Accessory substrate with power connection wiring

Abstract

The invention provides an accessory substrate with power connection wiring. A power wiring system includes: a substrate having a surface for supporting an accessory; a power source configured to provide power to the accessory, the power source having at least one first power outlet; and a power connection member that is mounted to the substrate. The power connection member includes at least one second power outlet. An adapter is associated with the power source such that an electrical connector can connect the at least one first power outlet to the power connection member to power the accessory via the at least one second power outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a base plate for securing accessories within a cargo area or a work area, and more particularly to a base plate system including power connection wiring to supply power to accessories supported by the base plate. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles transport various types of cargo. For example, a user may rely on a vehicle to transport accessories such as containers and tools to and from a job site. The accessories transported may vary based on the tasks that the user performs at the job site. Some accessories may require electrical power. Summary of the invention

[0003] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system comprising: a substrate comprising a surface for supporting an accessory; a power supply configured to provide power to the accessory, the power supply having at least one first power socket; a power connection member mounted to the substrate, wherein the power connection member includes at least one second power socket; and an adapter associated with the power supply such that an electrical connector can connect the at least one first power socket to the power connection member to provide power to the accessory via the at least one second power socket.

[0004] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the base plate is movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to a fixed structure, and wherein the power connection member is fixed to move with the base plate.

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system, the power wiring system comprising a power panel mounted on the fixed structure, wherein the power panel comprises: at least one first power socket, the at least one first power socket receiving power from the power source; and a cover plate, the cover plate being movable between an open position for providing access to the at least one first power socket and a closed position for covering the at least one first power socket, and wherein the cover plate is elastically biased to the closed position.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the cover includes a retention feature that facilitates retaining the adapter against the power panel when the cover is in the open position, and wherein the adapter includes a housing having an interior cavity wherein an outer wall surface of the housing includes a shoulder associated with the retention feature of the cover.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system, which includes a power panel mounted on the fixed structure, wherein the power panel includes at least one first power socket, the at least one first power socket receives power from the power source, and wherein the adapter includes a shell having an inner cavity defined by at least a rear wall and a front wall, the rear wall and the front wall are connected to each other by a first side wall and a second side wall, and wherein the rear wall includes an opening aligned with the at least one first power socket, and wherein the electrical connector includes a wire connected to a plug, the plug is located within the inner cavity and connected to the at least one first power socket.

[0008] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system, wherein one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes an opening through which the wire extends to connect to the power connection member.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a removable portion that can be selectively removed to provide access to the interior cavity.

[0010] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the front wall includes an additional power outlet powered via the power supply.

[0011] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the rear wall includes a seal that surrounds the opening.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power routing system wherein the front wall is not perpendicular to the surface of the substrate.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system, the power wiring system including a connection tower, the connection tower being mounted on the fixed structure at a position above the substrate, and wherein the connection tower provides a connection support interface for the electrical connector to connect to a coiled power line, the coiled power line being connected to the power connection member.

[0014] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the end of the wire opposite the plug is connected to a locking connector, the locking connector is received in a locking receiver associated with the connection tower, and wherein the locking receiver is connected to the coiled power cord, the coiled power cord is connected to the power connection member, so that the locking connector and the locking receiver are maintained in a fixed position relative to the base plate, and the coiled power cord coils and unwinds in response to movement of the base plate relative to the fixed structure.

[0015] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an electrical wiring system comprising: a first track structure, the first track structure being configured to extend along one side of a vehicle cargo area; a second track structure, the second track structure being configured to extend along an opposite side of the vehicle cargo area; and a base plate having a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge, wherein the first edge is supported by the first track structure and the second edge is supported by the second track structure, so that the base plate slides along the first track structure and the second track structure to move between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0016] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the baseboard includes a plurality of power interface locations configured to interface with an accessory, and wherein each power interface location includes an inductive charging member configured to interface with an inductive charging member on the accessory, and wherein the inductive charging member on the baseboard is charged via the power source.

[0017] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the power connection member includes one or more connectors connected to a wiring harness for the inductively charging member associated with the substrate such that the inductively charging member for the substrate can receive power from the power source via the power connection member.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an electrical wiring system, wherein the electrical connection member includes: a bottom wall; a first set of side walls, the first set of side walls extending upward from a set of opposite edges of the bottom wall; a second set of side walls, the second set of side walls extending upward from another set of opposite edges of the bottom wall and connecting the first set of side walls to each other; and a cover, the cover being capable of moving between an open position and a closed position to define an internal cavity in which the at least one power socket is located, and wherein the one or more connectors extend outward from the bottom wall, and wherein one of the first set of side walls and the second set of side walls includes an opening, and an accessory electrical connector is capable of extending through the opening to connect the accessory to the at least one second power socket.

