US20160257264A1 - Retractable workstation integrated into the passenger cabin of a vehicle - Google Patents
Retractable workstation integrated into the passenger cabin of a vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20160257264A1 US20160257264A1 US14/641,325 US201514641325A US2016257264A1 US 20160257264 A1 US20160257264 A1 US 20160257264A1 US 201514641325 A US201514641325 A US 201514641325A US 2016257264 A1 US2016257264 A1 US 2016257264A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- desktop
- workstation
- positioning system
- keyboard
- retracted position
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- APTZNLHMIGJTEW-UHFFFAOYSA-N pyraflufen-ethyl Chemical compound C1=C(Cl)C(OCC(=O)OCC)=CC(C=2C(=C(OC(F)F)N(C)N=2)Cl)=C1F APTZNLHMIGJTEW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000004973 liquid crystal related substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010409 thin film Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R11/02—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof
- B60R11/0252—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof for personal computers, e.g. laptops, notebooks
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60N3/00—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for
- B60N3/001—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for of tables or trays
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60N3/00—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for
- B60N3/001—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for of tables or trays
- B60N3/002—Arrangements or adaptations of other passenger fittings, not otherwise provided for of tables or trays of trays
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R11/02—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof
- B60R11/0264—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof for control means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0001—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position
- B60R2011/0003—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position inside the vehicle
- B60R2011/0005—Dashboard
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
- B60R2011/008—Adjustable or movable supports
- B60R2011/0082—Adjustable or movable supports collapsible, e.g. for storing after use
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
- B60R2011/008—Adjustable or movable supports
- B60R2011/0084—Adjustable or movable supports with adjustment by linear movement in their operational position
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
- B60R2011/008—Adjustable or movable supports
- B60R2011/0092—Adjustable or movable supports with motorization
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to vehicles and, more particularly, to a retractable workstation that is integrated into a vehicle's passenger cabin.
- laptop computer no longer requires that the user compromise on processor speed, display size, display resolution or memory. Additionally, given the battery life available in many such computers, the user is no longer required to limit their use to small working sessions. As a result, laptops have become a viable alternative for many professionals, offering the end user both the performance that they have come to expect from a desktop computer as well as the portability and convenience associated with a laptop. Unfortunately while the performance of laptop computers have improved dramatically over the last decade, their usefulness is still somewhat limited due to the settings in which they are often used. For example, in a car the user typically is required to rest their computer on their lap. This approach may be suitable for an extremely short task, such as responding to an email, but is not suited for extended tasks.
- the present invention provides a workstation that is mounted within the passenger cabin of a vehicle.
- the workstation is comprised of a desktop that is mounted to a guide assembly, the guide assembly being mounted within a portion of the dashboard located in front of the front row passenger seat.
- the desktop is movable via the guide assembly between a first, retracted position and a second, deployed position. When the desktop is in the first, retracted position, the desktop is stored completely within the dashboard. When the desktop is in the second, deployed position, the desktop extends into the passenger cabin in front of the passenger seat.
- the upper surface of the desktop may include a ridge, where the ridge extends above the desktop surface, thus helping to prevent objects (e.g., a laptop) from sliding off of the desktop.
- the front edge region of the desktop may be curved upward and away from the upper desktop surface, thus providing a lip that can be used to hold objects onto the desktop.
- the front surface of the desktop may be coplanar with the outer surface of the dashboard.
- An adjustable locking hinge may be used to hingeably couple a rear portion of the desktop to the guide assembly.
- the workstation may be further comprised of a rear desk portion that is hingeably coupled to the desktop.
- a display may be integrated into the rear desk portion, where the display is connectable to a source device by at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection.
- the desktop and the rear desk portion When the desktop is in the first, retracted position the desktop and the rear desk portion may be in a closed position and then, when the desktop is in the second, deployed position the desktop and the rear desk portion may automatically open to an angle of at least 75 degrees.
- An adjustable locking hinge may be used to hingeably couple the rear desk portion to the desktop.
- a keyboard may be integrated into a region of the desktop, where the keyboard is connectable to a source device by at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection.
- a keyboard may be hingeably coupled to an edge of the desktop, where the keyboard is connectable to a source device by at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection.
- the desktop When the desktop is in the first, retracted position the desktop and the keyboard may be in a closed position. The keyboard is unfolded from the closed position prior to use and once the desktop has been moved to the second, deployed position.
- An adjustable locking hinge may be used to hingeably couple the keyboard to the edge of the desktop.
- a spring assembly may be coupled to the workstation, where the spring assembly maintains tension on the desktop and forces the desktop from the first, retracted position towards the second, deployed position.
- the workstation may further include a latch assembly that is operable by a workstation user. The latch assembly in the locked position maintains the desktop in the first, retracted position, while the latch assembly in the unlocked position allows the spring assembly to force the desktop from the first, retracted position towards the second, deployed position.
- a positioning system (e.g., an electro-mechanical or hydraulic positioning system) may be coupled to the workstation, where the positioning system is adjustable between a first position corresponding to the desktop in the first, retracted position and a second position corresponding to the desktop in the second, deployed position.
- the positioning system may further include a break-away link that is configured to break when a force greater than a preset force is applied to the desktop. When the break-away link breaks, the desktop is allowed to move from the second, deployed position towards the first, retracted position without aid from the positioning system.
