Patent Publication Number: US-2022227306-A1

Title: Accessory mounting device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This patent application is a continuation-in-part that claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/154,679, filed on Jan. 21, 2021, entitled “ACCESSORY MOUNTING TRACK,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure generally relates to accessory mounting devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an accessory mounting device that can be coupled to a vehicle. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Storage solutions for consumers can be provided within vehicles. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle includes an instrument panel, a support structure coupled to the instrument panel, and a retainer. The support structure defines a receiver that extends from a lower end to an upper end that is vehicle-upward of the lower end. The portion of the support structure that defines the receiver includes at least one rib that protrudes into the receiver. The retainer includes a barrel portion having a threaded interior surface that defines a hollow and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface that has at least one wing. The retainer also includes a head portion coupled to the barrel portion. The retainer is operably coupled to the support structure, such that the barrel portion is received within the receiver and the at least one wing of the exterior surface is engaged with the at least one rib to maintain the retainer within the receiver. 
     Embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure can include any one or a combination of the following features:
         the head portion is positioned nearer to the lower end of the receiver than the upper end of the receiver;   the portion of the support structure that defines the receiver includes a plurality of ribs that protrude into the receiver, and the exterior surface of the barrel portion includes a plurality of wings that are configured for engagement with the plurality of ribs to maintain the retainer within the receiver, wherein the plurality of wings are configured to flex to allow for insertion of the barrel portion into the receiver;   the hollow defined by the interior surface of the barrel portion includes an open top end proximate to the head portion and an open bottom end distal from the head portion;   the threaded interior surface corresponds with a threaded member having a major diameter of 0.25 inches;   the support structure includes a raised portion through which the receiver extends, and a first recessed portion adjacent to the raised portion; and   an accessory mounting track having a protruding member that is received within the first recessed portion of the support structure.       

     According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an assembly for a vehicle includes a support structure and a retainer. The support structure is coupled to an instrument panel of the vehicle and defines a receiver that extends from a lower end to an upper end that is vehicle-upward of the lower end. The retainer includes a barrel portion having a threaded interior surface that defines a hollow and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface. Further, the retainer includes a head portion coupled to the barrel portion. The retainer is operably coupled to the support structure, such that the barrel portion is received within the receiver and the exterior surface of the barrel portion is engaged with the support structure. The head portion is positioned nearer to the lower end of the receiver than the upper end of the receiver. 
     Embodiments of the second aspect of the present disclosure can include any one or a combination of the following features:
         a portion of the support structure that defines the receiver includes at least one rib that protrudes into the receiver, and the exterior surface of the barrel portion includes at least one wing configured for engagement with the at least one rib to maintain the retainer within the receiver, wherein the at least one wing is configured to flex due to contact with the at least one rib as the barrel portion is inserted into the receiver;   the hollow defined by the interior surface of the barrel portion includes an open top end proximate to the head portion and an open bottom end distal from the head portion;   the threaded interior surface corresponds with a threaded member having a major diameter of 0.25 inches;   the support structure includes a raised portion through which the receiver extends, a first recessed portion adjacent to the raised portion, and a second recessed portion adjacent to the raised portion, wherein the raised portion is positioned between the first and second recessed portions, such that the first and second recessed portions are in a spaced relationship; and   an accessory mounting track having first and second protruding members, wherein the first protruding member is received within the first recessed portion and the second protruding member is received within the second recessed portion.       

     According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an assembly for a vehicle includes a support structure coupled to the vehicle and a retainer. The support structure defines a receiver that extends from a lower end to an upper end that is vehicle-upward of the lower end. The retainer includes a barrel portion having a threaded interior surface that defines a hollow and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface. The retainer is operably coupled to the support structure, such that the barrel portion is received within the receiver and the exterior surface of the barrel portion is engaged with the support structure. 
     Embodiments of a third aspect of the present disclosure can include any one or a combination of the following features:
         the retainer includes a head portion coupled to the barrel portion and positioned outside of the receiver defined by the support structure;   the head portion is positioned nearer to the lower end of the receiver than the upper end of the receiver;   the hollow defined by the interior surface of the barrel portion includes an open top end proximate to the head portion and an open bottom end distal from the head portion;   the threaded interior surface corresponds with a threaded member having a major diameter of 0.25 inches;   the support structure includes a raised portion through which the receiver extends, a first recessed portion adjacent to the raised portion, and a second recessed portion adjacent to the raised portion, wherein the raised portion is positioned between the first and second recessed portions, such that the first and second recessed portions are in a spaced relationship; and   an accessory mounting track having first and second protruding members, wherein the first protruding member is received within the first recessed portion and the second protruding member is received within the second recessed portion.       

