SYSTEM FOR ILLUMINATION OF A CHARGING PORT OF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE

Abstract

System (100) for illuminating a charging port (130) of an electric vehicle, wherein the charging port (130) is provided in a vehicle body (120) for supplying power to a vehicle traction battery (110), the system (100) comprising: a charging port flap (140) configured to open and close the charging port (130); and a lamp device (150) arranged on the charging port flap (140) and configured to illuminate the charging port (130), wherein the charging port flap (140) is hinge-connected to the vehicle body (120) by a hinge device (160) configured to open upwards;and the lamp device (150) is formed on an inner surface of the charging port flap (140) and is configured to emit light from the inner surface of the charging port flap (140) and to shine downwards when the charging port flap (140) is in an open state, further comprising: a lamp wiring (158) arranged along the hinge device (160) and configured to supply power to the lamp device (150); and a hinge cover (180) configured to cover the lamp wiring (158), the hinge device (160) comprising: a hinge shaft (166) configured to provide a hinge coupling; a hinge body (168) configured to rotate about the hinge shaft (166);and a hinge arm (170) configured to connect the hinge body (168) and the charging port flap (140), wherein the hinge arm (170) comprises a first arm (171) projecting from the hinge body (168), a second arm (172) configured to connect the first arm (171) and the charging port flap (140), and a third arm (173) extending parallel to the charging port flap (140) from one end of the second arm (172) and coupled to the charging port flap (140); and the hinge cover (180) comprises a first cover (181) configured to cover the first arm (171), a second cover (182) configured to cover the second arm (172), and a third cover (183) configured to cover the third arm (173).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electric vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] Generally, an electric vehicle is charged by plugging a charger into the charging port. It is desirable to provide a lighting system that illuminates the charging port so that the charger outlet can be easily plugged into the charging port at night.

[0003] Conventionally, the lighting position is arranged very close to the charging port, such as at the top of the charging port, and there are disadvantages such as narrow lighting range, inconvenience in replacing the lamp mechanism, etc.

[0004] Therefore, if a system for illuminating an electric vehicle charging port that illuminates a wider area and is convenient for maintenance is provided, the usability of the electric vehicle can be expected to be improved. Accordingly, if a lighting system for an electric vehicle charging port that illuminates a wider area and is convenient for maintenance is provided, the usability of the electric vehicle can be expected to be improved.

[0005] The information disclosed above in this Background section is provided only to enhance the understanding of the background of the invention and may therefore contain information that does not constitute prior art already known to one of ordinary skill in the art. SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure relates to an electric vehicle. Certain embodiments relate to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle capable of illuminating the charging port over a wider area and improving maintenance and convenience.

[0008] A system according to one embodiment is for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle, wherein the charging port is provided in a vehicle body to supply power to a vehicle traction battery. The system according to one embodiment comprises a charging port door operable to open and close the charging port, and a lamp device arranged on / at the charging port door and configured to illuminate the charging port.

[0009] The lamp device may be configured to illuminate downwards from the charging port door when it is opened.

[0010] The charging port cover may be hinged to the vehicle body by an upwardly opening hinge device. The lamp device may be formed on an inner surface of the charging port cover and configured to emit light from the inner surface of the charging port cover and illuminate downward when the charging port cover is opened.

[0011] The system according to an embodiment may further comprise lamp wiring arranged along the hinge device to supply power to the lamp device, and a hinge cover configured to cover the lamp wiring.

[0012] The hinge device may include a hinge shaft configured to provide a hinge coupling, a hinge body configured to rotate about the hinge shaft, and a hinge arm configured to connect the hinge body and the charging port door.

[0013] The hinge arm may include at least one rib projecting toward the hinge cover. The lamp wiring may be secured between the hinge arm and the hinge cover by the at least one rib.