- a workstation position selector operable by a workstation user, may be coupled to the positioning system, where the position selector in a first setting moves the positioning system to the first position, and where the position selector in a second setting moves the positioning system to the second position.
- FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention with the workstation shown in an early stage of extension from the dashboard;
- FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the workstation shown in FIG. 1 positioned in an intermediate stage of extension;
- FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the workstation shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , positioned in the final, extended position in preparation for use;
- FIGS. 4A-4C provide a side view of the workstation shown in FIGS. 1-3 in the same three stages of extension;
- FIGS. 5A-5B provide a side view of a workstation configuration in which the edge of the desktop is designed to blend into the dashboard when the workstation is in the closed position ( FIG. 5A ) and act as a desktop lip when the workstation is in the extended position ( FIG. 5B );
- FIG. 6 provides a detailed perspective view of the workstation in an embodiment that includes both an integral keyboard and an integral display;
- FIGS. 7A-7B provide a side view of a workstation configuration which includes both an integral display and an integral keyboard, with FIG. 7A showing the workstation in the folded, closed position and FIG. 7B showing the workstation in the un-folded, extended position;
- FIG. 8 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention in which the workstation does not include a back portion, this view showing an initial stage of workstation deployment;
- FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the workstation shown in FIG. 8 , positioned in the final stage of deployment;
- FIGS. 10A-10C provide a side view of an embodiment in which the workstation guide tracks are set at an angle within the dashboard;
- FIGS. 11A-11B provide a side view of an embodiment utilizing a spring assembly deployment mechanism
- FIGS. 12A-12B provide a side view of an embodiment utilizing an automatic deployment mechanism.
- a first calculation could be termed a second calculation, and, similarly, a first step could be termed a second step, and, similarly, a first component could be termed a second component, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
- the present invention provides a retractable workstation that is mounted within the dashboard of a vehicle. In the retracted position the workstation is hidden from sight, while in the extended position it provides a convenient and ergonomic desk for use by the front seat passenger.
- the retractable workstation includes a desktop and, in at least some embodiments, also includes a rear desk portion that may be used as an organizer to hold documents, e.g., as a bulletin board, or to support a computer display, e.g., a laptop display.
- the retractable workstation may include an integrated display screen and/or an integrated keyboard.
- FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention, these views providing a perspective view of a two-piece workstation that includes a desktop portion 101 and a rear desk portion 103 .
- FIG. 1 shows the workstation in an initial stage of extending out of a slot within dash 105 .
- FIG. 2 shows the workstation partially open and in a further stage of extension.
- FIG. 3 shows the workstation completely extended from the dash 105 , ready for use.
- the workstation has completely opened, i.e., the angle between desktop portion 101 and rear desk portion 103 is at its maximum thereby allowing the desktop portion 101 to slant slightly downwards towards the passenger seat while the rear desk portion is now angling slightly away from the passenger seat.
- FIGS. 4A-4C provide a side view of these same three stages of workstation motion.
- an exemplary center console 107 and steering wheel 109 is also visible in FIGS. 1-3 .
- the workstation of the invention can be configured in a variety of ways.
- the workstation includes two portions, a desktop portion 101 and a rear portion 103 , that are hinged together at hinge 111 .
- hinge 111 is a spring-loaded hinge that forces the two portions of the desktop to separate and angle away from one another to an angle of at least 75 degrees, and preferably to an angle of at least 90 degrees, and still more preferably to the maximum angle permissible by the hinge.
- this configuration includes means, such as hydraulic dampers, to prevent the two portions of the workstation from opening too quickly.
- hinge 111 is a user configurable hinge, e.g., an adjustable locking hinge that allows the user to set the relative angles of desktop portion 101 and rear desk portion 103 and then lock that setting to provide a stable workstation.
- the end portion section of desktop portion 101 includes a lip 113 , this lip preventing a laptop or papers or other objects from sliding off of the edge of the desktop.
- the front face 501 of lip 113 is designed to blend into dashboard 105 so that when the workstation is closed ( FIG. 5A ) the workstation is invisible and then when the workstation is extended ( FIG. 5B ) the lip 113 prevents objects from sliding off of the desktop.
- rear portion 103 of the workstation can be configured to perform a variety of functions.
- rear portion 103 is simply designed to provide a backdrop for a user-supplied display.
- the user-supplied display may be the display integrated into a laptop computer, a stand-alone display, a display attached to a portable DVD player, or other display.
- rear portion 103 may include an integral display, either a touch screen or a non-touch screen, that uses any of a variety of display technologies (e.g., light-emitting diode (LED), plasma, organic light-emitting diode (OLED), liquid crystal (LCD), thin film transistor LCD (TFT-LCD), field emission display (FED) or other technology).
- display technologies e.g., light-emitting diode (LED), plasma, organic light-emitting diode (OLED), liquid crystal (LCD), thin film transistor LCD (TFT-LCD), field emission display (FED) or other technology.
- the workstation may include cabling, for example hidden within a workstation compartment, or include a port 115 (e.g., Thunderbolt, USB, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.) that allows the display to be coupled to a user source device (e.g., laptop, DVD player, etc.) with a separate cable.
- a source may also be wirelessly connected to the integrated display using any of a variety of wireless communication protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.11, long term evolution (LTE), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, WiGig, WirelessHD, etc.).
- the rear portion 103 may be configured as a bulletin board, thus helping the user to remain organized while working at the workstation.