     These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present disclosure will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a side perspective view of a cabin of a vehicle, illustrating an accessory mounting track, according to one example; 
         FIG. 2  is a side perspective view of the cabin of the vehicle, illustrating the accessory mounting track, according to another example; 
         FIG. 3A  is a top perspective view of an instrument panel of the vehicle, illustrating a top surface thereof, according to one example; 
         FIG. 3B  is an expanded top perspective view, taken at region IIIB of  FIG. 3A , of a support structure to which the accessory mounting track couples, according to one example; 
         FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the accessory mounting track, according to one example; 
         FIG. 5  is a rear perspective view of the accessory mounting track, according to one example; 
         FIG. 6A  is a top perspective view of the accessory mounting track, illustrating connectivity apertures, according to one example; 
         FIG. 6B  is an expanded top perspective view, taken at region VIB of  FIG. 6A , illustrating a central portion of the accessory mounting track, according to one example; 
         FIG. 7  is a front perspective view of the accessory mounting track, illustrating an interaction between the accessory mounting track and a top surface of the instrument panel, according to one example; 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of the accessory mounting track, illustrating an interaction between the accessory mounting track and the top surface of the instrument panel, according to one example; 
         FIG. 9  is a front perspective view of the accessory mounting track, illustrating an interaction between the accessory mounting track and the top surface of the instrument panel, according to another example; 
         FIG. 10  is a top perspective view of the accessory mounting track, illustrating an interaction between the accessory mounting track and the top surface of the instrument panel, according to another example; 
         FIG. 11A  is a bottom perspective view of an intermediate region of the accessory mounting track, illustrating a coupling arrangement, according to one example; 
         FIG. 11B  is a bottom view of the apertures, illustrating a progression of a coupling between the apertures and a coupling member of a removable accessory, according to one example; 
         FIG. 12A  is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate region, taken at line XIIA-XIIA of  FIG. 1 , illustrating a planar portion and angular portions of the intermediate region, according to one example; 
         FIG. 12B  is a rear view of the intermediate region of the accessory mounting track, illustrating ridges and valleys defined therein, according to one example; 
         FIG. 13  is an exploded view of an assembly of the vehicle, illustrating a threaded member, a support structure, and a retainer, according to one example; 
         FIG. 14  is bottom perspective view of the retainer, illustrating a hollow defined by a barrel portion of the retainer, according to one example; and 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view of the retainer, taken at line XV-XV, according to one example. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the concepts as oriented in  FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the concepts may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
     The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to an accessory mounting track. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements. 
     As used herein, the term “and/or,” when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be employed by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listed items, can be employed. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and/or C, the composition can contain A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in combination. 
     In this document, relational terms, such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like, are used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. 
     As used herein, the term “about” means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. When the term “about” is used in describing a value or an end-point of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or end-point referred to. Whether or not a numerical value or end-point of a range in the specification recites “about,” the numerical value or end-point of a range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by “about,” and one not modified by “about.” It will be further understood that the end-points of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other end-point, and independently of the other end-point. 
     The terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and variations thereof as used herein are intended to note that a described feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to denote a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, “substantially” is intended to denote that two values are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, “substantially” may denote values within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other. 
     As used herein the terms “the,” “a,” or “an,” mean “at least one,” and should not be limited to “only one” unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, reference to “a component” includes embodiments having two or more such components unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-12B , reference numeral  20  generally designates a vehicle  20 . In various examples, the vehicle  20  may be a motor vehicle. For example, the vehicle  20  may be a land-based vehicle (e.g., an automobile, a motorcycle, a train, etc.), an air-based vehicle (e.g., an airplane, a helicopter, etc.), and/or a water-based vehicle (e.g., a boat or other watercraft). While the vehicle  20  may be a motor vehicle, the present disclosure is not limited to internal combustion engines as a source of locomotive power for the vehicle  20 . Rather, alternative sources may be utilized in providing locomotive power to the vehicle  20 . For example, locomotive power may be provided to the vehicle  20  by electric motors, fuel cells, and/or petroleum-based fuel engines. The vehicle  20  can include an accessory mounting track  24 . The accessory mounting track  24  can include a forward edge  28 , a rearward edge  32 , an upper surface  36 , a lower surface  40 , a first end region  44  that includes a first end  48 , a second end region  52  that includes a second end  56 , and an intermediate region  60  positioned between the first and second end regions  44 ,  52 . A cross-section of the intermediate region  60  can include an angular portion  64  positioned on either side of a planar portion  68 . The planar portion  68  and the angular portions  64  are delineated by an inflection point  72  at a junction  76  between the planar portion  68  and each of the angular portions  64 . A distance  80  between the upper surface  36  and the lower surface  40  at the angular portions  64  can decrease as a distance from a centerline  84  of the intermediate region  60  increases. A distance  88  between the forward edge  28  and the rearward edge  32  at the first and second end regions  44 ,  52  can increase as a distance from the intermediate region  60  increases. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the accessory mounting track  24  can be coupled to a presented surface  92  within a cabin  96  of the vehicle  20 . The presented surface  92  may be any surface within the cabin  96  that is in a desirable or suitable location for an intended use of a removable accessory  100  (e.g., proximate to a window of the vehicle  20 , proximate to a seating assembly of the vehicle  20 , and so on). In various examples, the removable accessory  100  may be coupled to the intermediate region  60  of the accessory mounting track  24 . In some examples, the removable accessory  100  may be coupled to the first end region  44  or the second end region  52 . Accordingly, the first end region  44 , the second end region  52 , and/or the intermediate region  60  of the accessory mounting track  24  may be utilized for coupling one or more of the removable accessories  100  thereto. In the depicted example, the removable accessories  100  include a smart phone  104  and a mobile audio/visual recording device  108 , each of which is independently coupled to the intermediate region  60 . However, the present disclosure is not so limited. Rather, the removable accessory  100  can be any device or apparatus that a user desires to support, suspend, or otherwise secure in a given location within the cabin  96 . In the depicted example, the accessory mounting track  24  extends along a lateral direction  112  of the vehicle  20 . The lateral direction  112  may be defined as a direction that is angularly offset from a direction of travel of the vehicle  20 . For example, the lateral direction  112  of the vehicle  20  may be offset from the direction of travel of the vehicle  20  by about ninety degrees (90°). A longitudinal direction  116  of the vehicle  20  may be defined as a direction that is parallel to the direction of travel of the vehicle  20 . Alternatively, the longitudinal direction  116  may be defined as a direction that primarily extends in a fore-aft direction of the vehicle  20  (e.g., headlight to taillight). 
     Referring further to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the removable accessory  100  may be coupled to the accessory mounting track  24  by a mounting structure  120 . The mounting structure  120  can include a coupling member  124  (see  FIGS. 1 and 11A-12B ) that engages with the accessory mounting track  24 . The coupling member  124  may be retained to the accessory mounting track  24  by one or more accessory fasteners  128  (e.g., see  FIGS. 11A-11B ). In various examples, the intermediate region  60  can define a series of ridges  132 , with the series of ridges  132  defining valleys  136 , as will be discussed further herein. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate region  60  can define one or more apertures  140  (e.g., see  FIGS. 4-5 and 11A-11B ) that receive the coupling member  124  (see  FIGS. 11A-11B ) of the removable accessory  100 . In the depicted example, a viewing angle of the removable accessory  100  is non-parallel to the centerline  84  (see  FIGS. 4 and 12A ) of the intermediate region  60 . For example, with regard to the depicted smart phone  104 , the viewing angle of the smart phone  104  may be oriented toward an operator of the vehicle  20  (e.g., angled toward an occupant positioned proximate to a steering wheel  144  of the vehicle  20 ). With regard to the depicted mobile audio/visual recording device  108 , the viewing angle of the mobile audio/visual recording device  108  may be oriented along the longitudinal direction  116  of the vehicle  20  (e.g., toward a front  148  of the vehicle  20 ). Accordingly, in two specific non-limiting examples, the viewing angle may be defined as an angle at which a user of the removable accessory  100  views the removable accessory  100  and/or an angle at which the removable accessory  100  is viewed or is oriented during normal use. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3A-4 , a vehicle component that is configured to receive the accessory mounting track  24  is depicted according to one example. In the depicted example, the vehicle component that is configured to receive or otherwise couple with the accessory mounting track  24  is a dashboard or instrument panel  152  of the vehicle  20 . The presented surface  92  of the vehicle component that receives or couples with the accessory mounting track  24  may be a top surface  156  and/or a rearward surface  160  of the instrument panel  152 . The instrument panel  152  includes a support structure  164  that receives a portion of the accessory mounting track  24  to retain the accessory mounting track  24  to the vehicle component (e.g., the instrument panel  152 ). The support structure  164  may be an insert that is coupled to the instrument panel  152  such that the support structure  164  is integrated with the instrument panel  152 . Alternatively, the support structure  164  may be unitarily formed with the instrument panel  152 . In various examples, the term unitarily formed can include examples where the support structure  164  and the instrument panel  152  are formed as a single structure or component rather than discrete or individual components that are coupled to one another in a removable fashion. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 3A-4 , the support structure  164  can define recessed portions  168  that are positioned on either side of a raised portion  172 . The embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 13  depict a first recessed portion  168  adjacent to the raised portion  172  and a second recessed portion  168  adjacent to the raised portion  172 , wherein the raised portion  172  is positioned between the first and second recessed portions  168 , such that the first and second recessed portions  168  are in a spaced relationship. The recessed portions  168  are recessed or otherwise depressed relative to a surface  176  of the support structure  164 . Accordingly, a bottom surface  180  of the recessed portions  168  may be positioned lower than the surface  176  of the support structure  164 . The bottom surface  180  of the support structure  164  defines an aperture  184 . The raised portion  172  can extend vertically upward from the surface  176  such that a top surface  188  of the raised portion  172  is vertically above the surface  176  of the support structure  164 . The sizing and positioning of the recessed portions  168  and the raised portion  172  of the support structure  164  can be configured to receive one or more protruding members  192  of the accessory mounting track  24 . The protruding member  192  extends from the lower surface  40  of the accessory mounting track  24 . One of the protruding members  192  may be provided for each of the recessed portions  168  of the support structure  164 . Accordingly, in the depicted example one of the protruding members  192  is received in each of the recessed portions  168  such that the protruding members  192  flank either side of the raised portion  172  of the support structure  164  when the accessory mounting track  24  is coupled to the instrument panel  152 . Exterior surfaces  196  of the protruding members  192  engage with interior surfaces  200  of the recessed portions  168 . In such an arrangement, the interaction between the recessed portions  168 , the raised portion  172 , and the protruding members  192  provide a degree of retention of the accessory mounting track  24  along a plane defined by the surface  176  of the support structure  164 . 
