DEPLOYABLE APPARATUS AND GRILLING MODULE

A deployable apparatus and grilling module. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The apparatus can include a shuttle. The grilling module can be coupled with the shuttle. The shuttle can stow the grilling module and the shuttle can deploy the grilling module.

INTRODUCTION

Vehicles can have batteries and the batteries can provide power to components of the vehicle.

SUMMARY

This disclosure is generally directed to a grilling module that can be stored, in a stowed position, within the gear tunnel of a vehicle. The grilling module can be electrically coupled with the electric vehicle. The grilling module can be deployed to a position that is outside of the gear tunnel which enables the grilling module to be utilized. For example, a user cannot turn on the grilling module prior to moving the grilling module to the position that is outside of the gear tunnel.

At least one aspect is directed to an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The grilling module can be coupled with a shuttle. The shuttle can stow the grilling module and the shuttle can deploy the grilling module.

At least one aspect is directed to an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The grilling module can include a housing. The housing can be coupled with the cooking surface. The apparatus can include a shuttle. The shuttle can be coupled with the housing. The shuttle can stow the grilling module in a first position. The shuttle can deploy the grilling module to a second position. The apparatus can include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be coupled with the shuttle. The locking mechanism can hold the grilling module in at least one of the first position or the second position.

At least one aspect is directed to a method. The method can include providing an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The grilling module can be coupled with a shuttle. The method can include stowing the grilling module. The method can include deploying the grilling module.

At least one aspect is directed to a method. The method can include providing an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The grilling module can include a housing. The housing can be coupled with the cooking surface. The apparatus can include a shuttle. The shuttle can be coupled with the housing. The apparatus can include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be coupled with the shuttle. The method can include stowing the grilling module in a first position. The method can include deploying the grilling module to a second position. The method can include holding the grilling module in at least one of the first position or the second position.

At least one aspect is directed to an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle can include a gear tunnel. The electric vehicle can include an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a battery. The grilling module can be coupled with a shuttle. The shuttle can stow the grilling module and the shuttle can deploy the grilling module.

At least one aspect is directed to an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle can include a gear tunnel. The electric vehicle can include an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a battery. The grilling module can include a housing. The housing can be coupled with the cooking surface. The apparatus can include a shuttle. The shuttle can be coupled with the housing. The shuttle can stow the grilling module in a first position. The first position can be within the gear tunnel. The shuttle can deploy the apparatus to a second position. The second position can be external to the gear tunnel. The apparatus can include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be coupled with the shuttle. The locking mechanism can hold the grilling module in at least one of the first position or the second position.

At least one aspect is directed to a method. The method can include providing an apparatus. The apparatus can include a grilling module. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The grilling module can include a housing. The housing can be coupled with the cooking surface. The apparatus can include a shuttle. The shuttle can be coupled with the housing. The shuttle can stow the grilling module in a first position. The shuttle can deploy the grilling module to a second position. The apparatus can include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be coupled with the shuttle. The locking mechanism can hold the grilling module in at least one of the first position or the second position.

At least one aspect is directed to a method of manufacturing an apparatus. The method can include coupling a grilling module with a shuttle. The grilling module can include a cooking surface. The cooking surface can be electrically coupled with a power source. The shuttle can stow the grilling module. The shuttle can deploy the grilling module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Following below are more detailed descriptions of various concepts related to, and implementations of, methods, apparatuses, and systems of providing an apparatus. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways.

The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods of providing an apparatus. This technical solution can enable a user to stow and deploy the grilling module from a gear tunnel of a vehicle. Additionally, the grilling module can interface with the vehicle and the user to provide information associated with grilling module. For example, a user can be notified that the grilling module is not in a desired position. The grilling module can be electrically coupled with the electric vehicle in both a stored position (e.g., in the gear tunnel) or in a deployed position (e.g., outside the gear tunnel or external to the vehicle).

FIG.1depicts an example cross-sectional view100of an electric vehicle105installed with at least one battery pack110. Electric vehicles105can include electric trucks, electric sport utility vehicles (SUVs), electric delivery vans, electric automobiles, electric cars, electric motorcycles, electric scooters, electric passenger vehicles, electric passenger or commercial trucks, hybrid vehicles, or other vehicles such as sea or air transport vehicles, planes, helicopters, submarines, boats, or drones, among other possibilities. The battery pack110can also be used as an energy storage system to power a building, such as a residential home or commercial building. Electric vehicles105can be fully electric or partially electric (e.g., plug-in hybrid) and further, electric vehicles105can be fully autonomous, partially autonomous, or unmanned. Electric vehicles105can also be human operated or non-autonomous. Electric vehicles105such as electric trucks or automobiles can include on-board battery packs110, battery modules115, or battery cells120to power the electric vehicles. The electric vehicle105can include a chassis125(e.g., a frame, internal frame, or support structure). The chassis125can support various components of the electric vehicle105. The chassis125can span a front portion130(e.g., a hood or bonnet portion), a body portion135, and a rear portion140(e.g., a trunk, payload, or boot portion) of the electric vehicle105. The battery pack110can be installed or placed within the electric vehicle105. For example, the battery pack110can be installed on the chassis125of the electric vehicle105within one or more of the front portion130, the body portion135, or the rear portion140. The battery pack110can include or connect with at least one busbar, e.g., a current collector element. For example, the first busbar145and the second busbar150can include electrically conductive material to connect or otherwise electrically couple the battery modules115or the battery cells120with other electrical components of the electric vehicle105to provide electrical power to various systems or components of the electric vehicle105.

