Charging port cover structure, charging port structure, vehicle, and method for opening an inner cover

By introducing a drive component and connector into the electric vehicle charging port cover structure, the inner cover is automatically separated from the charging port when the outer cover is opened, solving the problem of users manually operating the inner cover and improving charging convenience and user experience.

CN117656884BActive Publication Date: 2026-02-10BYD CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202211054936.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-08-31
Publication Date
2026-02-10
Estimated Expiration
2042-08-31

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

During the charging process of electric vehicles, users need to manually open the inner cover, which makes the charging operation inconvenient and reduces the user experience.

Method used

Design a charging port cover structure, with a drive component and a connector connected to the outer cover. The drive component drives the connector to rotate, causing it to engage with the inner cover, thereby simultaneously separating the inner cover from the charging port when the outer cover is opened.

Benefits of technology

It simplifies the electric vehicle charging process, improves charging convenience and user experience, and eliminates the need for manual operation of the inner cover.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a charging port cover structure, a charging port structure, a vehicle and an opening method of an inner cover, the charging port cover structure comprises an outer cover and a connecting piece, and a driving assembly is connected to the outer cover. The outer cover is combined with the inner cover through the connecting piece, so that the separation of the inner cover and the charging port can be realized synchronously in the process that the outer cover opens the charging port, manual operation of the inner cover by a user when charging the electric vehicle is avoided, and the convenience of the charging port cover structure during charging operation is improved. The charging process of the electric vehicle is simplified, and the charging experience of the user is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the technical field of vehicle charging port cover structure. Specifically, this application relates to a charging port cover structure, a charging port structure, a vehicle, and a method for opening the inner cover. Background Technology

[0002] With increasing environmental awareness, more and more electric vehicles are coming into view. As the main power component of electric vehicles, the battery pack plays a crucial role in their long-term stable operation.

[0003] Electric vehicles require frequent charging of their battery packs during use. The charging port typically consists of an outer panel and an inner cover. Before charging the battery pack, users need to open the outer panel and then manually open the inner cover, which is inconvenient and reduces the user's charging experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One objective of this application is to provide a new technical solution for a charging port cover structure, a charging port structure, a vehicle, and a method for opening the inner cover.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, a charging port cover structure is provided for a vehicle, comprising:

[0006] An outer cover, on which a drive assembly is connected, is configured to be rotatably connected to an external base plate to enable the opening and closing of the charging port to the outside.

[0007] A connector is driven to the drive assembly, and the connector is configured to rotate under the drive of the drive assembly and engage with the inner cover of the charging port, so as to separate the inner cover from the charging port during the process of the outer cover opening the charging port.

[0008] Optionally, the connector includes a driven part and a snap-fit ​​part connected to each other, the driven part being drively connected to the drive assembly, and the snap-fit ​​part being configured to snap-fit ​​with the inner cover.

[0009] Optionally, the connector is in the shape of an inverted T.

[0010] Optionally, the drive assembly includes a motor and a worm gear connected to the output end of the motor;

[0011] The worm gear is connected to the driven part via a worm wheel.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a charging port structure is provided, including the charging port cover structure described in the first aspect, wherein the charging port structure further includes a base plate and at least one inner cover.

[0013] The seat plate is provided with a charging port corresponding to the vehicle's charging terminal; the inner cover is detachably connected to the charging port.

[0014] The outer cover is rotatably connected to the base plate. When the outer cover switches from a closed state to an open state, the drive assembly drives the connector to rotate so that the connector switches from a disengaged state to a snap-fit ​​state with the inner cover, so that the outer cover drives the inner cover to move to separate the inner cover from the charging port.

[0015] Optionally, the inner cover is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure, which is adapted to the snap-fit ​​portion.

[0016] Optionally, the snap-fit ​​structure has a first limiting part and a snap-fit ​​seat, the first limiting part and the snap-fit ​​seat are connected to form a cavity, and the first limiting part is provided with a limiting opening for the snap-fit ​​part to exit the cavity;

[0017] The first limiting part is configured to limit the locking part to the cavity when the locking part and the locking seat are in a locking state.

[0018] Optionally, the snap-fit ​​portion is provided with a limiting protrusion structure, and the snap-fit ​​base is provided with a guide groove;

[0019] The limiting protrusion structure slides with the guide groove to enable the snap-fit ​​part to move along the guide groove in the snap-fit ​​structure.

[0020] Optionally, the limiting protrusion structure includes a first protrusion structure and a second protrusion structure disposed on the snap-fit ​​portion and spaced apart from each other, and the guide groove includes a first guide groove and a second guide groove disposed within the snap-fit ​​structure and spaced apart from each other.

[0021] The first protruding structure engages with the first guide groove, and the second protruding structure engages with the second guide groove.

[0022] Optionally, a first limiting groove is provided at one end of the guide groove, and a second limiting groove is provided at the other end of the guide groove;

[0023] Wherein, the projection of the limiting opening on the card holder overlaps with the first limiting groove, and the projection of the limiting opening on the card holder is misaligned with the second limiting groove;

[0024] When the limiting protrusion structure is engaged with the first limiting groove, the snap-fit ​​part is disengaged from the snap-fit ​​structure.