- the rear portion 103 may include built-in clips or use an insert comprised of cork-board or a similar material that can be used to hold documents/materials in place, for example with push-pins.
- the insert may also be comprised of metal that allows the user to use magnetic clips to organize their work.
- a keyboard is also integrated into the workstation.
- An example of an integrated keyboard 601 is shown in FIG. 6 .
- keyboard 601 is integrated into the lower portion of desktop 101 .
- the working area 603 of portion 101 is separated from keyboard 601 by a small ridge 605 , ridge 605 preventing a laptop or other object placed on area 603 from sliding down onto keyboard 601 .
- keyboard 601 is configured to allow it to wirelessly couple to a laptop or other device using any common wireless communication protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.11, long term evolution (LTE), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, WiGig, WirelessHD, etc.).
- a USB, Thunderbolt or other port 607 may be integrated into the workstation, thus allowing the user to connect to keyboard 601 using a cable.
- FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an alternate embodiment of a workstation that includes both an integrated display and keyboard.
- the keyboard 701 is attached to desktop portion 101 by a hinge 703 .
- Hinge 703 may be a spring-loaded hinge that forces the keyboard away from the desktop when the workstation is in the extended position (e.g., FIG. 7B ).
- a hydraulic damper or other means may be used to prevent the keyboard 701 from unfolding too quickly.
- hinge 703 may be a user configurable hinge, e.g., an adjustable locking hinge, which allows the user to set and lock the angle of keyboard 701 relative to desktop portion 101 .
- hinge 703 extends above the plane of desktop 101 , or includes a ridge that extends above the plane of desktop 101 , thus preventing a laptop or other object placed on the desktop from sliding off the desktop and onto the keyboard.
- keyboard 701 may be coupled to a laptop or other device using either a wired or a wireless connection.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 provide perspective views of an alternate embodiment of the workstation, these views showing an initial stage of workstation deployment ( FIG. 8 ) and a final, extended stage of workstation deployment ( FIG. 9 ).
- This embodiment eliminates the back portion 103 of the workstation and only provides a desktop.
- this embodiment is especially well suited for use with a laptop in which the user wants to utilize the laptop's display, or in an application in which the user simply needs a desktop to work.
- the edge 113 of desktop 101 includes a ridge as previously described, thus helping to hold a laptop, documents, etc. on the desktop.
- a keyboard is included, where the keyboard is either attached via a hinge (e.g., FIGS. 7A-7B ) or integrated into the desktop surface (e.g., FIG. 6 ).
- Various coupling means can be interposed between the workstation and the internal structure of the dashboard, these coupling means allowing the workstation to smoothly deploy when needed, and then be easily placed into the storage position within the dash when not needed.
- Exemplary coupling means include multi-link assemblies (e.g., a scissor linkage) and linkage assemblies that utilize telescopic links.
- the coupling means includes a pair of guide tracks 117 with one guide track subassembly mounted on either edge of the workstation. In one configuration the guide tracks 117 , and thus the workstation, are mounted horizontally within the dashboard 105 as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C . Alternately, the guide tracks and the workstation can be mounted at an angle within the dashboard as illustrated in FIGS.
- the procedures for deploying the workstation when needed, and then repositioning the workstation back into the dash when it is no longer needed can be performed manually or using an electro-mechanical or hydraulic positioning system.
- a spring assembly 1101 applies force on the rear portion of the workstation, or on a portion of the guide track assembly 117 .
- a latch assembly 1103 keeps the workstation stored within dash 105 .
- she releases latch 1103 thereby allowing the force of the spring assembly 1101 to deploy the workstation ( FIG. 11B ).
- Spring assembly 1101 may be selected to insure that it is capable of supplying sufficient force to completely deploy the workstation. Alternately, the spring assembly may be designed to only partially deploy the workstation, requiring the user to complete deployment, for example by gripping the workstation (or gripping a handle or handles coupled to the workstation) and moving the workstation to the desired location. Once the workstation is no longer desired, preferably the user simply pushes the workstation back into the dash 105 until latch assembly 1103 locks the workstation into the storage position.
- a benefit of this embodiment is that when the workstation is in use, if it is accidently hit by the user, for example during a car collision, the spring assembly 1101 allows the workstation to be pushed back into the dash, thereby avoiding user injury.
- the workstation deployment system utilizes a non-manual positioning system 1201 .
- positioning system 1201 is an electro-mechanical (e.g., motorized) or hydraulic positioning system. In this configuration when the user activates the system, positioning system 1201 moves the workstation to the deployed position ( FIG. 12B ). When the workstation is no longer required, positioning system 1201 retracts the desk and stores it within dashboard 105 ( FIG. 12A ).
- a break-away link is used with the positioning system so that if the user applies more than a preset level of force to the edge of the workstation, for example during a collision, the positioning system 1201 is de-coupled from the workstation and the workstation can be easily pushed back into the dashboard.
- the user is able to activate the positioning system 1201 in order to deploy or retract the workstation using any of a variety of control devices.
- dashboard 105 or console 107 or the vehicle's headliner
- switches 1203 e.g., push buttons
- a single switch 1203 may be used that cycles the positioning system between workstation deployment and retraction.
- the activation switch(s) may also be incorporated into a touch screen user interface.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Devices For Indicating Variable Information By Combining Individual Elements (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates generally to vehicles and, more particularly, to a retractable workstation that is integrated into a vehicle's passenger cabin.