The electric vehicle105can include at least one gear tunnel door155. A first gear tunnel door155can cover a first end of a gear tunnel. A second gear tunnel door155can cover a second end of the gear tunnel. The gear tunnel door155can move between open and closed positions sealing or exposing an interior of the gear tunnel. The gear tunnel door155can hinge on a bottom side, a top side, or a lateral side. The gear tunnel door155can be structured to support a shuttle. For example, the shuttle could extend out over the gear tunnel door155when the gear tunnel door155is in an open position. The shuttle can rest upon a surface of the gear tunnel door155. The shuttle can extend out over the gear tunnel door155to provide access to components within the gear tunnel.

FIG.2depicts an example view of an apparatus205. The apparatus205can be structured to fit within a gear tunnel of a vehicle. For example, the apparatus205can be structured to fit within the gear tunnel of the vehicle105. The apparatus205can include at least one grilling module210. The grilling module210can be at least one of a grill, a grilling apparatus or any other possible cooking apparatus. The grilling module210can include at least one cooking surface215. The cooking surface215can be electrically coupled with a power source. The cooking surface215can receive power from the power source. For example, the power source can be the battery pack110and the cooking surface215can receive power from the battery pack110. The grilling module210can include at least one housing220. The cooking surface215can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the housing220. The cooking surface215can include at least one of an electric cooking surface, a coil cooking surface and a cast iron cooking surface. The cooking surface215can include at least one opening. The cooking surface215can include at least one grate217. The grate217can include at least one of at least one marking, at least one imprint, at least one opening or at least one resistive coil.

The apparatus205can include at least one heating element219. The heating element219can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with at least one of the cooking surface215, the grate217or the housing220. The heating element219can be located above, within or below at least one of the cooking surface215, the grate217or the housing220. The heating element219can provide heat to the cooking surface215. The heating element219can be at least one of a metal resistive element or a ceramic heating element. The heating element219can include at least one of a knob, button, slide or meter that can be adjusted to adjust a setting or heat metric of the heating element. The heat metric can be a temperature value. For example, the heat metric can be set to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. An operator of the apparatus205can set the heat metric to a value. The heating element219, responsive to the operator setting the heat metric, can heat the cooking surface215to a temperature that is at or around the operator set heat metric. The heating element219can heat the cooking surface215using at least one of induction heat, convection heat or radiant heat. The heating element219can be designed in at least one of a linear pattern that goes within, around or through the cooking surface215, a zig-zag pattern that runs around or within the grates217, a concentric pattern that runs around or through the cooking surface215.FIG.2depicts an example of the heating element219in a linear pattern that goes around the cooking surface215.

The apparatus205can include at least one shuttle225. The shuttle225can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the housing220. The shuttle225can be structured to extend out over the gear tunnel door155when the gear tunnel door155is in an open position. The shuttle225can stow the grilling module210. The grilling module210can be stowed in a position that is within a vehicle. The grilling module210can be stowed in a position that is within the gear tunnel of a vehicle. For example, the grilling module210can be stowed in a position that is within the gear tunnel of the vehicle105. The shuttle225can deploy the grilling module210. For example,FIG.2depicts an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position. The grilling module210can be deployed to a position that is external to a vehicle. The grilling module210can be deployed to a position that is external to the gear tunnel of a vehicle. For example, the grilling module210can be deployed to a position that is external to the gear tunnel of the vehicle105. The grilling module210can have at least one stowed position and at least one deployed position. The grilling module210can have at least one fully deployed position (e.g., the entire grilling module210is external to the gear tunnel of the vehicle105). The grilling module210can have at least one partial deployed position (e.g., a portion of the grilling module210is external the gear tunnel of the vehicle105). The grilling module210can have at least one fully stowed position (e.g., the entire grilling module210is within the gear tunnel of the vehicle105). The grilling module210can have a partial stowed position (e.g., a portion of grilling module210is within the gear tunnel of the vehicle105). The power source can be coupled with the grilling module210when the grilling module is in a deployed position and a stowed position.

