Charging port door system

Abstract

The invention provides a charging port door system. The charging port door system comprises a housing; a door configured to rotate between a covering position in which the door covers the housing and an open position in which the door does not cover the housing and does not hinder access to the housing after open rotation; a door actuator fixed to the door, the door actuator including an outer actuator member configured to linearly move and rotate with a motor and an inner actuator member detachably engaged to the outer actuator member with a friction fastener; and a guide housing fixed to the housing, the guide housing being configured to accommodate the outer actuator member such that movement of the door caused by the outer actuator member is guided by cooperation of a guide protection portion of the guide housing with the straight groove and the spiral groove of the outer actuator member.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference with related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0129277, filed on September 24, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a charging port door system. Background Technology

[0004] Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) may include a charging port for connecting an electrical plug (charging plug) to the vehicle. The electrical plug may be connected to a charging station that supplies power to the vehicle. Additionally, EVs and HEVs may include a charging port door system for covering and opening the charging port.

[0005] A charging port door system may include: a housing having an opening communicating with a charging port; a door movably mounted relative to the housing; and an actuator for moving the door. Existing charging port door systems may include gooseneck hinge type charging port door systems, multi-link type charging port door systems, etc.

[0006] However, existing charging port door systems may not be able to reliably open and close the door in confined spaces, reducing its operability. When the door is open, the charging plug may interfere with the door, leading to reduced product quality or marketability.

[0007] Furthermore, existing charging port door systems may have difficulty opening and closing the door in emergency situations such as battery discharge and actuator failure, making it difficult to quickly charge the battery.

[0008] The information described in this background section is intended to help understand the background of this disclosure and may include technical information that is not considered to be prior art that is known, available or in use. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure relates to a charging port door system, and more specifically, to a charging port door system designed for automatically and / or manually opening and closing the door under various conditions, thereby reliably opening and closing the door.

[0010] The embodiments disclosed herein can solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, while retaining the advantages of prior art implementation.

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention provide a charging port door system designed to automatically and / or manually open and close the door under various conditions, thereby reliably performing the opening and closing of the door and preventing the charging plug from interfering with the door when it is open.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a charging port door system may include: a housing; a door configured to rotate between a covered position where the door covers the housing and an open position where the door does not cover the housing, and, in the covered position, to move between a retracted position where the door contacts the housing and a forward position where the door moves forward from the housing; a door actuator fixed to the door, wherein the door actuator includes an outer actuator member and an inner actuator member, the outer actuator member being configured to linearly move and rotate using a motor, the inner actuator member being detachably engaged with the outer actuator member using a friction fastener; and a guide housing fixed to the housing and configured to receive the outer actuator member. The outer actuator member may include a first guide groove extending linearly in its length direction and a second guide groove extending helically from the first guide groove, the first guide groove and the second guide groove being disposed on the outer surface of the outer actuator member. The guide housing may include a guide protrusion received in the first guide groove and the second guide groove.

[0013] The door actuator may also include a lead screw that is rotated by a motor. The lead screw may have external threads on its outer circumferential surface, and the inner actuator component may have internal threads that mesh with the external threads of the lead screw.

[0014] Friction fasteners can be press-fitted between the outer surface of the inner actuator member and the inner surface of the outer actuator member. Friction fasteners may include protrusions that frictionally engage with the inner surface of the outer actuator member.

[0015] Friction fasteners may include a corrugated metal strip and a polymer layer attached to the outer surface of the metal strip. The polymer layer may frictionally contact the inner surface of an outer actuator component, and the metal strip may frictionally contact the outer surface of an inner actuator component.

[0016] The coefficient of friction of the polymer layer can be lower than that of the metal strip.

[0017] The outer actuator component may include an attachment fixed to the door.

[0018] The outer actuator member can be configured to move between a first position, a second position, and a third position. When the outer actuator member is in the first position, the door can be in a retracted position; when the outer actuator member is in the second position, the door can be in a forward position; and when the outer actuator member is in the third position, the door can be in an open position.

[0019] When the outer actuator member moves between the first position and the second position, the outer actuator member can be linearly guided by the first guide groove and the guide protrusion, and when the outer actuator member moves between the second position and the third position, the outer actuator member can be guided by the second guide groove and the guide protrusion to rotate about its central axis.

[0020] The door actuator may also include an actuator housing that houses the motor, and a guide sleeve extending from the actuator housing toward the door. The guide sleeve may be housed in the guide housing, and the outer actuator component may be movably housed in the guide sleeve.

[0021] The outer surface of the outer actuator component can be configured to match the inner surface of the guide sleeve.

[0022] The guide housing may include: a cylindrical portion for accommodating a guide sleeve; an attachment plate disposed on the cylindrical portion; and a plurality of bosses disposed on the attachment plate, the plurality of bosses being secured to the door by a plurality of fasteners.

[0023] The door actuator may also include a transmission mechanism configured to transmit the torque of the motor to the lead screw.

[0024] The door actuator may also include an operating gear configured to transmit torque from the transmission mechanism to the lead screw.

[0025] The operating gear can be fixed to the lead screw.

[0026] The door actuator may also include a sensor configured to sense the position of the outer actuator member to detect the position of the door. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The above and other features and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the door and housing in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, as viewed from outside the vehicle.

[0029] Figure 2 This image shows a view of the housing in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from outside the vehicle.

[0030] Figure 3 This image shows a view of the housing in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from inside a vehicle.

[0031] Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of a door in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0032] Figure 5 A perspective view of a guide housing in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0033] Figure 6An exploded perspective view of an outer actuator component and an inner actuator component in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0034] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The view observed in the direction of arrow A in the image;

[0035] Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of a door actuator of a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0036] Figure 9 A side cross-sectional view of a door actuator in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0037] Figure 10 Show along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken from the BB line in the diagram;

[0038] Figure 11 Show along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken from the CC line in the image;

[0039] Figure 12 This illustration shows the state in which the actuator component is in a first position in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 13 Show along Figure 12 A cross-sectional view taken from the DD line in the image;

[0041] Figure 14 This illustration shows the actuator component in a second position in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 15 This illustration shows the state in which the actuator component is in a third position in a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 16 This illustration shows a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, in a state where the door is closed by the rearward movement of an actuator component;

[0044] Figure 17 Show along Figure 16 The view being observed is in the direction of arrow E in the image;

[0045] Figure 18 This illustration shows a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the door moves forward from the housing by the forward movement of an actuator component;

[0046] Figure 19This illustrates a charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the door rotates outward from the housing via the rotation of the actuator component; and

[0047] Figure 20 Show along Figure 19 The view is observed in the direction of arrow F in the image. Detailed Implementation

[0048] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals can be used throughout to denote the same or equivalent constituent elements. Detailed descriptions of well-known technologies associated with the present disclosure may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the essential points of the disclosure.