[0019] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system wherein the base plate is mounted within a vehicle cargo area and includes a plurality of mounting holes configured to receive one or more cleats associated with the accessory.

[0020] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a power wiring system comprising: a base plate mounted within a vehicle cargo area to provide a surface for supporting at least one accessory, wherein the base plate includes a plurality of mounting holes to receive one or more clips associated with the at least one accessory; a first track structure, the first track structure configured to extend along one side of the vehicle cargo area; a second track structure, the second track structure configured to extend along an opposite side of the vehicle cargo area, wherein the base plate is supported by the first track structure and the second track structure for sliding movement between an extended position and a retracted position; a power source, the power source configured to provide power to the at least one accessory, the power source having There is at least one first power socket, the at least one first power socket is located in a power panel associated with a vehicle wall adjacent to the vehicle cargo area; a power connection member, the power connection member is mounted to the base plate to move with the base plate relative to the vehicle wall, wherein the power connection member includes at least one second power socket and at least one connector associated with the inductive charging member; and an adapter, the adapter is associated with the power panel, so that the electrical connector assembly can connect the at least one first power socket to the power connection member, so that the power connection member can supply power to the at least one accessory via the at least one second power socket and / or via the at least one connector.

[0021] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method comprising: providing a substrate comprising a surface for supporting an accessory; providing a power source configured to provide power to the accessory, the power source having at least one first power socket; mounting a power connection member to the substrate, wherein the power connection member comprises at least one second power socket; and connecting the at least one first power socket to the power connection member via an adapter and an electrical connector assembly so that power can be provided to the accessory via the at least one second power socket.

[0022] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method comprising: mounting the base plate for sliding movement between a retracted position and an extended position within a vehicle cargo area; providing a power panel to a fixed vehicle structure adjacent to the vehicle cargo area; and mounting the adapter to the power panel so that the electrical connector assembly can be used to connect the at least one first power outlet to the power connection member.

[0023] The embodiments, examples and alternatives of the preceding paragraphs, claims or the following description and drawings, including any of their various aspects or respective individual features, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in conjunction with one embodiment apply to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] According to the detailed description, various features and advantages of the disclosed examples will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The drawings attached to the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:

[0025] Figure 1 A perspective view of a vehicle having a cargo bed that may be equipped with a base plate for securing accessories is shown according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an adjustable base mounting system for a cargo bed, wherein the mounting system includes tracks.

[0027] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Schematic cross-sectional view of an adjustable substrate mounting system.

[0028] Figure 3A is a perspective view of the adjustable baseplate mounting system with the baseplate in a fully mounted position on the lower track.

[0029] Figure 3B is similar to Figure 3A , but shows that the base plate can be extended outward from the cargo bed for removal.

[0030] Figure 3C is similar to Figure 3A , but showing the base plate pivoting from the lower track to the upper track.

[0031] Figure 3D is similar to Figure 3A , but shows the baseplate fully mounted on the upper track.

[0032] Figure 3E yes Figure 3D End view of .

[0033] Figure 3F is a perspective view of the track including an additional upper layer so that the base plate can be used as a cover for the cargo box.

[0034] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the power connection wiring system used to direct power from a power source to accessories mounted on a baseboard.

[0035] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the supply of power to a substrate.

[0036] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an adapter for connecting power from a vehicle-side power panel to a power connection box associated with a baseboard.

[0037] Fig. 7A is a rear perspective view of the adapter seen from one side.

[0038] Figure 7B Seen from the opposite side Fig. 7A Rear perspective view of the adapter.

[0039] Fig. 8A is a front perspective view of the adapter installed in a vehicle power panel.

[0040] Figure 8B yes Fig. 8A A side cross-sectional view of an adapter.

[0041] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a connection tower used to connect an electrical connector from a vehicle power panel to a coiled power line that connects to an electrical connection box.

[0042] Fig.10 is a perspective view of a connector for connecting an electrical connector to a coiled power line.

[0043] Fig.11 A bottom view of a power connection power connection box with a plurality of connectors associated with inductive charging components is shown.

[0044] Fig. 12A is a perspective top view of one example of a power connection box in an open position.

[0045] Fig. 12B is a perspective top view showing accessories connected to the power wiring system.

[0046] Fig.13 is a perspective view of another example of a power connection interface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The present disclosure details a base plate positioned within a vehicle cargo area and a power wiring system that can deliver power to accessories supported on the base plate. The base plate provides an attachment interface for securing the accessory to the vehicle. An adjustment system allows the base plate to move between a retracted position and an extended position, as well as to selectively adjust the height of the base plate within the vehicle cargo area. Various types of accessories can be secured to the vehicle through the attachment interface provided by the base plate. Some accessories require power, and the power wiring system is capable of providing power to the accessories on the base plate in all of the different adjustment positions.