The apparatus205can include at least one locking mechanism230. The locking mechanism230can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the shuttle225. The locking mechanism230can be used to hold the grilling module210. For example, the locking mechanism230can hold the grilling module210in a stowed position or a deployed position. The locking mechanism230can hold the grilling module210by at least one of locking, keeping, securing or otherwise maintaining the position of the grilling module210. For example, the locking mechanism230can lock the grilling module210in the first position. The locking mechanism230can include at least one of a latch, a switch, a lever, a slide, a clasp, a bolt, a bar, a clip or a lock. The locking mechanism230can have a closed position and an open position. For example, when the locking mechanism230is in the closed position the grilling module210can be held in the stowed or deployed position. When the locking mechanism230is in the open position the grilling module210can move. The grilling module210can move from a stowed position to a deployed position. The grilling module210can move from a deployed position to a stowed position. The grilling module210can move from a stowed position to a second stowed position. The grilling module210can move from a deployed position to a second deployed position.

The apparatus205can include at least one compartment235. The compartment235can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the housing220. The compartment235can be at least one of a drawer, a cupboard or a tray. The compartment235can store at least one component238. For example, the component238can be at least one of a cooking utensil (e.g., a spatula, a brush, a tong, a knife, a spoon or a fork), a container that holds spices (e.g., a salt and pepper shaker), a dish (e.g., a plate, a bowl or a cup) or a cutting board. The compartment235can have at least one handle240. An operator of the apparatus205can use the handle240to open or close the compartment235. The compartment235can have at least one position that is within the grilling module210. The compartment235can have at least one position that is external to the grilling module210. The compartment235can have at least one rail245. The rail245can move the compartment235from a position that is within the grilling module210to a position that is external to the grilling module210. The rail245can include at least one of a slide, a glider or a runner. For example, an operator can use the handle240to slide the compartment235from a position that is within the housing220to the position that is external the housing220. An operator can use the handle240to slide the compartment235from a position that is external to the grilling module210to a second position that is external to the grilling module210. The operator can retrieve the component238that can be stored in the compartment235.FIG.2depicts an example of the compartment235in a position that is external to the grilling module210.

The apparatus205can include at least one lid250. The lid250can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the cooking surface215. The lid250can have an open and a closed position. For example,FIG.2depicts an example of the lid250in an open position. The open position can allow for an operator of the apparatus205to place or have access to at least one item (e.g., a piece of food) on the cooking surface215. The closed position can cover the cooking surface215. The closed position can insulate the cooking surface215. The lid250can include at least one handle255. An operator can use the handle255to move the lid250from a closed position to an open position. The operator can use the handle255to move the lid250from an open position to a closed position. The operator can use the handle255to move the lid250from a first open position to a second open position. The operator can use the handle255to move the lid250from a first closed position to a second closed position.

The apparatus205can include at least one leg260. The leg260can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the shuttle225. The leg260can support the shuttle225when the shuttle225is in a position that is external to a gear tunnel of a vehicle. The leg260can have at least one length. The length of the260can be adjusted, extended, shortened or otherwise adapt. For example, the leg260, by extending a distance that allows for the leg260to make contact with a surface (e.g., the ground), can support the shuttle225. The leg260can support the shuttle225as the leg260can adjust the amount of weight that the shuttle225supports. The leg260can include a least one support position and at least one storage position. For example,FIG.2depicts an example of the leg260in a support position. The leg260can bend, fold or otherwise adjust to move from either the support position to the storage position or from the storage position to the support position. The leg260can move from a support position to a second support position. The leg260can move from a storage position to a second storage position. The leg260can be at a first height and a second leg260can be at a second height. For example, a first portion and a second portion of the shuttle225can be at different heights. The leg260that can support the first portion of the shuttle can extend to a height so that the leg260can make contact with a surface (e.g., the ground). The leg260that can support the second portion of the shuttle225can extend to a height sot that the leg260can make contact with the surface.

The apparatus205can include at least one rotation device265. The rotation device265can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the grilling module210. The rotation device265can rotate the grilling module from a deployed position to a second deployed position. The rotation device265can rotate the grilling module210by at least 90 degrees. The rotation device265can provide additional space for the grilling module210. For example, the grilling module210can be stowed within the gear tunnel of the vehicle105. The grilling module210can be deployed to a position that is external the gear tunnel of the vehicle105. The vehicle105can be positioned near an obstacle (e.g., another vehicle, a tree, a building) and the obstacle can encroach or can be very close to the grilling module210. The grilling module210can be in the deployed position. The operator of the grilling module210can create more space between the grilling module210and the obstacle by using the rotation device265to rotate the grilling module210from the deployed position to a second deployed position.

FIG.3depicts an example view of the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include at least one lift device305. The lift device can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the grilling module210. The lift device305can lift the grilling module210or component thereof from a first height to a second height. The first height and the second height can be associated with at least one stowed position or deployed position of the grilling module210. The lift device305can include at least one of a motor, piston, or hydraulic that can lift the grilling module210.

FIG.3depicts an example of the lid250in an covered position (e.g., the cooking surface215is covered and insulated by the lid250), an example of the compartment235in a position that is within the grilling module210, an example of the grilling module210in a stowed position and an example of the grilling module210at a first height.

