Charging port assembly and emergency unlocking method

Abstract

The application discloses a charging port assembly and belongs to the technical field of electric vehicles, which comprises a vehicle body outer decoration, a charging socket, a remote key and an NFC card, the inside of the vehicle body outer decoration is provided with a lock bolt, and the front end of the vehicle body outer decoration is movably connected with a charging port cover; the surface of the lock bolt is provided with a lock hook; the charging port cover comprises a lock catch, a base and a decorative cover; the lock catch comprises a lock catch base and a fixing seat; the remote key comprises a key body, a button and an emergency unlocking feature. The charging port cover can be opened by a device carried by the driver, which can be a remote key or an NFC card. The charging port cover can be opened by applying a magnetic force at a specific position, thereby converting the locked charging port cover into an openable state. The charging port cover unlocked by the magnetic force can be simply restored without incurring repair costs. The driver can be taught to complete the opening and restoration of the charging port cover in a short time through operation instructions or voice guidance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of electric vehicle technology, specifically relating to a charging port assembly and an emergency unlocking method. Background Technology

[0002] For safety and vehicle aesthetics reasons, the charging socket is covered by a charging port cover when not in use to prevent unauthorized opening. Normally, the charging port cover cannot be opened when the vehicle is locked, as the locking motor is in a locked state. When the vehicle is unlocked, the locking motor switches to the unlocked state, and pressing the charging port cover opens it, exposing the charging socket. If the vehicle's 12V battery is depleted, the doors cannot be unlocked, and the charging port cover locking motor cannot be powered to the unlocked state. This means the user cannot normally open the charging port cover, or must damage the cover to make the charging socket usable, which requires significant labor and repair costs. Electric vehicles typically lack mechanical keys, opting instead for remote keys or unlocking via NFC, Bluetooth, or other methods. This makes it impossible to open the hood or trunk when the battery is depleted. Opening the hood using destructive methods requires significant labor and repair costs. Furthermore, some electric vehicles have their 12V batteries located in inaccessible positions, and recharging a 12V battery requires roadside assistance resources (batteries, jumper cables, etc.). Restoring the drivability of a depleted vehicle can take a considerable amount of time. A depleted vehicle parked in a charging spot can be recharged using a charging station after opening the charging port. In the absence of a charging station, it can also be recharged via V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle) charging from a nearby vehicle. Being able to open the charging port cover without damaging it can provide convenience for users in certain scenarios.

[0003] Reference 1, CN115431833A, proposes an emergency power replenishment system for low-voltage batteries, utilizing a DC charging interface as the interface for replenishing low-voltage batteries in electric vehicles, enabling power replenishment from various charging devices. However, the locking device of its charging port cover automatically unlocks when the electric vehicle is low-voltage discharged, potentially exposing the charging interface unintentionally and causing losses to the user. Reference 2, CN115084918A, proposes a charging flip-cover assembly with an added emergency unlocking mechanism. This mechanism opens the charging flip-cover when the electric locking device fails while the charging flip-cover is locked. Under current technology, for electric vehicles without mechanical keys, it is difficult to open the doors, hood, or charging port cover non-destructively when the 12V battery is discharged. Transporting the discharged vehicle to a repair shop via roadside assistance and damaging the hood or charging port requires a long repair time and high repair costs. The automatic unlocking design when the battery is discharged means that the vehicle's devices may be opened without authorization, posing a security risk. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a charging port assembly to solve the problem mentioned in the background art that the existing charging port assembly makes it difficult to open the car door, hood or charging port cover by non-destructive means when the 12V battery is depleted, and the automatic unlocking design when the battery is depleted makes the vehicle's device vulnerable to unauthorized opening, resulting in low security.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a charging port assembly, including a vehicle body trim, a charging socket, a remote key and an NFC card, wherein a locking bolt is installed inside the vehicle body trim, and a charging port cover is movably connected to the front end of the vehicle body trim;

[0006] The surface of the bolt is provided with a locking hook;

[0007] The charging port cover includes a latch, a base, and a decorative cover;

[0008] The latch includes a latch base and a fixing base;

[0009] The remote control key includes a key body, buttons, and emergency unlocking features;

[0010] The NFC card includes card unlocking features and operation instructions.