[0049] Terms such as “first,” “second,” “A,” “B,” “(a),” and “(b)” are used to describe constituent elements in exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. These terms are intended solely to distinguish one constituent element from another, and the inherent characteristics, order, or sequence of the respective constituent elements are not limited by these terms. Unless otherwise defined, the terms used herein include technical or scientific terms and are capable of having the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are capable of being interpreted as having the same meaning as in the context of the relevant technical field.

[0050] The charging port door system 10 can be configured to cover or not cover the vehicle's charging port. The charging port can be configured to connect an electrical plug (charging plug) to the vehicle (electric vehicle (EV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), etc.), and the electrical plug can connect to a charging station that supplies power to the vehicle. The charging port door system 10 can be installed in an opening in the vehicle body where the charging port is located, and the charging port door system 10 can have an outer surface facing the exterior of the vehicle and an inner surface facing the interior of the vehicle.

[0051] refer to Figure 1 The charging port door system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing 11 and a door 12 movable relative to the housing 11.

[0052] The housing 11 may be configured to surround the charging port (not shown) of the vehicle. The housing 11 may have an outer surface facing the outside of the vehicle and an inner surface facing the inside of the vehicle. When the door 12 is closed, the outer surface of the housing 11 may be covered by the door 12, while when the door 12 is open, the outer surface of the housing 11 may be exposed to the outside of the vehicle.

[0053] The housing 11 may have the shape of a container recessed into the vehicle interior. (Reference) Figure 1The housing 11 may have a main opening 11a communicating with a charging port (not shown). The housing 11 may have multiple button openings 11b, 11c and multiple LED openings 11d. A seal 13 may extend along the edge of the housing 11, and when the door 12 is closed, the seal 13 may seal the edge of the door 12 and the edge of the housing 11.

[0054] Figures 1-20 Various views and configurations of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, which will be described below, are shown. Door 12 can be configured to cover the housing 11 at a covered position via door actuator 16 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 17 The door 12 does not cover the open position of the housing 11 (see...). Figure 20 Rotate between ( ). When door 12 is in the covered position, door 12 can be configured to be in the retracted position (see ) via door actuator 16. Figure 16 ) and forward position (see Figure 18 Linear movement between ( ). Reference Figure 16 The retracted position refers to the position where door 12 contacts housing 11. (Reference) Figure 18 The forward position refers to the position where the door 12 moves from the housing 11 toward the outside of the vehicle, such that the door 12 is separated from the housing 11 by a predetermined distance S.

[0055] A charging port door system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure may include a door actuator 16 for moving a door 12, and a switch assembly 14 for controlling / regulating the operation of the door actuator 16. (See reference...) Figure 3 The switch assembly 14 and the door actuator 16 can be mounted on the inner surface of the housing 11.

[0056] The switch assembly 14 can be electrically connected to the door actuator 16 described below and the vehicle's battery. (Reference) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The switch assembly 14 may have a switch housing 14a, a plurality of buttons 14b and 14c disposed in the switch housing 14a, and a plurality of LEDs 14d. The plurality of buttons 14b and 14c may include an open button 14b for controlling the opening of the door 12 and a close button 14c for controlling the closing of the door 12. The plurality of buttons 14b and 14c may be inserted into button openings 11b and 11c of the housing 11, respectively, and the plurality of LEDs 14d may be inserted into LED openings 11d of the housing 11. When the door 12 is in the open state, the user can directly press each button 14b and 14c to open the switch assembly 14. When the door 12 is in the closed state, the user can partially press a portion of the door 12 corresponding to each button 14b and 14c, and correspondingly, each button 14b and 14c can be indirectly pressed via the door 21 to open the switch assembly 14. The plurality of LEDs 14d may be configured to display the charge level and charging status of the vehicle battery.

[0057] refer to Figure 4 The door 12 may include an outer panel 12a and an inner panel 12b fixed to the inner surface of the outer panel 12a. The outer panel 12a may face the exterior of the vehicle, and the inner panel 12b may face the interior of the vehicle. The outer panel 12a may be detachably attached to the inner panel 12b by a plurality of snap-fit ​​fittings. A mounting portion 12c and a recess 12d may be recessed from the inner panel 12b into the housing 11.

[0058] refer to Figure 6 The door actuator 16 may include an outer actuator member 17 for moving the door 12, and an inner actuator member 51 that is releasably engaged inside the outer actuator member 17 by a friction fastener 60.

[0059] The outer actuator member 17 may have a chamber extending along its longitudinal central axis. The outer actuator member 17 may extend through one edge of the housing 11 and be secured to one edge of the door 12. The outer actuator member 17 may be configured for linear movement and rotation, such that the door 12 can move forward or backward and rotate relative to the housing 11. The outer actuator member 17 may include a first end facing the exterior of the vehicle and a second end facing the interior of the vehicle. According to an exemplary embodiment, the outer actuator member 17 may be made of die-cast aluminum, which can correspondingly increase the rigidity of the outer actuator member 17.

