sensor, and the like. In addition, the distance of the user hand with respect to the console floor 104 may be determined by the third sensor 114 coupled to the console floor 104. As will be appreciated, the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, and the fourth signal may correspond to an electrical signal.
[048] Upon receiving the fourth signal, at step 504, the distance of the user hand may be compared with a predefined proximity threshold. Further, based on the comparison, at step 506, the actuator may be instructed to transition the set of latch arms from the deployed mode to the concealed mode. The actuator may receive instruction to transition the set of latch arms to the concealed mode when the distance between the user hand and the console floor is below the predefined proximity threshold. This has been already explained in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 1.
[049] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, a variety of method may be employed to hold a variety of objects of different dimensions and shapes. For example, the exemplary vehicle floor console assembly 100 may hold a variety of objects of different dimensions and shapes by the methods discussed herein. In particular, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, control logic and/or automated routines for performing the techniques and steps described herein may be implemented by a controller either by hardware or combinations of hardware and software. For example, suitable code may be accessed and executed by the one or more controller in the vehicle floor console assembly 100 to perform some or all of the techniques described herein. Similarly, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) configured to perform some, or all of the method described herein may be included in the one or more controller in the vehicle floor console assembly 100.
[050] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the techniques described in the various embodiments discussed above are not routine, or conventional, or well understood in the art. The techniques discussed above may provide operation of a vehicle floor console. The techniques may first receive a first signal from a first sensor in response to placement of an object on a console floor of the vehicle floor console and a second signal from a set of second sensors. The second signal may include details of a position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor. The techniques may then deploy a set of latch arms to interface with surface of the object placed on the console floor based on the first signal and the second signal. In order to deploy the set of latch arms, the technique may transition the set of latch arms from a concealed mode to a deployed mode based on the first signal. Further, the techniques may position the set of latch arms to interface with surface of the object, based on the second signal.
[051] Thus, the disclosed method and system try to overcome the technical problem of holding a variety of generic objects i.e., mobile phones, wallets, cups etc. in firmly at a place within a vehicle console during road modulations while travelling. Hereby, the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly may solve this technical problem while offereing a variety of advantages, such as, the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly may be designed in such a way that it will be implement in vehicle console (i.e., the center console) of almost every vehicle. Moreover, in some embodiments, the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly may be integrated with dashboard of the vehicle. Further, the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly may ensure that objects, e.g., wallets, mobile phones, cups etc. placed on the console floor of the vehicle console may be restricted from moving during road modulations encountered during journey. In addition, the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly may use a morphed or concealed latching system, i.e., the set of latch arms configured to firmly hold objects placed on the console floor to avoiding damaging of the objects. Further, the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly may be automated i.e., no human efforts may be required to operate the disclosed vehicle floor console assembly.
[052] In light of the above-mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method and system (i.e., a vehicle floor console assembly), the claimed system and method as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed system and method enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed system and method clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the system itself as the claimed system and method provide a technical solution to a technical problem.
[053] The specification has described a vehicle floor console and method of operating the vehicle floor console. The illustrated steps are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
[054] 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 sake of clarity.
[055] 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.”
[056] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.
[057] 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.
, Claims:CLAIMS
I/WE CLAIM:
1. A vehicle floor console assembly (100) comprising:
a console floor (104);
a first sensor (106) coupled to the console floor (104), wherein the first sensor (106) is configured to identify placement of an object on the console floor (104);
a set of latch arms (108), each latch arm comprising:
a distal end (108A);
a proximal end (108B) oppositely disposed to the distal end (108A); and
wherein the set of latch arms (108) are configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode;
an actuator (118) operatively coupled to each of the set of latch arms (108), and wherein the actuator (118) is configured to transition the set of latch arms (108) between the concealed mode and the deployed mode; and
a controller communicatively coupled to the first sensor (106) and the actuator (118), wherein the controller is configured to:
receive, from the first sensor (106), a first signal indicating placement of the object on the console floor (104); and
control the actuator (118) to transition the set of latch arms (108) from the concealed mode to the deployed mode, in response to receiving the first signal.

2. The vehicle floor console assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:
a set of second sensors (112) communicatively coupled to the controller, wherein each of the set of second sensors (112) is coupled to the distal end (108A) of one of the set of latch arms (108), and wherein each of the set of second sensors (112) is configured to identify position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor (104).

3. The vehicle floor console assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the controller is further configured to:
receive a second signal from the set of second sensors (112) while the set of latch arms (108) are being transitioned to the deployed mode, wherein the second signal comprises details of the position and the dimensions of the object; and
control the actuator (118) to position the set of latch arms (108) to interface with surface of the object, based on the details in the second signal.

4. The vehicle floor console assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to:
receive a third signal from the set of second sensors (112), wherein the third signal comprises data corresponding to distance of each of the distal end (108A) of each of the set of latch arms (108) from corresponding surface portion of the object;
determining, for each of the set of latch arms (108), distance of the distal end (108A) from the corresponding surface portion of the object, based on the third signal; and
control the actuator (118) to cease movement of at least one of the set of latch arms (108), when the distance from the corresponding surface portion of the object is equal to zero.

5. The vehicle floor console assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:
a third sensor (114) coupled to the console floor (104) and communicatively coupled to the controller, wherein the third sensor (114) is configured to identify proximity of a user hand relative to the console floor (104), wherein the controller is further configured to:
receive a fourth signal from the third sensor (114), wherein the fourth signal comprises data corresponding to distance of a user hand relative to the console floor (104);
compare the distance with a predefined proximity threshold; and
instruct the actuator (118) to transition the set of latch arms (108) from the deployed mode to the concealed mode, when the distance between the user hand and console floor (104) is below the predefined proximity threshold.

