Blind-like closure mechanism for a vehicle cover unit

Abstract

A louvered closure mechanism 10 for a vehicle cover unit is provided. The louvered closure mechanism 10 comprises a louvered assembly 100, which includes a plurality of closure slats 108. The closure slats 108 are configured to slide over one another to create a circular opening 110 when a first operating condition is activated, the circular opening 110 being configured to allow access to the cover unit. The closure slats 108 are further configured to slide away from each other to close the circular opening 110 when a second operating condition is activated, thereby covering the cover unit. The louvered assembly 100 prevents the accumulation of snow and rainwater in the cover unit. In addition, the louvered assembly 100 enables the use of the cover unit under various weather conditions.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to vehicle covers and in particular to a blind-like closing mechanism for a vehicle cover. BACKGROUND

[0002] Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as a sustainable transportation option. However, a charging system for EVs presents several challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main problems is the design of charging flaps or covers, which are crucial components for protecting the connector from external influences. With current designs, the charging flap typically opens at a 90-degree angle, roughly perpendicular to the vehicle body. In such a configuration, the charging flap is susceptible to misuse, which can lead to failure and damage to the connector.

[0003] The long charging times required for electric vehicles exacerbate the problems associated with modern charging ports. During extended charging sessions, especially in adverse weather conditions, snow can accumulate inside the charger while the charging port is held open. This snow buildup makes it difficult to close the port after charging, potentially damaging the connector or exposing it to further environmental risks. Similarly, rain poses a significant risk of water ingress into the charging station, which can lead to serious problems with the electrical systems. Furthermore, extreme heat, resulting from climate fluctuations, makes internal plastic components susceptible to thermal creep, a phenomenon where materials deform under prolonged exposure to heat and stress.This can lead to a deterioration of the charger's structural integrity and impair its functionality over time. The combination of these factors highlights the need for a more robust and weather-resistant charging flap or cover that can withstand various environmental conditions while maintaining its protective function.

[0004] Traditional methods for addressing the aforementioned problems include using more durable materials for the loading door and improving the sealing mechanism around the connection. Some manufacturers have introduced automatic locking systems to ensure the loading door is not accidentally left open. However, these solutions often do not provide comprehensive protection against all weather conditions and potential misuse scenarios.

[0005] Prior art documents EP3911825B1 and US20210095501 A1 disclose a loading hatch for covering a loading unit, which incorporates a lever assembly for opening and closing the hatch. The lever assembly has two levers located on either side of the loading hatch, which can be pivoted in an opening direction to protect against snow and rain. However, a two-lever mechanism increases complexity, makes it susceptible to wear and jamming, complicates maintenance, especially under harsh conditions, and requires more space. Furthermore, one of the loading hatch components protrudes, which can lead to overloading.

[0006] Another prior art document, DE102021001286A1, deals with a charging interface for an electric vehicle that has several covers to protect the charging port. The charging interface has an opening for receiving a charging plug and features a first cover that can close the opening when no plug is inserted, and a second cover that can partially close the opening when a plug is inserted. This design protects the charging port from weather conditions and external interference while the vehicle is being charged. However, the prior art makes inserting and plugging in the charging plug more difficult.

[0007] While these state-of-the-art solutions offer improvements in certain aspects of charging port design, they do not fully address all the challenges associated with EV charging ports. Existing designs still leave room for improvement in terms of durability, weather resistance, and user-friendliness under various environmental conditions. Furthermore, existing solutions still pose the risk of snow accumulation, water ingress, and temperature drop under extreme weather conditions.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to overcome the problems associated with conventional vehicle coverage. GOALS

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a locking mechanism for protecting a cover unit of a vehicle. The cover unit can be a charging unit or a fuel refueling unit of the vehicle.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a closing mechanism that prevents the accumulation of snow, rainwater or other contaminants on the cover unit.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to protect the cover unit from external influences.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to offer a locking mechanism that requires only minimal installation space in the vehicle and can be implemented with minor modifications to existing designs.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to avoid abusive stress on the locking mechanism by avoiding protruding parts on the vehicle body.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a locking mechanism that gives the vehicle an aesthetic appearance. SUMMARY

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, a louvered closure mechanism is provided for a vehicle cover unit. The louvered closure mechanism comprises an arrangement with a plurality of closure slats. The closure slats are configured to slide over one another to create a circular opening when a first operating condition is activated. The circular opening allows access to the cover unit. When a second operating condition is activated, the slats slide away from each other to close the circular opening and thereby cover the cover unit.