[0060] refer to Figure 6 The outer actuator member 17 may include an attachment portion 15 integrally connected to its first end. The attachment portion 15 may be made of the same material as the outer actuator member 17, and the attachment portion 15 and the outer actuator member 17 may form an integral structure. The attachment portion 15 of the outer actuator member 17 may be secured to the door 12 by fasteners. (Reference) Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The attachment portion 15 can be fixed to the mounting portion 12c of the inner panel 12b of the door 12. The attachment portion 15 may include an attachment wall 15a integrally formed with the first end of the outer actuator member 17, and a side wall 15b connected to the edge of the attachment wall 15a. The attachment wall 15a may have a plurality of holes 15c, and a plurality of fasteners (screws, etc.) can be screwed into the plurality of holes 15c respectively, such that the attachment wall 15a of the attachment portion 15 can be fixed to the mounting portion 12c of the inner panel 12b of the door 12, and the side wall 15b of the attachment portion 15 can surround the side wall of the mounting portion 12c of the inner panel 12b. Accordingly, the attachment portion 15 of the outer actuator member 17 can be fixed to the mounting portion 12c of the inner panel 12b of the door 12 via the plurality of holes 15c. The outer actuator component 17 can be securely fixed to the door 12 via the attachment part 15, so that the door 12 can be prevented from vibrating, swinging, or being damaged when it moves.

[0061] refer to Figure 7 The attachment portion 15 may have a plurality of openings 15d, each opening 15d may be arc-shaped, and the inner peripheral surface of each opening 15d may be aligned with the outer peripheral surface of the outer actuator member 17. The plurality of openings 15d may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the outer actuator member 17.

[0062] refer to Figure 6 The outer actuator member 17 may include a first guide groove 17a extending linearly along the longitudinal axis of the outer actuator member 17 and a second guide groove 17b extending helically from the first guide groove 17a. The first guide groove 17a may extend linearly from a first end of the outer actuator member 17 to a second end of the outer actuator member 17. The second guide groove 17b may extend helically from the first guide groove 17a to the second end of the outer actuator member 17. The first guide groove 17a and the second guide groove 17b may be continuously formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer actuator member 17. The outer actuator member 17 may include a first segment X1 with the first guide groove 17a formed therein and a second segment X2 with the second guide groove 17b formed therein. The first segment X1 and the second segment X2 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the outer actuator member 17. A plurality of first guide grooves 17a may be formed in the first segment X1, a plurality of second guide grooves 17b may be respectively connected to the plurality of first guide grooves 17a, and a plurality of second guide grooves 17b may be formed in the second segment X2.

[0063] refer to Figure 7 The inner actuator member 51 can be releasably engaged (detachably disengaged) to the chamber of the outer actuator member 17 via a friction fastener 60. The inner actuator member 51 may include a first end facing the exterior of the vehicle and a second end facing the interior of the vehicle. The friction fastener 60 may be configured to allow frictional engagement and disengagement of the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51.

[0064] refer to Figure 12 The inner actuator member 51 may be a lead nut having an internal thread 51a formed therein, and the inner actuator member 51 may have a recess 52 provided at its first end. A friction fastener 60 may be installed in the recess 52 of the inner actuator member 51, and the friction fastener 60 may be press-fitted between the outer surface of the inner actuator member 51 and the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17 to allow the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 to frictionally engage and disengage. The outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 may be releasably engaged with each other by the friction fastener 60.

[0065] refer to Figure 8The door actuator 16 may include an actuator housing 21, a motor 25 for driving the inner actuator member 51, and a lead screw 37 that rotates via the motor 25. The motor 25 and lead screw 37 may be disposed within the actuator housing 21, and the inner actuator member 51 may be configured to move linearly via rotation of the lead screw 37. The motor 25 may be a bidirectional motor capable of rotating both clockwise and counterclockwise. The lead screw 37 may have an external thread 37a on its outer circumferential surface, and the lead screw 37 may extend a predetermined length. The lead screw 37 may be configured to rotate about its central axis.

[0066] refer to Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The internal thread 51a of the inner actuator member 51 can engage with the external thread 37a of the lead screw 37. When the lead screw 37 rotates via the motor 25 and the transmission mechanism 30, the inner actuator member 51 can move along the length of the lead screw 37. When the outer actuator member 17 is engaged with the inner actuator member 51 via the friction fastener 60, the outer actuator member 17 can move together with the inner actuator member 51 in the same direction.

[0067] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The transmission mechanism 30 can be located between the motor 25 and the lead screw 37. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the transmission mechanism 30 can be a gear set, including an input gear 31 fixed to the output shaft 25a of the motor 25, a first transmission gear 32 meshing with the input gear 31, a second transmission gear 33 fixed to the first transmission gear 32, a third transmission gear 34 meshing with the second transmission gear 33, and a fourth transmission gear 35 fixed to the third transmission gear 34. Since the first transmission gear 32 meshes with the input gear 31, the torque of the motor 25 can be transmitted through the input gear 31 to the first transmission gear 32, the second transmission gear 33, the third transmission gear 34, and the fourth transmission gear 35. A gear pin 32a can be inserted into the center of the first transmission gear 32 and the center of the second transmission gear 33, and one end of the gear pin 32a can be rotatably supported by a bushing 32b. A gear pin 35a can be inserted into the center of the third transmission gear 34 and the center of the fourth transmission gear 35, and one end of the gear pin 35a can be rotatably supported by a bushing 35b.

[0068] refer to Figure 9 The rotation axis of the input gear 31 can be aligned with the rotation axis of the output shaft 25a of the motor 25. The rotation axis of the first transmission gear 32 can be perpendicular to the rotation axis of the input gear 31. According to an exemplary embodiment, the input gear 31 and the first transmission gear 32 can be helical gears.

[0069] refer toFigure 10 and Figure 11 The second transmission gear 33 can be fixed to the first transmission gear 32, so that the second transmission gear 33 can rotate together with the first transmission gear 32 in the same direction.

[0070] The rotation axis of the second transmission gear 33 can be aligned with the rotation axis of the first transmission gear 32.

[0071] The diameter of the second transmission gear 33 may be the same as or different from the diameter of the first transmission gear 32.

[0072] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The rotation axis of the third transmission gear 34 may be parallel to the rotation axis of the second transmission gear 33. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second transmission gear 33 and the third transmission gear 34 may be spur gears or helical gears.

[0073] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The fourth transmission gear 35 can be fixed to the third transmission gear 34, so that the fourth transmission gear 35 can rotate together with the third transmission gear 34 in the same direction.

[0074] The rotation axis of the fourth transmission gear 35 can be aligned with the rotation axis of the third transmission gear 34.

[0075] The diameter of the fourth transmission gear 35 can be smaller than the diameter of the third transmission gear 34.

