Protective device and automobile
By installing a drainage and cooling mechanism at the charging port, the problem of rainwater entering the charging port and being difficult to clean is solved, enabling rapid drying of the charging port and improving the charging safety and reliability of new energy vehicles in severe weather.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202610891497.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-06-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
AI Technical Summary
When charging new energy vehicles in the rain, rainwater can easily get into the charging port and become difficult to clean, leading to increased humidity in the charging port and affecting safety.
A drainage mechanism and a cooling mechanism are installed at the charging interface. The drainage mechanism drains the accumulated water through a water pipe and a water pump, while the cooling mechanism blows low-temperature dry gas into the charging interface through a blower and an electric cooler. Combined with a vibration mechanism, this helps to clean up residual water droplets and ensures that the charging interface is dry.
It effectively and quickly reduces the humidity around the charging port, prevents safety hazards, and improves charging safety and reliability, especially in severe weather conditions such as rain and snow.
Smart Images
Figure CN122426089A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of electric vehicle parts technology, specifically to a protective device and an automobile. Background Technology
[0002] When charging new energy vehicles in the rain, the protective cover at the charging port needs to be opened, allowing rainwater to enter the charging port. After charging is complete and the protective cover is closed again, the rainwater inside the charging port is very difficult to clean due to the need for a sealed environment. Furthermore, the accumulated rainwater will cause the humidity inside the charging port to gradually increase, which will affect the safety of the charging port. Summary of the Invention
[0003] (i) The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is that when existing new energy vehicles are charged in the rain, rainwater will enter the charging interface, which is very difficult to clean. Furthermore, the accumulated rainwater will cause the humidity inside the charging interface to gradually increase, which will affect the safety of the charging interface.
[0004] (II) Technical Solution To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a protective device installed at the charging port of a vehicle, comprising a mounting bracket, a protective cover, a drainage mechanism, and a cooling mechanism. The vehicle body side wall is provided with mounting holes, the mounting bracket is installed in the mounting holes, the mounting bracket has a mounting groove, the opening of the mounting groove faces the outside of the vehicle body, and the charging interface is located in the mounting groove; The protective cover is hinged to the vehicle body on one side of the mounting hole, and the protective cover can cover and seal the mounting hole; The bottom wall of the mounting frame is provided with the drainage mechanism, which is connected to the mounting groove. The water accumulated in the mounting groove is discharged to the outside of the mounting groove through the drainage mechanism. The top of the mounting bracket is also provided with the refrigeration mechanism, which can blow cold air into the mounting slot to condense the water vapor in the air in the mounting slot into water droplets and discharge them to the outside of the mounting slot through the drainage mechanism.
[0005] Furthermore, the drainage mechanism includes a water guide pipe, a water pump, and a drain pipe; The bottom of the mounting slot is provided with a water outlet, the water guide pipe is installed below the water outlet, one end of the water pump is connected to the end of the water guide pipe away from the water outlet, the other end of the water pump is connected to the drain pipe, and the end of the drain pipe away from the water pump extends outward from the vehicle body.
[0006] Furthermore, the refrigeration mechanism includes a blower, an electric refrigeration unit, and a flow guide pipe; Both the blower and the electric cooler are located above the mounting bracket. The air outlet of the blower is connected to the guide pipe, and the end of the guide pipe away from the blower is located in the mounting groove. The electric cooler is located between the air outlet of the blower and the guide pipe. The electric cooler is used to cool the gas blown out by the blower and then deliver it to the guide pipe.
[0007] Furthermore, the refrigeration mechanism also includes an arc-shaped tube; The arc-shaped tube is disposed in the mounting groove and is located at the top of the mounting groove along the height direction of the vehicle body. The extension direction of the arc-shaped tube is consistent with the direction of the inner wall of the adjacent mounting groove. The top center of the arc-shaped tube is connected to the end of the guide tube located in the mounting groove.
[0008] Furthermore, the protective device also includes a vibration mechanism; The vibration mechanism includes a mounting base, a vibration motor, and a resonant block; Two mounting bases are provided and are spaced apart on the mounting frame. The surface of the mounting base is provided with a fixing groove. The two ends of the vibration motor are fixed in the fixing groove. The resonant block is provided between the vibration motor and the outer wall of the mounting frame.
[0009] Furthermore, the protective device also includes a spring-loaded assembly; The spring-opening assembly includes a fixed cylinder, a top rod, an elastic element, and a limiting slider; One end of the fixed cylinder is perpendicularly connected to the bottom of the mounting groove, one end of the push rod is located inside the fixed cylinder and can slide along the length of the fixed cylinder, the elastic element is provided inside the fixed cylinder, one end of the elastic element abuts against the bottom wall of the fixed cylinder, and the other end abuts against the end of the push rod; The side wall of the fixed cylinder is also provided with a limiting groove, and the end side wall of the top rod located inside the fixed cylinder is provided with the limiting slider. The limiting slider is located in the limiting groove and can slide along the extension direction of the limiting groove.