FIG.4depicts an example view of the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include the grilling module210, the shuttle225, the locking mechanism230, the compartment235, the lid250and the leg260. The grilling module210can include the housing220. The compartment235can include the handle240. The lid250can include the handle255.FIG.4depicts an example of the lid250in a covered position, an example of the compartment235in a position that is within the grilling module210, an example of the grilling module210in stowed position and an example of leg260in a storage position.

FIG.5depicts an example view of the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include at least one hinge510and at least one compartment505. The hinge510can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the lid250. The hinge510can pivot, spin, rotate or otherwise move to enable the lid250to move from a first position to a second position. The compartment505can be similar to the compartment235. For example, the compartment505can store components similar to the component238.FIG.5depicts an example of the lid250in a covered position, an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position, an example of the compartment505in a position that is external to the grilling module210and an example of the leg260in a support position.

FIG.6depicts an example view of the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include at least one compartment605. The compartment605can be similar to the compartment235. For example, the compartment605can have rails that allow for the compartment605to extend or retract to a position external the apparatus205. The compartment can have at least one handle620. An operator of the apparatus205can use the handle620to open or close the compartment605. The compartment605can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the housing220. The apparatus205can include at least one shelf610. The shelf610can support at least one object (e.g., a stereo, a cooler, a cutting board, a TV). The shelf610can include at least one hinge615. The hinge615can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the housing220. The hinge615can pivot, spin, rotate or otherwise move to enable the shelf610to move from a storage position to a usage position.FIG.6depicts an example of the shelf610in a storage position, an example of the grilling module210in a stowed position, an example of the leg260in a support position, an example of the lid250in a covered position, an example of the compartment235in position that is within the grilling module210and an example of the compartment605in a position that is within the grilling module210.

FIG.7depicts an example view of the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include at least one support frame705. The support frame705can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the housing220. The support frame705can support the shelf610when the shelf610is in a usage position. The support frame705can have at least one support position and at least one storage position. The apparatus205can include at least one shield710. The shield710can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the cooking surface215. The shield710can protect the cooking surface215from wind or debris. The shield710can also insulate the cooking surface215. The apparatus205can include at least one removable storage715. The storage715can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the shelf610. The storage715can hold at least one component. For example, the storage715can hold the component238.

The compartment605can include at least one component720. For example, the component720can be a drip pan. The component720can be positioned within the compartment605and the component720can proximate to the cooking surface215in order to collect any excess liquids or matter that may leave the cooking surface215. For example, the component720can collect grease that may leave a piece of food that is on the cooking surface215.FIG.7depicts an example of the lid250in an open position, an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position, an example of the leg260in a support position, an example of the compartment235in a position that is external to the grilling module210, an example of the compartment605in a position that is external to the grilling module210, an example of the shelf610in a usage position, an example of the heating element219in a zig-zag pattern that goes around the grates217and an example of the support frame705in a support position.

FIG.8depicts an example view of the apparatus205.FIG.8depicts an example of the lid250in an open position, an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position, an example of the leg260in a support position, an example of the compartment235in a position that is external to the grilling module210, an example of the compartment605in a position that is external to the grilling module210and an example of the shelf610in a storage position.

FIG.9depicts an example view of the apparatus205.FIG.9depicts an example of the lid250in a covered position, an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position, an example of the leg260in a support position and an example of the compartment505in a position that is external to the grilling module210.

FIG.10depicts an example view of the apparatus205.FIG.10depicts an example of the lid250in an open position, an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position and an example of the leg260in a support position.

FIG.11Adepicts an example view of the vehicle105with the grilling module210in a partially deployed position. The apparatus205can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with a gear tunnel1105. The gear tunnel1105can be covered by the gear tunnel door155. The gear tunnel1105can be part of a vehicle. For example, the gear tunnel1105can be included within the vehicle105. The gear tunnel1105can store components. The components can be equipment (e.g., an apparatus205), tools, camping supplies, groceries, toys, beverages, coolers, folding chairs, sports equipment, cooking equipment. The owner or other operator can store equipment in the gear tunnel1105. For example, the owner can carry equipment to a campsite, to a tailgate event (e.g., a parking lot), to a sporting event, to an event (e.g., a party).

The gear tunnel1105can include an opening, compartment, chamber, or other area internal to the vehicle105that can store gear such as equipment or accessories for the vehicle or for use by the operator or passenger of the vehicle. The gear tunnel1105can include at least one shuttle (e.g., shuttle225) that extends out from the gear tunnel1105. The shuttle225can ride on tracks and rails that extend or retract. A user can open a gear tunnel door155of the electric vehicle105and extend the shuttle225to access equipment (e.g., the apparatus205). For example, a user could pull on the shuttle225or a motor, piston, or hydraulic of the shuttle225to extend the shuttle225(e.g., responsive to a user pressing a button). The user can retract the shuttle225and close the gear tunnel door155to hold the equipment within the electric vehicle105when the user is driving. For example, the user can retract the shuttle225to a position that is within the gear tunnel1105and then can stow the grilling module210in a position that is within the gear tunnel1105.