[0076] refer to Figure 9 The door actuator 16 may also include an operating gear 36 that transmits torque from the transmission mechanism 30 to the lead screw 37. The operating gear 36 may be fixed to the lead screw 37 so that the lead screw 37 can rotate in the same direction as the operating gear 36. According to an exemplary embodiment, the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 may form an integral structure. Because the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 form an integral structure, vibration, oscillation, etc., between the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 can be prevented. The operating gear 36 may be operably connected to the transmission mechanism 30, and the axis of rotation of the operating gear 36 may be aligned with the axis of rotation of the lead screw 37. Specifically, the operating gear 36 may mesh with a fourth transmission gear 35 of the transmission mechanism 30, and the torque of the motor 25 may be transmitted from the transmission mechanism 30 to the operating gear 36, allowing the operating gear 36 to rotate about its axis of rotation, and the lead screw 37 to rotate in the same direction as the operating gear 36.

[0077] According to an exemplary embodiment, the central axis of the operating gear 36 may be perpendicular to the central axis of the fourth transmission gear 35. The fourth transmission gear 35 may be a worm gear, and the operating gear 36 meshing with the fourth transmission gear 35 may be a worm wheel.

[0078] The second end of the inner actuator member 51 may face the actuator housing 21 of the door actuator 16. (Reference) Figure 12 and Figure 14 When the inner actuator member 51 moves by the rotation of the lead screw 37, the second end of the inner actuator member 51 can move closer to or away from the operating gear 36.

[0079] refer to Figure 8 The cover 23 can be engaged to the actuator housing 21 via multiple snap-fit ​​fittings, and the actuator housing 21 and the cover 23 can define a chamber. A seal 26 can be positioned between the edge of the actuator housing 21 and the edge of the cover 23, such that the actuator housing 21 and the cover 23 can be sealed by the seal 26. A printed circuit board (PCB) 24, a motor 25, a drive mechanism 30, and a lead screw 37 can be configured within the chamber defined by the actuator housing 21 and the cover 23.

[0080] When the frictional force between the friction fastener 60 and the outer actuator member 17 is greater than the external force acting between the friction fastener 60 and the outer actuator member 17, the friction fastener 60 allows the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 to engage frictionally. When the frictional force between the friction fastener 60 and the outer actuator member 17 is less than the external force acting between the friction fastener 60 and the outer actuator member 17, the friction fastener 60 allows the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 to disengage frictionally (or allows relative movement between the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17). Reference Figure 12 The friction fastener 60 may have a plurality of protrusions 61 projecting in its outer diameter direction, and the plurality of protrusions 61 may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction at a predetermined interval. The inner surface of the friction fastener 60 may frictionally engage with the outer surface of the inner actuator member 51, and the plurality of protrusions 61 may frictionally engage with the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17. The friction fastener 60 may include a corrugated metal strip 62 and a polymer layer 63 attached to the outer surface of the metal strip 62. The metal strip 62 may frictionally contact the outer surface of the inner actuator member 51, and the polymer layer 63 may frictionally contact the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17. The coefficient of friction of the polymer layer 63 may be lower than that of the metal strip 62. The metal strip 62 may be made of stainless steel, and the polymer layer 63 may be made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0081] The torque of the motor 25 can be set to be less than the frictional force between the protrusion 61 of the friction fastener 60 and the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17, so that the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17 and the outer surface of the inner actuator member 51 can be engaged by the frictional force of the friction fastener 60. When the torque of the motor 25 is transmitted to the input gear 31, the first transmission gear 32, the second transmission gear 33, the third transmission gear 34, the fourth transmission gear 35, the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37, the lead screw 37 can rotate, the inner actuator member 51 can move in the length direction of the lead screw 37 by the rotation of the lead screw 37, and the outer actuator member 17 can move together with the inner actuator member 52 in the same direction.

[0082] When the door 12 fails to open and close electrically via the door actuator 16 due to battery discharge, door actuator 16 malfunction, or other reasons, the user can manually open and close the door 12. When the user manually opens and closes the door 12, the external force applied to the door 12 by the user can be transmitted to the outer actuator member 17, and the outer actuator member 17 can move and rotate linearly with the door 12. When the external force transmitted from the outer actuator member 17 to the inner actuator member 51 is greater than the frictional force between the protrusion 61 of the friction fastener 60 and the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17, sliding can occur between the protrusion 61 of the friction fastener 60 and the outer actuator member 21. Since the inner surface of the outer actuator member 17 is disengaged from the outer surface of the inner actuator member 51, the outer actuator member 17 can move relative to the inner actuator member 51, while the inner actuator member 51 and the operating gear 36 can remain stationary, and the motor 25 and the transmission mechanism 30 can cease operation. When the user manually opens and closes the door 12, the external force applied to the outer actuator member 17 can be prevented from being transmitted to the inner actuator member 51, the transmission mechanism 30 and the motor 25, thereby preventing overload from being transmitted to the motor 25.

[0083] refer to Figure 12 The door actuator 16 may include a guide sleeve 22 extending a predetermined length from the actuator housing 21. The guide sleeve 22 may include a first end facing the exterior of the vehicle and a second end facing the interior of the vehicle. The first end of the guide sleeve 22 may face the door 12, and the second end of the guide sleeve 22 may be integrally connected to the actuator housing 21. (Reference) Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15The guide sleeve 22 extends from the actuator housing 21 toward the door 12. The outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 are movably accommodated within the guide sleeve 22, and the guide sleeve 22 is configured to guide the linear movement and rotation of the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51. The outer actuator member 17 may be a cylindrical shape with a predetermined outer diameter, and the guide sleeve 22 may be a cylindrical shape with an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the outer actuator member 17. Since the outer diameter of the outer actuator member 17 is slightly smaller than or equal to the inner diameter of the guide sleeve 22, the outer surface of the outer actuator member 17 can match the inner surface of the guide sleeve 22. Accordingly, vibration, oscillation, etc., can be prevented when the outer actuator member 17 moves and rotates within the guide sleeve 22.