[0048] Figures 1 to 3F Exemplary embodiments of an adjustable base system for interfacing with a track structure within a cargo area of ​​a vehicle are disclosed. Figure 1 as well as FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , the vehicle 10 includes a passenger cabin 12 and a tailgate 14 that encloses one end of a cargo box 16 behind the passenger cabin 12. The cargo box 16 has a floor / support surface 18 and provides an open cargo area A. In this example, the vehicle 10 is a pickup truck. However, in another example, the vehicle 10 may be another type of vehicle, such as a sedan, van, sport utility vehicle, etc., having a support surface 18 for a cargo area.

[0049] In one example, vehicle 10 is an electrified vehicle, and specifically a battery electric vehicle (BEV). In another example, vehicle 10 may be another type of electrified vehicle, such as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or a conventional vehicle. In another example, the vehicle may have any other type of propulsion system, such as, for example, an internal combustion engine or an alternative fuel-based propulsion system.

[0050] Specifically, for an electrified vehicle, the exemplary vehicle 10 includes an electrified powertrain capable of applying torque from an electric machine M (e.g., an electric motor) to drive at least one set of wheels W. The vehicle 10 may include a traction battery pack B that powers the electric machine M and (possibly) other electrical loads of the vehicle 10.

[0051] Various accessories and / or modules 22 can be secured to the vehicle 10 by engaging one or more of the base plates 20. The accessories / modules 22 can include lockable storage boxes that hold tools, refrigerators, etc. The accessories 22 can also be lockable containers with lids that include compartments for storing power tools or other items that require power or data connectivity. Alternatively, the accessories 22 can include power tools that are supported directly on the base plates 20.

[0052] The accessories 22 may engage one or more of the base panels 20 using an attachment system. In an exemplary embodiment, the attachment system includes a plurality of mounting holes 24 and at least one cleat or foot 26 that cooperate to provide a mechanical connection interface. The base panels 20 are supported within the cargo area A via an additional support interface separate from the mechanical connection interface of the accessories 22. In one example, the additional support interface includes a track assembly.

[0053] In one example, the base plate 20 provides mounting holes 24 and the accessory 22 includes a plurality of cleats or legs 26. However, this can be rearranged so that one or all of the cleats / legs 26 extend from the base plate 20 and the accessory 22 provides some or all of the mounting holes 24.

[0054] In the exemplary embodiment, when the base plate 20 and the accessory 22 are engaged, the cleats / legs 26 are each received within one of the mounting holes 24 such that the cleats / legs 26 each extend from a first side 28 of the base plate 20, through one of the mounting holes 24 and past an opposing second side 30 of the base plate 20, as shown in FIG. Figure 2B As shown schematically in FIG.

[0055] In one example, the accessory 22 includes a lockable case that is mechanically coupled to the vehicle 10 via the base plate 20. Optionally, the accessory 22 may additionally include a lockable case that includes a power interface 32. This would allow, for example, a device within the lockable case to be powered from a vehicle power source 34 (such as a battery pack B or a 12V vehicle power source). The internal device may be a refrigerated container that is powered by the vehicle 10 when the case is engaged with the base plate 20, or the device within the lockable case may include a rechargeable tool that can be recharged when disposed within the case and coupled to a charging interface between the accessory 22 and the base plate 20. In one example, a power wiring system 36 ( Figure 4 ) allows the base plate 20 to be plugged into a 12V vehicle power supply, battery pack B, or other power source via various connections / sockets.

[0056] In one example, the power interface 32 includes an inductive power interface in which an inductive power generation module is associated with one of the substrate 20 and the accessory 22, and an inductive power receiver module is associated with the other of the substrate 20 and the accessory 22. In one example, the inductive power generation module is associated with the substrate 20 and communicates with the inductive power receiver module through a power connection hole 38 formed in the substrate 20. An example of such an inductive power interface can be found in application No. 17 / 716,053, filed on April 8, 2022, which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and is incorporated herein by reference.

[0057] In one example of the present disclosure, a track assembly is used to mount one or more base plates 20 within the cargo area A. Figure 2A In one example shown in FIG. 1 , the track assembly includes a first track structure 40 configured to extend along one side of the vehicle cargo area A and a second track structure 42 configured to extend along the opposite side of the vehicle cargo area A. The base plate 20 has a first edge 44 and a second edge 46 opposite the first edge 44. The first edge 44 is supported by the first track structure 40, and the second edge 46 is supported by the second track structure 42. In one example, the first edge 44 and the second edge 46 extend along the length of the vehicle 10 in the longitudinal direction.