The gear tunnel1105can extend across the electric vehicle105. The gear tunnel1105can include at least one top portion, at least one bottom portion, at least one first side portion, and at least one second side portion. The first side portion can extend up from a bottom portion to a top portion at an oblique angle to the bottom portion. The first side portion and the second side portion can be parallel (e.g., parallel and oblique to the bottom portion or parallel and perpendicular to the bottom portion). The first side portion and the second side portion can be slanted towards each other or away from each other. The first side portion can include an oblique sub-portion that extends from a bottom of the gear tunnel1105and a perpendicular sub-portion that extends up to the top portion of the gear tunnel1105from an end of the oblique sub-portion.

The gear tunnel1105can be disposed adjacent a cargo bed of the electric vehicle105. The gear tunnel1105can be disposed adjacent a rear passenger storage area. The gear tunnel1105can be disposed between the cargo bed and the rear passenger storage area. The gear tunnel1105can include a bottom portion (e.g., the shuttle225) that extends out from the gear tunnel1105. The shuttle225can be supported by the vehicle105. The shuttle225can include at least one leg260that rests on the ground and supports the bottom portion. The shuttle225can extend out of, or retract into, the gear tunnel1105. At least one rail1110can extend the shuttle225out of the gear tunnel1105. The rail1110can stow or deploy the shuttle225. The rail1110that the shuttle225extends on can be mounted to a frame that sits inside the gear tunnel1105. The shuttle225can have at least one stowed position and at least one deployed position. The stowed position can be a position that is within the vehicle105. The stowed position can be a position that is within the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The stowed position of the shuttle225can be the same stowed position as the grilling module210, for example the shuttle225and the grilling module210can both be stowed in a position that is within the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The deployed position can be a position that is external to vehicle105. The deployed position can be a position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The deployed position of the shuttle225can be the same deployed position as the grilling module210.

FIG.11Adepicts an example of the gear tunnel door155in an open position, an example of the grilling module210in a deployed position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105, an example of the lid250in an open position, an example of the compartment235in a position that is within the grilling module210and an example of the shuttle225in a deployed position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105.

FIG.11Bdepicts an example view of the apparatus205. The shuttle225can include at least one handle1115. An operator of the apparatus205can use the handle1115to stow or deploy the apparatus205. For example, an operator can use the handle1115to stow the apparatus205in a position that is within the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The operator can use the handle1115to deploy the apparatus205to a position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105.

FIG.11Bdepicts an example of the gear tunnel door155in an open position, an example of the apparatus205in a deployed position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105, an example of the shuttle225in a deployed position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105and an example of the leg260in a support position.

FIG.11Cdepicts an example view of the apparatus205.FIG.11Cdepicts an example of the gear tunnel door155in an open position, an example of the apparatus205in a deployed position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105and an example of the shuttle225in a deployed position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105.

FIG.12depicts an example view of the apparatus205. The apparatus205can be stowed within the gear tunnel1105. The grilling module210can be stowed within the gear tunnel1105. The gear tunnel door155can include at least one hinge1205. The hinge1205can pivot, spin, rotate or otherwise move to enable the gear tunnel door155to open and close.FIG.12depicts an example of the lid250in a covered position, an example of the compartment235in a position that is within the grilling module210, an example of the grilling module210in a stowed position that is within the gear tunnel1105, an example of the shuttle225in a stowed position that is within the gear tunnel1105and an example of the gear tunnel door155in an open position.

FIG.13depicts an example apparatus205. The apparatus205can be moving from a stowed position within the gear tunnel1105to a deployed position external to the gear tunnel1105or can be moving from a deployed position to a stowed position within the gear tunnel1105.FIG.13depicts an example of the lid250in a covered position, an example of the compartment235in a position that is within the grilling module210, an example of the grilling module210in a stowed position, an example of the shuttle225in a deployed position and an example of the gear tunnel door155in an open position.

FIG.14depicts an example system1400to control an apparatus, in accordance with an implementation. The system1400can include the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include a data processing system1405. The data processing system1405can include a monitor component1410, an interface1415and a controller1420. The monitor component1410can include at least one sensor. The sensors can collect data. The sensors can include at least one of a temperature sensor, a battery cell sensor, a location sensor, a motion sensor, an interface sensor or a user sensor. The monitor component1410can include, communicate with or otherwise interface with a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can collect data that can be used to determine a temperature of at least one of the apparatus205, the grilling module210, the cooking surface215or the heating element219. For example, the temperature sensor can be placed proximate to the cooking surface215and can detect, sense or measure a temperature of the cooking surface215or the heating element219. The monitor component1410can compare the temperature of the heating element219to a predetermined temperature metric. The monitor component1410can determine at least one of that the temperature of the heating element219is smaller than the predetermined temperature metric, that the temperature of the heating element219is larger than the predetermined temperature metric or that the temperature of the heating element219is equal to the predetermined temperature metric. The monitor component1410, responsive to determining that the temperature of the heating element219is larger than the predetermined temperature metric, can communicate, interact or otherwise interface with the controller1420. The monitor component1410can provide an indication, to the controller1420, that the temperature of the heating element219is larger than the predetermined temperature metric. The controller1420can, responsive to receiving the indication, prevent power from being provided to at least one of the grilling module210, the cooking surface215or the heating element219.