[0010] Furthermore, a positioning groove is provided on the vehicle body, the positioning groove is connected to the mounting hole, an inductive electronic lock is fixed in the positioning groove, and a lock hole is provided on the protective cover opposite to the inductive electronic lock, the inductive electronic lock can lock with the lock hole.
[0011] Furthermore, a sealing ring is provided on the side of the protective cover facing the mounting groove, and the sealing ring is continuously arranged along the peripheral edge of the protective cover.
[0012] Furthermore, a buffer pad is provided at the end of the top rod facing the protective cover; The protective cover is further provided with a protective plate on the side facing the mounting groove, and the protective plate is adapted to the charging interface.
[0013] Embodiments of the present invention also provide a vehicle including the above-described protective device.
[0014] The beneficial effects of this invention are: This invention provides a protective device installed at a car charging port. The mounting bracket has a recessed center forming a mounting groove, the opening of which faces outwards to facilitate the insertion and removal of the charging gun. An AC / DC integrated charging interface is fixedly installed at the bottom of the groove or inside it. A protective cover is hinged to the vehicle body on one side of the mounting hole to seal it. A drainage mechanism is installed on the bottom wall of the mounting bracket, maintaining communication with the interior space of the mounting groove. When water accumulates in the groove (whether directly falling in or collecting from the surrounding area), the drainage mechanism can actively or passively drain the water quickly to the outside of the groove, i.e., towards the underside of the vehicle body, thus preventing rainwater from lingering and accumulating around the charging port for extended periods. Considering that even after the water is drained, the relative humidity inside the mounting groove will still significantly increase, and humid air may still penetrate through the gaps in the charging port, causing electrical performance degradation or corrosion risks, a cooling mechanism is installed in the top area of the mounting bracket. The core function of this cooling mechanism is to actively blow low-temperature, dry air into the mounting slot. As the cold air circulates within the slot, its airflow helps to drive any remaining water droplets or films towards the bottom drainage mechanism. Simultaneously, the low temperature causes the moisture in the air within the mounting slot to quickly reach saturation and condense into tiny water droplets. These newly condensed droplets adhere to the inner wall of the mounting slot or fall directly to the bottom, where they are drained out through the drainage mechanism. The protective device provided in this embodiment, through a combination of drainage and condensation drying, can significantly and quickly reduce the ambient humidity around the charging interface to a safe level, thereby completely resolving the safety hazards caused by rainwater intrusion and excessive humidity in existing technologies. This significantly improves the safety and reliability of electric vehicle charging in adverse weather conditions such as rain and snow.
[0015] This invention provides a vehicle that inherits all the beneficial effects of the aforementioned protective devices. By integrating the protective device for the charging interface with the vehicle body, it solves the safety and convenience issues of charging new energy electric vehicles under adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, and humidity at the vehicle level. This not only improves the user experience but also fundamentally eliminates serious safety hazards such as short circuits, corrosion, and leakage that may be caused by water accumulation or excessive humidity at the interface, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of the entire vehicle in complex environments. Attached Figure Description
[0016] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0017] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an external schematic diagram of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the protective device provided in another direction according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 Rear view of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the protective device with the protective cover removed, provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 The protective device provided in the embodiments of the present invention Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure from another direction; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the drainage mechanism, condensation mechanism, and vibration mechanism of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the retractable assembly structure of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the protective cover structure of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the inductive electronic lock structure of the protective device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] icon: 100 - Charging port; 101 - Vehicle body; 102 - Mounting hole; 103 - Positioning slot; 200 - Mounting bracket; 201 - Mounting slot; 202 - Water outlet; 300 - Protective cover; 301 - Locking hole; 302 - Sealing ring; 303 - Protective plate; 400 - Drainage mechanism; 401 - Water guide pipe; 402 - Water pump; 403 - Drainage pipe; 404 - Connecting pipe; 405 - Conical pipe; 406 - First control line; 407 - Second control line; 500 - Refrigeration mechanism; 501 - Blower; 502 - Electric refrigerator; 503 - Flow guide pipe; 504 - Arc-shaped pipe; 600 - Vibration mechanism; 601 - Mounting base; 602 - Vibration motor; 603 - Resonant block; 700-Spring-opening assembly; 701-Fixing cylinder; 702-Push rod; 703-Elastic element; 704-Limiting slider; 705-Limiting groove; 706-Buffer pad; 800 - Induction electronic lock; 801 - Induction lock body; 802 - Lock tongue. Detailed Implementation
[0019] The technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0020] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper" and "lower," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0021] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.
[0022] Example 1 like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the present invention provides a protective device installed at the charging port 100 of a car, including a mounting bracket 200, a protective cover 300, a drainage mechanism 400 and a cooling mechanism 500. The side wall of the vehicle body 101 is provided with mounting holes 102, the mounting bracket 200 is provided in the mounting holes 102, the mounting bracket 200 is provided with mounting grooves 201, the opening of the mounting grooves 201 faces the outside of the vehicle body 101, and the charging interface 100 is provided in the mounting grooves 201. The protective cover 300 is hinged to the vehicle body 101 on one side of the mounting hole 102, and the protective cover 300 can cover and seal the mounting hole 102; The bottom wall of the mounting bracket 200 is provided with a drainage mechanism 400, which is connected to the mounting groove 201. The water accumulated in the mounting groove 201 is discharged to the outside of the mounting groove 201 through the drainage mechanism 400. The top of the mounting bracket 200 is also provided with a cooling mechanism 500, which can blow cold air into the mounting slot 201 to condense the water vapor in the air inside the mounting slot 201 into water droplets and discharge them to the outside of the mounting slot 201 through the drainage mechanism 400.