[0025] When the limiting protrusion structure cooperates with the second limiting groove, the snap-fit ​​part and the snap-fit ​​structure are in a snap-fit ​​state.

[0026] Optionally, the limiting protrusion structure includes a sleeve, an elastic element, and a protrusion. The sleeve is fixed in the snap-fit ​​portion, the elastic element is disposed inside the sleeve, the first end of the protrusion is connected to the elastic element, and the second end of the protrusion extends out of the through hole of the sleeve and protrudes out of the snap-fit ​​structure.

[0027] Optionally, a second limiting part is formed at one end of the sleeve near the guide groove, and a limiting boss is provided at the first end of the protrusion. The limiting boss is located inside the sleeve and cooperates with the second limiting part for limiting.

[0028] Optionally, the inner cover includes a first inner cover and a second inner cover, and the charging port includes a first charging port and a second charging port. The first inner cover is detachably connected to the first charging port, and the second inner cover is detachably connected to the second charging port.

[0029] The snap-fit ​​structure includes a first snap-fit ​​structure disposed on the first inner cover and a second snap-fit ​​structure disposed on the second inner cover; the connector includes a first connector and a second connector; the driven part includes a first driven part disposed at one end of the first connector and a second driven part disposed at one end of the second connector; the snap-fit ​​part includes a first snap-fit ​​part disposed at the other end of the first connector and a second snap-fit ​​part disposed at the other end of the second connector.

[0030] When the drive assembly drives the first connector to rotate, the first snap-fit ​​portion and the first snap-fit ​​structure switch between a disengaged state and a snap-fit ​​state.

[0031] When the drive assembly drives the second connector to rotate, the second snap-fit ​​portion and the second snap-fit ​​structure switch between a disengaged state and a snap-fit ​​state.

[0032] Optionally, the inner cover is interference-fitted with the charging port.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the embodiments of this application, a vehicle is provided, including a battery pack and the charging port structure described in the second aspect.

[0034] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of this application, a method for opening an inner cover in a charging port structure is provided, applied to the charging port structure described in the second aspect, the charging port structure including a first inner cover and a second inner cover, the opening method including:

[0035] Get the charging gun type;

[0036] Depending on the type of charging gun, control the opening of either the first inner cover or the second inner cover.

[0037] Optionally, controlling the opening of the first inner cover or the second inner cover according to the type of charging gun includes:

[0038] The charging gun type is a first charging gun adapted to the first charging port;

[0039] The control drive component drives the first connector to rotate and the first snap-fit ​​part snaps into the first snap-fit ​​structure, so that when the outer cover is opened, it causes the first inner cover to separate from the first charging port.

[0040] Alternatively, the charging gun type is a second charging gun adapted to the second charging port;

[0041] The control drive component drives the second connector to rotate and the second snap-fit ​​part engages with the second snap-fit ​​structure so that when the outer cover is opened, it causes the second inner cover to separate from the second charging port.

[0042] One technical advantage of this application is:

[0043] This application provides a charging port cover structure, which includes an outer cover and a connector. A drive assembly is connected to the outer cover. The outer cover is joined to an inner cover via the connector, allowing the inner cover to be simultaneously separated from the charging port as the outer cover opens. This avoids the user having to manually operate the inner cover while charging an electric vehicle, improving the convenience of the charging port cover structure during charging operations. It simplifies the electric vehicle charging process and enhances the user's charging experience.

[0044] Other features and advantages of this application will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0045] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present application and, together with their description, serve to explain the principles of the present application.

[0046] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a charging port cover structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the interior of the outer cover of a charging port cover structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 3 An exploded view of a charging port cover structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating the engagement of a drive assembly and a connector in a charging port cover structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a connector for a charging port cover structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0051] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the mating of the inner cover and connector of a charging port cover structure provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 ;

[0052] Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating the mating of the inner cover and connector of a charging port cover structure provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 ;

[0053] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a connector for a charging port cover structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 .

[0054] The components are as follows: 1. Outer cover; 11. Drive assembly; 111. Motor; 112. Worm gear; 12. Outer plate; 13. Connecting plate; 2. Inner cover; 21. Snap-fit ​​structure; 211. Guide groove; 212. First limiting groove; 213. Second limiting groove; 214. First snap-fit ​​structure; 215. Second snap-fit ​​structure; 216. First limiting part; 217. Snap-fit ​​seat; 22. First inner cover; 23. Second inner cover; 3. Charging port; 31. First charging port; 32. Second charging port; 4. Connector; 41. Driven part; 42. Snap-fit ​​part; 421. Limiting protrusion structure; 4211. Sleeve; 4212. Elastic element; 4213. Protrusion; 43. First connector; 44. Second connector; 5. Motor protective cover; 6. Seat plate; 7. Soft rubber sealing ring; 8. Side sheet metal; 9. Rotating shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Various exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0056] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the scope of this application and its application or use.