[0058] like Figure 2A As shown in the figure, the first edge 44 and the second edge 46 are parallel to each other. The base plate 20 also has a third edge 48 and a fourth edge 50 that are parallel to each other and spaced apart. The third edge 48 and the fourth edge 50 are connected to the first edge 44 and the second edge 46 so that the base plate 20 includes a four-sided substantially flat and planar mounting surface 52 to support the accessory 22.

[0059] The present disclosure provides that the first track structure 40 and the second track structure 42 allow the base plate 20 to be installed at different vertical height levels within the cargo area A. In one example, the first track structure 40 and the second track structure 42 each include at least a first layer of tracks 54 and a second layer of tracks 56. In one example, the second layer of tracks 56 are spaced apart from the corresponding first layer of tracks 54 in the vertical direction V relative to the support surface 18 of the vehicle cargo area A. The base plate 20 can be supported by the first layer of tracks 54 or by the second layer of tracks 56, so that the distance between the bottom surface 58 of the base plate 20 and the support surface 18 of the vehicle cargo area can be adjusted.

[0060] exist FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B, two layers of track are shown; however, additional layers may be added as needed so that the distance between the bottom surface 58 of the base plate 20 and the support surface 18 of the vehicle cargo area A can be further varied. Optionally, two or more base plates 20 may be installed simultaneously to provide support for multiple accessories 22, or in conjunction with a cover for the cargo bed 16 to provide support for accessories 22 within the cargo bed 16. Figure 3F In the example shown in FIG. 1 , at least an additional third layer rail 60 is provided on each of the first and second rail structures 40, 42. The third layer rail 60 is spaced apart from the first and second layer rails 54, 56 in the vertical direction V. In one example, when the base plate 20 is mounted on the third layer rail 60, the base plate serves as a tonneau cover 62 that closes the vehicle cargo area A.

[0061] By mounting the base plate 20 on the second track 56, the base plate 20 is vertically higher than when the base plate 20 is supported by the first track 54. This increases the available cargo area between the bottom surface 58 of the base plate 20 and the support surface 18 of the cargo area A. In addition, the support surface 18 does not have any base plate support structure between the first track structure 40 and the second track structure 42, such as Figure 3E This further increases the available cargo area and also allows the base plate to be completely removed from the vehicle so that the support surface 18 can receive large, tall items such as furniture, large boxes, etc.

[0062] In one example, the edges 44, 46 of the substrate 20 include low friction members that allow the substrate 20 to be easily moved along the first layer track 54 and the second layer track 56 so that the substrate 20 can be switched between two different levels. In one example, a first set of sliders or rollers 64 are positioned on the first edge 44 of the substrate 20, and a second set of sliders or rollers 66 are positioned on the second edge 46 of the substrate 20. The first set of rollers 64 and the second set of rollers 66 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction along the first edge 44 and the second edge 46 of the substrate 20, respectively. In one example, the first set of rollers 64 and the second set of rollers 66 extend to the outside of the first edge 44 and the second edge 46 of the substrate 20 in the transverse direction. In one example, the rollers include shafts that are fixed to the substrate edges, wherein the roller elements are supported on the shafts to independently rotate around the respective axes of the shafts.

[0063] In one example, the first track structure 40 and the second track structure 42 are roll-formed structures of steel that are mounted to the outermost edge portions of the sides and / or support surfaces 18 of the cargo box 16. In one example, the first track structure 40 and the second track structure 42 have a first plate or upper plate 74 that includes a first flange 72 extending in a vertical direction, a first plate or upper plate 74 extending from the first flange 72 to a second plate or side plate 76, and a second flange 78 extending from the side plate 76 in a transverse direction. The first plate 74 extends in a transverse direction, and the second plate 76 extends in a vertical direction. The first flange 72 is attached to the side surface of the cargo box 16, and the second flange 78 is attached to the support surface 18. The first layer of rails 54 and the second layer of rails 56 are formed in the side plates 76. In one example, the first layer of rails 54 and the second layer of rails 56 include an upper surface 80, a lower surface 82, and a side surface 84 extending between the upper surface 80 and the lower surface 82 to form a C-shape or a U-shape. The open cross section of the C-shape or the U-shape is open in a direction facing the cargo area A.

[0064] Figure 3A The base plate 20 is shown in a fully installed position on the lower rail 54. To change the position of the base plate 20, the fourth edge 50 (e.g., the rearward edge) of the base plate 20 is moved at least partially outward from the vehicle cargo area A along the first rail 54 via the first set of rollers 64 and the second set of rollers 66, as shown in FIG. Figure 3B The base plate 20 is then removed from the first layer of tracks 54 and installed on the second layer of tracks 56. Optionally, the base plate 20 may be completely removed from the cargo area A as desired.