[0016] The locking mechanism further comprises a first plate integrated into the vehicle body. The mechanism also includes a second plate, functionally coupled to the first plate and configured to rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise. Both the first and second plates have an opening to expose the cover assembly, with the locking slats positioned between the first and second plates.

[0017] The blind assembly further comprises a multitude of guide pins that connect the multitude of closing slats to the second plate. The guide pins slide around the second plate to actuate the multitude of closing slats, causing them to slide over one another to create the circular opening, or to slide away from each other to close the circular opening.

[0018] The arrangement also includes a drive unit configured to rotate the second plate, causing each guide pin to slide around the second plate, which in turn moves a corresponding sealing lamella to create or close the circular opening.

[0019] The arrangement also includes a switch that is activated or deactivated by a user to provide a signal to a control unit. The control unit actuates the drive unit to rotate the second plate clockwise when a first signal is received, indicating the first operating state, or counterclockwise when a second signal is received, indicating the second operating state. The second signal is generated when the user deactivates the switch. The second plate comprises a plurality of first slots, with each guide pin sliding along a corresponding first slot of the second plate as the second plate is rotated. Additionally, each locking lamella includes a hole to receive a corresponding guide pin to connect the plurality of locking lamellae to the second plate.

[0020] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is provided with a cover unit and a louver-like closing mechanism. The louver-like closing mechanism comprises an arrangement of closing slats configured to slide over one another to create a circular opening during a first operating state, the circular opening being configured to allow access to the cover unit. The closing slats are further configured to slide away from one another to close the circular opening during a second operating state.

[0021] The louver arrangement of the present invention prevents the accumulation of snow and rainwater in the cover assembly by opening only to the extent necessary to expose the cover assembly. Furthermore, the arrangement requires minimal installation space and can be integrated into an existing vehicle with minimal modifications. The present invention also prevents undue stress on the louver arrangement, as there are no protruding parts on the vehicle body. In addition, the louver arrangement ensures an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the vehicle.

[0022] The preceding sections were given as a general introduction and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The described embodiments, along with further advantages, are best understood by reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANIMENTARY DRAWING Fig. Figure 1 is an exemplary block diagram showing a blind-like closure mechanism according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 2 is an exemplary schematic representation of an arrangement of closures for a cover arrangement integrated into a vehicle according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 3 is an exemplary schematic representation of an arrangement of closures for a loading unit of the vehicle in a first operating state according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 4 is an exemplary schematic representation of an arrangement of closures for the vehicle's loading unit in a second operating state according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 5 shows an exemplary exploded view of the arrangement of a closure for a cover arrangement of a vehicle according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an arrangement of closures for a cover arrangement of a vehicle according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 7 is an exemplary block diagram showing a vehicle with a blind-like locking mechanism according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Aspects of the present invention are best understood by reference to the description contained herein. All aspects described herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following descriptions. However, it should be understood that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred aspects and numerous specific details thereof, are given for illustrative purposes only and should not be treated as limitations. Changes and modifications may be made within the scope described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and the present invention includes all such modifications.

[0024] The present invention relates to a louver-like locking mechanism for a vehicle cover unit. The louver-like locking mechanism comprises an arrangement with a plurality of locking slats. The locking slats are configured to slide over one another to create a circular opening when a first operating state is activated, which allows access to the cover unit. Furthermore, the locking slats are configured to slide away from each other to close the circular opening when a second operating state is activated, thereby covering the cover unit.

[0025] The louver arrangement of the present invention has several advantages over conventional methods. The cover arrangement ensures an aesthetically pleasing appearance of the vehicle, as it is integrated into the vehicle's body-in-white (BIW), unlike conventional cover arrangements that protrude. Since no parts protrude from the vehicle body, the arrangement is not subjected to excessive stress, which extends its service life. Furthermore, the closing louvers open only to the extent necessary to expose the cover unit, preventing the accumulation of snow or rainwater within the vehicle's cover unit. Moreover, implementing the arrangement according to the invention requires only a minor modification to the existing vehicle design. Because the closing louvers are small and housed within a rotating disc during opening, very little installation space is required within the vehicle.

[0026] In one application, the louvered closure mechanism can be used to cover a charging unit or fuel filler. The closure louvers open only enough to expose the charging unit or fuel filler, thus preventing the accumulation of snow or rainwater inside the vehicle's charging unit or fuel filler. Consequently, vehicles can be charged outdoors in any weather without exposing the charging unit or fuel filler to the elements. This design therefore eliminates the risk of environmental damage to the charging unit or fuel filler.