[0057] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0058] In all the examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0059] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be discussed further in subsequent figures.

[0060] Reference Figures 1 to 8 This application provides a charging port cover structure, which can be used to charge a battery pack in a vehicle. The charging port cover structure includes:

[0061] The outer cover 1 and the connector 4 are provided. The outer cover 1 is connected to a drive assembly 11. The outer cover 1 is configured to be rotatably connected to an external seat plate 6, that is, the outer cover 1 is rotatably connected to the seat plate 6 to realize the opening and closing of the outer cover 1 to the external charging port (relative to the internal charging port). For example, a charging port is provided on the side sheet metal of the vehicle. When the electric vehicle does not need to be charged, the outer cover 1 is placed on the charging port, so that the charging port is in a closed state. When the electric vehicle needs to be charged, the outer cover 1 is opened from the charging port by rotating on the seat plate, so that the charging port is in an open state, so that the charging gun can charge the battery pack of the electric vehicle through the charging port 3.

[0062] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connector 4 is connected to the drive assembly 11, and the connector 4 is configured to rotate under the drive of the drive assembly 11 and engage with the inner cover of the charging port, so as to separate the inner cover from the charging port during the process of the outer cover 1 opening the charging port.

[0063] Specifically, the charging port cover structure provided in this application embodiment can be applied to the flexible opening of the inner cover of the charging port. When the drive assembly 11 drives the connector 4 to rotate, the connector 4 can engage with the inner cover of the charging port after rotation. Moreover, since the connector 4 is connected to the drive assembly 11, the outer cover 1 is combined with the inner cover through the connector 4. This allows the outer cover 1 and the inner cover to move simultaneously during the process of opening the charging port with the outer cover 1, thereby separating the inner cover from the charging port. This avoids the user having to manually operate the inner cover when charging an electric vehicle, improving the convenience of the charging port cover structure during charging operations.

[0064] Optionally, the connector 4 includes a driven part 41 and a snap-fit ​​part 42 connected to each other. The driven part 41 is drively connected to the drive assembly 11, and the snap-fit ​​part 42 is configured to snap into the inner cover.

[0065] Specifically, the connector 4 includes a driven part 41 and a snap-fit ​​part 42, wherein the driven part 41 is drively connected to the drive assembly 11, and the snap-fit ​​part 42 is configured to connect to the inner cover. The outer cover 1 is joined to the inner cover via the connector 4, so that the inner cover can be separated from the charging port simultaneously when the outer cover 1 opens the charging port. This avoids the user having to manually operate the inner cover while charging the electric vehicle, improving the convenience of the charging port cover structure during charging operations. It simplifies the electric vehicle charging process and enhances the user's charging experience.

[0066] Additionally, see Figure 3 The outer cover 1 may include an outer plate 12 and a connecting plate 13 that are fixedly connected to each other, such as by interlocking or welding the outer plate 12 and the connecting plate 13 together. This allows the outer plate 12 to face outwards, while the drive assembly 11 can be mounted on the connecting plate 13, ensuring the connection between the outer cover 1 and the inner cover 2 via the connector 4.

[0067] Optionally, see Figure 5 The connector 4 is in the shape of an inverted T. Specifically, the connector 4 has an inverted T-shaped cross section parallel to its rotation axis.

[0068] Specifically, the snap-fit ​​portion 42 on the connector 4 can be connected to the driven portion 41 through the intermediate connecting section. In the direction parallel to the rotation axis of the connector 4, the width of the snap-fit ​​portion 42 can be greater than the width of the connecting section, so that the snap-fit ​​portion 42 and the connecting section form an inverted T-shaped structure in the direction parallel to the rotation axis of the connector 4.

[0069] When the inner cover is connected to the snap-fit ​​part 42, the snap-fit ​​part 42 can be snapped into the snap-fit ​​structure in the inner cover. The T-shaped structure formed between the snap-fit ​​part 42 and the connecting section can prevent the snap-fit ​​part 42 from coming out of the snap-fit ​​structure, thus ensuring the stability of the connection between the connector 4 and the inner cover.

[0070] Optionally, the drive assembly 11 includes a motor 111 and a worm gear 112 connected to the output end of the motor 111;

[0071] The worm gear 112 is connected to the driven part 41 via a worm wheel.

[0072] Specifically, the driven part 41 may include a connecting rod connecting the turbine and the locking part 42. When the drive assembly 11 is activated and drives the driven part 41 to rotate, the motor 111 can drive the worm 112 to rotate through its output end after starting. Since the worm 112 meshes with the turbine, the worm 112 can drive the turbine to rotate when it rotates. The turbine is connected to the locking part 42 through the connecting rod, thereby causing the worm 112 to drive the entire connecting part 4 to rotate. Moreover, by adjusting the rotation direction of the worm 112, the rotation direction of the driven part 41 can also be controlled to realize the locking and disengagement of the locking part 42 and the locking structure 21, ensuring that the inner cover opens automatically and synchronously with the outer cover 1.