The monitor component1410can include, communicate with or otherwise interface with a battery cell sensor. The battery cell sensor can collect data that can be used to determine the state of charge (SoC) of the battery, the state of health (SoH) of the battery or energy consumption. For example, the battery cell sensor can include a voltage sensor or current sensor. The battery cell sensor can be used to determine a voltage. The monitor component1410can determine the SoC of a battery based on monitoring voltage, amperage, or ampere hours remaining of the battery. For example, the monitor component1410can determine the voltage or current output of the battery and compare the measurements with a predetermined graph for the battery to determine a state of charge of the battery. In some cases, the monitor component1410can determine the state of charge of the battery as a percentage that is a function of the terminal voltage of the battery. The monitor component1410can compare the SoC of the battery with a predetermined SoC metric. The monitor component1410can determine at least one of that the SoC of the battery is larger than the predetermined SoC metric, that the SoC of the battery is smaller than the predetermined SoC metric or that the SoC of the battery is equal to the predetermined SoC metric. The monitor component1410, responsive to determining that the SoC of the battery is smaller than the predetermined SoC metric, can communicate, interact or otherwise interface with the controller1420. The monitor component1410can provide an indication, to the controller1420, that the SoC of the battery is smaller than the predetermined SoC metric. The controller1420can, responsive to receiving the indication, prevent power from being provided to at least one of the grilling module210, the cooking surface215or the heating element219.

The monitor component1410can include, communicate with or otherwise interface with a location sensor. The location sensor can collect data that can be used to determine a location or a position of at least one of the apparatus205, the grilling module210, the cooking surface215or the shuttle225. The monitor component1410can include, communicate with or otherwise interface with a motion sensor. The motion sensor can collect data that can be used to detect motion of at least one of the apparatus205, the grilling module210, the cooking surface215or the shuttle225.

The monitor component1410can include, communicate with or otherwise interface with an interface sensor. The interface sensor can collect data that can be used to determine a selection on an interface. For example, the interface sensor can be a tactile sensor. The interface sensor can detect an operator of the apparatus205selecting at least one option presented on a user interface (e.g., interface1415). For example, an operator can select on option to stow the grilling module210.

An operator of the apparatus205, using the interface1415, can perform one or more operations of the apparatus205. For example, an operator can select an icon displayed by the interface1415to deploy the grilling module210to a position that is external to the gear tunnel1105. Similarly, the operator can select an icon displayed by the interface1415to stow the grilling module210. The interface1415, responsive to the operator selecting the icon to stow or deploy the grilling module210, can then interact with the controller1420. The controller1420, responsive to interacting with the interface1415can either stow or deploy the grilling module210. The controller1420can include at least one of a motor, a piston, or hydraulic. The controller1420can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the shuttle225. The controller1420can be mounted, attached, placed, secured or coupled with the lift device. The motor can deploy or stow both the shuttle225and the grilling module210. The controller1420can also control the heating element219of the apparatus205. The controller1420can also control the locking mechanism230.

The data processing system1405and a user device1445can interact by using a network1440. The user device1445can include at least one of a mobile phone, a smart watch, a tablet, a smart phone, an infotainment system of a vehicle (e.g., the infotainment system of the vehicle105). An operator of the user device1445can perform similar operations to that performed by selecting icons on the interface1415. For example, the user device1445can include an application that has been stored on the user device1445and is associated with the apparatus205. For example, when an operator purchased the apparatus205they received instructions of how to download the application and link the application with the apparatus205. An operator of the user device1445can select an icon on an interface of the user device1445to either stow or deploy the grilling module210in a position that it is either within or external the gear tunnel1105.

The data processing system1405includes a data repository1430. The data repository1430can include, store, maintain or otherwise provide data. The data can be data that is collected and provided by the monitor component1410, data that is collected and provided by the interface1415or data that is provided by the user device1445. The data this is provided by the monitor component1410can be provided as monitor data1450. The data that is provided by the interface1415can be provided as interface data1455. The data that is provided by the user device1445can be provided as the interface data1455. The data repository1430can include at least one predetermined range of positions of the cooking surface215. The predetermined range can include at least one cooking position. The predetermined range can be provided as position data1460.