[0011] The above solution allows for the non-destructive opening of the charging port cover when an electric vehicle is out of power. Compared to existing technologies that violently damage windows or the charging port cover, this reduces maintenance costs. Once opened, the charging port cover can be easily and non-destructively reassembled. The unlocking device is integrated into the remote key or NFC card, making it convenient for the driver to carry and eliminating the need for external assistance in case of unexpected power loss. The unlocking device includes operating instructions, teaching the driver how to successfully unlock and restore the charging port cover in emergencies. The unlocking device has anti-misoperation and anti-theft functions to prevent the charging port cover from being opened unintentionally. The unlocking method of the latch and bolt is compatible with existing technologies, reducing costs. The latch and base are detachably connected, allowing for individual replacement of the latch after wear or accidental damage, thus reducing maintenance costs compared to replacing the entire charging port cover.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the charging socket is fixed to a charging socket bracket, the charging socket bracket is mounted on the electric vehicle, and the charging socket and the vehicle body exterior have a fixed relative position on the electric vehicle.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the charging port cover is provided with a pressing feature, which corresponds to the position of the latch.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, a rotating arm is connected to the surface of the base, and a rotating shaft is connected to the other end of the rotating arm. The base swings around the rotating shaft via the rotating arm. The decorative cover is installed on the surface of the base. The latch is assembled and connected to the base and can be separated. The latch has a locking hole inside.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the locking base and the fixing base can be integrally formed or connected by other means. The fixing base has an inner hole and a groove inside the inner hole. The groove has a semi-circular cross-section. The mating surface of the locking base contacts the base, and the groove is held in place by the arc surfaces of multiple spheres.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, two limiting plates are provided on one side of the base. After the contact surface of the locking base contacts the base, it restricts the rotation of the locking buckle relative to the S3 axis. A base guide post is installed on the base. The surface of the base guide post is provided with a first guide post inner hole and a second guide post inner hole. The first guide post inner hole is provided with multiple concave through holes. Each concave through hole can accommodate a sphere. The concave through hole of the sphere allows part of the sphere to protrude from the outer surface of the guide post. The through diameter of the concave through hole is smaller than the diameter of the sphere. The concave through hole can restrict the sphere from moving as a whole through the concave through hole to the outside of the first inner hole of the guide post.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the second inner hole of the guide post is smaller than that of the first inner hole of the guide post. The outer surface of the guide post is in clearance fit with the inner hole of the fixed base. A plunger is provided inside the base guide post. The plunger is coaxially arranged with the base guide post. The plunger also includes a plunger head, a plunger middle portion, a plunger guide portion, and a plunger tail portion. The plunger head is in clearance fit with the second inner hole of the guide post, and the plunger guide portion is in clearance fit with the first inner hole of the guide post. The plunger middle portion is located at the middle of the plunger head and the plunger guide portion. The diameter of the plunger head is smaller than that of the plunger middle portion, and the diameter of the plunger middle portion is smaller than that of the plunger guide portion.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, a spring is provided between the plunger and the decorative cover. The spring restricts the plunger from sliding towards the decorative cover along the axial direction. The plunger can be magnetically attracted. A magnet is placed at the pressing feature. The plunger is attracted by the magnet and, under the action of the attraction, compresses the spring to further slide towards the decorative cover along the axial direction. A limiting block is provided on the decorative cover. The plunger stops sliding when its tail contacts the limiting block.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the tail of the plunger is the S pole and the magnet faces the N pole of the plunger, and a second spring is provided between the fixed seat and the base guide post.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the shape of the emergency unlock feature is coupled with the structure of the pressing feature, and a magnet is provided inside the emergency unlock feature. The card unlock feature is also provided with a magnet to achieve the same emergency unlocking function as a remote control key.

[0021] Charging port components and emergency unlocking methods, including the following solutions:

[0022] S1. When the electric vehicle is locked, the locking motor is in the locked state, that is, the bolt position is fixed, and the bolt restricts the position of the charging port cover to be locked, preventing the charging port cover from being opened accidentally without authorization. After the electric vehicle is unlocked, the locking motor switches to the unlocked state, that is, the bolt can be pressed to cause extension and rotation. After the bolt is pressed into the charging port for a certain stroke, it extends outward under the action of spring force and rotates synchronously. After rotation, the bolt no longer restricts the position of the charging port cover, that is, pressing the charging port cover can open the charging port cover and expose the charging socket. When the 12V battery of the electric vehicle is depleted, the locking motor in the locked state cannot be driven to switch to the unlocked state, that is, the charging port cover cannot be opened by the normal pressing operation. The charging port cover can be unlocked by an external unlocking device when the locking motor is in the locked state, thereby making the charging socket usable.

[0023] S2. The external unlocking device is a non-universal tool that the driver can carry at any time. The external unlocking device is a remote key or NFC card, and a magnet is provided in a certain area of ​​the remote key or NFC card.

[0024] S3. The way to open the charging port cover is to apply a magnetic force to a specific position of the charging port cover, that is, the magnetic part of the remote key or NFC card is attached to or close to the unlocking position of the charging port cover. The locking structure of the charging port assembly moves and unlocks under the magnetic force, thereby turning the locked charging port cover into an openable state.

[0025] S3. The charging port cover, which is unlocked by magnetic force, can be easily restored without the need for repair costs. That is, the charging port cover can be assembled and restored to function without the aid of tools through simple operation.

[0026] S4. The vehicle manual or certain areas of the remote key or NFC card have charging port covers with instructions or diagrams for emergency unlocking.

[0027] The S5, remote key, and NFC card have QR codes in certain areas. Drivers can scan the QR codes with their smartphones or tablets to obtain instructions or diagrams on how to unlock the charging port cover.

[0028] S6. Drivers can consult dealers, after-sales service points or manufacturers by phone regarding emergency unlocking procedures for the charging port cover.