[0014] A wiring retaining groove may be formed between the hinge cover and the hinge body, the lamp wiring may be fixed to the wiring retaining groove when the hinge cover is connected to the hinge arm, and the lamp wiring may pass through the wiring retaining groove into the interior of the vehicle.

[0015] A portion of the lamp wiring from the wiring holding groove to the interior of the vehicle can be fixed by being firmly held by a holding member formed on a hinge housing of the hinge device.

[0016] The hinge arm may include a first arm protruding from the hinge body, a second arm configured to connect the first arm and the charging port door, and a third arm extending parallel to the charging port door from one end of the second arm and coupled to the charging port door. The hinge cover may include a first cover configured to cover the first arm, a second cover configured to cover the second arm, and a third cover configured to cover the third arm.

[0017] A first sliding groove may be formed on the first arm, and the first cover may be slidably coupled to the first arm through the first sliding groove. A second sliding groove may be formed on the second arm, and the second cover may be slidably coupled to the second arm through the second sliding groove.

[0018] A translucent window may be formed on the hinge cover, and the lamp device may be coupled to an inner surface of the hinge cover to illuminate through the translucent window.

[0019] The system according to an embodiment may further comprise a flap sensor configured to detect opening and closing of the charging port flap, and a lamp controller configured to control a power supply of the lamp device based on a signal from the flap sensor.

[0020] The lamp controller may be configured to control the supply of electricity to turn on the lamp device when the opening of the charging port door is detected and to turn off the lamp device when the closing of the charging port door is detected.

[0021] The lamp control may be configured to switch off the lamp device after a preset period of time when a start of charging of the vehicle drive battery is detected after the lamp device is switched on.

[0022] The lamp controller may be further configured to generate a preset warning signal through the lamp device after the preset period of time has elapsed after the lamp device is turned off when a charging abnormality is detected.

[0023] The lamp controller may further be configured to turn on the lamp device after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time when completion of charging is detected.

[0024] A method according to one embodiment is for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle provided with a charging port door operable to open and close a charging port for supplying power to a vehicle drive battery, and provided with a lamp device arranged on the charging port door. The method according to one embodiment includes detecting an opening of the charging port door, turning on the lamp device to illuminate downward from the charging port door toward the charging port when the opening of the charging port door is detected, detecting a closing of the charging port door, and turning off the lamp device when the closing of the charging port door is detected.

[0025] The method according to one embodiment may further comprise detecting a start of charging of the vehicle drive battery after switching on the lamp device and switching off the lamp device after a preset period of time after detecting the start of charging.

[0026] The method according to an embodiment may further comprise, after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time, detecting a charging abnormality and generating a preset warning signal by the lamp device when the charging abnormality is detected.

[0027] The method according to an embodiment may further comprise, after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time, detecting completion of charging and turning on the lamp device when the completion of charging is detected.

[0028] According to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment, by illuminating the charging port from the charging port flap, it is possible to illuminate the charging port in a larger area.

[0029] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, by illuminating the charging port from the charging port door downward, no glare or the like is caused in the range of the user's field of vision, and the usability can be improved.

[0030] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, by conveniently arranging the lamp wiring connected to the lamp device arranged on the charging port door, the stability of the charging port illumination can be improved.

[0031] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, the lamp device can be easily replaced when an abnormality occurs in the lamp device arranged on the charging port door.

[0032] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, user convenience can be improved by efficiently turning the lamp device on and off according to the opening and closing of the charging port door during the charging process of the electric vehicle.