[0027] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a louver-type locking mechanism 10 for a vehicle cover unit according to the present invention. In one instance, the cover unit can be a charging unit or a fuel refueling unit. It should be noted that the cover unit is any unit in the vehicle that needs to be covered. The louver-type locking mechanism 10 comprises a switch 20, a control unit 30, a drive unit 40, and a louver assembly 100. The control unit 30 is communicatively connected to the switch 20 and the drive unit 40. The drive unit 40 is connected to the louver assembly 100. In some embodiments, the drive unit 40 is a motor or an electromagnet-based system to facilitate the rotation of the locking slats. In some embodiments, the control unit 30 can include a hardware processor (e.g., a microcontroller).The control unit 30 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a hardware processor core, an AI processor, or any combination thereof, main memory, and static memory, some or all of which may communicate with each other via an intermediate connection (e.g., a bus). Furthermore, the control unit 30 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuits, and / or any devices that manipulate signals based on operating instructions. In some embodiments, the switch 20 is a push-button switch, a toggle switch, or even a remote control.

[0028] When a user activates switch 20, switch 20 sends an initial information signal, indicating its activation, to control unit 30. Control unit 30 then generates an initial control signal, indicating an initial operating state for drive unit 40. Upon receiving this initial control signal, control unit 40 activates the clockwise rotation of the locking louvers, causing them to slide over one another and form a circular opening. This circular opening provides access to the cover unit. The initial operating condition involves activating a mechanism that shifts the locking louvers to create the circular opening that allows access to the cover unit. This circular opening exposes only the cover unit, preventing the accumulation of snow or rainwater within it, and ensures accessibility in all weather conditions.Since the blind assembly 100 has no protruding parts, it is not subjected to excessive stress. Furthermore, the blind assembly 100 requires minimal installation space and can be integrated into an existing vehicle with minimal modifications. When the user deactivates switch 20, switch 20 sends a second information signal, indicating the deactivation of switch 20, to control unit 30. Control unit 30 then generates a second control signal, indicating a second operating state for drive unit 40. Upon receiving the second control signal, drive unit 40 releases the counterclockwise rotation of the shutter slats, causing them to slide apart to close the circular opening like a camera, thus covering the cover unit.The second operating state refers to the activation of the mechanism that spreads the locking louvers apart and closes the circular opening to protect the cover unit when not in use. It should be noted that switch 20 can be directly connected to drive unit 40, bypassing control unit 30. In such a configuration, activating switch 20 directly energizes or triggers drive unit 40, enabling it to perform its intended function of rotating the second plate 106 clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0029] Fig. Figure 2-5 shows the louver assembly 100 according to the present invention. The louver assembly 100 comprises a first plate 104, a second plate 106, a plurality of closing slats 108, and a plurality of guide pins 116. The louver assembly 100 is integrated into a 2K part with a body 102 (body-in-white, BIW) of the vehicle. Body-in-white (BIW) refers to a stage of automotive manufacturing in which the body structure of a vehicle is completed before components such as the engine, interior, or exterior trim are added. At this stage, the body consists of the assembled sheet metal components, including the roof, floor, doors, hood, and side panels, which are typically welded or bolted together. 2K part means that two different parts are integrated.

[0030] The first plate 104 is configured to be attached to the body 102, thereby attaching or integrating the louver assembly 100 to the vehicle body 102 (e.g., in Fig. (2 can be seen). The first plate 104 acts as a base or foundation on which other components, such as the second plate 106 and the closure slats 108, are attached. The first plate 104 is a fixed plate.

[0031] The second plate 106 is functionally coupled to the first plate 104 and the drive unit 40. The second plate 106 is a rotatable plate that can be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. The drive unit 40 is configured to rotate the second plate 106 clockwise or counterclockwise depending on a control signal received from the control unit 30. The first plate 104 and the second plate 106 have an opening to expose the cover unit for access, which is opened or closed by the locking louvers 108. The second plate includes a plurality of first slots 114 (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 5).

[0032] The sealing blades 108 are located between the first plate 104 and the second plate 106 (see e.g. Fig. 4) The guide pins 116 functionally connect the locking lamellae 108 to the second plate 106. Each guide pin 116 slides along a corresponding first slot 114 of the second plate 106 when the second plate 104 is rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. Each locking lamella 108 includes a hole 118 that receives a corresponding guide pin 116. When the second plate 106 is rotated, the locking lamellae 108 slide over each other to form a circular opening 110, or they slide away from each other to close the circular opening 110 by a sliding motion of the guide pins 116.