[0029] S7. Drivers can be taught to open and close the charging port cover in a short time through operating instructions or voice guidance.

[0030] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0031] 1. The charging port cover can be opened without damage when the electric vehicle is depleted; compared with existing technologies that violently damage car windows or charging port covers, this reduces maintenance costs.

[0032] 2. The charging port cover can be opened to easily and without damage to restore the function;

[0033] 3. The unlocking device is integrated into the remote key or NFC card, making it convenient for the driver to carry with them and eliminating the need to rely on external assistance in case of unexpected power failure;

[0034] 4. The unlocking device integrates operation instructions, teaching drivers how to smoothly unlock and restore the charging port cover in an emergency;

[0035] 5. The unlocking device has anti-mistake or anti-theft functions to prevent the charging port cover from being opened unexpectedly;

[0036] 6. The unlocking methods for the latch and bolt are compatible with existing technologies, reducing costs;

[0037] 7. The latch and base are detachably connected. If the latch is worn or accidentally damaged, it can be replaced separately, which reduces maintenance costs compared to replacing the entire charging port cover. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the closing structure of the electric vehicle charging port cover of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the opening structure of the electric vehicle charging port cover of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the charging port cover structure of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the locking bolt of the present invention in the locked or unlocked state;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locking bolt and latch engagement state of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the locking structure of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-sectional structure of the charging port cover of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the plunger structure of the present invention being attracted and sliding by a magnet;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ball displacement and simultaneous locking and base separation of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the base and latch separation structure of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the charging port cover of the present invention after it has been unlocked and opened by a magnet.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the charging port cover of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocking device of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the unlocking device and the charging port cover of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the lock being reassembled onto the base structure according to the present invention.

[0053] In the diagram: 1. Vehicle exterior trim; 11. Charging socket bracket; 12. Charging socket; 13. Lock bolt; 131. Lock hook; 2. Charging port cover; 2a. Pressing feature; 21. Locking buckle; 21a. Lock hole; 211. Locking buckle base; 212. Fixing base; 213. Groove; 214. Fixing base inner hole; 22. Base; 221. Rotating arm; 222. Rotating shaft; 223. Limiting piece; 23. Decorative cover; 231. Limiting block; 3. Base guide post; 3 1. First inner hole of guide post; 32. Second inner hole of guide post; 33. Outer surface of guide post; 34. Concave through hole; 4. Ball; 5. Plunger; 51. Plunger head; 52. Middle part of plunger; 53. Plunger guide part; 54. Plunger tail; 6. Spring; 61. Second spring; 7. Magnet; 8. Remote control key; 81. Key body; 82. Button; 83. Emergency unlock feature; 9. NFC card; 91. Card unlock feature; 92. Operation instructions. Implementation

[0054] To enable those skilled in the art to understand the technical solutions of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings; it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention;

[0055] Techniques, methods, and apparatus known to a person skilled in the art in the relevant field may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and apparatus should be considered part of the specification.

[0056] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", "front", "rear", etc., indicate the positional relationship based on the positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and not to require the present invention to be constructed in a specific positional relationship, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

[0057] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly, and can refer to fixed connection or detachable connection, or direct connection or indirect connection through an intermediary medium; those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0058] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features.

[0059] like Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, the charging port assembly includes an exterior body trim 1, a charging socket 12, a remote key 8, and an NFC card 9. The charging socket 12 is fixed to a charging socket bracket 11, which is mounted on the electric vehicle. The charging socket 12 and the exterior body trim 1 have a fixed relative position on the electric vehicle. The charging port cover 2 can move relative to the exterior body trim 1. The exterior body trim 1 is equipped with a bolt 13, and the charging port cover 2 is provided with a latch 21. When the charging port cover 2 is closed, the bolt 13 is locked, and the latch 21 is fixed / limited in position by the bolt 13, thereby restricting the opening of the charging port cover 2. At this time, the charging socket 12 is covered / covered by the charging port cover 2, that is, the charging socket 12 is in a non-exposed / unusable state. Optionally, the charging port cover 2 is provided with a pressing feature 2a, which corresponds to the position of the latch 21. When the electric vehicle is in the unlocked state, pressing the area near the pressing feature 2a of the charging port cover 2 causes the locking bolt 13, which is in the locked state, to retract inward by the latch 21. During this retraction, the bolt 13 transitions to the unlocked state. Further, the bolt 13 pops outward a short distance and rotates at an angle during this popping motion, releasing the constraint on the latch 21. In other words, the charging port cover 2 is driven outward by the bolt 13 and opens. The working principle of the bolt 13 is existing technology and will not be described in detail. In short, when the electric vehicle is in the unlocked state, pressing the area near the pressing feature 2a of the charging port cover 2 can open the closed charging port cover 2. When the electric vehicle is locked, pressing the area near the pressing feature 2a of the charging port cover 2 will not open the closed charging port cover 2, which is intended to prevent the charging port cover 2 from being opened without authorization. After the electric vehicle is unlocked, it will supply power to the locking motor of the bolt 13 to switch it to the unlockable state. When the 12V battery of the electric vehicle is depleted, the electric vehicle cannot be unlocked normally and the locking motor cannot be powered. Therefore, the charging port cover 2 cannot be opened normally. That is, the 12V battery is depleted, which makes the charging socket 12 unusable. This further makes it impossible to implement possible means of replenishing the 12V battery or other means of restoring the power supply to the electric vehicle through the charging socket 12.