[0033] Other effects that may be obtained or predicted by an embodiment will be described explicitly or implicitly in a detailed description of the present disclosure. That is, various effects predicted according to an embodiment will be described in the following detailed description. Character list Fig. 1 is a drawing showing the visible arrangement of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 shows a partial exploded perspective view of a visible arrangement of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment. Fig. 4A illustrates a hinge body and a first arm of a hinge device according to an embodiment. Fig. 4B illustrates a second arm of a hinge device according to one embodiment. Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B show perspective views of a hinge device of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, viewed from a vehicle interior. Fig. 6A is a perspective view showing that a first arm and a first cover are slidably coupled in a hinge device according to an embodiment. Fig. 6B is a side view showing that a second arm and a second cover are slidably coupled in a hinge device according to an embodiment. Fig. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a control arrangement of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment. Fig. 8 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0034] The following reference information may be used in conjunction with the drawings to further understand the preferred embodiments. 100 charging port lighting system 110 Vehicle traction battery 112 lamp battery 120 vehicle body 130 charging port 132 charging connector housing 140 Charging port flap 142 flap inner wall 150 lamp device 152 Lamp 154 lamp housing 156 connectors 158 Lamp wiring 160 hinge device 162 hinge housing 164 Holding element 166 hinge shaft 168 hinge bodies 170 hinge arm 171 first arm 172 second arm 173 third arm 176 first sliding groove 177 second sliding groove 179 Rib 180 hinge cover 181 first cover 182 second cover 183 third cover 185 Wiring retaining recess 190 translucent window 200 lamp control 210 flap sensor 300 vehicle interface DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification, the same or similar components are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and a repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0036] When describing embodiments of the present specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of the prior art related to embodiments of the present invention may obscure the gist of the present invention, it will be omitted. The accompanying drawings are provided only to enable embodiments disclosed in the present specification to be easily understood and should not be construed as limiting the teachings disclosed in the present specification, and it is understood that the present invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0037] Terms that include ordinal numbers such as first, second, and the like are used only to describe various components and are not to be construed as limiting those components. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from other components.

[0038] It is understood that when a component is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, or it may be connected or coupled to the other component with another component intervening. Further, it is understood that when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other component without another component intervening.

[0039] It is further understood that the terms "comprise" and "have" used in this specification indicate the presence of specified features, digits, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, digits, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0040] Terms such as "unit," "part," "section," "-er," and "module" for components used in the following description are used only to easily describe the patent specification. Accordingly, these terms do not have any inherently distinguishing meanings or roles. Furthermore, the terms "unit," "part," "section," "-er," and "module" in the description refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation that can be realized or implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0041] As used herein, the singular forms are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any or all combinations of one or more of the related elements.

[0042] The term "electric vehicle" used in the present disclosure means a vehicle equipped with a vehicle drive battery that stores electrical energy for driving or propelling the vehicle and further equipped with a charging port for charging the vehicle drive battery, and may include a battery electric vehicle, a plug-in hybrid vehicle, and the like.

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a visible arrangement of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a partial exploded perspective view of a visible arrangement of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0046] Fig. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0047] With reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, a system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment is a charging port lighting system for illuminating a charging port 130 provided on a vehicle body 120 to supply power to a vehicle propulsion battery 110 of the electric vehicle.

[0048] The system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment includes a charging port door 140 operable to open and close (i.e., cover) the charging port 130, and a lamp device 150 disposed on the charging port door 140 and configured to illuminate the charging port 130. As shown in Fig. 2, the lamp device 150 is configured to illuminate downward from the charging port door 140 when it is opened.

[0049] More specifically, the charging port door 140 is hingedly coupled to the vehicle body 120 by an upwardly opening hinge device 160. Furthermore, the lamp device 150 is formed on an inner surface of the charging port door 140 and configured to emit light downward from the inner surface of the charging port door 140 (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the inner surface of the charging port door 140) when the charging port door 140 is opened.

[0050] In the description of embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle body 120 does not only refer to a frame of the vehicle, but may mean an outer panel of the vehicle or a frame within the outer panel or a fixture attached to the frame.

[0051] The system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment may further include a lamp wiring 158 arranged along the hinge device 160 to supply power to the lamp device 150 and a hinge cover 180 configured to cover the lamp wiring 158.

[0052] The hinge device 160 may include a hinge shaft 166 configured to provide a hinge coupling, a hinge body 168 configured to rotate about the hinge shaft 166, and a hinge arm 170 configured to connect the hinge body 168 and the charging port door 140.