- The use of a laptop computer no longer requires that the user compromise on processor speed, display size, display resolution or memory. Additionally, given the battery life available in many such computers, the user is no longer required to limit their use to small working sessions. As a result, laptops have become a viable alternative for many professionals, offering the end user both the performance that they have come to expect from a desktop computer as well as the portability and convenience associated with a laptop. Unfortunately while the performance of laptop computers have improved dramatically over the last decade, their usefulness is still somewhat limited due to the settings in which they are often used. For example, in a car the user typically is required to rest their computer on their lap. This approach may be suitable for an extremely short task, such as responding to an email, but is not suited for extended tasks. In addition to the unpleasant amount of heat generated by a typical laptop, this approach simply does not provide the user with a reasonable ergonomic solution, either in terms of display position or keyboard position. Accordingly, what is needed is a system that allows a person to comfortably and ergonomically work while riding in a vehicle. The present invention provides such a system.
- The present invention provides a workstation that is mounted within the passenger cabin of a vehicle. The workstation is comprised of a desktop that is mounted to a guide assembly, the guide assembly being mounted within a portion of the dashboard located in front of the front row passenger seat. The desktop is movable via the guide assembly between a first, retracted position and a second, deployed position. When the desktop is in the first, retracted position, the desktop is stored completely within the dashboard. When the desktop is in the second, deployed position, the desktop extends into the passenger cabin in front of the passenger seat. The upper surface of the desktop may include a ridge, where the ridge extends above the desktop surface, thus helping to prevent objects (e.g., a laptop) from sliding off of the desktop. Similarly, the front edge region of the desktop may be curved upward and away from the upper desktop surface, thus providing a lip that can be used to hold objects onto the desktop. In the retracted position, the front surface of the desktop may be coplanar with the outer surface of the dashboard. An adjustable locking hinge may be used to hingeably couple a rear portion of the desktop to the guide assembly.
- In one aspect, the workstation may be further comprised of a rear desk portion that is hingeably coupled to the desktop. A display may be integrated into the rear desk portion, where the display is connectable to a source device by at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection. When the desktop is in the first, retracted position the desktop and the rear desk portion may be in a closed position and then, when the desktop is in the second, deployed position the desktop and the rear desk portion may automatically open to an angle of at least 75 degrees. An adjustable locking hinge may be used to hingeably couple the rear desk portion to the desktop.
- In another aspect, a keyboard may be integrated into a region of the desktop, where the keyboard is connectable to a source device by at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection.
- In another aspect, a keyboard may be hingeably coupled to an edge of the desktop, where the keyboard is connectable to a source device by at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection. When the desktop is in the first, retracted position the desktop and the keyboard may be in a closed position. The keyboard is unfolded from the closed position prior to use and once the desktop has been moved to the second, deployed position. An adjustable locking hinge may be used to hingeably couple the keyboard to the edge of the desktop.
- In another aspect, a spring assembly may be coupled to the workstation, where the spring assembly maintains tension on the desktop and forces the desktop from the first, retracted position towards the second, deployed position. The workstation may further include a latch assembly that is operable by a workstation user. The latch assembly in the locked position maintains the desktop in the first, retracted position, while the latch assembly in the unlocked position allows the spring assembly to force the desktop from the first, retracted position towards the second, deployed position.
- In another aspect, a positioning system (e.g., an electro-mechanical or hydraulic positioning system) may be coupled to the workstation, where the positioning system is adjustable between a first position corresponding to the desktop in the first, retracted position and a second position corresponding to the desktop in the second, deployed position. The positioning system may further include a break-away link that is configured to break when a force greater than a preset force is applied to the desktop. When the break-away link breaks, the desktop is allowed to move from the second, deployed position towards the first, retracted position without aid from the positioning system. A workstation position selector, operable by a workstation user, may be coupled to the positioning system, where the position selector in a first setting moves the positioning system to the first position, and where the position selector in a second setting moves the positioning system to the second position.
- A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings.
- It should be understood that the accompanying figures are only meant to illustrate, not limit, the scope of the invention and should not be considered to be to scale. Additionally, the same reference label on different figures should be understood to refer to the same component or a component of similar functionality.