[0060] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, the charging port cover 2 includes a latch 21, a base 22, and a decorative cover 23. The base 22 is provided with a rotating arm 221 and a rotating shaft 222, the rotating shaft 222 being connected to the vehicle exterior trim 1. The base 22 can swing around the axis of the rotating shaft 222 via the rotating arm 221, switching the open and closed states of the charging port cover 2. The decorative cover 23 is mounted on the base 22. Typically, the latch 21 is integrally formed with the base 22 or connected and fixed by other processes. In this embodiment, the latch 21 and the base 22 are assembled and connected, and the two can be separated. Figure 4The diagram shows the bolt 13 in both locked and unlocked states. The bolt 13 has a hook 131, which is approximately rectangular in the view. 13a shows the locked state of the bolt 13, with the angle A1 between the long side of the hook 131 and the axis parallel to the long side, and the horizontal reference line. During the unlocking process, the hook 131 rotates approximately 90° along the direction shown in K1. The unlocked state of the bolt 13 is shown in 13b, with the angle A2 between the long side of the hook 131 and the axis parallel to the long side, and the horizontal reference line. A2-A1=90°. The latch 21 has a lock hole 21a. Figure 5 The viewing angle is approximately rectangular. The long side of the keyhole 21a is larger than the long side of the hook 131, the short side of the keyhole 21a is larger than the short side of the hook 131, and the short side of the keyhole 21a is smaller than the long side of the hook 131. When the long side of the hook 131 is parallel to the axis of its parallel length and S1, the hook 131 cannot pass through the keyhole 21a, and the bolt 13 is in a locked state. When the long side of the hook 131 is parallel to the axis of its parallel length and S2, the hook 131 can pass through the keyhole 21a smoothly, and the bolt 13 is in an unlocked state. S1 and S2 form approximately a 90° angle, that is, the position of S1 corresponds to state 13a of the bolt 13, and the position of S2 corresponds to state 13b of the bolt 13. The cooperation between the bolt 13 and the latch 21 is existing technology; for more specific structures and principles, please refer to existing literature.

[0061] like Figure 6 As shown, the latch 21 includes a latch base 211 and a fixing seat 212. The latch base 211 and the fixing seat 212 can be integrally formed or connected by assembly or other connection methods. In some embodiments, the latch base 211 and the fixing seat 212 are die-cast from aluminum alloy; in other embodiments, the latch base 211 is made of plastic and is injection molded. The fixing seat 212 is made of a material with higher strength than the latch base 211. The fixing seat 212 can be made of metals such as steel, aluminum, and copper. The fixing seat 212 is embedded into the latch base 211 during the injection molding process and thus is fixedly connected to the latch base 211. The inner hole 214 of the fixing seat has a groove 213 inside, and the cross-section of the groove 213 is generally semi-circular. The mating surface 211a of the locking base 211 contacts the base 22, and further abuts the groove 213 through the arc surface of multiple spheres. That is, the spheres are partially accommodated in the groove 213. The spheres restrict the movement of the fixing seat 212 along the S3 axis, thereby fixing the locking 21 on the base 22. The locking 21 cannot be separated from the base 22 along the S3 axis.

[0062] like Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9As shown, a limiting piece 223 is provided on the base 22. The limiting piece 223 plays a guiding role in the assembly process of the latch 21 and restricts the rotation of the latch 21 relative to the S3 axis after the mating surface 211a of the latch base 211 contacts the base 22. The base guide post 3 is installed on the base 22 and can be made of metal material; optionally, the base guide post 3 is connected to the base 22 by processes such as embedding, riveting, threaded connection, and bonding. The base guide post 3 has a first guide post inner hole 31 and a second guide post inner hole 32. The first guide post inner hole 31 has multiple concave through holes 34. Each concave through hole 34 can accommodate a sphere 4. The sphere 4 can have part of its spherical surface protruding from the outer surface 33 of the guide post through the concave through hole 34, but the through diameter of the concave through hole 34 is smaller than the diameter of the sphere 4. That is, the concave through hole 34 can restrict the sphere 4 from moving entirely through the concave through hole 34 to the outside of the first guide post inner hole 31. Preferably, the diameter of the second inner hole 32 of the guide post is smaller than the diameter of the first inner hole 31 of the guide post. The outer surface 33 of the guide post is clearance-fitted with the inner hole 214 of the fixed seat. When the fixed seat is not restricted in its movement by the ball 4, the latch 21 can slide relative to the base guide post 3 along the axis of S3. Optionally, a lubricating medium is applied to the outer surface 33 of the guide post to further reduce the sliding resistance of the latch 21 during the separation process from the base 22. The plunger 5 is housed within the base guide post 3, and the plunger 5 and the base guide post 3 are arranged coaxially. The plunger head 51 is clearance-fitted with the second inner hole 32 of the guide post, and the plunger guide portion 53 is clearance-fitted with the first inner hole 31 of the guide post. That is, under the guiding / limiting action of the first inner hole 31 and the second inner hole 32 of the guide post, the plunger 5 can translate relative to the base guide post 3 along the S3 axis. Optionally, a lubricating medium is applied to the outer surfaces of the plunger head 51 and the plunger guide portion 53, thereby allowing the plunger 5 to slide with low resistance relative to the base guide post 3 along the S3 axis. The plunger middle portion 52 is located between the plunger head 51 and the plunger guide portion 53. Preferably, the diameter D1 of the plunger head 51 is smaller than the diameter D2 of the plunger middle portion 52, and the diameter D2 of the plunger middle portion 52 is smaller than the diameter D3 of the plunger guide portion 53, i.e., D1 < D2 < D3. The plunger head 51 and the plunger middle portion 52 transition smoothly.