[0084] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, since the operating gear 36 can be fixed to the lead screw 37, the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 can be assembled together with the lead screw 37, and then the outer actuator member 17, the inner actuator member 51, and the lead screw 37 can be assembled together with the actuator housing 21. Thereafter, the attachment portion 15 of the outer actuator member 17 can be attached to the inner plate 12b of the door 12. As described above, the outer actuator member 17, the inner actuator member 51, and the lead screw 37 can be pre-assembled, and the outer actuator member 17, the inner actuator member 51, and the lead screw 37 can be assembled together with the actuator housing 21. Then, the outer actuator member 17 can be assembled with the door 12, making the assembly process not only simplified but also smooth and stable.

[0085] A charging port door system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a guide housing 40 configured to receive a guide sleeve 22 and an outer actuator member 17. The guide housing 40 may extend through an opening in a housing 11 and may be secured to the housing 11. The guide housing 40 may include a first end facing the exterior of the vehicle and a second end facing the interior of the vehicle. The outer actuator member 17 may be received in the guide sleeve 22 of a door actuator 16, the guide sleeve 22 may be received in the guide housing 40, and the guide housing 40 may be secured to the housing 11, thereby increasing the support stiffness of the outer actuator member 17 and the door 12, so that the door 12 can be stably supported to withstand various adverse conditions and any external impacts.

[0086] refer to Figure 5 The guide housing 40 may include a cylindrical portion 41, an attachment plate 42 disposed on the cylindrical portion 41, and a plurality of bosses 43 disposed on the attachment plate 42.

[0087] The cylindrical portion 41 may include a first end facing the exterior of the vehicle and a second end facing the interior of the vehicle. The cylindrical portion 41 may extend through an opening in the housing 11 and may be configured to receive a guide sleeve 22 of the door actuator 16. When the guide sleeve 22 of the actuator housing 21 is received in the cylindrical portion 41 of the guide housing 40, the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 may move and rotate using the guide sleeve 22 and the guide housing 40.

[0088] The attachment plate 42 can be fixed to the inner surface of the housing 11 via multiple bosses 43.

[0089] Multiple bosses 43 may be provided on the edge of the attachment plate 42, and the multiple bosses 43 may protrude from the attachment plate 42 into the vehicle interior. Fasteners (such as screws) may be screwed into the respective bosses 43, so that the attachment plate 42 of the guide housing 40 can be fixed to the inner surface of the housing 11. The attachment plate 42 of the guide housing 40 can be firmly fixed to the housing 11 via the multiple bosses 43, thereby preventing vibration, swaying, damage, etc. of the actuator components when the outer actuator component 17 and the inner actuator component 51 move.

[0090] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 13 The guide housing 40 may have guide protrusions 47 disposed on its inner surface, and each guide protrusion 47 may protrude from the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 41 toward the center of the cylindrical portion 41. The guide protrusions 47 may be accommodated in the first guide groove 17a and the second guide groove 17b of the outer actuator member 17. Therefore, the linear movement and rotation of the outer actuator member 17 may be guided by the guide protrusions 47 and the guide grooves 17a, 17b. According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide protrusions 47 may be disposed at the first end of the cylindrical portion 41 of the guide housing 40, so that the guide protrusions 47 and the guide grooves 17a, 17b may guide the linear movement and rotation of the outer actuator member 17 along its entire length.

[0091] refer to Figure 5 The guide housing 40 may have a plurality of support protrusions 44 protruding from a first end of the cylindrical portion 41 toward the outside of the vehicle. Each support protrusion 44 may be arc-shaped, and the plurality of support protrusions 44 may be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 41. (Reference) Figure 7 The support protrusion 44 of the guide housing 40 can be inserted into or detached from the opening 15d of the attachment portion 15 of the outer actuator member 17.

[0092] refer to Figure 14With the outer actuator member 17 engaged with the inner actuator member 51 by the friction fastener 60, the inner actuator member 51 can move along the length of the lead screw 37 by rotation of the lead screw 37, allowing the outer actuator member 17 to move together with the inner actuator member 51 in the same direction. When the outer actuator member 17 moves due to the rotation of the lead screw 37 and the linear movement of the inner actuator member 51, the first guide groove 17a of the outer actuator member 17 can be guided by the guide protrusion 47 of the guide housing 40, allowing the outer actuator member 17 to move linearly along the first guide groove 17a. That is, when the lead screw 37 rotates and the outer actuator member 17 is guided by the first guide groove 17a and the guide protrusion 47, the outer actuator member 17 can move forward or backward along the length of the lead screw 37.

[0093] Reference Figure 15 With the outer actuator member 17 engaged with the inner actuator member 51 by the friction fastener 60, the inner actuator member 51 can move along the length of the lead screw 37 by rotation of the lead screw 37, allowing the outer actuator member 17 to move together with the inner actuator member 51. When the outer actuator member 17 moves due to the rotation of the lead screw 37 and the linear movement of the inner actuator member 51, the outer actuator member 17 can be guided by the second guide groove 17b and the guide protrusion 47, allowing it to move (rotate) helically along the second guide groove 17b. When the rotation of the outer actuator member 17 is guided by the second guide groove 17b and the guide protrusion 47, the outer actuator member 17 can rotate about its central axis.

[0094] With the outer actuator member 17 engaged with the inner actuator member 51 by the friction fastener 60, the outer actuator member 17 and the inner actuator member 51 can be configured to a first position by rotation of the lead screw 37 (see...). Figure 12 P1 in the middle), the second position (see Figure 14 P2 in the middle) and the third position (see Figure 15 The outer actuator member 17 moves between the inner actuator member 51 and the first actuator member 51 (P3). With the outer actuator member 17 engaged to the inner actuator member 51 by the friction fastener 60, the outer actuator member 17 can be linearly guided by the guide protrusion 47 and the first guide groove 17a when moving between the first position P1 and the second position P2. With the outer actuator member 17 engaged to the inner actuator member 51 by the friction fastener 60, the outer actuator member 17 can rotate about its central axis when moving between the second position P2 and the third position P3, guided by the guide protrusion 47 and the second guide groove 17b.

[0095] refer to Figure 6 The outer actuator member 17 may include a stop 18 configured to restrict movement of the outer actuator member 17. The stop 18 may be fixed to a second end of the outer actuator member 17 and may have an annular recess 18a on its outer peripheral surface. When the outer actuator member 17 moves to a third position, the stop 18 prevents the outer actuator member 17 from disengaging from the guide sleeve 22 and the guide housing 40. When the outer actuator member 17 moves forward to the third position, the stop 18 may be stopped by the guide protrusion 47, thereby preventing the outer actuator member 17 from disengaging from the guide sleeve 22.