[0053] That is, when the hinge body 168 rotates about the hinge shaft 166, the hinge arm 170 rotates and, accordingly, the charging port door 140 connected to the hinge arm 170 rotates to open and close the charging port 130.

[0054] The hinge arm 170 may include a first arm 171 protruding from the hinge body 168, a second arm 172 configured to connect one end of the first arm 171 and the charging port door 140, and a third arm 173 extending from one end of the second arm 172 parallel to the charging port door 140 and coupled to the charging port door 140.

[0055] Fig. 3 illustrates that a door inner wall 142 is disposed on an inner side of the charging port door 140, and the third arm 173 is fixed to the charging port door 140 through the door inner wall 142. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0056] The hinge cover 180 may include a first cover 181 configured to cover the first arm 171, a second cover 182 configured to cover the second arm 172, and a third cover 183 configured to cover the third arm 173. By dividing the hinge cover 180 in this way, it may be easy to assemble the hinge cover 180 to cover the hinge arm 170, which will be described later.

[0057] As in Fig. 3, in the lamp device 150, a lamp or light (for example, an LED) 152 is mounted in a lamp housing 154 and connected to the lamp wiring 158 via a connector 156.

[0058] For example, the lamp housing 154 can be formed into a single lamp module by embedding the LED 152 by fusing, and this structure can prevent foreign matter such as moisture and dust from entering the LED. For example, the connector 156 can be formed as a waterproof connector, and with this structure, it is possible to prevent a problem caused by moisture intrusion into the LED even when the charging port cover 140 is opened in the rain.

[0059] Fig. Figure 4A illustrates the hinge body 168 and the first arm 171 of the hinge device 160 of Fig. 3.

[0060] Fig. Figure 4B illustrates the second arm 172 of the hinge device 160 of Fig. 3.

[0061] As in Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B, the hinge arm 170 includes at least one rib 179 projecting toward the hinge cover 180, and the lamp wiring 158 is secured between the hinge arm 170 and the hinge cover 180 by the at least one rib 179.

[0062] More specifically, the rib 179 is formed on the first arm 171 and the second arm 172, respectively, and the lamp wiring 158 can be fitted and fixed in a space formed by the rib 179 (see also Fig. 6A).

[0063] In this way, by securing the lamp wiring 158 to the rib 179 formed on the hinge arm 170, the movement of the lamp wiring 158 can be minimized when the hinge arm 170 is rotated to open and close the charging port door 140.

[0064] Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B show perspective views of a hinge device of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, viewed from a vehicle interior.

[0065] Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B show views when the charging port door 140 is opened or closed by the operation of the hinge device 160.

[0066] As in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, a wiring retaining recess 185 is formed between the hinge cover 180 and the hinge body 168.

[0067] Accordingly, the lamp wiring 158 is fixed to the wiring holding recess 185 when the hinge cover 180 is coupled to the hinge arm 170.

[0068] It is understood that the wiring holding recess 185 is configured to firmly hold the lamp wiring 158 pulled out between the hinge body 168 and the hinge cover 180.

[0069] Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B illustrate that the wiring retaining recess 185 is formed at an upper end of the first cover 181 of the hinge cover 180, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As an exemplary variation, the wiring retaining recess 185 may be formed in the hinge body 168, and as another exemplary variation, the wiring retaining recess 185 may be formed in both the hinge body 168 and the hinge cover 180 (specifically, the first cover 181).

[0070] The lamp wiring 158 secured by the wiring holding recess 185 is pulled out of the wiring holding recess 185 and leads into the interior of the vehicle.

[0071] In this way, since the lamp wiring 158 is fixed between the hinge body 168 and the hinge cover 180, the movement of the lamp wiring 158 can be minimized when the charging port door 140 is operated.