     Referring further to  FIGS. 3A-4 , each of the protruding members  192  defines a fastener aperture  204  therethrough. The fastener aperture  204  of the protruding member  192  may correspond with the aperture  184  in the bottom surface  180  of a corresponding one of the recessed portions  168  in the support structure  164 . Accordingly, the fastener aperture  204  can receive a fastener that can be utilized to further retain the accessory mounting track  24  to the support structure  164  and/or the instrument panel  152 . In various examples, the aperture  184  and the bottom surface  180  of the recessed portion  168  may be provided with threads cut into an interior surface of the aperture  184  such that the fastener utilized to couple the accessory mounting track  24  to the support structure  164  may engage the threads defined by or disposed upon the interior surface of the aperture  184  (e.g., with spreads provided on an exterior surface of the fastener). In such an arrangement, as the fastener is inserted through the fastener aperture  204  and threaded into the aperture  184 , a compressive force may be provided to the accessory mounting track  24  by continued tightening of the fastener and corresponding gradual insertion of the fastener to the aperture  184 . The compressive force may be applied to the accessory mounting track  24  as a result of a decrease in a distance between a head of the fastener and the surface  176  of the support structure  164 . The fastening of the accessory mounting track  24  to the support structure  164  combined with the interference to lateral and/or longitudinal movement of the accessory mounting track  24  relative to the support structure  164  that is provided by the interaction between the recessed portions  168  and the protruding members  192  can provide sufficient retention forces to prevent the accessory mounting track  24  from becoming uncoupled, dislodged, or otherwise removed from the presented surface  92 . The first end region  44  includes one or more first standoffs  208  that extend from the lower surface  40  of the first end region  44 . Similarly, the second end region  52  can be provided with one or more second standoffs  212  that extend from the lower surface  40  of the accessory mounting track  24 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4-5 , the intermediate region  60  defines one or more of the apertures  140 . The one or more apertures  140  may be arranged as a series of apertures  140  defined by the intermediate region  60  with adjacent ones of the apertures  140  being separated by portions of the intermediate region  60 . In some examples, the one or more apertures  140  that are defined by the intermediate region  60  may be a single elongate aperture that extends from the first end region  44  to the second end region  52  of the accessory mounting track  24  (e.g., see  FIG. 5 ). Regardless of the number of apertures  140  provided in the intermediate region  60 , a compressive force provided by an interaction between the mounting structure  120 , the coupling member  124 , the accessory fastener  128 , and/or the accessory mounting track  24  may be sufficient to retain the removable accessory  100  to the accessory mounting track  24  in a given location along the intermediate region  60 . In various examples, the forward edge  28  of the accessory mounting track  24  within the first and second end regions  44 ,  52  may extend beyond the forward edge  28  of the accessory mounting track  24  within the intermediate region  60 . Said another way, a distance between the forward edge  28  and the rearward edge  32  of the accessory mounting track  24  may vary dependent upon a position along the accessory mounting track  24  in the lateral direction  112 . By providing a greater distance between the forward edge  28  and the rearward edge  32  within the first and second end regions  44 ,  52 , increased stability may be provided to the accessory mounting track  24  against unintentional rotation in the lateral direction  112  and/or the longitudinal direction  116 . The unintentional rotation that may be prevented by the dimensions of the first and second end regions  44 ,  52  may result from a weight of the removable accessory  100  and/or external forces experienced as a result of maneuvering the vehicle  20 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 4-5 , a central portion  216  of the intermediate region  60  may be provided with a greater distance between the forward edge  28  and the rearward edge  32  of the accessory mounting track  24 . Such an arrangement of the central portion  216  may provide additional stability to the accessory mounting track  24  with regard to preventing unintentional rotational motion of the accessory mounting track  24  in the lateral direction  112  and/or the longitudinal direction  116 . Additionally, such a configuration of the central portion  216  of the intermediate region  60  can enable providing the protruding members  192  as offset from the centerline  84  of the intermediate region  60 . By so positioning the protruding members  192 , it is possible to couple one of the removable accessories  100  to the intermediate region  60  within the central portion  216  without interfering with the coupling of the accessory mounting track  24  to the vehicle  20 . In some examples, the first and second end regions  44 ,  52  may define end region apertures  220 . The end region apertures  220  may be utilized by a user in positioning the accessory mounting track  24  within the vehicle  20 . In some examples, the end region apertures  220  may be utilized as a way to provide additional mounting locations along the accessory mounting track  24 . For example, the end region apertures  220  may be defined by a first leg  224 , a second leg  228 , and a third leg  232  of the corresponding first end region  44  or second end region  52 . In the depicted examples, the first leg  224  and the second leg  228  join at the intermediate region  60  and the third leg  232  extends between the first and second legs  224 ,  228  at an end of the first and second legs  224 ,  228  that is distal from the intermediate region  60 . It is contemplated that the first leg  224 , the second leg  228 , and/or the third leg  232  may be provided with the ridges  132  that define the valleys  136  and/or be