[0096] refer to Figure 8 The door actuator 16 may also include a sensor 39 configured to detect the position of the door 12. The door actuator 16 may have a sensor housing 22a integrally connected to the guide sleeve 22. (See reference...) Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The sensor 39 extends along the length of the guide sleeve 22 and is housed within the sensor housing 22a. The sensor 39 senses the position of the outer actuator member 17 to detect the position of the door 12. (Reference) Figure 5 The guide housing 40 may have a cover 45 integrally connected to the cylindrical portion 41, and the cover 45 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical portion 41. (See reference) Figure 12 The cover 45 can cover the sensor housing 22a.

[0097] Reference Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The sensor 39 may include a tip portion 39a movable along its length. The free end of the tip portion 39a may be fitted into a recess 18a of the stop 18, allowing the tip portion 39a to be connected to the stop 18. The tip portion 39a of the sensor 39 may move together with the outer actuator member 17 as the outer actuator member 17 moves and rotates. The sensor 39 may be configured to sense whether the stop 18 of the outer actuator member 17 is in a first position P1, a second position P2, or a third position P3. A controller (not shown) may be configured to accurately detect the position of the door 12 based on the position of the outer actuator member 17 sensed by the sensor 39.

[0098] Reference Figure 12 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 When the outer actuator component 17 is in the first position P1, the door 12 can be in a covered position and a retracted position, allowing the door 12 to be fully closed to cover the housing 11. (Refer to...) Figure 14 and Figure 18When the outer actuator member 17 is in the second position P2, the door 12 can be in both the covered and forward positions, allowing the door 12 to move from the housing 11 to the outside of the vehicle, thus separating the door 12 from the housing 11. (Reference) Figure 15 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 When the outer actuator component 17 is in the third position P3, the door 12 can be in the open position to expose the housing 11, so that the door 12 can be opened.

[0099] As the motor 25 rotates, the torque of the motor 25 can be transmitted to the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 through the transmission mechanism 30. When the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 rotate, the inner actuator component 51 and the outer actuator component 17 can move in the length direction of the lead screw 37.

[0100] refer to Figure 12 When the outer actuator member 17 is in the first position P1, the second end of the outer actuator member 17 can move closer to the actuator housing 21, and the first end of the outer actuator member 17 can be aligned with the first end of the guide sleeve 22 of the actuator housing 21. When the outer actuator member 17 is in the first position P1, as... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the entire edge of the door 12 can contact the seal 13 of the housing 11, so that the door 12 and the housing 11 can be sealed, and the door 12 can be completely closed to cover the housing 11.

[0101] When the user presses door 12 while it is closed, door 12 can press the open button 14b, and the operating gear 36 and lead screw 37 can be rotated in the first direction by means of motor 25 and transmission mechanism 30, so that the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 can move outward of the vehicle in the length direction of the lead screw 37 (see...). Figure 14 (Direction of the middle arrow K). (Refer to...) Figure 14When the inner actuator component 51 and the outer actuator component 17 advance forward due to the rotation of the lead screw 37, the first guide groove 17a of the outer actuator component 17 can be linearly guided by the guide protrusion 47 of the guide housing 40, so that the inner actuator component 51 and the outer actuator component 17 can move linearly towards the outside of the vehicle along the first guide groove 17a, thus the inner actuator component 51 and the outer actuator component 17 can be in the second position P2. When the outer actuator component 17 is in the second position P2, the second end of the outer actuator component 17 can move forward from the actuator housing 21, while the first end of the outer actuator component 17 can advance towards the outside of the vehicle from the first end of the guide sleeve 22 of the actuator housing 21. When the door 12 moves forward together with the outer actuator component 17, the door 12 can advance a predetermined distance from the housing 11 towards the outside of the vehicle. When the outer actuator component 17 is in the second position P2, the door 12 can move as follows: Figure 18 As shown, the door 12 extends from the housing 11 toward the outside of the vehicle, and the entire edge of the door 12 can be spaced apart from the seal 13 of the housing 11 by a predetermined distance S.

[0102] refer to Figure 15 With the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 in the second position P2, when the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 rotate continuously in the first direction under the action of the motor 25 and the transmission mechanism 30, the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 can move from the second position P2 to the third position P3 through the rotation of the lead screw 37. When the outer actuator member 17 moves from the second position P2 to the third position P3, the second guide groove 17b of the outer actuator member 17 can be guided by the guide protrusion 47 of the guide housing 40, so that the outer actuator member 17 can spirally advance towards the outside of the vehicle along the second guide groove 17b. Therefore, the outer actuator member 17 can rotate about its central axis (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 20 (The direction of arrow R in the image). Figure 20 As shown, when door 12 is rotated to the open position, door 12 can be opened.

[0103] refer to Figure 12 When the outer actuator member 17 is in the first position, the support protrusion 44 of the guide housing 40 can be inserted into the opening 15d of the attachment portion 15. With the door 12 closed, the door 12 can be stably supported by the support protrusion 44 of the guide housing 40 and the opening 15d of the attachment portion 15. (Reference) Figure 14 and Figure 15 When the outer actuator member 17 is in the second and third positions, the support protrusion 44 of the guide housing 40 can detach from the opening 15d of the attachment portion 15, thus allowing the door 12 to be opened stably.

[0104] like Figure 19and Figure 20 As shown, when the user presses the close button 14c with the door 12 open, the operating gear 36 and lead screw 37 can rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction via the motor 25 and transmission mechanism 30, and the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 can move from the third position to the second position. When the outer actuator member 17 moves from the third position to the second position, the second guide groove 17b of the outer actuator member 17 can be guided by the guide protrusion 47 of the guide housing 40, so that the outer actuator member 17 can spirally retract towards the second position along the second guide groove 17b. Therefore, the outer actuator member 17 can rotate about its central axis (see...). Figure 15 (In the direction opposite to arrow R), door 12 can rotate to the covered position. With the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 in the second position, when the operating gear 36 and the lead screw 37 rotate continuously in the second direction under the action of the motor 25 and the transmission mechanism 30, the inner actuator member 51 and the outer actuator member 17 can move from the second position to the first position by the rotation of the lead screw 37. When the outer actuator member 17 moves from the second position to the first position, the first guide groove 17a of the outer actuator member 17 can be continuously guided by the guide protrusion 47 of the guide housing 40, so that the outer actuator member 17 can move from the second position to the first position. When the outer actuator member 17 moves from the second position to the first position, the outer actuator member 17 can be linearly guided to the first position by the guide protrusion 47 and the first guide groove 17a. When door 12 moves to the retracted position, door 12 can contact the seal 13 of housing 11, and door 12 can be completely closed.