[0065] In one example, the base plate 20 is moved in a rearward direction along the lower rail 54 so that the rearward end of the base plate 20 extends outward from the vehicle cargo area, and then the rearward end of the base plate 20 is pivoted downward to move the forward end 48 of the base plate 20 in an upward direction to the upper rail 56, as shown in FIG. Figure 3C Finally, the forward end of the base plate 20 is then moved in the forward direction to mount the base plate 20 on the upper rail 56, as shown in FIG. FIG. 3D to FIG. 3E as shown in . Figure 3E It shows the extent to which the cargo area below the base plate 20 is increased by moving to the upper level. Figure 3F The base plate is shown mounted on an additional upper rail 60 to provide the option of a cover 62 .

[0066] In one example, a handle is used to move the base plate 20 between an extended position and a retracted position. Additionally, a locking mechanism can be used to lock the base plate 20 in a desired adjustment position. Examples of handles and locking mechanisms are found in application Ser. No. 17 / 886,663, filed Aug. 12, 2022, which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and is incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] Figure 4 A schematic example of a power wiring system 36 incorporated into the vehicle 10 is shown. The power wiring system 36 is used to supply power from the vehicle power source to the accessories 22 associated with the base plate 20 in a manner that can accommodate movement of the base plate 20 between various adjustment positions. The power wiring system 36 routes wiring along the cargo area A so that 120VAC power from at least one vehicle power outlet 90 of the vehicle power panel 92 can be transmitted to the 12V wireless charging power interface 32 associated with the base plate 20. In one example, the vehicle power panel 92 is located in a side wall 96 of the truck bed.

[0068] A power connection box 98 is mounted to the rear of the sliding accessory base plate 20. The power connection box 98 includes an AC / DC transformer 100, a 120VAC power outlet 102 for connecting to the accessory 22, and one or more connectors 104 for associating with the inductive charging power interface 32. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to connect the inductive charging power interface 32 to the AC / DC transformer 100, for example, via the wiring harness 94.

[0069] The tower structure 106 is mounted to the side wall 96 of the truck bed above the sliding accessory base plate 20, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 108 , the electrical connector assembly 108 ( Figure 4 ) connects the power panel 92 to the power connection box 98. The electrical connector assembly 108 includes a first connector 110 that connects the power panel 92 to the tower structure 106 and a second connector 112 that connects the tower structure 106 to the power connection box 98. In one example, the tower structure 106 is fixed to the front end of the side wall 96 of the truck bed at a sufficiently high position so that the second connector 112 can move freely with the base plate 20 without any interference. In one example, the tower structure 106 includes a bracket or box structure that provides a support / mounting location for the connector interface 88 for connecting the first connector 110 to the second connector 112.

[0070] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of power to the substrate 20. The vehicle is equipped with an on-board power feature that provides power to the vehicle power panel 92. Some vehicles are powered by a battery pack as discussed above, and if the battery pack is fully charged, power can be supplied to the on-board systems via the battery pack. In other vehicles, 12V power from the vehicle battery is available. If the battery is low, the vehicle can be started to recharge the battery pack and continue to supply power to any power outlet. The system can be configured to provide a specified wattage to the power outlets in the passenger compartment and / or in the cargo area. In one example, button B on the power panel can be pressed to turn on the cargo compartment outlet. Optionally, the outlet can be activated, for example, via a control panel or touch screen.

[0071] exist Figure 5 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , an onboard 120 VAC output is supplied at the power panel 92, as indicated at step 200. This power is delivered to the power connection box 98, as indicated at step 210. The power connection box 98 includes, for example, 120V receptacles 102. These receptacles 102 can then be used to charge tools, as indicated at step 220, or can be used to power other devices / accessories, as indicated at step 230.

[0072] Additionally, a vehicle power source 240 from, for example, a high voltage battery pack and / or a 12V vehicle battery is connected to the power connection box 98, as indicated at 250. The connector 104 in the power connection box 98 is associated with the inductive charging power interface 32, as indicated at 260. A smart accessory 270 can then dock with the inductive charging power interface 32, as indicated at 280, to receive power as needed.

[0073] In one example, the adapter 114 is mounted to the power panel 92, such as Figure 6 In one example, the power panel 92 includes one or more vehicle power sockets 90 ( Fig. 8A ), wherein the one or more vehicle power sockets are covered by a cover 116, which can be in an open position ( Figure 6 ) and a closed position for covering the power outlet 90. In one example, the cover 116 is resiliently biased to the closed position by a resilient member (e.g., a spring) associated with the pivot 118. The cover 116 moves to the open position, and the adapter 114 is assembled under the cover 116 so that the top of the adapter 114 is resiliently retained by the cover 116 via the snap / retention interface 120 (see FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B ).