provided with the apertures  140  such that the first leg  224 , the second leg  228 , and/or the third leg  232  may be capable of receiving one of the removable accessories  100 . While the depicted views of the accessory mounting track  24  in  FIGS. 4 and 5  do not show the upper surface  36  of the accessory mounting track  24 , it is contemplated that the accessory mounting track  24  may be provided with the ridges  132  that define the valleys  136 , as well as the apertures  140 , such that the accessory mounting track  24  may be capable of receiving a variety of coupling members  124  of mounting structures  120  that are associated with removable accessories  100 . For example, the ridges  132 , the valleys  136 , and the apertures  140  may be unitarily formed in the accessory mounting track  24  such that the ridges  132  and valleys  136  surround a perimeter of each of the apertures  140 . Alternatively, sections of ridges  132  and valleys  136  may be coupled to apertures  140  in an adapter-like manner (e.g., see  FIG. 11A ). 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6A-6B , the accessory mounting track  24  is shown with the intermediate region  60  as being featureless with regard to the ridges  132  and the valleys  136  (see  FIG. 1 ) and the apertures  140  in an effort to enable a more clear depiction of features that will be discussed with regard to these figures. However, as outlined above, it is contemplated that the intermediate region  60  may be provided with the ridges  132  and/or the apertures  140 . The intermediate region  60  may define connectivity apertures  236 . The connectivity apertures  236  may be sized and/or positioned to correspond with one or more connectivity receptacles provided on the vehicle  20 . For example, the connectivity receptacles may be vehicle accessory outlets, three-pronged electrical outlets, USB receptacles and/or any other suitable power and/or data transfer receptacle. By providing the connectivity apertures  236  along the accessory mounting track  24 , a user may electrically couple the removable accessory  100  (e.g., smart phone  104  and/or mobile audio/visual recording device  108 ) to the vehicle  20 . Accordingly, the removable accessory  100  may be provided with power to maintain a charge and/or operability of the removable accessory  100 . Additionally or alternatively, the removable accessory  100  may receive data from the vehicle  20  and/or transmit data to the vehicle  20 . In either instance, such an electrical coupling between the removable accessory  100  and the vehicle  20  may be accomplished in a manner that reduces a length of a corresponding connectivity cable that extends between the connectivity receptacles and the removable accessory  100  while preventing the shortened length of the connectivity cable from impeding actuation of the removable accessory  100  along the accessory mounting track  24 . In examples where the presented surface  92  to which the accessory mounting track  24  is coupled is the top surface  156  of the instrument panel  152 , maintaining the ability to actuate the removable accessory  100  along the accessory mounting track  24  while decreasing the length of the connectivity cable can prevent the connectivity cable(s) from becoming a hindrance to full enjoyment of the features provided on the instrument panel  152  and thereby provide a useful cable/cord management solution/approach. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 6A-6B , as discussed above, the central portion  216  of the intermediate region  60  may be provided with a greater distance between the forward edge  28  and the rearward edge  32  of the accessory mounting track  24 . Such an arrangement of the central portion  216  may provide additional stability to the accessory mounting track  24  with regard to preventing unintentional rotational motion of the accessory mounting track  24  in the lateral direction  112  and/or the longitudinal direction  116 . Additionally, such a configuration of the central portion  216  of the intermediate region  60  can enable providing the protruding members  192  (see  FIG. 4 ) as offset from the centerline  84  of the intermediate region  60 . By so positioning the protruding members  192 , it is possible to couple one of the removable accessories  100  to the intermediate region  60  within the central portion  216  without interfering with the coupling of the accessory mounting track  24  to the vehicle  20 . The central portion  216  defines the fastener aperture  204  that extends through the protruding members  192 . The fastener aperture  204  receives a fastener  240  that extends through the protruding member  192  and engages with the support structure  164  and/or the presented surface  92  to which the accessory mounting track  24  is coupled. The fastener  240  can include a head  244  that engages with an upper region  248  of the central portion  216 . As the fastener  240  is tightened (e.g., by threaded engagement with the support structure  164  and/or the presented surface  92 ), the head  244  of the fastener  240  may bear against the upper region  248  such that the accessory mounting track  24  is retained to the support structure  164  and/or the presented surface  92 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7-10 , the accessory mounting track  24  is depicted as coupled to the presented surface  92 . In the depicted example, the presented surface  92  is the top surface  156  of the instrument panel  152 . The first end region  44  and the second end region  52  may define brace structures  252 . The brace structures  252  may have a profile that is generally triangular in shape. However, it is contemplated that alternative geometries of the brace structures  252  are possible without departing from the concepts discussed herein. The intermediate region  60  of the accessory mounting track  24  may be generally parallel to the presented surface  92  to which the accessory mounting track  24  is coupled (e.g. the top surface  156  of the instrument panel  152 ). The brace structures  252  may be non-parallel to the presented surface  92  and the intermediate region  60 . For example, the brace structures  252  may extend away from the intermediate region  60  toward the presented surface  92  at an angle  254  of at least about 10°, at least about 15°, at least about 