[0105] As described above, the charging port door system according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure can be designed to allow the door to move between a covered position where the door covers the housing and an open position where the door does not cover the housing via a door actuator. Here, the door in the covered position can be configured to move between a retracted position where the door contacts the housing and a forward position where the door moves forward from the housing, thereby allowing the door to open and close smoothly even in confined spaces. Furthermore, interference between the charging plug and the door can be prevented when the door is open.

[0106] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, when the frictional force between the friction fastener and the outer actuator member is greater than the external force acting between the friction fastener and the outer actuator member, the friction fastener can cause the outer actuator member and the inner actuator member to engage frictionally. Therefore, when the motor of the door actuator rotates the lead screw, the outer actuator member can move together with the inner actuator member in the same direction.

[0107] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, when the frictional force between the friction fastener and the outer actuator member is less than the external force acting between the friction fastener and the outer actuator member, the friction fastener can cause the outer actuator member and the inner actuator member to rub against each other. Therefore, the outer actuator member can move with the door, and the door can be manually opened and closed.

[0108] While this disclosure has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings, it is not limited thereto and various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed disclosure.

[0109] List of reference numerals

[0110] 10: Charging port door system

[0111] 11: Shell

[0112] 11a: Main opening

[0113] 11b, 11c: Button openings

[0114] 11d: LED opening

[0115] 12: Door

[0116] 12a: Outer panel

[0117] 12b: Inner panel

[0118] 12c: Installation section

[0119] 12d: concave part

[0120] 14: Switching components

[0121] 14a: Switch housing

[0122] 14b: Power button

[0123] 14c: Close button

[0124] 14d: LED

[0125] 15: Attachment

[0126] 15a: Attachment wall

[0127] 15b: Sidewall

[0128] 15c: Hole

[0129] 15d: Opening

[0130] 16: Door actuator

[0131] 17: External actuator component

[0132] 17a: First guide groove

[0133] 17b: Second guide groove

[0134] 18: Stopping component

[0135] 21: Actuator housing

[0136] 22: Guide sleeve

[0137] 22a: Sensor housing

[0138] 23: Cover

[0139] 24: Printed Circuit Board (PCB)

[0140] 25: Electric motor

[0141] 26: Sealing part

[0142] 31: Input gear

[0143] 32: First transmission gear

[0144] 33: Second transmission gear

[0145] 34: Third transmission gear

[0146] 35: Fourth transmission gear

[0147] 36: Operating gears

[0148] 37: Lead screw

[0149] 37a: External thread

[0150] 39: Sensors

[0151] 40: Guide housing

[0152] 41: Cylindrical section

[0153] 42: Attachment plate

[0154] 43: convex platform

[0155] 44: Support protrusion

[0156] 51: Inner actuator component

[0157] 51a: Internal thread

[0158] 60: Friction fasteners

[0159] 61: Protrusion

[0160] 62: Metal strip

[0161] 63: Polymer layer.

Claims

1. A charging port door system, comprising: case; A door is configured to rotate between a covered position in which the door covers the housing and an open position in which the door does not cover the housing, and, in the covered position, to move between a retracted position in which the door contacts the housing and a forward position in which the door moves outward from the housing. A door actuator fixed to the door, wherein the door actuator includes an outer actuator member and an inner actuator member, the outer actuator member being configured to linearly move and rotate using a motor, and the inner actuator member being detachably engaged with the outer actuator member using friction fasteners; and A guide housing, which is fixed to the housing and configured to accommodate the outer actuator component. The outer actuator component includes a first guide groove extending linearly along its length and a second guide groove extending helically from the first guide groove. The first guide groove and the second guide groove are disposed on the outer surface of the outer actuator component, and The guide housing includes a guide protrusion configured to be received in the first guide groove and the second guide groove.

2. The charging port door system according to claim 1, wherein, The door actuator also includes a lead screw configured to rotate using the motor. The lead screw has external threads on its outer circumferential surface, and The inner actuator component has an internal thread that engages with the external thread of the lead screw.

3. The charging port door system according to claim 2, wherein, The friction fastener is press-fitted between the outer surface of the inner actuator member and the inner surface of the outer actuator member, and The friction fastener includes a protrusion that frictionally engages with the inner surface of the outer actuator component.

4. The charging port door system according to claim 3, wherein, The friction fastener includes a corrugated metal strip and a polymer layer attached to the outer surface of the metal strip. The polymer layer frictionally contacts the inner surface of the outer actuator component, and The metal strip makes frictional contact with the outer surface of the inner actuator component.

5. The charging port door system according to claim 4, wherein, The coefficient of friction of the polymer layer is lower than that of the metal strip.

6. The charging port door system according to claim 1, wherein, The outer actuator component includes an attachment fixed to the door.

7. The charging port door system according to claim 1, wherein, The outer actuator component is configured to move between a first position, a second position, and a third position, such that In response to the outer actuator component being in the first position, the door is in the retracted position. In response to the outer actuator member being in the second position, the door is in the forward position, and In response to the outer actuator component being in the third position, the door is in the open position.

8. The charging port door system according to claim 7, wherein, In response to movement of the outer actuator member between the first position and the second position, the outer actuator member is linearly guided by the first guide groove and the guide protrusion, and In response to movement of the outer actuator member between the second position and the third position, the outer actuator member is guided by the second guide groove and the guide protrusion to rotate about its central axis.

9. The charging port door system according to claim 1, wherein, The door actuator also includes an actuator housing that houses the motor, and a guide sleeve extending from the actuator housing toward the door. The guide sleeve is housed within the guide housing, and The outer actuator component is movably housed within the guide sleeve.