[0072] Fig. 6A is a perspective view showing that the first arm 171 and the first cover 181 are slidably coupled in the hinge device 160.

[0073] Fig. 6B is a side view showing that the second arm 172 and the second cover 182 are slidably coupled in the hinge device 160.

[0074] As in Fig. 6A, a first sliding groove 176 for slidably coupling with the first cover 181 is formed on the first arm 171. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 6B, a second sliding groove 177 for slidably coupling with the second cover 182 is formed on the second arm 172.

[0075] Accordingly, the first cover 181 is slidably coupled to the first arm 171 through the first sliding groove 176. Subsequently, the second cover 182 is slidably coupled to the second arm 172 through the second sliding groove 177.

[0076] With this coupling structure, the hinge arm 170, which is curved and has a complex shape, can be easily covered with the hinge cover 180 of the split structure.

[0077] Meanwhile, the first cover 181 covering the first arm 171 formed upward and downward is first slidably coupled to the first arm 171, and then the second cover 182 covering the second arm 172 located below the first arm 171 is slidably coupled to the second arm 172. Through this coupling order, the second cover 182 can support, for example, the first cover 181, so that the coupling of the first and second covers 181 and 182 to the first and second arms 171 and 172 can be more robust.

[0078] With further reference to Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, according to the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment, a retaining element 164 is configured to protrude from a hinge housing 162 of the hinge device 160.

[0079] Accordingly, a portion of the lamp wiring 158 is fixed from the wiring holding recess 185 toward the interior of the vehicle by being firmly held by the holding member 164 formed on the hinge housing 162 of the hinge device 160.

[0080] According to the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, due to this arrangement, while the hinge device 160 is operated for the opening and closing operation of the charging port door 140, the movement of the lamp wiring 158 can be minimized.

[0081] More specifically, in the moving range (i.e., first, second, and third arms) of the hinge device 160, the lamp wiring 158 is fixedly coupled to the first, second, and third arms 171, 172, and 173, and accordingly, no relative movement of the lamp wiring 158 occurs when the charging port door 140 is opened and closed. On the other hand, it is easy to understand that no movement occurs in the lamp wiring 158 leading to the holding member 164 inside the vehicle when the charging port door 140 is opened and closed. Therefore, it is understood that the portion of the lamp wiring 158 in which movement occurs by opening and closing the charging port door 140 is only a portion from the wiring holding groove 185 to the holding member 164.

[0082] Accordingly, according to the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, the movement of the lamp wiring 158 according to opening and closing of the charging port door 140 can be minimized, and accordingly, it is possible to minimize potential problems such as peeling / wear in the lamp wiring 158 according to the opening and closing of the charging port door 140.

[0083] As in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, the charging port 130 may be mounted in a charging port housing 132. The charging port housing 132 may be formed integrally with the hinge housing 162, but the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0084] With further reference to Fig. 2, according to the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment, a translucent window 190 is formed in the hinge cover 180, for example, at an end facing an outer end of the charging port door 140. Furthermore, the lamp device 150 is coupled to an inner surface of the hinge cover 180 to illuminate through the translucent window 190.

[0085] As in Fig. 2, the light-transmitting window 190 may be formed, for example, as a through-hole formed in the third cover 183. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As an exemplary variation, the third cover 183 may be formed as a window element made of a transparent material at the Fig. 2 shown through-hole section.

[0086] The third cover 183 may be coupled to the charging port door 140 (e.g., through the door inner wall 142) in various ways, for example, by screw connection, fitting, or the like.

[0087] That is, according to the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment, the lamp device 150 is arranged between the charging port door 140 and the hinge cover 180, the lamp device 150 is fixed when the hinge cover 180 is coupled to the charging port door 140, and the lamp device 150 is configured to emit light through the translucent window 190 formed in the hinge cover 180.

[0088] According to this arrangement, when the lamp device 150 needs to be replaced due to the occurrence of an abnormality of the lamp device 150, the lamp device 150 can be easily separated from the connector 156 for replacement by only removing the hinge cover 180, for example, in the present embodiment, by only removing the third cover 183.