[0063] Figure 7The image shows the coupling state of the latch 21 and the base 22. Multiple balls 4 are constrained by the plunger center 52 and housed within the concave through-hole 34. Each ball 4 partially protrudes from the outer surface 33 of the guide post, and the protruding portion is housed within a groove 213. A spring 6 is provided between the plunger 5 and the decorative cover 23. The spring force of the spring 6 restricts the plunger 5 from sliding towards the decorative cover 23 along the axial direction. The balls 4 restrict the fixing seat 212 from sliding and separating from the base guide post 3 along the S3 axis, thereby fixing the latch 21 to the base 22. The latch 21 cannot separate from the base 22 along the S3 axis. Preferably, the balls 4 are circular steel balls. In one embodiment, the diameter D2 of the plunger center 52 is 4 mm, the diameter D4 of the guide post outer surface 33 is 8 mm, and the diameter D5 of the balls 4 is 2.8 mm. Figure 7 In the mid-section, the two spheres 4 are symmetrically arranged facing the center of the plunger 52. The protrusion height of the spheres 4 relative to the outer surface 33 of the guide post is H = D2 / 2 + D5 - D4 / 2 = 0.8 mm. The protruding part of the spheres 4 relative to the outer surface 33 of the guide post is embedded in the groove 213 of the fixing seat 212. The plunger 52 of the plunger 5 restricts the spheres 4 from retracting into the diameter profile of the outer surface 33 of the guide post. At this time, the fixing seat 212 cannot slide and separate from the base guide post 3 along the S3 axis direction, that is, the latch 21 is fixed on the base 22.

[0064] Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 The process of decoupling and separating the latch 21 from the base 22 is demonstrated. The plunger 5 can be attracted by a magnetic material; optionally, the plunger 5 is at least partially made of iron. A magnet 7 is placed at the pressing feature 2a of the decorative cover 23. The plunger 5 is attracted by the magnet 7 and, under the action of the attraction, compresses the spring 6, further sliding it along the axial direction toward the decorative cover 23. That is, the plunger 5 moves backward under the action of the magnet 7. Figure 8 The plunger 5 slides in the direction shown in K2. A limiting block 231 is provided on the decorative cover 23. The plunger 5 stops sliding when its tail 54 contacts the limiting block 231. At this time, the plunger head 51 is located inside the second inner hole 32 of the guide post, and the plunger guide part 53 is located inside the first inner hole 31 of the guide post. After the plunger 5 slides, the middle part 52 of the plunger no longer restricts the retraction movement of the ball 4. After the ball 4 retracts, it will be restricted by the plunger head 51. (Combined) Figure 9 In one embodiment, a magnet 7 is placed at the pressing feature 2a of the decorative cover 23, and then the decorative cover 23 or the charging port cover 2 is pulled along... Figure 9Moving in the direction shown by K3, the groove 213 of the fixing seat 212 squeezes the ball 4, causing it to move towards the interior of the base guide post 3. The ball 4 moves until it contacts the plunger head 51 and is further restricted in position by the plunger head 51. At this time, the ball 4 is completely contained within the diameter profile surface of the guide post outer surface 33, that is, the ball 4 does not protrude relative to the guide post outer surface 33, and the fixing seat 212 can slide with low resistance relative to the base guide post 3 along the axis. In the embodiment, the diameter D1 of the plunger head 51 is 2.2mm, the diameter D4 of the guide post outer surface 33 is 8mm, and the diameter D5 of the ball 4 is 2.8mm. When the ball 4 retracts to the state of contact with the plunger head 51, the envelope diameter D6 of the multiple balls 4 is D1 + D5 * 2 = 7.8mm. The envelope diameter D6 of the ball 4 is smaller than the diameter D4 of the guide post outer surface 33, that is, the ball 4 is completely contained within the diameter profile surface of the guide post outer surface 33. The charging port cover 2 moves along... Figure 9 During the movement in the direction shown in K3, the latch 21 is fixed by the bolt 13. Figure 9 This shows the base guide post 3 sliding out of the fixing seat inner hole 214 of the fixing seat 212, while the mating surface 211a of the latch 21 separates from the base 22. Figure 10 This shows the charging port cover 2 completely separated from the latch 21, combined with Figure 11 At this time, the latch 21 is fixed by the bolt 13 and the latch 21 is held on the fixed side of the vehicle exterior 1. The charging port cover 2 can be opened and the charging socket 12 is exposed. That is, if the electric vehicle cannot be unlocked, the charging port cover 2 can be opened without damaging the vehicle structure, and the charging socket 12 can be made available.