10. The charging port door system according to claim 9, wherein, The outer surface of the outer actuator component is configured to match the inner surface of the guide sleeve.

11. The charging port door system according to claim 9, wherein, The guide housing includes: The cylindrical portion houses the guide sleeve; An attachment plate disposed on the cylindrical portion; and Multiple bosses are provided on the attachment plate, and the multiple bosses are fixed to the door by multiple fasteners.

12. The charging port door system according to claim 2, wherein, The door actuator also includes a transmission mechanism configured to transmit the torque of the motor to the lead screw.

13. The charging port door system according to claim 12, wherein, The door actuator also includes an operating gear configured to transmit torque from the transmission mechanism to the lead screw.

14. The charging port door system according to claim 13, wherein, The operating gear is fixed to the lead screw.

15. The charging port door system according to claim 1, wherein, The door actuator also includes a sensor configured to sense the position of the outer actuator member of the outer actuator member in order to detect the door position.

16. A charging port door system, comprising: case; A guide housing fixed to the housing, the guide housing including a guide protrusion; A door, configured to cover a portion of the housing; and A door actuator that movably connects the door to the housing, wherein the door actuator includes: motor, The inner actuator component includes an internal threaded portion. The outer actuator component includes a first guide groove extending linearly along its length and a second guide groove extending helically from the first guide groove. The guide protrusion is configured to be received in the first guide groove and the second guide groove, and The guide housing is configured to receive the outer actuator member therein, and is configured such that, during movement of the outer actuator member, as the movement of the outer actuator member is guided by the guide protrusion along the first and second guide grooves, the outer actuator member is capable of linear translation and rotation within the guide housing. A lead screw, including an external threaded portion on its outer circumferential surface, is rotatably connected to the motor and configured to rotate by the motor, wherein an internal threaded portion of an inner actuator member engages with and is threadedly connected to the external threaded portion of the lead screw, and... A friction fastener disposed between the outer actuator member and the inner actuator member is configured to provide frictional engagement between the outer actuator member and the inner actuator member. The charging port door system is configured such that rotation of the lead screw caused by the motor causes movement of the inner actuator member of the inner actuator member, thereby driving movement of the outer actuator member of the outer actuator member. This allows the door to move between a first retracted covered position, a second partially extended covered position, and a third rotatable extended open position. In the first retracted covered position, the housing is covered and sealed by the door. In the third rotatable extended open position, the housing is exposed and accessible, and in the third rotatable extended open position, the door pivots relative to the housing.

17. The charging port door system according to claim 16, wherein, The friction fastener is press-fitted between the outer surface of the inner actuator member and the inner surface of the outer actuator member, and The friction fastener includes a protrusion that frictionally engages with the inner surface of the outer actuator component.

18. The charging port door system according to claim 17, wherein, The friction fastener includes a corrugated metal strip and a polymer layer attached to the outer surface of the metal strip. The polymer layer is in frictional contact with the inner surface of the outer actuator component. The metal strip makes frictional contact with the outer surface of the inner actuator component, and The coefficient of friction of the polymer layer is lower than that of the metal strip.

19. The charging port door system according to claim 16, wherein, The door actuator also includes a sensor configured to sense the position of the outer actuator member of the outer actuator member in order to detect the door position.

20. A charging port door system, comprising: case; A door is configured to rotate between a covered position in which the door covers the housing and an open position in which the door does not cover the housing, and, in the covered position, to move between a retracted position in which the door contacts the housing and a forward position in which the door moves outward from the housing. A door actuator fixed to the door, the door actuator including an outer actuator member and an inner actuator member, the outer actuator member being configured to linearly move and rotate using a motor, and the inner actuator member being detachably engaged with the outer actuator member using a friction fastener. and A guide housing, which is fixed to the housing and configured to accommodate the outer actuator component. The outer actuator component includes a first guide groove extending linearly along its length and a second guide groove extending helically from the first guide groove. The first guide groove and the second guide groove are disposed on the outer surface of the outer actuator component. The guide housing includes a guide protrusion configured to be received within the first guide groove and the second guide groove. The door actuator also includes a lead screw configured to rotate using the motor. The lead screw has external threads on its outer circumferential surface. The inner actuator component has an internal thread that engages with the external thread of the lead screw. The friction fastener is press-fitted between the outer surface of the inner actuator component and the inner surface of the outer actuator component. The friction fastener includes a protrusion that frictionally engages with the inner surface of the outer actuator component. The friction fastener includes a corrugated metal strip and a polymer layer attached to the outer surface of the metal strip. The polymer layer is in frictional contact with the inner surface of the outer actuator component. The metal strip makes frictional contact with the outer surface of the inner actuator component. The coefficient of friction of the polymer layer is lower than that of the metal strip. The outer actuator component includes an attachment portion fixed to the door. The outer actuator component is configured to move between a first position, a second position, and a third position, such that In response to the outer actuator component being in the first position, the door is in the retracted position. In response to the outer actuator member being in the second position, the door is in the forward position, and In response to the outer actuator component being in the third position, the door is in the open position. In response to movement of the outer actuator member between the first position and the second position, the outer actuator member is linearly guided by the first guide groove and the guide protrusion. In response to movement of the outer actuator member between the second position and the third position, the outer actuator member is guided by the second guide groove and the guide protrusion to rotate about its central axis. The door actuator also includes an actuator housing that houses the motor and a guide sleeve extending from the actuator housing toward the door. The guide sleeve is housed within the guide housing. The outer actuator component is movably accommodated within the guide sleeve. The outer surface of the outer actuator component is configured to match the inner surface of the guide sleeve. The guide housing includes: The cylindrical portion houses the guide sleeve; An attachment plate disposed on the cylindrical portion; and Multiple bosses are provided on the attachment plate, and the multiple bosses are fixed to the door by multiple fasteners. The door actuator also includes a transmission mechanism configured to transmit the torque of the motor to the lead screw. The door actuator also includes an operating gear configured to transmit torque from the transmission mechanism to the lead screw. The operating gear is fixed to the lead screw, and The door actuator also includes a sensor configured to sense the position of the outer actuator member of the outer actuator member to detect the door position.

Images