[0073] In addition, the drive assembly 11 can be fixed and protected by a motor protective cover 5, which is connected to the outer cover 1.

[0074] This application embodiment also provides a charging port structure, including the charging port cover structure, the charging port structure further including a base plate 6 and at least one inner cover 2;

[0075] The seat plate 6 is provided with a charging port 3 corresponding to the vehicle charging end; the inner cover 2 is detachably connected to the charging port 3.

[0076] The outer cover 1 is rotatably connected to the base plate 6. When the outer cover 1 switches from the closed state to the open state, the drive assembly 11 drives the connector 4 to rotate so that the connector 4 switches from the disengaged state to the engaged state with the inner cover 2, so that the outer cover 1 drives the inner cover 2 to move to separate the inner cover 2 from the charging port 3.

[0077] Specifically, the disconnected state of the connector 4 and the inner cover 2 is the state in which the connector 4 and the inner cover 2 can be separated from each other, while the snap-fit ​​state of the connector 4 and the inner cover 2 is the state in which the connector 4 and the inner cover 2 are connected to each other to form a whole, so that the outer cover 1 can drive the inner cover 2 to move to realize the separation of the inner cover 2 from the charging port 3.

[0078] In one embodiment, the outer cover 1 can be connected to the base plate 6 of the charging port via a pivot 9. The charging port 3 is disposed in the base plate 6, and the edge of the charging port 3 in the base plate 6 can be provided with a soft rubber sealing ring 7. When the inner cover 2 is snapped onto the charging port 3, it can abut against the soft rubber sealing ring 7 to ensure that the inner cover 2 forms a sealing effect on the charging port 3.

[0079] Optionally, see Figures 1 to 3The inner cover 2 is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure 21, which is adapted to the snap-fit ​​part 42. When the drive component 11 is activated, it can drive the driven part 41 to rotate in real time. At the same time as the entire connector 4 rotates, it will also drive the snap-fit ​​part 42 to snap with the snap-fit ​​structure 21, thereby realizing the separation of the outer cover 1 from the inner cover 2 and the charging port 3 through the connector 4.

[0080] Optionally, the snap-fit ​​structure 21 has a first limiting part 216 and a snap-fit ​​seat 217. The first limiting part 216 and the snap-fit ​​seat 217 are connected to form a cavity. The first limiting part 216 is provided with a limiting opening for the snap-fit ​​part 42 to exit or extend into the cavity.

[0081] The first limiting part 216 is configured to limit the locking part 42 within the cavity when the locking part 42 and the locking seat 217 are in a locking state.

[0082] Specifically, the latching structure 21 may have a first limiting part 216 in the shape of a cover plate and a latching seat 217 connected to the lower part of the cover plate. The limiting opening is formed on the cover plate. The limiting opening may be an elongated opening, and the latching part 42 may also be an elongated structure. The length of the latching part 42 is between the length and width of the elongated opening. Since the length of the elongated opening may be greater than the length of the latching part 42, the limiting opening facilitates the latching part 42 to extend into the latching structure 21. When the latching part 42 rotates, since the width of the elongated opening is less than the length of the latching part 42, the latching part 42 can be confined within the latching structure 21, thus achieving latching between the latching part 42 and the latching structure 21. When the latching part 42 is latched with the latching structure 21, the latching part 42 can drive the inner cover 2 to disengage from the charging port 3 through the first limiting part 216 when the outer cover 1 rotates.

[0083] Alternatively, the limiting opening can be a side opening on the snap-fit ​​structure 21. When the snap-fit ​​part 42 approaches the limiting opening and rotates, it can be confined within the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0084] Optionally, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The snap-fit ​​part 42 is provided with a limiting protrusion structure 421, and the snap-fit ​​base 217 is provided with a guide groove 211, for example, the guide groove 211 can be an arc-shaped sliding groove.

[0085] The limiting protrusion structure 421 slides with the guide groove 211 to enable the snap-fit ​​part 42 to move along the guide groove 211 in the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0086] Specifically, the driving component 11 drives the connector 4 to rotate via the driven part 41, so that when the engaging part 42 engages with the engaging structure 21, the engaging part 42 can rotate within the engaging structure 21 after extending into it. To prevent the engaging part 42 from deflecting within the engaging structure 21, the limiting protrusion structure 421 can be slidably engaged with the guide groove 211, allowing the engaging part 42 to move along the guide groove 211 within the engaging structure 21, thereby limiting the engagement part 42 and ensuring the stability of its rotation within the engaging structure 21.

[0087] Optionally, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The limiting protrusion structure 421 includes a first protrusion structure and a second protrusion structure disposed on the snap-fit ​​portion 42 and spaced apart from each other. The first protrusion structure and the second protrusion structure can be symmetrically disposed on the snap-fit ​​portion 42. The guide groove 211 includes a first guide groove and a second guide groove symmetrically disposed in the snap-fit ​​structure 21 and spaced apart from each other. The first guide groove and the second guide groove can be symmetrically disposed in the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0088] The first protruding structure slides in conjunction with the first guide groove, and the second protruding structure slides in conjunction with the second guide groove.