20°, at least about 25°, at least about 30°, at least about 35°, at least about 40°, at least about 45°, at least about 50°, at least about 55°, at least about 60°, at least about 65°, at least about 70°, at least about 75°, at least about 80°, at least about 85°, about 90°, less than about 90°, and/or combinations or ranges thereof. The angular offset of the brace structures  252  relative to the intermediate region  60  may provide additional rigidity and/or support to the accessory mounting track  24  in the lateral direction  112  and/or the longitudinal direction  116 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 7-10 , in various examples, the brace structures  252  may at least partially extend or cover the distance between the intermediate region  60  and the presented surface  92 . In examples where the first and second standoffs  208 ,  212  are employed, a remainder of the distance between the intermediate region  60  and the presented surface  92  may be covered by the corresponding first standoff  208  and/or the second standoff  212  (see  FIG. 7 ). It is contemplated that the accessory mounting track  24  may be provided in a long version (see  FIGS. 6-7 ) and a short version (see  FIGS. 9-10 ). In some examples, the long version of the accessory mounting track  24  may be provided with additional brace structures  252  that are positioned between the first end  48  and the central portion  216  and/or between the second end  56  and the central portion  216  (see  FIG. 7 ). In such an example, the additional brace structures  252  that are positioned at intermediate locations along the intermediate region  60 , the standoffs  208 ,  212  may be omitted. The brace structures  252  that are positioned at the intermediate locations along the intermediate region  60  may have the same or similar structures as those positioned at the first end region  44  and the second end region  52 . Accordingly, the attributes discussed above with regard to the structure and arrangement of the first and second end regions  44 ,  52  may apply in whole or in part to the additional brace structures  252 . In various examples where the short version of the accessory mounting track  24  is employed, the first and second standoffs  208 ,  212  may be omitted. In such examples, it is contemplated that rigidity provided by the intermediate region  60 , as well as a decreased distance between the protruding members  192  and the first and second end regions  44 ,  52 , may enable a decrease in a surface area of contact between the accessory mounting track  24  and the presented surface  92  such that the first and second standoffs  208 ,  212  may be omitted and the brace structure  252  may directly contact the presented surface  92  (e.g., continuous contact or intermittent contact based on load). 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11A-11B , the intermediate region  60  can define the apertures  140  that are configured to receive the coupling member  124  of the removable accessory  100 . The coupling member  124  may include the accessory fastener  128 . For example, the coupling member  124  may receive the accessory fastener  128 . The accessory fastener  128  may be rotated about an axis  256  thereof as indicated by arrow  260 . The rotation of the accessory fastener  128  about the axis  256  thereof can retain the removable accessory  100  in a given location along the intermediate region  60 . In various examples, the rotation of the accessory fastener  128  about the axis  256  thereof may cause or induce the coupling member  124  to rotate from a first position to a second position (see progression depicted in  FIGS. 11A and 11B ). For example, as the accessory fastener  128  is rotated about the axis  256  thereof, the coupling member  124  may be transitioned from the first position, which may be a position in which the coupling member  124  is generally parallel to the aperture  140 , to the second position, where the coupling member  124  may be non-parallel to the aperture  140  (e.g., perpendicular). Upon accomplishing the transition from the first position to the second position of the coupling member  124 , the accessory fastener  128  may be permitted to further rotate about the axis  256  thereof such that the accessory fastener  128  extends further through the coupling member  124  while the coupling member  124  may remain stationary relative to the accessory fastener  128  (e.g., maintaining the second position). In some examples, the removable accessory  100  that is coupled to the accessory mounting track  24  may be provided with the ridges  132  that define the valleys  136  such that the removable accessory  100  may be utilized as an adapter for the apertures  140  and the removable accessory  100  may receive an additional accessory (e.g., the smart phone  104 , the mobile audio/visual recording device  108 , or another additional accessory). Regardless of the identity or function of the removable accessory  100 , upon coupling the removable accessory  100  to the accessory mounting track  24 , the mounting structure  120  (e.g., the coupling member  124 ) of the removable accessory  100  may be adjacent to the lower surface  40  and the support surface (e.g., the presented surface  92 ) to which the accessory mounting track  24  is coupled. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12A-12B , the intermediate region  60  of the accessory mounting track  24  is depicted with the ridges  132  that define the valleys  136  therebetween. Upon coupling the removable accessory  100  to the accessory mounting track  24 , the mounting structure  120  of the removable accessory  100  is received within one or more of the valleys  136  such that the mounting structure  120  is retained by adjacent ones of the ridges  132  that define the one or more valleys  136 . For example, the coupling member  124  can include protrusions  264  that define recesses  268  that are positioned between adjacent ones of the protrusions  264 . The sizing and positioning of the protrusions  264  and the recesses  268  can correspond with the valleys  136  and the ridges  132 , respectively. Accordingly, the engagement between the protrusions  264  and the valleys  136  can result in a retention of the coupling member  124  and the removable accessory  100  within a horizontal plane of the accessory mounting track  24  (e.g., the lateral direction  112  of the vehicle  20 ). 