-
FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention with the workstation shown in an early stage of extension from the dashboard; -
FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the workstation shown inFIG. 1 positioned in an intermediate stage of extension; -
FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the workstation shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , positioned in the final, extended position in preparation for use; -
FIGS. 4A-4C provide a side view of the workstation shown inFIGS. 1-3 in the same three stages of extension; -
FIGS. 5A-5B provide a side view of a workstation configuration in which the edge of the desktop is designed to blend into the dashboard when the workstation is in the closed position (FIG. 5A ) and act as a desktop lip when the workstation is in the extended position (FIG. 5B ); -
FIG. 6 provides a detailed perspective view of the workstation in an embodiment that includes both an integral keyboard and an integral display; -
FIGS. 7A-7B provide a side view of a workstation configuration which includes both an integral display and an integral keyboard, withFIG. 7A showing the workstation in the folded, closed position andFIG. 7B showing the workstation in the un-folded, extended position; -
FIG. 8 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention in which the workstation does not include a back portion, this view showing an initial stage of workstation deployment; -
FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of the workstation shown inFIG. 8 , positioned in the final stage of deployment; -
FIGS. 10A-10C provide a side view of an embodiment in which the workstation guide tracks are set at an angle within the dashboard; -
FIGS. 11A-11B provide a side view of an embodiment utilizing a spring assembly deployment mechanism; and -
FIGS. 12A-12B provide a side view of an embodiment utilizing an automatic deployment mechanism. - As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, and/or “including”, as used herein, specify the presence of stated features, process steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, process steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” and the symbol “/” are meant to include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Additionally, while the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various steps, calculations, or components, these steps, calculations, or components should not be limited by these terms, rather these terms are only used to distinguish one step, calculation, or component from another. For example, a first calculation could be termed a second calculation, and, similarly, a first step could be termed a second step, and, similarly, a first component could be termed a second component, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
- The present invention provides a retractable workstation that is mounted within the dashboard of a vehicle. In the retracted position the workstation is hidden from sight, while in the extended position it provides a convenient and ergonomic desk for use by the front seat passenger. The retractable workstation includes a desktop and, in at least some embodiments, also includes a rear desk portion that may be used as an organizer to hold documents, e.g., as a bulletin board, or to support a computer display, e.g., a laptop display. In some embodiments the retractable workstation may include an integrated display screen and/or an integrated keyboard.
-
FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention, these views providing a perspective view of a two-piece workstation that includes adesktop portion 101 and arear desk portion 103.FIG. 1 shows the workstation in an initial stage of extending out of a slot withindash 105.FIG. 2 shows the workstation partially open and in a further stage of extension.FIG. 3 shows the workstation completely extended from thedash 105, ready for use. In this figure the workstation has completely opened, i.e., the angle betweendesktop portion 101 andrear desk portion 103 is at its maximum thereby allowing thedesktop portion 101 to slant slightly downwards towards the passenger seat while the rear desk portion is now angling slightly away from the passenger seat.FIGS. 4A-4C provide a side view of these same three stages of workstation motion. In order to provide locational context for the workstation, also visible inFIGS. 1-3 is anexemplary center console 107 andsteering wheel 109. - The workstation of the invention can be configured in a variety of ways. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 1-3 the workstation includes two portions, adesktop portion 101 and arear portion 103, that are hinged together athinge 111. In one configuration, hinge 111 is a spring-loaded hinge that forces the two portions of the desktop to separate and angle away from one another to an angle of at least 75 degrees, and preferably to an angle of at least 90 degrees, and still more preferably to the maximum angle permissible by the hinge. As a result of this configuration, once the workstation has extended past the confines of the dashboard, it will automatically open in preparation for use. Preferably this configuration includes means, such as hydraulic dampers, to prevent the two portions of the workstation from opening too quickly. In an alternate configuration of the workstation, hinge 111 is a user configurable hinge, e.g., an adjustable locking hinge that allows the user to set the relative angles ofdesktop portion 101 andrear desk portion 103 and then lock that setting to provide a stable workstation. - In at least one embodiment of the workstation, the end portion section of
desktop portion 101 includes alip 113, this lip preventing a laptop or papers or other objects from sliding off of the edge of the desktop. Preferably and as shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B , thefront face 501 oflip 113 is designed to blend intodashboard 105 so that when the workstation is closed (FIG. 5A ) the workstation is invisible and then when the workstation is extended (FIG. 5B ) thelip 113 prevents objects from sliding off of the desktop. - As noted above, the