[0089] Hereinafter, a method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle using the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0090] Fig. 7 shows a block diagram illustrating a control arrangement of the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0091] Fig. 8 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0092] As in Fig. 7, the system 100 for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment may further include a flap sensor 210 configured to detect opening of the charging port flap 140, a lamp battery 112 for supplying power to the lamp device 150, and a lamp controller 200 configured to control the power supply to the lamp device 150 from the lamp battery 112 based on a signal from the flap sensor 210.

[0093] The door sensor 210 can be implemented in various ways, such as a push-button switch, a proximity sensor, or the like, capable of detecting the opening and closing of the door. Furthermore, if a motor is provided for operating the charging port door 140, the opening and closing of the charging port door 140 can be detected from a position of the motor, and in this case, the motor for operating the charging port door 140 can be understood as the door sensor 210. Therefore, the door sensor 210 in the present disclosure is not limited to a specific embodiment.

[0094] Although Fig. While Figure 7 illustrates the lamp battery 112 as a separate battery from the vehicle drive battery 100 (e.g., a 12V battery, a 24V battery, and the like), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the vehicle drive battery 110 may be used as an electrical power source to activate the lamp device 150.

[0095] Accordingly, in interpreting the present disclosure and the appended claims, the lamp battery 112 is not necessarily interpreted as being separate from the vehicle drive battery 110.

[0096] The lamp controller 200 may obtain state-of-charge information of the vehicle propulsion battery 110 via a vehicle interface 300. For example, the electricity supplied through the charging port 130 may be charged to the vehicle propulsion battery 110 under the control of a vehicle charging management system (VCMS), and the vehicle propulsion battery 110 may be controlled or managed by a battery management system (BMS). The lamp controller 200 may obtain the state-of-charge information of the vehicle propulsion battery 110 from the VCMS and / or the BMS via the vehicle interface 300.

[0097] Accordingly, the lamp controller 200 may control supply of electricity to the lamp device 150 while further considering the state of charge information of the vehicle drive battery 110.

[0098] The lamp controller 200 may be implemented with at least one microprocessor operated by a preset program. This preset program may include a set of instructions for performing each step included in a method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment, which is described below.

[0099] The lamp controller 200 may be formed separately from another controller or integrated with another controller (e.g., a charging port door controller and the like configured to control the opening and closing of the charging port door 140).

[0100] In the following, a method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8 described in detail.

[0101] First, in step S10, the lamp controller 200 determines whether the charging port door 140 is open. Such determination step S10 may be performed based on a signal from the door sensor 210.

[0102] If the charging port door 140 is open (S10 - Yes), the lamp controller 200 supplies power to the lamp device 150 in step S15 to turn on the lamp device 150. In step S15, the lamp device 150 illuminates downward from the charging port door 140 toward the charging port 130.

[0103] Meanwhile, if the charging port door 140 is not opened (S10 - No), the lamp controller 200 determines in step S50 whether the charging port door 140 is closed.

[0104] When the charging port door 140 is closed (S50 - Yes), the lamp controller 200 stops the power supply to the lamp device 150 to turn off the lamp device 150 in step S55.

[0105] Through such a basic operation, the lamp controller 200 is configured to illuminate the charging port 130 by the lamp device 150 when the charging port door 140 is opened, that is, when the opening of the charging port door 140 is detected, and to turn off the lamp device 150 when the charging port door 140 is closed, that is, when the closing of the charging port door 140 is detected.

[0106] After turning on the lamp device 150 in step S15, the user plugs a charger output (not shown) of a charging station (not shown) into the charging port 130 and initiates charging.

[0107] At this time, after step S15 of turning on the lamp device 150 by opening the charging port door 140, the lamp controller 200 additionally determines in step S20 whether charging of the vehicle drive battery 110 is started. Such determination step S20 can be performed, for example, by determining whether a signal notifying a charging start is received from the vehicle interface 300.