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 12A-12B , the angular portions  64  of the intermediate region  60  can prevent rotational motion of the removable accessory  100  relative to the intermediate region  60 . For example, as illustrated in phantom lines in  FIG. 12A , the coupling member  124  of the mounting structure  120  may define angled regions  272  that flank or are positioned on either side of a planar region  276  (also see  FIG. 1 ). The angled regions  272  in the planar region  276  are sized and positioned to be complementary and correspond with the angular portions  64  and the planar portion  68  of the intermediate region  60 , respectively. In some examples, the angled regions  272  may be adjustable relative to the planar region  276 . For example, at least one of the angled regions  272  may be adjustable relative to the planar region  276  such that a distance between the angled regions  272  may be increased and/or decreased (e.g., along the longitudinal direction  116  of the vehicle  20 ). Such adjustment may be accomplished by tightening and/or loosening the accessory fastener  128 . The accessory fastener  128  may be loosened to an extent that allows the removable accessory  100  to be coupled to the intermediate region  60  of the accessory mounting track  24 . Once the removable accessory  100  has been positioned such that the angled regions  272  and the angular portions  64  are aligned with one another, the accessory fastener  128  may be tightened to decrease a distance between the angular portions  64  and the angled regions  272 . Physical contact may be made between the angled regions  272  and the angular portions  64  as a result of the continued tightening of the accessory fastener  128 . Engagement between the protrusions  264  and the ridges  132 , as well as the angled regions  272  and the angular portions  64 , can result in retention of the mounting structure  120  of the removable accessory  100  in a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, the lateral direction  112 , and/or the longitudinal direction  116 . Accordingly, linear and/or rotational motion of the mounting structure  120  relative to the accessory mounting track  24  may be limited to prevent the removable accessory  100  from deviating from a desired location of the user. In some examples, the ridges  132 , as well as the corresponding valleys  136 , may be omitted from the intermediate region  60 . In such an example, the apertures  140  can be included and the interaction between the coupling member  124  and the accessory mounting track  24  when the accessory fastener  128  is tightened may provide retention that would have otherwise been provided by the interaction between the ridges  132  and the protrusions  264 . In examples where the ridges  132  are omitted, the accessory mounting track  24  may include the angular portions  64 . Accordingly, it is contemplated that hybrid structures of those disclosed herein may be employed without departing from the concepts disclosed herein. As shown in  FIG. 12A , a cross-section within the intermediate region  60  of the accessory mounting track  24  may be oblong or defined by a major axis and a minor axis. Such an arrangement of the accessory mounting track  24 , within the intermediate region  60  and/or elsewhere, can aid in the prevention of unintended rotational motion of the removable accessory  100  relative to the accessory mounting track  24 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 13-15 , as described herein, the support structure  164  may be coupled to the instrument panel  152 . It is contemplated that the support structure  164  may be coupled to various portions of the vehicle  20 , in some embodiments. As illustrated in  FIGS. 3B and 13 , the support structure  164  may define a receiver  280 . In various embodiments, the receiver  280  may be an aperture  184  that extends through the support structure  164 . The receiver  280  extends from a lower end  284  to an upper end  288  that is vehicle-upward of the lower end  284 . In some embodiments, wherein the receiver  280  is an aperture  184  that extends through the support structure  164 , the lower and upper ends  284 ,  288  of the receiver  280  may be open, as illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3B and 13 , in various embodiments, the receiver  280  may extend through the raised portion  172  of the support structure  164 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the upper end  288  of the receiver  280  is defined by the top surface  188  of the raised portion  172 , and the receiver  280  extends downward therefrom, through the raised portion  172  to the lower end  284  of the receiver  280 . In some embodiments, the portion of the support structure  164  that defines the receiver  280  may include at least one rib  292  that protrudes into the receiver  280 . In some implementations, a plurality of ribs  292  may protrude from the support structure  164  into the receiver  280 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 13 , a plurality of ribs  292  extend at least semi-annularly along the portion of the support structure  164  that defines the receiver  280 . The at least one rib  292  may be configured for engagement with a retainer  296  received within the receiver  280 , in some implementations, as described further herein. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 13-15 , the retainer  296  may be configured for engagement with the receiver  280  defined by the support structure  164 . In various embodiments, the retainer  296  includes a barrel portion  300 . The barrel portion  300  includes an interior surface  304  that defines a hollow  308  and an exterior surface  320  that is opposite the interior surface  304 . The interior surface  304  of the barrel portion  300  may be threaded, such that the threaded interior surface  304  corresponds with a threaded member  332 . In some embodiments, the threaded interior surface  304  of the barrel portion  300  corresponds with the threaded member  332  that includes a major diameter of 0.25 inches. It is contemplated that the threaded interior surface  304  of the barrel portion  300  may correspond with threaded members  332  having a variety of major and/or minor diameters, in various embodiments. 