6. The vehicle floor console assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
an actuator plate (116), wherein the actuator plate (116) comprises:
a first face (116A) operatively coupled to the actuator (118); and
a second face (116B) operatively coupled to the proximal end (108B) of each of the set of latch arms (108); and
wherein the actuator plate (116) enables the actuator (118) to transition the set of latch arms (108) between the concealed mode and the deployed mode.

7. The vehicle floor console assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the set of latch arms (108) comprises:
a first portion (204) operatively coupled to the actuator (118) via the proximal end (108B);
a second portion (208) operatively coupled via a pivot (212) to the first portion (204), wherein the second portion (208) comprise the distal end (108A), and wherein the second portion (208) interfaces with surface of the object in the deployed mode; and
wherein the first portion (204) is configured to move perpendicular to the console floor (104) and the second portion (208) is configured to rotate along an axis perpendicular to the first portion (204) at the pivot (212).

8. A smart kit for a vehicle console (102) comprising:
a plurality of sensors comprising:
a first sensor (106) configured to:
identify placement of an object on a console floor (104) of the vehicle console (102); and
generate a first signal related to identification of placement of the object on the console floor (104); and
a set of second sensors (112) configured to:
identify position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor (104); and
generate a second signal comprising details of the position and the dimensions of the object;
a set of latch arms (108) configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode; and
an actuator (118) configured to:
operatively couple to each of the set of latch arms (108); and
transition the set of latch arms (108) between the deployed mode and the concealed mode.

9. The smart kit as claimed in claim 8, further comprising the controller, wherein the controller is configured to:
receive the first signal related to identification of placement of the object on the console floor (104);
control the actuator (118) to transition the set of latch arms (108) from the concealed mode to the deployed mode, in response to receiving the first signal;
receive the second signal while the set of latch arms (108) are being transitioned to the deployed mode; and
control the actuator (118) to position the set of latch arms (108) to interface with surface of the object, based on details in the second signal.

10. The smart kit as claimed in claim 8, wherein each of the set of latch arms (108) comprises:
a first portion (204) configured to operatively couple to the actuator (118);
a second portion (208) configured to operatively couple via a pivot (212) to first portion (204), and wherein the second portion (208) interfaces with surface of the object in the deployed mode; and
wherein the first portion (204) is configured to move perpendicular to the console floor (104) and the second portion (208) is configured to rotate along an axis perpendicular to the first portion (204) at the pivot (212).

11. A vehicle comprising:
a cabin floor;
a floor console coupled to the cabin floor, the floor console comprising;
a first sensor (106) coupled to a console floor (104), wherein the first sensor (106) is configured to identify placement of an object on the console floor (104);
a set of latch arms (108) comprising:
a distal end (108A);
a proximal end (108B) oppositely disposed to the distal end (108A); and
wherein the set of latch arms (108) are configured to be in one of a concealed mode and a deployed mode;
an actuator (118), wherein the actuator (118) is operatively coupled to the proximal end (108B) of each of the set of latch arms (108), and wherein the actuator (118) is configured to transition the set of latch arms (108) between the concealed mode and the deployed mode; and
a controller communicatively coupled to the first sensor (106) and the actuator (118), and wherein the controller is configured to:
receive, from the first sensor (106), a first signal indicating placement of the object on the console floor (104); and
control the actuator (118) to transition the set of latch arms (108) from the concealed mode to the deployed mode, in response to receiving the first signal.

12. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, wherein the floor console further comprising:
a set of second sensors (112) communicatively coupled to the controller, wherein each of the set of second sensors (112) is coupled to the distal end (108A) of one of the set of latch arms (108), and wherein each of the set of second sensors (112) is configured to identify position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor (104).

13. The vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to:
receive a second signal from the set of second sensors (112) while the set of latch arms are being transitioned to the deployed mode, wherein the second signal comprises details of the position and the dimensions of the object; and
control the actuator (118) to position the set of latch arms (108) to interface with surface of the object, based on details in the second signal.

14. A method of operation of a vehicle floor console, the method comprising:
receiving (402), by a controller:
a first signal (404) from a first sensor (106) in response to placement of an object on a console floor (104) of the vehicle floor console; and
a second signal (406) from a set of second sensors (112), wherein the second signal comprises details of position and dimensions of the object placed on the console floor (104); and
deploying (408), by the controller via an actuator (118), a set of latch arms (108) to interface with surface of the object placed on the console floor (104) based on the first signal and the second signal, wherein deploying comprises:
transitioning (410), via the actuator (118), the set of latch arms (108) from a concealed mode to a deployed mode based on the first signal; and
positioning (412), via the actuator (118), the set of latch arms (108) to interface with surface of the object, based on the second signal.

15. The method as claimed in claim 14, further comprising:
receiving (502), by the controller, a fourth signal from a third sensor (114), wherein the fourth signal comprises data corresponding to distance of a user hand relative to the console floor (104);
comparing (504), by the controller, the distance of the user hand with a predefined proximity threshold; and
instructing (506), by the controller, the actuator (118) to transition the set of latch arms (108) from the deployed mode to the concealed mode, when the distance between the user hand and the console floor (104) is below the predefined proximity threshold.