[0065] like Figure 12 As shown, in another embodiment, the plunger 5 is constructed of a magnet. Optionally, the plunger tail 54 of the plunger 5 is the S pole, and the magnet 7 facing the plunger 5 is the N pole. The magnet 7 can attract the plunger 5 to slide along the axis and approach the magnet 7. After the plunger 5 slides, the middle part 52 of the plunger no longer restricts the movement of the ball 4, and the ball 4 approaches and contacts the plunger head 51 under the magnetic attraction of the plunger 5. A second spring 61 is provided between the fixed seat 212 and the base guide post 3. The second spring 61 is in a compressed state. Optionally, one end of the second spring 61 is fixed to the fixed seat 212. When the ball 4 retracts into the diameter profile surface of the outer surface 33 of the guide post under the magnetic attraction of the plunger 5, the base guide post 3 slides out of the inner hole 214 of the fixed seat 212 under the rebound force of the second spring 61, further separating the charging port cover 2 from the latch 21. The above can partially simplify the unlocking process of the charging port cover 2 and reduce the operating force.

[0066] like Figure 13 , Figure 14As shown, in this embodiment, the remote control key 8 has a button 82 and an emergency unlock feature 83; the shape of the emergency unlock feature 83 is coupled to the pressing feature 2a on the charging port cover 2; in some embodiments, the pressing feature 2a is a circular groove, and the emergency unlock feature 83 can be a circular protrusion, so that the emergency unlock feature 83 can be embedded in and coupled to the pressing feature 2a; in other embodiments, the pressing feature 2a is a hexagonal protrusion, and the emergency unlock feature 83 can be a hexagonal groove structure slightly larger than the pressing feature 2a. Combined with... Figure 12 The emergency unlocking feature 83 contains a magnet 7. When the electric vehicle is functioning normally, the doors can be locked or unlocked by operating button 82, simultaneously locking or unlocking the locking motor of bolt 13. Figure 14 As shown, when the 12V battery / low-voltage battery of the electric vehicle is depleted, by bringing the remote key 8 close to the charging port cover 2 and aligning the emergency unlocking feature 83 with and pressing the feature 2a, the base 22 and decorative cover 23 of the charging port cover 2 can be separated from the latch 21. At this time, the latch 21 is fixed by the bolt 13 and remains on the fixed side of the vehicle exterior 1. The charging port cover 2 can be opened, exposing the charging socket 12. That is, even if the electric vehicle cannot be unlocked, the charging port cover 2 can be opened without damaging the vehicle structure, making the charging socket 12 usable. The NFC card 9 is another unlocking device that the driver may carry. The NFC card 9 may have a card unlocking feature 91, which contains a magnet 7 to achieve the same emergency unlocking function as the remote key 8, that is, to open the charging port cover 2 without damaging the vehicle structure when the electric vehicle is depleted. Preferably, the appropriate area of ​​the NFC card is provided with operation instructions 92 for emergency unlocking of the charging port cover; the operation instructions 92 may take the form of textual instructions, guidance diagrams, QR codes, service telephone numbers, or combinations thereof; the purpose of the operation instructions 92 is to instruct / teach the driver to smoothly / quickly complete the opening and closing of the charging port cover. Similarly, the back of the remote key 8 may also be provided with similar or identical guidance content to the operation instructions 92. Preferably, the unlocking device such as the remote key 8 or the NFC card 9 has an anti-mistake / anti-theft function, intended to prevent the charging port cover 2 from being unlocked by a universal magnet to a certain extent; the anti-mistake / anti-theft function can be achieved through a combination of the geometry of the pressing feature 2a, the polarity of the magnet 7, and the magnetic force of the magnet 7. It should be understood that unlocking cannot be achieved if the magnet is in the wrong position, the magnet polarity is mismatched, or the magnetic force of the magnet is too weak.

[0067] like Figure 11 , Figure 15As shown, when the bolt 13 is in the unlocked state, rotating the latch 21 approximately 90° along the axis of the bolt 13 allows the latch hook 131 to pass through the lock hole 21a, meaning the latch 21 can be removed and separated from the bolt 13. The removed latch 21 is then aligned with the mounting base 212 and installed onto the base 22. When the latch 21 is installed onto the base 22, and the contact surface 211a of the latch base 211 contacts the base 22, the remote key 8 is removed. At this point, the groove 213 aligns with the concave through hole 34, and the limiting piece 223 limits the phase of the latch 21. Under the elastic force of the spring 6, the plunger 5 moves along the direction shown in K4. The ball 4 is pressed by the transition slope between the plunger head 51 and the middle part 52 of the plunger 5, and the ball 4 further slides into the corresponding concave through hole 34 along the direction shown in K5. Figure 7 As the plunger 5 moves further to the left, the ball 4 is held in place by the middle part 52 of the plunger. The ball 4 protrudes partially from the outer surface 33 of the guide post. The protruding part of the ball 4 is accommodated in the groove 213. The ball 4 fixes the fixing seat 212 to the base guide post 3, thereby fixing the latch 21 to the base 22. The latch 21 and the base 22 are restored to the coupled state, and the charging port cover 2 is restored.