[0089] Specifically, in order to facilitate the insertion of the locking part 42 into the locking structure 21 and ensure the locking of the locking part 42 with the locking structure 21, the locking part 42 can be configured as an elongated strip. The first protrusion structure and the second protrusion structure are disposed at both ends of the elongated locking part 42. Through the sliding cooperation between the first protrusion structure and the first guide groove, and the sliding cooperation between the second protrusion structure and the second guide groove, the smoothness of the rotation of the locking part 42 within the locking structure 21 can be ensured, and the tilting of the locking part 42 within the locking structure 21 can be avoided.

[0090] Optionally, see Figure 6 One end of the guide groove 211 is provided with a first limiting groove 212, and the other end of the guide groove 211 is provided with a second limiting groove 213;

[0091] Wherein, the projection of the limiting opening on the card holder overlaps with the first limiting groove 212, and the projection of the limiting opening on the card holder is misaligned with the second limiting groove 213;

[0092] When the limiting protrusion 421 is engaged with the first limiting groove 212, the snap-fit ​​part 42 is disengaged from the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0093] When the limiting protrusion 421 cooperates with the second limiting groove 213, the locking part 42 is in a locking state.

[0094] Specifically, when the latching part 42 extends into the latching structure 21 but does not latch into it, that is, when the inner cover 2 corresponding to the latching structure 21 does not need to be driven by the outer cover 1 to open the charging port 3, the limiting protrusion structure 421 can nest with the first limiting groove 212 to ensure the stability of the initial position of the latching part 42 extending into the latching structure 21, and the latching part 42 can disengage from the latching structure 21, so that the latching part 42 can exit the cavity in the latching structure 21 through the limiting opening; and when the latching part 42 extends into the latching structure 21 and latches into it, that is, when the inner cover 2 corresponding to the latching structure 21 needs to be driven by the outer cover 1 to open the charging port 3, the limiting protrusion structure 421 nests with the first limiting groove 212 to ensure the stability of the latching part 42 extending into the latching structure 21 and latching into the predetermined position.

[0095] Optionally, the central angle range corresponding to the guide groove 211 is 15°-90°.

[0096] Specifically, after the engaging portion 42 extends into the engaging structure 21, it can engage with the engaging structure 21 while rotating at a certain angle. The size of the central angle corresponding to the guide groove 211 corresponds to the rotation angle of the engaging portion 42. If the rotation angle of the engaging portion 42 is too small, it is not conducive to the effective engagement between the engaging portion 42 and the engaging structure 21. If the rotation angle of the engaging portion 42 is too large, it requires more time and driving force to rotate the engaging portion 42, reducing the flexibility of the engagement between the engaging portion 42 and the engaging structure 21. Therefore, this application sets the range of the central angle corresponding to the guide groove 211 to 15°-90°, which limits the rotation angle of the engaging portion 42 to 15°-90°, ensuring the stability and flexibility of the engagement between the engaging portion 42 and the engaging structure 21.

[0097] Optionally, see Figure 5 The limiting protrusion structure 421 includes a sleeve 4211, an elastic element 4212, and a protrusion 4213. The sleeve 4211 is fixed in the snap-fit ​​portion 42, for example, the sleeve 4211 is fixed in the groove in the snap-fit ​​portion 42. The elastic element 4212 is disposed inside the sleeve 4211. The first end of the protrusion 4213 is connected to the elastic element 4212. The second end of the protrusion 4213 extends out from the through hole of the sleeve 4211 and protrudes out of the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0098] Specifically, the sleeve 4211 can be a cylindrical structure with an opening on one side. An elastic element 4212 is disposed within the sleeve 4211. The protrusion 4213 can be T-shaped. The first end of the protrusion 4213 is connected to the elastic element 4212 and confined within the sleeve 4211. The second end of the protrusion 4213 extends from a through-hole on one side of the sleeve 4211 and extends into the locking structure 21. The portion of the protrusion 4213 extending into the locking structure 21 can be hemispherical. The elastic element 4212 can press the protrusion 4213 against the locking structure 21 under compressed conditions, thereby limiting the engagement of the locking portion 42 and the locking structure 21 and improving the accuracy and stability of the engagement position.

[0099] The limiting protrusion structure 421 can also be a fixed protrusion fixed to the snap-fit ​​part 42, which can also ensure the stability of the snap-fit ​​part 42 and the snap-fit ​​structure 21 when the fixed protrusion abuts against the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0100] Alternatively, the sleeve 4211 can be omitted, and the elastic element 4212 can be directly disposed in the groove of the snap-fit ​​portion 42, with the second end of the protrusion 4213 extending out of the groove and protruding from the snap-fit ​​structure 21.