     In various embodiments, the exterior surface  320  of the barrel portion  300  is configured for engagement with the portion of the support structure  164  that defines the receiver  280 . In some implementations, the exterior surface  320  of the barrel portion  300  is configured to be engaged with the at least one rib  292  coupled to the support structure  164  to maintain the retainer  296  within the receiver  280 . In some embodiments, the exterior surface  320  of the barrel portion  300  includes at least one wing  324 . For example, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the exterior surface  320  of the support structure  164  includes a plurality of wings  324 . The plurality of wings  324  are configured to be engaged with the plurality of ribs  292  that extend into the receiver  280  from the portion of the support structure  164  that defines the receiver  280 . In operation, the barrel portion  300  is inserted into the receiver  280 , and the plurality of wings  324  initially interfere with the plurality of ribs  292 . Upon application of sufficient force, the wings  324  flex inboard to allow the barrel portion  300  to slide along the plurality of ribs  292  and into the receiver  280 . When a given wing  324  passes a given rib  292  during insertion, the wing  324  resiliently rebounds back toward an at-rest position, wherein the wing  324  is configured to generally prevent the barrel portion  300  from retreating back out of the receiver  280 , such that the retainer  296  is maintained within the receiver  280 . 
     Referring still to  FIGS. 13-15 , the retainer  296  may include a head portion  328 . The head portion  328  may be coupled to the barrel portion  300 . In various embodiments, the head portion  328  extends outward from the exterior surface  320  of the barrel portion  300 . In some embodiments, the hollow  308  defined by the interior surface  304  of the barrel portion  300  extends through the head portion  328 . In other words, the hollow  308  extends from an open bottom end  316  that is distal from the head portion  328  to an open top end  312  that is proximate to the head portion  328 . Embodiments of the retainer  296 , wherein the top end  312  of the hollow  308  is not open, but rather covered by the head portion  328 , are contemplated. In various embodiments, the head portion  328  of the retainer  296  is positioned outside of the receiver  280  defined by the support structure  164  when the barrel portion  300  is positioned within the receiver  280 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , in some embodiments, the retainer  296  is operably coupled to the support structure  164 , such that the barrel portion  300  is received within the receiver  280 , wherein the head portion  328  of the retainer  296  is positioned nearer to the lower end  284  of the receiver  280  than the upper end  288  of the receiver  280 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the open bottom end  316  of the barrel portion  300  is configured to be inserted into the lower end  284  of the receiver  280  and moved toward the upper end  288  of the receiver  280  until the head portion  328  of the retainer  296  interferes with the portion of the support structure  164  defining the lower end  284  of the receiver  280 . It is contemplated that the barrel portion  300  may be inserted into the upper end  288  of the receiver  280  in some embodiments. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 13 , in various embodiments, the threaded member  332  may be configured to engage the threaded interior surface  304  of the barrel portion  300  of the retainer  296  while the retainer  296  is received within the receiver  280  defined by the support structure  164 . In some implementations, an assembly  334  of the support structure  164  and the retainer  296  may conveniently enable a user to attach a mounting structure  120  via threaded engagement of the threaded member  332  coupled to the mounting structure  120  and the threaded interior surface  304  of the retainer  296  within the receiver  280 . Further, a removable accessory, such as a camera or a phone, may be coupled to the mounting structure  120  for the convenience of the user. 
     Modifications of the disclosure will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the concepts disclosed herein. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents. 
     It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described concepts, and other components, is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the concepts disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms: couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature, or may be removable or releasable in nature, unless otherwise stated. 
     It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied, and the nature or numeral of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations. 
     It will be understood that any described processes, or steps within described processes, may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting. 
     It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further, it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims, unless these claims, by their language, expressly state otherwise.