[0074] In one example, the power panel 92 includes a button 168 ( Fig. 8A ), the button is depressed when the cover 116 is in the closed position. When the cover 116 is moved to the open position, the button 168 is released and a signal is sent indicating that the cover 116 is open and something can be plugged into the power panel 92. Fig. 8A In one example shown in FIG. 1 , the adapter 114 also keeps the button 168 pressed so that the message that the cover 116 is open will not be sent.

[0075] In one example, the adapter 114 also has an additional outlet 122 on the front wall 124 to replace the outlet 90 covered by the adapter 114 .

[0076] exist FIG. 7A to FIG. 7BIn one example shown in FIG, a seal 126 is disposed around the adapter 114 to seal the socket 90 from weather / debris. Additionally, in one example, the front wall 124 of the adapter 114 is angled, i.e., not perpendicular to the surface of the base plate 20, so that water will not enter the power socket 122.

[0077] like Figure 6 , FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B and FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B As shown in FIG. 1 , the adapter 114 includes a front wall 124, a rear wall 128, a top wall 130, a bottom wall 132, and side walls 134 and 136. These walls (124, 128, 130, 132, 134, and 136) form a box-like housing that encloses an interior cavity 138. In one example, the top wall 130 includes a shoulder 140 ( FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B ), when the cover 116 is in the open position, the shoulder is resiliently clamped by the flange 142 on the cover 116. The interface includes a snap / retention interface 120 that facilitates retaining the adapter 114 against the power panel 92 when the cover 116 is in the open position.

[0078] In one example, rear wall 128 includes an opening 144 that aligns with power outlet 90. Seal 126 is positioned to completely surround opening 144 to provide a sealed interface between adapter 114 and power panel 92. In one example, seal 126 is made of rubber or other similar material.

[0079] As discussed above, the electrical connector assembly 108 includes a first electrical connector 110 that connects the power panel 92 to the tower structure 106 and a second electrical connector 112 that connects the tower structure 106 to the power connection box 98. In one example, the first electrical connector 110 includes an electrical wire having a first end associated with a plug 146 located within the interior cavity 138. The plug 146 is connected to the power outlet 90 in the power panel 92, such as Figure 8B The plug 146 provides power to the additional receptacle 122, as schematically shown at 148, and to the electrical cord including the first electrical connector 110, as shown in FIG. Fig. 7A 148 and 150. For clarity, the wiring used to provide these connections at 148 and 150 is not shown. In one example, one of the side walls 134, 136 includes a removable portion 152 that can be selectively removed to provide access to the interior cavity 138 for wiring purposes. A person skilled in the art with the benefit of this description will be able to determine how to use the wiring to transfer power from the receptacle 90 to the additional receptacle 122 and the first electrical connector 110.

[0080] In one example, one of the side walls 134, 136 includes an opening 154 through which the wires of the first electrical connector 110 extend to connect to the power connection box 98. In one example, the first electrical connector 110 extends to a second end 156 that is coupled to the connector interface 88 that is secured to the tower structure 106 as described above. Fig.10 In one example shown in FIG. 1 , the connector interface 88 includes a locking connector 158 and a locking receiver, such as, for example, a socket 160, for electrically connecting the first electrical connector 110 to the second electrical connector 112. The locking connector 158 is connected to the second end 156 of the wire of the first electrical connector 110, and the socket 160 is connected to the first end 162 of the second electrical connector 112. Optionally, the positions of the locking connector 158 and the socket 160 can be reversed. Although Fig.10 A locking connector / receptacle is shown in FIG. 8 , but other types of connector interfaces 88 , such as a latching connector or other types of connector / receptacles, may also be used.

[0081] In one example, the second electrical connector 112 includes a coiled power cord. A first end 162 of the coiled power cord is connected to the socket 160, and a second end 164 of the coiled power cord is connected to the power connection box 98. The wires of the first electrical connector 110 remain in a fixed position relative to the base plate 20, while the coiled power cord of the second electrical connector 112 coils and unwinds in response to the movement of the base plate 20 relative to the tower structure 106. Thus, the connector interface 88 is used to transfer power from the top of the tower structure 106 downward to the AC / DC transformer 100 in the power connection box 98. As discussed above, the tower structure 106 is fixed to the side wall 96 at a high position above the base plate 20 so that nothing interferes with the coiled power cord during movement of the base plate 20 between adjustment positions.