[0101] Optionally, see Figure 5 The sleeve 4211 forms a second limiting part at one end near the guide groove 211, and the first end of the protrusion 4213 is provided with a limiting boss. The limiting boss is located inside the sleeve 4211 and is limited and cooperates with the second limiting part.

[0102] Specifically, when the first end of the protrusion 4213 is connected to the elastic member 4212 and is confined within the sleeve 4211, a second limiting part can be formed at the edge of the through hole of the sleeve 4211. When the limiting protrusion is located within the sleeve 4211, the circumferential dimension of the limiting protrusion is located between the internal space of the sleeve 4211 and the opening of the through hole, so that the limiting protrusion is stopped inside the sleeve 4211 by the second limiting part, forming a limiting fit between the limiting protrusion and the second limiting part, thus preventing the limiting protrusion from coming out of the sleeve 4211.

[0103] Optionally, see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The inner cover 2 includes a first inner cover 22 and a second inner cover 23, and the charging port 3 includes a first charging port 31 and a second charging port 32. The first inner cover 22 is detachably connected to the first charging port 31, and the second inner cover 23 is detachably connected to the second charging port 32.

[0104] The snap-fit ​​structure 21 includes a first snap-fit ​​structure 214 disposed on the first inner cover 22 and a second snap-fit ​​structure 215 disposed on the second inner cover 23. The connector 4 includes a first connector 43 and a second connector 44. The driven part 41 includes a first driven part disposed at one end of the first connector 43 and a second driven part disposed at one end of the second connector 44. The snap-fit ​​part 42 includes a first snap-fit ​​part disposed at the other end of the first connector 43 and a second snap-fit ​​part disposed at the other end of the second connector 44.

[0105] When the drive assembly 11 drives the first connector 43 to rotate, the first snap-fit ​​part and the first snap-fit ​​structure 214 switch between a disengaged state and a snap-fit ​​state.

[0106] When the drive assembly 11 drives the second connector 44 to rotate, the second latching part and the second latching structure 215 switch between a disengaged state and a latching state.

[0107] Specifically, when the charging port 3 includes two charging ports, a first charging port 31 and a second charging port 32, the rotation of the connector 4 driven by the driving component 11 can open one of the charging ports 31 and 32 while keeping the other charging port closed. When the driving component 11 drives the first connector 43 to rotate via the first driven part, the first latching part and the first latching structure 214 switch between a disengaged state and a latched state, achieving the covering and separation between the first inner cover 22 and the first charging port 31; when the driving component 11 drives the second connector 44 to rotate via the second driven part, the second latching part and the second latching structure 215 switch between a disengaged state and a latched state, achieving the covering and separation between the second inner cover 23 and the second charging port 32.

[0108] Alternatively, when both the first connector 43 and the second connector 44 are present, the drive assembly 11 may include a motor 111, and the worm 112 at the output end of the motor 111 may have threads with different winding directions, so that one worm 112 can simultaneously cooperate with the first connector 43 and the second connector 44; or the drive assembly 11 may include two motors 111, and the worms 112 on the two motors 111 can respectively cooperate with the first connector 43 and the second connector 44.

[0109] Optionally, the charging port structure further includes a controller for controlling the direction of rotation of the connector 4.

[0110] Specifically, when the vehicle needs to be charged, the controller can detect the charging signal, such as when the controller detects that the charging gun is close to the charging port. At this time, the controller can control the rotation direction of the output end of the motor 111, so that the motor 111 drives the connector 4 to rotate in a clockwise direction. The connector 4 is engaged with the snap-fit ​​structure 21, ensuring that the outer cover 1 drives the inner cover 2 to separate from the charging port 3. When the vehicle is fully charged, the controller can detect that the charging gun has been pulled out. At this time, the controller can control the rotation direction of the output end of the motor 111, so that the motor 111 drives the connector 4 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction, so that the connector 4 can be disengaged from the snap-fit ​​structure 21 of the inner cover 2.

[0111] The controller can be specifically installed in the outer cover 1, and a charging gun sensor, such as a magnetic field sensor, is installed on the controller. The charging gun sensor is used to sense the charging power of the charging gun. In other words, compared with the traditional solution of using an actuator to open the outer cover, the opening and closing of the outer cover 1 in this application is completely controlled by the controller, and the manual mechanical operation of opening the inner cover 2 during charging is avoided.

[0112] Optionally, the charging power of the first charging port 31 is greater than or equal to 40KW, and the charging power of the second charging port 32 is in the range of 3-10KW.

[0113] Specifically, to meet the charging needs of different users, the first charging port 31 and the second charging port 32 can be set as charging ports with different charging powers. For example, the first charging port 31 can be a high-power DC fast charging port with a charging power of 40KW or even higher, so as to reduce the waiting time for users to charge; while the second charging port 32 can be a low-power AC slow charging port with a charging power of 3kW or 7kW, so that users can charge the battery pack at home through the charging port structure, avoiding the need for users to go to the charging station to charge.