[0108] If the charging of the vehicle drive battery 110 is not started (S20 - No), the lamp controller 200 may maintain the turning on of the lamp device 150.

[0109] When charging of the vehicle drive battery 110 is started (S20 - Yes), the lamp controller 200 may turn off the lamp device 150 after a preset period of time in step S25. The preset period of time may be set to any time period that is expected for the user to be able to check the charging status or perform other operations after charging is started, and may be set to 2 minutes, for example.

[0110] After the lamp device 150 is turned off after the preset period of time after the vehicle charging has started, the lamp controller 200 determines whether a charging abnormality occurs in step S30. The determination step S30 may be performed based on whether a signal notifying the charging abnormality is received from the vehicle interface 300.

[0111] Here, the charging abnormality may correspond, for example, to a case where the current is not stably supplied through the charging port 130, e.g., due to erroneous engagement of the charger output with the charging port 130, a case where charging is faulty, e.g., due to an abnormality of a state of charge (SOC) of the vehicle drive battery, or other cases that may be considered the charging abnormality. When such a charging abnormality occurs, the vehicle interface 300 may generate a signal notifying the charging abnormality and send it to the lamp controller 200, and the lamp controller 200 may determine the charging abnormality based on whether the signal notifying the charging abnormality is received.

[0112] When the charging abnormality occurs, that is, when the lamp controller 200 detects the charging abnormality (S30 - Yes), the lamp controller 200 generates a preset warning lamp signal through the lamp device 150 in step S35. The warning lamp signal may be generated in any order to attract the user's attention, for example, it may flash the lamp device 150 10 times.

[0113] After charging has started and the lamp device 150 has been turned off after the preset period of time, the lamp controller 200 determines whether charging is complete in step S40. Determination step S40 may be performed based on whether a signal indicating completion of charging is received from the vehicle interface 300.

[0114] Here, the charging termination may include a case where charging is terminated when the vehicle drive battery 110 is fully charged, a case where charging is terminated when the user disconnects the charger output from the charging port 130, and the like. When the charging termination occurs, the vehicle interface 300 may generate a signal notifying the charging termination and send it to the lamp controller 200, and the lamp controller 200 may determine the charging termination based on whether the signal notifying the charging termination is received.

[0115] When charging is completed, that is, when the lamp controller 200 detects the completion of charging (S40 - Yes), the lamp controller 200 turns on the lamp device 150 to illuminate the charging port 130 in step S45. Through such an operation, when charging is completed, the user can easily disconnect the charger output from the charging port 130 illuminated by the lamp device 150.

[0116] According to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to one embodiment, by illuminating the charging port from the charging port flap, it is possible to illuminate the charging port in a larger area.

[0117] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, by illuminating the charging port from the charging port door downward, no glare or the like is caused in the user's field of vision, and the user experience can be improved.

[0118] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, by conveniently arranging the lamp wiring connected to the lamp device arranged on the charging port door, the stability of the illumination of the charging port can be improved.

[0119] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, the lamp device can be easily replaced when an abnormality occurs in the lamp device arranged on the charging port door.

[0120] Furthermore, according to a system and method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment, user convenience can be improved by efficiently turning the lamp device on and off according to the opening and closing of the charging port door during the charging process of the electric vehicle.