[0082] The power connection box 98 is fixed so as to move with the base plate 20 as the base plate 20 moves between the retracted position and the extended position. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B In one example shown in , the power connection box 98 includes a bottom wall 170, a first set of side walls 172 extending upward from a set of opposite edges of the bottom wall 170, and a second set of side walls 174 extending upward from another set of opposite edges of the bottom wall 170. The second set of side walls 174 connects the first set of side walls 172 to each other. The bottom wall 170 and the side walls 172, 174 form a box shape with an open inner cavity. In one example, a cover 176 is mounted on the power connection box 98 to be movable between an open position and a closed position. In one example, the power socket 102 is located in the inner cavity and is protected when the cover 116 is in the closed position. The power socket 102 can be moved to one of the side walls 172, 174, such as Figure 4 and Fig. 9 as shown in .

[0083] In one example, the accessory electrical connector 180 can extend from the accessory 22 to the power outlet 102 to connect the accessory 22 to the vehicle power source (see FIG. Fig. 12B In one example, a plurality of notches or grooves 182 are configured to securely retain the accessory electrical connector 180 in a clamping manner so that the connector 180 does not move around relative to the power box 98 .

[0084] As discussed above, the power connection box 98 includes one or more connectors 104 that connect to the wiring harness 94 ( 106 ) for the inductive charging power interface 32 associated with the base plate 20. Figure 4 ).exist Fig.11 In one example shown in , connector 104 extends outwardly from bottom wall 170 to connect to wiring harness 94 so that inductive charging power interface 32 for baseboard can receive power from power panel 92 via power connection box 98 .

[0085] In one example, a flexible tower 190 ( Fig.13 In one example, the flexible tower 190 includes a base flange 192, at least one flexure arm 194 extending upwardly from the base flange 192, and an attachment plate 196 extending upwardly from the flexure arm 194. In one example, similar to Figure 6 One or more power plugs shown in the figure can be mounted to the attachment plate 196 via a fastener attachment interface, for example, so that power can be supplied to the accessory 22 via the power connection interface. In one example, the flexible tower 190 is connected to the vehicle power supply in a manner similar to the power connection box 98.

[0086] The base flange 192 may be secured to the base plate 20 or the side beam ( Figure 3B In one example, the base flange 192 lies flat against the substrate or side beam surface. Fig.13 As shown in the figure, at least one flexure arm 194 includes two flexure arms 194 extending upward from the base flange 192 with an open area therebetween. The two flexure arms 194 then transition into a U-shaped flexure hinge portion 198, which then transitions into the attachment plate 96. The flexure hinge portion 198 allows the tower 190 to bend or flex under load input above a predefined elastic limit to accommodate load displacement of the device or box. In one example, the attachment plate 196 includes a flat surface extending in a vertical direction with a central opening for a plug.

[0087] In one example, a simpler adapter (not shown) can be used in conjunction with a conventional plug cord. In this example, the adapter includes a foam block that snaps upward or extends all the way out under the cover against the cargo bed slide of the track assembly. The adapter does not include an additional socket.

[0088] In summary, the present disclosure relates to an electrical wiring system for a cargo area having a sliding accessory base plate so that vehicle power from a power panel can be routed to power accessories supported on the base plate or to power charging elements associated with the base plate. An adapter is connected to the power panel and an electrical connector assembly is used to connect the adapter to a power connection box that is mounted to move with the sliding accessory base plate. This provides a simple and robust system that can provide power to accessories while also accommodating movement of the base plate.

[0089] The foregoing description is illustrative rather than restrictive in nature. Changes and modifications to the disclosed examples may become apparent to those skilled in the art, and the changes and modifications do not necessarily depart from the essence of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection granted to the present disclosure can only be determined by studying the attached claims.

Claims

1. A power wiring system, include: a base plate including a surface for supporting accessories; a power source configured to provide power to the accessory, the power source having at least one first power socket; a power connection member mounted to the base plate, wherein the power connection member includes at least one second power socket; as well as An adapter is associated with the power source such that an electrical connector can connect the at least one first power outlet to the power connection member to power the accessory via the at least one second power outlet.

2. The power wiring system of claim 1, wherein the base plate is movable relative to a fixed structure between a retracted position and an extended position, and wherein the power connection member is fixed to move with the base plate.

3. The power wiring system of claim 2, comprising a power panel mounted on the fixed structure, wherein the power panel include: the at least one first power outlet, the at least one first power outlet receiving power from the power source; and a cover plate movable between an open position for providing access to the at least one first electrical outlet and a closed position for covering the at least one first electrical outlet, and wherein the cover plate is resiliently biased to the closed position.

4. The power wiring system of claim 3, wherein the cover includes a retention feature that facilitates retaining the adapter against the power panel when the cover is in the open position, and wherein the adapter includes a housing having an interior cavity, wherein an outer wall surface of the housing includes a shoulder associated with the retention feature of the cover.