[0068] Charging port components and emergency unlocking methods, including the following solutions:

[0069] S1. When the electric vehicle is locked, the locking motor is locked, that is, the position of the bolt 13 is fixed. The bolt 13 restricts the position of the charging port cover 2 to be locked, preventing the charging port cover 2 from being opened accidentally without authorization. After the electric vehicle is unlocked, the locking motor switches to the unlocked state, that is, the bolt 13 can be pressed to move in a telescopic and rotating motion. After the bolt 13 is pressed into the charging port for a certain stroke, it extends outward under the force of the spring 6 and rotates synchronously. After the rotation, the bolt 13 no longer restricts the position of the charging port cover, that is, pressing the charging port cover 2 can open the charging port cover 2 and expose the charging socket 12. When the 12V battery of the electric vehicle is depleted, the locking motor in the locked state cannot be driven to switch to the unlocked state, that is, the charging port cover 2 cannot be opened by the normal pressing operation. The charging port cover 2 can be unlocked by an external unlocking device when the locking motor is locked, thereby making the charging socket 12 usable.

[0070] S2. The external unlocking device is a non-universal tool that can be carried by the driver at any time. The external unlocking device is a remote key 8 or an NFC card 9. A magnet 7 is provided in a certain area of ​​the remote key 8 or the NFC card 9.

[0071] S3. The way to open the charging port cover 2 is to apply a magnetic force to a specific position of the charging port cover 2, that is, the magnetic part of the remote key 8 or NFC card 9 is attached to or close to the unlocking position of the charging port cover 2, and the locking structure of the charging port assembly moves and unlocks under the magnetic force, thereby changing the locked charging port cover 2 into an openable state.

[0072] S3. The charging port cover 2, which is unlocked by magnetic force, can be easily restored without incurring repair costs. That is, the charging port cover 2 can be assembled and restored to function without the aid of tools through simple operation.

[0073] S4, vehicle manual or remote key; 8, NFC card; 9, certain areas have charging port covers; 2, emergency unlocking operation instructions or diagrams.

[0074] S5, remote key 8, NFC card 9 have QR codes in certain areas. Drivers can scan the QR codes with smartphones or tablets to obtain instructions or diagrams for unlocking the charging port cover 2.

[0075] S6. Drivers can contact dealers, after-sales service points or manufacturers by phone regarding emergency unlocking procedures for charging port cover 2.

[0076] S7. The driver can be taught to open and close the charging port cover 2 in a short time through the operating instructions or voice guidance.

[0077] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The description of the embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core idea of ​​the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, without departing from the principle of the present invention, several improvements and modifications can be made to the present invention to obtain new embodiments without creative effort. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions or improvements to embodiments made within the spirit and principle of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A charging port assembly, characterized in that: Includes vehicle body exterior trim (1), charging socket (12), remote key (8) and NFC card (9), the interior of the vehicle body exterior trim (1) is equipped with a bolt (13), and the front end of the vehicle body exterior trim (1) is movably connected to a charging port cover (2); The surface of the bolt (13) is provided with a locking hook (131). The charging port cover (2) includes a latch (21), a base (22) and a decorative cover (23); The latch (21) includes a latch base (211) and a fixing base (212); The remote key (8) includes a key body (81), a button (82), and an emergency unlocking feature (83). The NFC card (9) includes card unlocking features (91) and operation instructions (92); The base (22) is connected to a rotating arm (221) on its surface. The other end of the rotating arm (221) is connected to a rotating shaft (222). The base (22) swings around the rotating shaft (222) via the rotating arm (221). The decorative cover (23) is installed on the surface of the base (22). The latch (21) is assembled and connected to the base (22) and can be separated. The latch (21) is provided with a lock hole (21a). The locking base (211) and the fixing base (212) can be integrally formed or connected by other means. The fixing base (212) is provided with a fixing base inner hole (214). The fixing base inner hole (214) is provided with a groove (213). The cross section of the groove (213) is semi-circular. The contact surface of the locking base (211) is in contact with the base (22). The groove (213) is abutted by the arc surface of multiple spheres (4). Two limiting pieces (223) are provided on one side of the base (22). After the mating surface of the locking base (211) contacts the base (22), it restricts the rotation of the locking buckle (21) relative to the S3 axis. A base guide post (3) is installed on the base (22). A plunger (5) is provided inside the base guide post (3). The surface of the base guide post (3) is provided with a first guide post inner hole (31) and a second guide post inner hole (32). A plurality of concave through holes (34) are provided in an inner hole (31). Each concave through hole (34) can accommodate a sphere (4). The concave through hole (34) of the sphere (4) allows part of the sphere to protrude from the outer surface (33) of the guide post. The diameter of the concave through hole (34) is smaller than the diameter of the sphere (4). The concave through hole (34) can restrict the sphere (4) from moving as a whole through the concave through hole (34) to the outside of the first inner hole (31) of the guide post. A spring (6) is provided between the plunger (5) and the decorative cover (23). The spring (6) restricts the plunger (5) from sliding along the axial direction toward the decorative cover (23). The plunger (5) can be magnetically attracted. A magnet (7) is placed at the pressing feature (2a). The plunger (5) is attracted by the magnet (7) and, under the action of the attraction, compresses the spring (6) to further slide along the axial direction toward the decorative cover (23). A limiting block (231) is provided on the decorative cover (23). The plunger (5) stops sliding when the tail (54) of the plunger contacts the limiting block (231).