[0033] In the first operating state, when the user presses switch 20, the control unit 30 actuates the drive unit 40 to rotate the second plate 106 clockwise. The clockwise rotation of the second plate 106 causes the guide pins 116 to slide along the first slots 114, which in turn rotates the locking slats 108, which slide over one another to create the circular opening 110. Only the cover unit is exposed through the circular opening 110. In one case, the cover unit is a charging unit 112 (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 3) When the user presses switch 20 to charge the vehicle, the control unit 30 actuates the drive unit 40 to rotate the second plate 106 clockwise. The clockwise rotation of the second plate 106 causes the guide pins 116 to slide along the first slots 114, which in turn rotates the locking slats 108, which slide over one another to form the circular opening 110. The circular opening 110 exposes only the charging unit 112 (see, for example, the following). Fig. 3).

[0034] In the second operating state, when the user presses switch 20 to close the cover unit, the control unit 30 actuates the drive unit 40 to rotate the second plate 106 counterclockwise. The counterclockwise rotation of the second plate 106 causes the guide pins 116 to slide along the first slots 114, which in turn rotates the locking slats 108 away from each other to close the circular opening 110 (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 2 and Fig. 4) In one case, when the charging process is complete, the drive unit 40 rotates the second plate 106 counterclockwise when the user presses the switch 20. The counterclockwise rotation of the second plate 106 causes the guide pins 116 to slide along the first slots 114, which in turn rotates the locking louvers 108 apart to close the circular opening 110 for covering the charging unit 112.

[0035] In some embodiments, each closure lamella 108 includes a connecting element for connecting the closure lamellae 108 to the first plate 104. The first plate 104 includes a plurality of second slots 120 that allow each connecting element of the closure lamellae 108 to slide along the second slots 120 when the closure lamellae 108 are rotated (e.g., in a Fig. 5 to be seen).

[0036] It should be noted that the locking mechanism 10 can be adapted for use in various vehicle types to protect any cover unit. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism 10 is used in electric vehicles to protect the charging unit. Furthermore, the size and shape of the first plate 104, the second plate 106, and the locking lamellae 108 can be adapted according to the specific requirements of the vehicle and the type of cover unit. Additionally, the number of guide pins 116, first slots 114, and second slots 120 can be varied to accommodate different operating conditions and performance requirements.Furthermore, a person skilled in the art would select the appropriate materials for the first plate 104, the second plate 106 and the closure lamellae 108 based on the size, shape and functional requirements of these components, without deviating from the scope of the present invention.

[0037] The locking mechanism 10 therefore offers a secure and efficient method for protecting the vehicle cover. By incorporating a rotatable second plate 106 and sliding locking slats 108, the mechanism 10 can quickly and effectively open and close access to the cover unit. This ensures that the cover unit is easily accessible when needed, but also adequately protected when not in use.

[0038] Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for closing or opening the cover unit using the locking mechanism 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that, to avoid repetition, components and their connections of the locking mechanism 10 that have been described above are not repeated.

[0039] In step 602, when the vehicle's control unit is accessible, the user activates switch 20 to generate the first information signal to control unit 30. This first information signal initiates a predefined operating sequence that allows control unit 30 to process the signal and activate the drive unit 40.

[0040] In step 604, after receiving the first information signal, control unit 30 generates the first control signal, which indicates the first operating state. The first operating state indicates that the user must access the cover unit, i.e., the cover unit must be uncovered.

[0041] In step 606, the drive unit 40 is activated to rotate the second plate 106 clockwise after receiving the first control signal. The first control signal indicates the initial operating state. In step 608, the rotation of the second plate 106 causes the guide pins 116 to slide along the first slots 114. Due to their connection with the closing slats 108, the guide pins 116 cause the closing slats 108 to slide over one another to form the circular opening 110. The circular opening 110 provides access to the cover unit. The cover unit then remains open for a specific period of time. The louver assembly 100 prevents snow or water from accumulating in the cover unit during use.

[0042] If the user wishes to close the cover assembly, they press switch 20 again in step 610 to generate the second information signal to the control unit 30, which initiates the closing of the blind assembly 100. The second information signal initiates a predefined operating sequence that allows the control unit 30 to process the second information signal in order to activate the drive unit 40.

[0043] In step 612, after receiving the second information signal, control unit 30 generates the second control signal, which indicates the second operating state. The second operating condition indicates that the cover unit should be covered.