5. The power wiring system according to claim 2 comprises a power panel mounted on the fixed structure, wherein the power panel comprises the at least one first power socket, the at least one first power socket receives power from the power source, and wherein the adapter comprises a shell having an inner cavity defined by at least a rear wall and a front wall, the rear wall and the front wall being connected to each other by a first side wall and a second side wall, and wherein the rear wall comprises an opening aligned with the at least one first power socket, and wherein the electrical connector comprises a wire connected to a plug, the plug being located within the inner cavity and connected to the at least one first power socket.

6. The power wiring system according to claim 5, in: one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes an opening through which the electrical wire extends to connect to the power connection member; One of the first sidewall and the second sidewall includes a removable portion that can be selectively removed to provide access to the interior cavity; The front wall includes an additional power socket powered via the power supply; The rear wall includes a seal, the seal surrounding the opening; and / or The front wall is not perpendicular to the surface of the substrate.

7. The power wiring system of claim 5, comprising a connection tower mounted on the fixed structure at a position above the substrate, and wherein the connection tower provides a connection support interface for the electrical connector to connect to a coiled power line connected to the power connection member.

8. The power wiring system of claim 7, wherein the end of the wire opposite the plug is connected to a locking connector, the locking connector being received in a locking receiver associated with the connection tower, and wherein the locking receiver is connected to the coiled power cord, the coiled power cord being connected to the power connection member, such that the locking connector and the locking receiver are maintained in a fixed position relative to the base plate, and the coiled power cord coils and unwinds in response to movement of the base plate relative to the fixed structure.

9. The power wiring system according to claim 2, wherein include: a first track structure configured to extend along a side of a cargo area of ​​a vehicle; a second track structure configured to extend along an opposite side of the vehicle cargo area; as well as The base plate has a first edge and a second edge opposite to the first edge, wherein the first edge is supported by the first track structure and the second edge is supported by the second track structure, so that the base plate slides along the first track structure and the second track structure to move between the extended position and the retracted position.

10. The power wiring system of claim 1, wherein the baseboard includes a plurality of power interface locations configured to interface with an accessory, and wherein each power interface location includes an inductive charging member configured to interface with an inductive charging member on the accessory, and wherein the inductive charging member on the baseboard is charged via the power source.

11. A power wiring system according to claim 10, wherein the power connection means comprises one or more connectors connected to a wiring harness for the inductively charging means, the inductively charging means being associated with the base plate such that the inductively charging means for the base plate can receive power from the power source via the power connection means, and optionally, The power connection member include: bottom wall; a first set of side walls extending upwardly from a set of opposing edges of the bottom wall; a second set of side walls extending upwardly from another set of opposite edges of the bottom wall and connecting the first set of side walls to each other; and a cover movable between an open position and a closed position to define an interior cavity in which the at least one power outlet is located, and wherein the one or more connectors extend outwardly from the bottom wall, and wherein one of the first set of side walls and the second set of side walls includes an opening through which an accessory electrical connector can extend to connect the accessory to the at least one second power outlet.

12. The power wiring system of claim 1, wherein the base plate is mounted within a vehicle cargo area and includes a plurality of mounting holes configured to receive one or more clips associated with the accessory.

13. A power wiring system, include: a base plate mounted within the cargo area of ​​the vehicle to provide a surface for supporting at least one accessory, wherein the base plate includes a plurality of mounting holes to receive one or more cleats associated with the at least one accessory; a first track structure configured to extend along a side of the vehicle cargo area; a second track structure configured to extend along opposite sides of the vehicle cargo area, wherein the base plate is supported by the first track structure and the second track structure for sliding movement between an extended position and a retracted position; a power source configured to provide power to the at least one accessory, the power source having at least one first power outlet located in a power panel associated with a vehicle wall adjacent to the vehicle cargo area; an electrical connection member mounted to the base plate for movement therewith relative to the vehicle wall, wherein the electrical connection member includes at least one second power socket and at least one connector associated with an inductive charging member; as well as An adapter is associated with the power panel so that the electrical connector assembly can connect the at least one first power socket to the power connection member so that the power connection member can supply power to the at least one accessory via the at least one second power socket and / or via the at least one connector.

14. A method, wherein include: providing a base plate, the base plate comprising a surface for supporting an accessory; providing a power source configured to provide power to the accessory, the power source having at least one first power socket; mounting a power connection member to the base plate, wherein the power connection member includes at least one second power socket; as well as Connecting the at least one first power socket to the power connection member via an adapter and an electrical connector assembly enables power to be provided to the accessory via the at least one second power socket.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein include: mounting the base plate for sliding movement between a retracted position and an extended position within a cargo area of ​​the vehicle; providing a power panel to a fixed vehicle structure adjacent to a cargo area of ​​said vehicle; and mounting the adapter to the power panel so that the electrical connector assembly can be used to connect the at least one first power outlet to the power connection member.

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