[0114] Optionally, the inner cover 2 is interference-fitted with the charging port 3. Specifically, for example, the inner cover 2 can be interlocked with the charging port 3 through an interference fit. This ensures that the inner cover 2 forms a seal with the charging port 3 and improves the stability of the inner cover 2 on the charging port 3, preventing the inner cover 2 from falling off the charging port 3.

[0115] This application provides a vehicle including a battery pack and the aforementioned charging port structure.

[0116] Specifically, the charging port 3 of the charging port structure can be electrically connected to the battery pack. See also Figure 3A charging port is provided on the side panel 8 of the vehicle. The outer cover 1 of the charging port structure can be opened and connected to the charging port, and the inner cover 2 is detachably connected to the charging port 3. A snap-fit ​​structure 21 is provided on the side of the inner cover 2 near the outer cover 1. One end of the connector 4 forms a driven part 41 that cooperates with the drive assembly 11, and the other end of the connector 4 forms a snap-fit ​​part 42 that snaps into the snap-fit ​​structure 21. When the outer cover 1 is switched from the closed state to the open state, the drive assembly 11 drives the connector 4 to rotate through the driven part 41. The snap-fit ​​part 42 snaps into the snap-fit ​​structure 21, so that the outer cover 1 drives the inner cover 2 to separate from the charging port 3 through the connector 4. This achieves synchronous opening of the inner cover 2 with the outer cover 1, avoiding the need for the user to manually operate the inner cover 2 when charging using the charging port structure, simplifying the charging process of the vehicle and improving the user's charging experience.

[0117] This application embodiment also provides a method for opening the inner cover of a charging port structure, applied to the charging port structure, wherein the inner cover of the charging port structure includes a first inner cover and a second inner cover, and the opening method includes:

[0118] Get the charging gun type;

[0119] Depending on the type of charging gun, control the opening of either the first inner cover or the second inner cover.

[0120] Specifically, the type of charging gun can be obtained through the controller. After automatically identifying the type of charging gun, the controller can transmit the identification sensing signal of the charging gun to the vehicle's control chip. The control chip sends a command to the controller to open the first inner cover or the second inner cover, thereby enabling selective opening of the first charging port and the second charging port, ensuring the flexibility of opening the first charging port and the second charging port.

[0121] Optionally, controlling the opening of the first inner cover or the second inner cover according to the type of charging gun includes:

[0122] The charging gun type is a first charging gun adapted to the first charging port;

[0123] The control drive component drives the first connector to rotate and the first snap-fit ​​part engages with the first snap-fit ​​structure, so that when the outer cover is opened, it causes the first inner cover to separate from the first charging port.

[0124] Alternatively, the charging gun type is a second charging gun adapted to the second charging port;

[0125] The control drive component drives the second connector to rotate and the second snap-fit ​​part engages with the second snap-fit ​​structure so that when the outer cover is opened, it causes the second inner cover to separate from the second charging port.

[0126] Specifically, the first charging port is provided with a first charging terminal, and the type of the charging gun that is adapted to the first charging port can be either the charging gun being adapted to the first charging terminal in the first charging port or the charging gun being adapted to the shape of the first charging port; the second charging port is provided with a second charging terminal, and the type of the charging gun that is adapted to the second charging port can be either the charging gun being adapted to the second charging terminal in the second charging port or the charging gun being adapted to the shape of the second charging port.

[0127] The method of opening the inner cover in the charging port cover structure can be based on the type of charging gun to open either the first inner cover or the second inner cover, thereby enabling selective opening of the first charging port and the second charging port and ensuring the convenience of charging the vehicle through the first charging port and the second charging port.

[0128] While specific embodiments of this application have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. The scope of this application is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A charging port cover structure for a vehicle, characterized in that, include: An outer cover (1) is connected to a drive assembly (11), and the outer cover (1) is configured to be rotatably connected to an external base plate (6) to enable the outer cover (1) to open and close the external charging port. Connector (4), the connector (4) is connected to the drive assembly (11) in a transmission manner, and the connector (4) is configured to rotate under the drive of the drive assembly (11) and engage with the inner cover of the charging port, so as to separate the inner cover from the charging port during the process of the outer cover (1) opening the charging port; The connector (4) includes a driven part (41) and a snap-fit ​​part (42) connected to each other. The driven part (41) is connected to the drive assembly (11) and the snap-fit ​​part (42) is configured to snap into the inner cover.

2. The charging port cover structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector (4) is in the shape of an inverted T.

3. The charging port cover structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly (11) includes a motor (111) and a worm gear (112) connected to the output end of the motor (111). The worm (112) is connected to the driven part (41) via a worm wheel.

4. A charging port structure, characterized in that, The charging port cover structure includes any one of claims 1-3, wherein the charging port structure further includes a base plate (6) and at least one inner cover (2). The seat plate (6) is provided with a charging port (3) corresponding to the vehicle charging terminal; the inner cover (2) is detachably connected to the charging port (3); The outer cover (1) is rotatably connected to the seat plate (6). When the outer cover (1) switches from the closed state to the open state, the drive component (11) drives the connector (4) to rotate so that the connector (4) and the inner cover (2) switch from the disengaged state to the engaged state, so that the outer cover (1) drives the inner cover (2) to move to separate the inner cover (2) from the charging port (3).