[0044] In step 614, the control unit 40 is activated to rotate the second plate 106 counterclockwise after receiving the second control signal. The second control signal indicates the second operating state. In step 616, the rotation of the second plate 106 causes the guide pins 116 to slide along the first slots 114. Due to their connection with the locking blades 108, the guide pins 116 cause the locking blades 108 to slide apart to close the circular opening 110.

[0045] The louver assembly 100 is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It prevents the accumulation of snow or rainwater, as the closing slats 108 only open as far as necessary for the use of the cover unit, thus protecting the cover unit from external elements. Furthermore, the louver assembly 100 contributes to a longer service life for the cover unit and requires only minor modifications to the existing vehicle structure for implementation. The louver assembly is also very space-saving.

[0046] Fig. Figure 7 is an exemplary block diagram showing a vehicle 700 with a shutter-like locking mechanism 10 made of Fig. Figure 1 according to the present invention. The vehicle 700 comprises a cover unit 702 and the louvered locking mechanism 10. Components of the louvered locking mechanism 10 and its configuration are shown in the Fig. 1-6 are explained in detail and are therefore not repeated here.

[0047] These embodiments serve only to illustrate the inventive concepts contained herein. Other embodiments and modifications can be made to the compositions and processes without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described herein, but should be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. REFERENCE MARK LIST 10. Blind-like locking mechanism 20 switches 30 control unit 40 drive unit 100 blind arrangement 102 Bodywork (BIW) 104 First record 106 Second record 108 locking blades 110 Circular aperture 112 Charging unit or fuel unit 114 Variety of first slots 116 Variety of guide pins 118 holes 120 Variety of second slots 700 vehicles 702 Cover unit QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3911825B1

[0005] US 20210095501 A1

[0005] DE 102021001286A1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Blind-like locking mechanism (10) for a cover unit of a vehicle, comprising: a blind arrangement (100) with a plurality of closure slats (108) configured to slide over one another to create a circular opening (110) when a first operating condition is activated, the circular opening (110) being configured to allow access to the cover unit; and slide apart to close the circular opening (110) when a second operating state is activated, thereby covering the cover unit. [2] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 1, wherein the blind arrangement (100) further comprises a first plate (104) which is integrated into a body (102) of the vehicle. [3] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 2, wherein the blind arrangement (100) further comprises a second plate (106) which is functionally coupled to the first plate (104) and is configured to be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise, wherein the first plate (104) and the second plate (106) have an opening to expose the cover unit, wherein the plurality of closure slats (108) is arranged between the first plate (104) and the second plate (106). [4] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 3, wherein the blind arrangement (100) further comprises a plurality of guide pins (116) which operatively connect the plurality of closure slats (108) to the second plate (106), wherein the plurality of guide pins (116) is configured such that they: to slide around the second plate (106) to actuate the multiple closure lamellae (108) so that they slide over each other to create the circular opening (110) or slide away from each other to close the circular opening (110). [5] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 4, wherein the blind arrangement (100) further comprises a drive unit (30) configured to rotate the second plate (106), whereby each guide pin (116) slides around the second plate (106), which in turn moves a corresponding closure slat (108) to create or close the circular opening (110). [6] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 5, wherein the blind arrangement (100) further comprises a switch (20) which is activated or deactivated by a user to supply a signal to a control unit (30). [7] Blind-like locking mechanism (10) according to claim 6, wherein the control unit (30) is configured such that it to actuate the drive unit (40) to rotate the second plate (106) clockwise when a first signal is received indicating the first operating state, the first signal being generated when the user operates the switch (20); and to actuate the drive unit (40) to rotate the second plate (106) counterclockwise when a second signal is received indicating the second operating state, the second signal being generated when the user deactivates the switch (20). [8] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 4, wherein the second plate (106) comprises a plurality of first slots (114), wherein each guide pin (116) slides along a corresponding first slot (114) of the second plate (106) when the second plate (106) is rotated. [9] Blind-like closure mechanism (10) according to claim 4, wherein each closure slat has a hole (118) for receiving a corresponding guide pin (116) for connecting the multiple closure slats (108) to the second plate (106). [10] Vehicle (700) with: a cover unit (702); and a blind-like closure mechanism (10) with a blind arrangement (100) comprising a plurality of closure slats (108) configured to slide over one another to create a circular opening (110) during a first operating state, the circular opening (110) being configured to allow access to the cover unit; and slide apart to close the circular opening (110) during the second operating state, thereby covering the cover unit.

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