2. The charging port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The charging socket (12) is fixed on the charging socket bracket (11), the charging socket bracket (11) is installed on the electric vehicle, and the charging socket (12) and the vehicle body exterior (1) have a fixed relative position on the electric vehicle.

3. The charging port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The surface of the charging port cover (2) is provided with a pressing feature (2a), which corresponds to the position of the latch (21).

4. The charging port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The diameter of the second inner hole (32) of the guide post is smaller than that of the first inner hole (31) of the guide post. The outer surface (33) of the guide post is in clearance fit with the inner hole (214) of the fixed seat. The plunger (5) is coaxially arranged with the base guide post (3). The plunger (5) also includes a plunger head (51), a plunger middle part (52), a plunger guide part (53) and a plunger tail part (54). The plunger head (51) is in clearance fit with the second inner hole (32) of the guide post. The plunger guide part (53) is in clearance fit with the first inner hole (31) of the guide post. The plunger middle part (52) is located at the middle of the plunger head (51) and the plunger guide part (53). The diameter of the plunger head (51) is smaller than that of the plunger middle part (52). The diameter of the plunger middle part (52) is smaller than that of the plunger guide part (53).

5. The charging port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tail of the plunger (5) is the S pole and the magnet (7) faces the N pole of the plunger (5). A second spring (61) is provided between the fixed seat (212) and the base guide post (3).

6. The charging port assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shape of the emergency unlock feature (83) is coupled with the structure of the pressing feature (2a). The emergency unlock feature (83) is provided with a magnet (7) inside. The card unlock feature (91) is provided with a magnet (7) inside to achieve the same emergency unlock function as the remote key (8).

7. The charging port assembly and emergency unlocking method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The following options are included: S1. When the electric vehicle is locked, the locking motor is locked, that is, the position of the bolt (13) is fixed, and the bolt (13) restricts the position of the charging port cover (2) to be locked, preventing the charging port cover (2) from being opened accidentally without authorization. After the electric vehicle is unlocked, the locking motor switches to the unlocked state, that is, the bolt (13) is pressed and rotates. After the bolt (13) is pressed into the charging port for a certain stroke, it extends outward under the force of the spring (6) and rotates synchronously. After the bolt (13) rotates, it no longer restricts the position of the charging port cover. That is, after pressing the charging port cover (2), the charging port cover (2) is opened, exposing the charging socket (12). When the 12V battery of the electric vehicle is depleted, the locking motor in the locked state cannot be driven to switch to the unlocked state. That is, the charging port cover (2) cannot be opened by the normal pressing operation. The charging port cover (2) can be unlocked by an external unlocking device when the locking motor is locked, thereby making the charging socket (12) usable. S2. The external unlocking device is a non-universal tool. The external unlocking device can be carried by the driver at any time. The external unlocking device is a remote key (8) or an NFC card (9). A magnet (7) is provided in a part of the remote key (8) or the NFC card (9). S3. The way to open the charging port cover (2) is to apply a magnetic force to the charging port cover (2), that is, the magnetic part of the remote key (8) or NFC card (9) is attached to or close to the unlocking position of the charging port cover (2), the locking structure of the charging port assembly moves and unlocks under the magnetic force, thereby turning the locked charging port cover (2) into an openable state. S3. The charging port cover (2) that is unlocked by magnetic force can be easily restored without the need for maintenance costs. That is, the charging port cover (2) can be assembled and restored to function without the aid of tools through simple operation. S4. The vehicle manual or remote key (8), NFC card (9) has charging port cover (2) in certain areas. Emergency unlocking operation instructions or diagrams are provided. S5, remote key (8), NFC card (9) have QR codes in some areas. The driver can scan the QR code with a smartphone or tablet to obtain the charging port cover (2) emergency unlocking operation instructions or diagrams. S6. The driver consults the dealer, after-sales service point or manufacturer by phone about the emergency unlocking operation of the charging port cover (2); S7. The driver is taught to open and close the charging port cover (2) in a short time through the operation instructions or voice guidance.

Images