5. The charging port structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner cover (2) is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure (21), which is adapted to the snap-fit ​​part (42).

6. The charging port structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​structure (21) has a first limiting part (216) and a snap-fit ​​seat (217), the first limiting part (216) and the snap-fit ​​seat (217) are connected to form a cavity, and the first limiting part (216) is provided with a limiting opening for the snap-fit ​​part (42) to exit the cavity; The first limiting part (216) is configured to limit the locking part (42) within the cavity when the locking part (42) and the locking seat (217) are in a locking state.

7. The charging port structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​part (42) is provided with a limiting protrusion structure (421), and the snap-fit ​​base (217) is provided with a guide groove (211). The limiting protrusion structure (421) slides with the guide groove (211) to enable the snap-fit ​​part (42) to move along the guide groove (211) in the snap-fit ​​structure (21).

8. The charging port structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The limiting protrusion structure (421) includes a first protrusion structure and a second protrusion structure disposed on the snap-fit ​​portion (42) and spaced apart from each other, and the guide groove (211) includes a first guide groove and a second guide groove disposed in the snap-fit ​​structure (21) and spaced apart from each other. The first protruding structure engages with the first guide groove, and the second protruding structure engages with the second guide groove.

9. The charging port structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, One end of the guide groove (211) is provided with a first limiting groove (212), and the other end of the guide groove (211) is provided with a second limiting groove (213). Wherein, the projection of the limiting opening on the card holder overlaps with the first limiting groove (212), and the projection of the limiting opening on the card holder is misaligned with the second limiting groove (213); When the limiting protrusion (421) engages with the first limiting groove (212), the snap-fit ​​part (42) is disengaged from the snap-fit ​​structure (21); When the limiting protrusion (421) cooperates with the second limiting groove (213), the snap-fit ​​part (42) and the snap-fit ​​structure (21) are in a snap-fit ​​state.

10. The charging port structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The limiting protrusion structure (421) includes a sleeve (4211), an elastic element (4212), and a protrusion (4213). The sleeve (4211) is fixed in the snap-fit ​​part (42), the elastic element (4212) is disposed inside the sleeve (4211), the first end of the protrusion (4213) is connected to the elastic element (4212), and the second end of the protrusion (4213) extends out from the through hole of the sleeve (4211) and protrudes out of the snap-fit ​​structure (21).

11. The charging port structure according to claim 10, characterized in that, The sleeve (4211) forms a second limiting part at one end near the guide groove (211), and the first end of the protrusion (4213) is provided with a limiting boss. The limiting boss is located inside the sleeve (4211) and is limited and cooperates with the second limiting part.

12. The charging port structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inner cover (2) includes a first inner cover (22) and a second inner cover (23), and the charging port (3) includes a first charging port (31) and a second charging port (32). The first inner cover (22) is detachably connected to the first charging port (31), and the second inner cover (23) is detachably connected to the second charging port (32). The snap-fit ​​structure (21) includes a first snap-fit ​​structure (214) disposed on the first inner cover (22) and a second snap-fit ​​structure (215) disposed on the second inner cover (23). The connector (4) includes a first connector (43) and a second connector (44). The driven part (41) includes a first driven part disposed at one end of the first connector (43) and a second driven part disposed at one end of the second connector (44). The snap-fit ​​part (42) includes a first snap-fit ​​part disposed at the other end of the first connector (43) and a second snap-fit ​​part disposed at the other end of the second connector (44). When the drive assembly (11) drives the first connector (43) to rotate, the first snap-fit ​​part and the first snap-fit ​​structure (214) switch between a disengaged state and a snap-fit ​​state. When the drive assembly (11) drives the second connector (44) to rotate, the second snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​structure (215) switch between a disengaged state and a snap-fit ​​state.

13. The charging port structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner cover (2) is interference-fitted with the charging port (3).

14. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes a battery pack and a charging port structure as described in any one of claims 4-13.

15. A method for opening the inner cover of a charging port structure, applied to the charging port structure according to any one of claims 4-13, characterized in that, The charging port structure includes a first inner cover and a second inner cover, and the opening method includes: Get the charging gun type; Depending on the type of charging gun, control the opening of either the first inner cover or the second inner cover.

16. The opening method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The step of controlling the opening of the first inner cover or the second inner cover according to the type of charging gun includes: The charging gun type is a first charging gun adapted to the first charging port; The control drive component drives the first connector to rotate and the first snap-fit ​​part snaps into the first snap-fit ​​structure, so that when the outer cover is opened, it causes the first inner cover to separate from the first charging port. Alternatively, the charging gun type is a second charging gun adapted to the second charging port; The control drive component drives the second connector to rotate and the second snap-fit ​​part engages with the second snap-fit ​​structure so that when the outer cover is opened, it causes the second inner cover to separate from the second charging port.

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