rear portion 103 of the workstation can be configured to perform a variety of functions. For example, in one configurationrear portion 103 is simply designed to provide a backdrop for a user-supplied display. The user-supplied display may be the display integrated into a laptop computer, a stand-alone display, a display attached to a portable DVD player, or other display. Alternately,rear portion 103 may include an integral display, either a touch screen or a non-touch screen, that uses any of a variety of display technologies (e.g., light-emitting diode (LED), plasma, organic light-emitting diode (OLED), liquid crystal (LCD), thin film transistor LCD (TFT-LCD), field emission display (FED) or other technology). In this configuration the workstation may include cabling, for example hidden within a workstation compartment, or include a port 115 (e.g., Thunderbolt, USB, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.) that allows the display to be coupled to a user source device (e.g., laptop, DVD player, etc.) with a separate cable. A source may also be wirelessly connected to the integrated display using any of a variety of wireless communication protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.11, long term evolution (LTE), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, WiGig, WirelessHD, etc.). Alternately, therear portion 103 may be configured as a bulletin board, thus helping the user to remain organized while working at the workstation. As such therear portion 103 may include built-in clips or use an insert comprised of cork-board or a similar material that can be used to hold documents/materials in place, for example with push-pins. The insert may also be comprised of metal that allows the user to use magnetic clips to organize their work. - In addition to including an integral display within the
back portion 103 of the workstation, in at least one embodiment a keyboard is also integrated into the workstation. An example of anintegrated keyboard 601 is shown inFIG. 6 . As shown,keyboard 601 is integrated into the lower portion ofdesktop 101. Preferably the workingarea 603 ofportion 101 is separated fromkeyboard 601 by asmall ridge 605,ridge 605 preventing a laptop or other object placed onarea 603 from sliding down ontokeyboard 601. Preferablykeyboard 601 is configured to allow it to wirelessly couple to a laptop or other device using any common wireless communication protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.11, long term evolution (LTE), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, WiGig, WirelessHD, etc.). Alternately, a USB, Thunderbolt orother port 607 may be integrated into the workstation, thus allowing the user to connect tokeyboard 601 using a cable. -
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an alternate embodiment of a workstation that includes both an integrated display and keyboard. In this embodiment thekeyboard 701 is attached todesktop portion 101 by ahinge 703. As shown inFIG. 7A , when the workstation is stored within the dashboard thekeyboard 701 folds on top ofportion 101, in much the same way as the display folds on top ofportion 101. When the workstation is in the extended position (FIG. 7B ), thekeyboard 701 unfolds.Hinge 703 may be a spring-loaded hinge that forces the keyboard away from the desktop when the workstation is in the extended position (e.g.,FIG. 7B ). A hydraulic damper or other means may be used to prevent thekeyboard 701 from unfolding too quickly. Alternately hinge 703 may be a user configurable hinge, e.g., an adjustable locking hinge, which allows the user to set and lock the angle ofkeyboard 701 relative todesktop portion 101. Preferably hinge 703 extends above the plane ofdesktop 101, or includes a ridge that extends above the plane ofdesktop 101, thus preventing a laptop or other object placed on the desktop from sliding off the desktop and onto the keyboard. As in the prior configuration,keyboard 701 may be coupled to a laptop or other device using either a wired or a wireless connection. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 provide perspective views of an alternate embodiment of the workstation, these views showing an initial stage of workstation deployment (FIG. 8 ) and a final, extended stage of workstation deployment (FIG. 9 ). This embodiment eliminates theback portion 103 of the workstation and only provides a desktop. As such, this embodiment is especially well suited for use with a laptop in which the user wants to utilize the laptop's display, or in an application in which the user simply needs a desktop to work. Preferably theedge 113 ofdesktop 101 includes a ridge as previously described, thus helping to hold a laptop, documents, etc. on the desktop. In some configurations of this embodiment a keyboard is included, where the keyboard is either attached via a hinge (e.g.,FIGS. 7A-7B ) or integrated into the desktop surface (e.g.,FIG. 6 ). - Various coupling means can be interposed between the workstation and the internal structure of the dashboard, these coupling means allowing the workstation to smoothly deploy when needed, and then be easily placed into the storage position within the dash when not needed. Exemplary coupling means include multi-link assemblies (e.g., a scissor linkage) and linkage assemblies that utilize telescopic links. In the preferred embodiment the coupling means includes a pair of guide tracks 117 with one guide track subassembly mounted on either edge of the workstation. In one configuration the guide tracks 117, and thus the workstation, are mounted horizontally within the
dashboard 105 as shown inFIGS. 4A-4C . Alternately, the guide tracks and the workstation can be mounted at an angle within the dashboard as illustrated inFIGS. 10A-10C . By angling the guide tracks, gravity can be used to help deploy the workstation. Additionally, the angle of the guide can be selected to provide the desired angle fordesktop 101, thereby eliminating the need to angle the desktop after deployment as described above relative toFIGS. 4A-4C . - The procedures for deploying the workstation when needed, and then repositioning the workstation back into the dash when it is no longer needed, can be performed manually or using an electro-mechanical or hydraulic positioning system. For example in the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 11A and 11B , when the workstation is stored (FIG. 11A ) aspring assembly 1101 applies force on the rear portion of the workstation, or on a portion of theguide track assembly 117. Alatch assembly 1103 keeps the workstation stored withindash 105. When a user wishes to use the workstation, she releaseslatch 1103, thereby allowing the force of thespring assembly 1101 to deploy the workstation (FIG. 11B ).Spring assembly 1101 may be selected to insure that it is capable of supplying sufficient force to completely deploy the workstation. Alternately, the spring assembly may be designed to only partially deploy the workstation, requiring the user to complete deployment, for example by gripping the workstation (or gripping a handle or handles coupled to the workstation) and moving the workstation to the desired location. Once the workstation is no longer desired, preferably the user simply pushes the workstation back into thedash 105 untillatch assembly 1103 locks the workstation into the storage position. A benefit of this embodiment is that when the workstation is in use, if it is accidently hit by the user, for example during a car collision, thespring assembly 1101 allows the workstation to be pushed back into the dash, thereby avoiding user injury. - In at least one embodiment of the invention, and as illustrated in