The monitor component1410can detect a position of the cooking surface215. The monitor component1410can retrieve, from the data repository1430, the position data1460. The monitor component1410can compare the detected position of the cooking surface215with the predetermined range. The monitor component1410can determine that the detected position of the cooking surface215is within the predetermined range. The monitor component1410, responsive to determining that the cooking surface215is within the predetermined range, can interact with the interface1415and provide an indication that the detected position of the cooking surface215is within the predetermined range. The interface1415, responsive to receiving the indication from the monitor component1410, can present an indication, to the operator of the apparatus205, that the cooking surface215is within the predetermined range.

The monitor component1410can detect a second position of the cooking surface215. The monitor component1410can retrieve, from the data repository1430, the position data1460. The monitor component1410can compare the detected position of the cooking surface215with the predetermined range. The monitor component1410can determine that the cooking surface215is not within the predetermined range. The monitor component1410, responsive to determining that the cooking surface215is not within the predetermined range, can interact with the controller1420and provide, to the controller1420, an indication that the second detected position of the cooking surface215is not within the predetermined range. The controller1420, responsive to receiving the indication from the monitor component1410, can prevent power from being provided to the cooking surface215. The monitor component1410, responsive to determining that the cooking surface215is not within the predetermined range, can interact with the interface1415and provide, to the interface1415, the indication that the second detected position of the cooking surface is not within the predetermined range. The interface1415, responsive to receiving the indication, can present a notice, to the operator of the apparatus205, that the cooking surface215is not within the predetermined range.

The data processing system1405can receive a first indication from an operator of either the apparatus205or the user device1445. The indication can be an indication to stow the grilling module210in a position that is within the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The controller1420can control the shuttle225to stow the grilling module210in a position that is within the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The data processing system1405can receive a second indication from an operator or either the apparatus205or the user device1445. The second indication can be an indication to deploy the grilling module210to a position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105. The controller1420can control the shuttle225to deploy the grilling module210to a position that is external to the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105.

The data processing system1405can receive an indication from an operator of either the apparatus205or the user device1445. The indication can be an indication to adjust the temperature of the cooking surface215. The controller1420can control the heating element219to adjust the temperature of the cooking surface215.

The data processing system1405can receive an indication from an operator of either the apparatus205or the user device1445. The indication can be an indication to adjust the height of the grilling module210. The controller1420can control the lift device to adjust the height of the grilling module210.

The data processing system1405can receive an indication from an operator of either the apparatus205or the user device1445. The indication can be an indication to open the locking mechanism230. The controller1420can control the locking mechanism230in order to open the locking mechanism230.

FIG.15is a flow diagram of a process1500where an apparatus can be provided. One or more acts of the process1500can be performed by one or more components depicted inFIG.14, including, for example, the data processing system1405. In ACT1505, an apparatus can be provided. For example, the apparatus can be the apparatus205. The apparatus205can be provided to a vehicle (e.g., the vehicle105). The apparatus205can be provided during the manufacturing process of the vehicle105. The apparatus205can be provided after the vehicle105has been purchased. For example, the apparatus205can be provided after the owner of the vehicle105purchases the apparatus205and the owner then takes the vehicle105to a shop that can then provide the apparatus205. The owner of the vehicle105can provide the apparatus205on their own. For example, the owner of the vehicle105can provide the apparatus205upon purchasing the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include a grilling module (e.g., the grilling module210), a shuttle (e.g., the shuttle225) and a locking mechanism (e.g., the locking mechanism230). The grilling module210can include the cooking surface215and the housing220.

In ACT1510, a grilling module can be stowed. For example, the grilling module can be the grilling module210. The grilling module210can be stowed in a position that is within the gear tunnel of a vehicle (e.g., the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105). The grilling module210can be stowed during the manufacturing process of the vehicle105. The grilling module210can be stowed after the vehicle105has been purchased. For example, an operator could pull on the shuttle225or a motor, piston, or hydraulic of the shuttle225to stow the grilling module210(e.g., responsive to a user pressing a button). The operator can stow the grilling module210by interacting with the data processing system1405. The operator can select an icon on the interface1415to stow the grilling module210. The operator can use the user device1445to provide an indication, to stow the grilling module210, to the data processing system1405. The data processing system1405, responsive to the operator interacting with the interface1415or responsive to receiving the indication to stow the grilling module210, can stow the grilling module210.

In ACT1515, the grilling module210can be deployed. The grilling module210can be deployed to a position that is external to the gear tunnel of a vehicle (e.g., the gear tunnel1105of the vehicle105). The grilling module210can be deployed during the manufacturing process of the vehicle105. The grilling module210can be deployed after the vehicle has been purchased. For example, an operator could pull on the shuttle225or a motor, piston, or hydraulic of the shuttle225to deploy the grilling module210(e.g., responsive to a user pressing a button). The operator can deploy the grilling module210by interacting with the data processing system1405.

The operator can select an icon on the interface1415to deploy the grilling module210. The operator can use the user device1445to provide an indication, to deploy the grilling module210, to the data processing system1405. The data processing system1405, responsive to the operator interacting with the interface1415or responsive to receiving the indication to deploy the grilling module210, can deploy the grilling module210.