[0121] While this invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be practical embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

[1] A system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle, the charging port being provided in a vehicle body to supply power to a vehicle traction battery, the system comprising: a charging port door configured to open and close the charging port; and a lamp device arranged on the charging port flap and configured to illuminate the charging port. [2] The system of claim 1, wherein the lamp device is configured to illuminate downward from the charging port door when the charging port door is in an open state. [3] The system of claim 1, wherein: the charging port flap is hinged to the vehicle body by a hinge device configured to be opened upwards; and the lamp device is formed on an inner surface of the charging port door and is configured to emit light from the inner surface of the charging port door and to shine downward when the charging port door is in an open state. [4] The system of claim 3, further comprising: a lamp wiring arranged along the hinge device and arranged to supply power to the lamp device; and a hinged cover designed to cover the lamp wiring. [5] The system of claim 4, wherein the hinge device comprises: a hinge shaft configured to provide a hinge coupling; a hinge body adapted to rotate about the hinge shaft; and a hinge arm configured to connect the hinge body and the charging port door. [6] System according to claim 5, wherein the hinge arm has a rib that projects towards the hinge cover; and the lamp wiring is secured between the hinge arm and the hinge cover by the rib. [7] System according to claim 5, wherein: a wiring retaining recess is formed between the hinge cover and the hinge body; the lamp wiring is secured to the wiring retaining recess when the hinge cover is coupled to the hinge arm; and the lamp wiring leads through the wiring retaining recess into the interior of the vehicle. [8] The system according to claim 7, wherein a portion of the lamp wiring from the wiring holding groove is fixed to the interior of the vehicle by being firmly held by a holding member formed on a hinge housing of the hinge device. [9] System according to claim 5, wherein the hinge arm has a first arm projecting from the hinge body, a second arm configured to connect the first arm and the charging port flap, and a third arm extending parallel to the charging port flap from one end of the second arm and coupled to the charging port flap; and the hinge cover comprises a first cover configured to cover the first arm, a second cover configured to cover the second arm, and a third cover configured to cover the third arm. [10] The system of claim 9, wherein: a first sliding groove is formed on the first arm, and the first cover is slidably coupled to the first arm through the first sliding groove; and a second sliding groove is formed on the second arm, and the second cover is slidably coupled to the second arm through the second sliding groove. [11] System according to claim 4, wherein: a translucent window is formed on the hinge cover; and the lamp device is coupled to an inner surface of the hinge cover and is arranged to illuminate through the translucent window. [12] A system for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle, the charging port being provided in a vehicle body to supply power to a vehicle traction battery, the system comprising: a charging port door configured to open and close the charging port; and a lamp device arranged on the charging port door and configured to illuminate the charging port; a flap sensor configured to detect opening and closing of the charging port flap; and a lamp controller configured to control a power supply of the lamp device based on a signal from the flap sensor. [13] The system of claim 12, wherein the lamp controller is configured to control the supply of electricity to turn on the lamp device in response to detection of opening of the charging port door and to turn off the lamp device in response to detection of closing of the charging port door. [14] The system of claim 12, wherein the lamp controller is configured to turn off the lamp device after a preset period of time when a start of charging of the vehicle drive battery is detected after the lamp device is turned on. [15] The system of claim 14, wherein the lamp controller is further configured to generate a preset warning signal through the lamp device after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time when a charging abnormality is detected. [16] The system of claim 14, wherein the lamp controller is further configured to turn on the lamp device after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time when completion of charging is detected. [17] A method for illuminating a charging port of an electric vehicle provided with a charging port door operable to open and close a charging port for supplying power to a vehicle drive battery, and provided with a lamp device arranged on the charging port door, the method comprising: Detecting an opening of the charging port flap; Turning on the lamp device to illuminate downward from the charging port door toward the charging port in response to detecting the opening of the charging port door; Detecting a closing of the charging port flap; and Turning off the lamp device in response to detecting the closing of the charging port door. [18] The method of claim 17, further comprising: Detecting a start of charging of the vehicle drive battery after switching on the lamp device; and Turning off the lamp device after a preset period of time after detecting the start of charging. [19] The method of claim 18, further comprising, after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time: Detecting a store anomaly; and Generating a preset warning signal by the lamp device in response to detecting the charging abnormality. [20] The method of claim 18, further comprising, after turning off the lamp device after the preset period of time: Detecting a completion of charging; and Turning on the lamp device in response to the completion of charging.

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