FIGS. 12A and 12B , the workstation deployment system utilizes anon-manual positioning system 1201. Preferably positioningsystem 1201 is an electro-mechanical (e.g., motorized) or hydraulic positioning system. In this configuration when the user activates the system,positioning system 1201 moves the workstation to the deployed position (FIG. 12B ). When the workstation is no longer required,positioning system 1201 retracts the desk and stores it within dashboard 105 (FIG. 12A ). Preferably a break-away link is used with the positioning system so that if the user applies more than a preset level of force to the edge of the workstation, for example during a collision, thepositioning system 1201 is de-coupled from the workstation and the workstation can be easily pushed back into the dashboard. The user is able to activate thepositioning system 1201 in order to deploy or retract the workstation using any of a variety of control devices. For example, dashboard 105 (orconsole 107 or the vehicle's headliner) may include a pair of switches 1203 (e.g., push buttons) that correspond to deployment and retraction of the workstation. Alternately, asingle switch 1203 may be used that cycles the positioning system between workstation deployment and retraction. The activation switch(s) may also be incorporated into a touch screen user interface. - Systems and methods have been described in general terms as an aid to understanding details of the invention. In some instances, well-known structures, materials, and/or operations have not been specifically shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention. In other instances, specific details have been given in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms, for example to adapt to a particular system or apparatus or situation or material or component, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Therefore the disclosures and descriptions herein are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/641,325 US9428118B1 (en) | 2015-03-07 | 2015-03-07 | Retractable workstation integrated into the passenger cabin of a vehicle |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/641,325 US9428118B1 (en) | 2015-03-07 | 2015-03-07 | Retractable workstation integrated into the passenger cabin of a vehicle |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US9428118B1 US9428118B1 (en) | 2016-08-30 |
US20160257264A1 true US20160257264A1 (en) | 2016-09-08 |
Family
ID=56739807
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/641,325 Active US9428118B1 (en) | 2015-03-07 | 2015-03-07 | Retractable workstation integrated into the passenger cabin of a vehicle |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US9428118B1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP3967556A1 (en) * | 2020-09-11 | 2022-03-16 | Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd. | Vehicle table device and method of controlling virtual keyboard thereof |
US11513754B2 (en) | 2020-09-08 | 2022-11-29 | Atieva, Inc. | Presenting content on separate display devices in vehicle instrument panel |
US20230382285A1 (en) * | 2022-05-27 | 2023-11-30 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Vehicle having deployable sliding work desk |
Families Citing this family (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160251001A1 (en) * | 2015-02-26 | 2016-09-01 | William King | Vehicle lift system |
US9862327B2 (en) * | 2016-03-16 | 2018-01-09 | Ford Global Technologies Llc | Multi-purpose storage compartment |
USD843288S1 (en) * | 2016-08-30 | 2019-03-19 | Faraday&Future Inc. | Vehicle dashboard |
CN106335443B (en) * | 2016-09-30 | 2019-03-01 | 北京汽车股份有限公司 | A kind of multimedia system and automobile of changeable display scene |
US10011240B1 (en) * | 2016-12-12 | 2018-07-03 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Vehicle console with coupled motion and enhanced storage capabilities |
FR3065684B1 (en) * | 2017-04-28 | 2019-06-28 | Faurecia Interieur Industrie | TRIM ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A DEPLOYABLE PIECE |
GB2566704A (en) * | 2017-09-21 | 2019-03-27 | Ford Global Tech Llc | A steering assembly |
US10583740B2 (en) * | 2017-10-16 | 2020-03-10 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Llc | Multipurpose dashboard for use in a vehicle |
US10737636B2 (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2020-08-11 | Shanghai Yanfeng Jinqiao Automotive Trim Systems Co. Ltd. | Vehicle interior component |
US10906445B2 (en) * | 2018-04-12 | 2021-02-02 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Console-mounted deployable work surface |
US11034377B2 (en) * | 2018-07-31 | 2021-06-15 | Steering Solutions Ip Holding Corporation | System and method of automatically stowing and unstowing a steering column assembly |
US11292504B2 (en) * | 2019-03-20 | 2022-04-05 | Volvo Car Corporation | Vehicle having multiple driving positions |
CN110116681B (en) * | 2019-05-15 | 2021-03-23 | 湖南文理学院 | Vehicle-mounted computer pop-up type installation module capable of adjusting disassembly and assembly |
FR3096323B1 (en) * | 2019-05-21 | 2021-12-24 | Dav | Vehicle interior control interface |
DE102019212776A1 (en) * | 2019-08-26 | 2021-03-04 | Brose Fahrzeugteile SE & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Coburg | Adjusting device for adjusting an adjusting part extending over a large area in a vehicle interior |
DE102019006897A1 (en) * | 2019-10-02 | 2021-04-08 | Daimler Ag | Table device and vehicle |
CN111791811B (en) * | 2020-06-29 | 2023-09-26 | 浙江安格鲁传动***有限公司 | Overturning type interior trim panel and telescopic central control assembly |
KR20220034606A (en) * | 2020-09-11 | 2022-03-18 | 현대모비스 주식회사 | Vehicle table device |
US11273747B1 (en) * | 2020-11-02 | 2022-03-15 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Multi-positional tray deployable from instrument panel |
US11858399B2 (en) * | 2021-09-30 | 2024-01-02 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Deployable vehicle desk |
US20230373371A1 (en) * | 2022-05-23 | 2023-11-23 | Claude M. Coache | Portable table system for mounting within a vehicle to provide a workspace within the vehicle |
Family Cites Families (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2845315A (en) * | 1957-03-18 | 1958-07-29 | Charles M Mccoy | Utility shelf for an automobile instrument panel |
US3954315A (en) * | 1975-02-26 | 1976-05-04 | Sanden Edwin H | Cabinet drawer |
US4368866A (en) * | 1980-06-27 | 1983-01-18 | International Jensen Incorporated | Mounting bracket and mounting arrangement |