In ACT1520, the grilling module210can be held. For example, the grilling module210can be held in at least one of the stowed position or the deployed position. An operator can use the locking mechanism230to hold the grilling module210in the stowed position or the deployed position. The operator can hold the grilling module210by interacting with the data processing system1405. The operator can select an icon on the interface1415to hold the grilling module210. The operator can use the user device1445to provide an indication, to hold the grilling module210, to the data processing system1405. The data processing system1405, responsive to the operator interacting with the interface1415or responsive to receiving the indication to hold the grilling module210, can hold the grilling module210.

FIG.16is a flow diagram of a process1600where an apparatus can be provided. One or more acts of the process1600can be performed by one or more components depicted inFIG.14, including, for example, the data processing system1405. In ACT1605, an apparatus can be provided. For example, the apparatus can be the apparatus205. The apparatus205can be provided to a vehicle (e.g., the vehicle105). The apparatus205can be provided during the manufacturing process of the vehicle105. The apparatus205can be provided after the vehicle105has been purchased. For example, the apparatus205can be provided after the owner of the vehicle105purchases the apparatus205and the owner then takes the vehicle105to a shop that can then provide the apparatus205. The owner of the vehicle105can provide the apparatus205on their own. For example, the owner of the vehicle105can provide the apparatus205upon purchasing the apparatus205. The apparatus205can include a grilling module (e.g., the grilling module210), a shuttle (e.g., the shuttle225) and a locking mechanism (e.g., the locking mechanism230). The grilling module210can include the cooking surface215and the housing220.

FIG.17depicts an example block diagram of an example computer system1700. The computer system or computing device1700can include or be used to implement a data processing system or its components. The computing system1700includes at least one bus1705or other communication component for communicating information and at least one processor1710or processing circuit coupled to the bus1705for processing information. The computing system1700can also include one or more processors1710or processing circuits coupled to the bus for processing information. The computing system1700also includes at least one main memory1715, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus1705for storing information, and instructions to be executed by the processor1710. The main memory1715can be used for storing information during execution of instructions by the processor1710. The computing system1700may further include at least one read only memory (ROM)1720or other static storage device coupled to the bus1705for storing static information and instructions for the processor1710. A storage device1725, such as a solid state device, magnetic disk or optical disk, can be coupled to the bus1705to persistently store information and instructions.

The computing system1700may be coupled via the bus1705to a display1735, such as a liquid crystal display, or active matrix display, for displaying information to a user such as a driver of the electric vehicle105or other end user. An input device1730, such as a keyboard or voice interface may be coupled to the bus1705for communicating information and commands to the processor1710. The input device1730can include a touch screen display1735. The input device1730can also include a cursor control, such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor1710and for controlling cursor movement on the display1735.

The processes, systems and methods described herein can be implemented by the computing system1700in response to the processor1710executing an arrangement of instructions contained in main memory1715. Such instructions can be read into main memory1715from another computer-readable medium, such as the storage device1725. Execution of the arrangement of instructions contained in main memory1715causes the computing system1700to perform the illustrative processes described herein. One or more processors in a multi-processing arrangement may also be employed to execute the instructions contained in main memory1715.

Hard-wired circuitry can be used in place of or in combination with software instructions together with the systems and methods described herein. Systems and methods described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

Some of the description herein emphasizes the structural independence of the aspects of the system components or groupings of operations and responsibilities of these system components. Other groupings that execute similar overall operations are within the scope of the present application. Modules can be implemented in hardware or as computer instructions on a non-transient computer readable storage medium, and modules can be distributed across various hardware or computer based components.

Example and non-limiting module implementation elements include sensors providing any value determined herein, sensors providing any value that is a precursor to a value determined herein, datalink or network hardware including communication chips, oscillating crystals, communication links, cables, twisted pair wiring, coaxial wiring, shielded wiring, transmitters, receivers, or transceivers, logic circuits, hard-wired logic circuits, reconfigurable logic circuits in a particular non-transient state configured according to the module specification, any actuator including at least an electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuator, a solenoid, an op-amp, analog control elements (springs, filters, integrators, adders, dividers, gain elements), or digital control elements.

For example, descriptions of positive and negative electrical characteristics may be reversed. Elements described as negative elements can instead be configured as positive elements and elements described as positive elements can instead by configured as negative elements. For example, elements described as having first polarity can instead have a second polarity, and elements described as having a second polarity can instead have a first polarity. Further relative parallel, perpendicular, vertical or other positioning or orientation descriptions include variations within +/−10% or +/−10 degrees of pure vertical, parallel or perpendicular positioning. References to “approximately,” “substantially” or other terms of degree include variations of +/−10% from the given measurement, unit, or range unless explicitly indicated otherwise. Coupled elements can be electrically, mechanically, or physically coupled with one another directly or with intervening elements. Scope of the systems and methods described herein is thus indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoing description, and changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are embraced therein.