FR2763301B1 (en) * | 1997-05-14 | 1999-07-16 | Reydel Sa | DASHBOARD FOR VEHICLE, ESPECIALLY MOTOR VEHICLE |
DE10125063A1 (en) * | 2001-05-23 | 2002-12-12 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | Holder for a portable computing device |
US7494170B2 (en) * | 2005-02-22 | 2009-02-24 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Vehicle instrument panel having movable storage compartment |
US7425891B2 (en) * | 2006-05-09 | 2008-09-16 | Lockheed Martin Corporation | Tactical truck system dashboard |
SE530876C2 (en) * | 2007-02-16 | 2008-10-07 | Scania Cv Abp | Dashboard |
FR2947225B1 (en) * | 2009-06-30 | 2013-07-05 | Renault | DEVICE PROVIDED TO PROVIDE A WRITING MEDIUM IN A MOTOR VEHICLE AND DASHBOARD COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE |
JP2012203961A (en) * | 2011-03-25 | 2012-10-22 | Sony Corp | In-vehicle audio equipment |
EP2949515B1 (en) * | 2014-05-28 | 2016-10-05 | FCA Italy S.p.A. | Vehicle dashboard provided with a supporting device for supporting a portable electronic device |
-
2015
- 2015-03-07 US US14/641,325 patent/US9428118B1/en active Active
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11513754B2 (en) | 2020-09-08 | 2022-11-29 | Atieva, Inc. | Presenting content on separate display devices in vehicle instrument panel |
US11977806B2 (en) | 2020-09-08 | 2024-05-07 | Atieva, Inc. | Presenting content on separate display devices in vehicle instrument panel |
EP3967556A1 (en) * | 2020-09-11 | 2022-03-16 | Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd. | Vehicle table device and method of controlling virtual keyboard thereof |
US20230382285A1 (en) * | 2022-05-27 | 2023-11-30 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Vehicle having deployable sliding work desk |
US11932153B2 (en) * | 2022-05-27 | 2024-03-19 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Vehicle having deployable sliding work desk |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US9428118B1 (en) | 2016-08-30 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US9428118B1 (en) | Retractable workstation integrated into the passenger cabin of a vehicle | |
US20160375924A1 (en) | Steering wheel with integrated keyboard assembly | |
US10632889B2 (en) | Retractable table | |
CN107787291B (en) | Deployable seat holder for portable electronic devices | |
US9233649B2 (en) | Support and retention assembly for a portable electronic device, and dashboard provided with such a support and retention assembly | |
US8827341B2 (en) | Vehicle portable device holding system | |
CN106740523B (en) | Adapter is installed | |
EP2873563B1 (en) | Synchronized display system | |
CN108980538A (en) | Portable electronic device support component | |
US20150138448A1 (en) | Adjustable Display System for Vehicular Use | |
US10155483B2 (en) | Vehicle interior component | |
US9568952B2 (en) | Display device apparatus | |
EP3230162B1 (en) | Retractable device holder for an aircraft seat | |
JP2016500353A (en) | Multimedia screen support, especially for automotive instrument panels | |
CN112841998B (en) | Foldable infant carrier and swinging device thereof | |
US7126814B2 (en) | Space-saver design for personal computer keyboard | |
US10017126B2 (en) | Actuator based extendable smartphone holding device of vehicle | |
JP2017532244A (en) | Electrically adjusted switch mechanism for screen mounting | |
US20210039563A1 (en) | Mobile device holding system for a seat | |
CN113492983B (en) | Cup holder assembly and table comprising same | |
DE102015207378A1 (en) | Functionally variable vehicle interior system for a motor vehicle | |
CN112424023B (en) | Deployable table for vehicle interior | |
KR101550266B1 (en) | Folder type holder for vehicle with adjustable length | |
US9878801B2 (en) | Console assembly including stowable support surface | |
JP2020066262A (en) | Vehicle sun visor device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ATIEVA, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:RAWLINSON, PETER DORE;REEL/FRAME:035109/0333 Effective date: 20150306 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: TRINITY CAPITAL FUND III, L. P., ARIZONA Free format text: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:ATIEVA, INC;REEL/FRAME:042125/0897 Effective date: 20170331 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: YINLONG ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HK) GROUP LIMITED, HONG KONG Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ATIEVA, INC.;ATIEVA USA, INC;REEL/FRAME:044457/0942 Effective date: 20171027 Owner name: YINLONG ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HK) GROUP LIMITED, HONG Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ATIEVA, INC.;ATIEVA USA, INC;REEL/FRAME:044457/0942 Effective date: 20171027 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ATIEVA USA, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:TRINITY CAPITAL FUND III, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:047529/0619 Effective date: 20180912 Owner name: ATIEVA, INC., CAYMAN ISLANDS Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:TRINITY CAPITAL FUND III, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:047529/0619 Effective date: 20180912 Owner name: AVB METRICS, LLC, CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:TRINITY CAPITAL FUND III, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:047529/0619 Effective date: 20180912 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: AVB METRICS, LLC, CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:YINLONG ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HK) GROUP LIMITED;REEL/FRAME:047620/0451 Effective date: 20180914 Owner name: ATIEVA, INC., CAYMAN ISLANDS Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:YINLONG ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HK) GROUP LIMITED;REEL/FRAME:047620/0451 Effective date: 20180914 Owner name: ATIEVA USA, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:YINLONG ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HK) GROUP LIMITED;REEL/FRAME:047620/0451 Effective date: 20180914 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: AYAR THIRD INVESTMENT COMPANY, SAUDI ARABIA Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ATIEVA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:047199/0221 Effective date: 20180916 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ATIEVA, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:AYAR THIRD INVESTMENT COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:048811/0472 Effective date: 20190402 |
|
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YR, SMALL ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M2551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 8TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1552); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY Year of fee payment: 8 |