[0023] In this embodiment, the protective device is installed at the vehicle charging interface 100. Specifically, a mounting hole 102 is pre-drilled on the side wall of the vehicle body 101 according to the size of the AC / DC charging integrated interface. The mounting bracket 200 is designed as an independent modular component, its shape matching the mounting hole 102, and can be precisely fixedly connected within the mounting hole 102. The middle part of the mounting bracket 200 is recessed inward to form a mounting groove 201, the opening of which faces the outside of the vehicle body 101 to facilitate the insertion and removal of the charging gun. The AC / DC charging integrated interface is fixedly installed at the bottom of the mounting groove 201 or inside it.
[0024] The protective cover 300 is hinged to the vehicle body 101 on one side of the mounting hole 102. In other words, when not charging, the protective cover 300 covers the entire mounting hole 102 and forms a sealed fit with the surface of the vehicle body 101, preventing dust, rainwater, and other external impurities from entering the mounting groove 201. When charging, the protective cover 300 is opened, exposing the mounting groove 201 and the internal charging interface 100. The size and shape of the protective cover 300 ensure that it can completely cover and reliably seal the mounting hole 102.
[0025] Specifically, a drainage mechanism 400 is installed on the bottom wall of the mounting bracket 200. The drainage mechanism 400 is in communication with the internal space of the mounting groove 201. When water accumulates in the mounting groove 201 (whether it falls directly in or collects from the surrounding area), the drainage mechanism 400 can actively or passively guide the water to the outside of the mounting groove 201, that is, to the area below the vehicle body 101, thereby preventing rainwater from staying and accumulating around the charging interface 100 for a long time. Considering that even if the water is drained, the relative humidity of the air inside the mounting groove 201 will still increase significantly, and the humid air may still penetrate into the interior through the gaps of the charging interface 100, causing a decrease in electrical performance or a risk of corrosion, a cooling mechanism 500 is installed in the top area of the mounting bracket 200. The core function of the cooling mechanism 500 is to actively blow low-temperature, dry air into the mounting slot 201. When the low-temperature air circulates within the mounting slot 201, its airflow helps to drive any remaining water droplets or films towards the bottom drainage mechanism 400. Furthermore, the low temperature environment causes the moisture in the air within the mounting slot 201 to quickly reach saturation and condense into tiny water droplets. These newly condensed droplets adhere to the inner wall of the mounting slot 201 or fall directly to the bottom and are discharged outside the mounting slot 201 through the drainage mechanism 400. The protective device provided in this embodiment, through drainage and condensation drying, can significantly and quickly reduce the ambient humidity around the charging interface 100 to a safe level, thereby completely solving the safety hazards caused by rainwater intrusion and excessive humidity in the prior art, and significantly improving the safety and reliability of electric vehicle charging in adverse weather conditions such as rain and snow.
[0026] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the drainage mechanism 400 includes a water guide pipe 401, a water pump 402, and a drain pipe 403; The bottom of the mounting slot 201 is provided with a water outlet 202. The water guide pipe 401 is installed below the water outlet 202. One end of the water pump 402 is connected to the end of the water guide pipe 401 away from the water outlet 202. The other end of the water pump 402 is connected to the drain pipe 403. The end of the drain pipe 403 away from the water pump 402 extends outward from the vehicle body 101.
[0027] In this embodiment, one or more water outlets 202 are provided at the lowest point of the mounting groove 201, allowing rainwater in the mounting groove 201 to naturally collect there using gravity. Optionally, the shape of the water outlet 202 can be circular or elongated to ensure smooth water flow. Specifically, one end of the water guide pipe 401 is sealed to the bottom of the mounting bracket 200 and faces the water outlet 202 to collect and guide all the rainwater flowing out of the water outlet 202. The other end of the water guide pipe 401 is connected to the inlet of the water pump 402. The water pump 402 can be a miniature DC electric water pump, small in size and with moderate power, sufficient to lift and discharge the accumulated water. The outlet 202 of the water pump 402 is connected to the drain pipe 403. The end of the drain pipe 403 extends outwards from the vehicle body 101 (usually towards the underside of the vehicle) as the final discharge outlet.
[0028] Optionally, the water guide pipe 401 includes a connecting pipe 404 fixedly connected to the mounting bracket 200. A tapered pipe 405 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the connecting pipe 404, and the lower end of the tapered pipe 405 is connected to the inlet of the water pump 402. The tapered pipe 405 configured above can concentrate the sewage entering the connecting pipe 404 and improve the smoothness of the downward flow of rainwater, thereby improving the efficiency of rainwater collection.
[0029] In other words, when rainwater falls into the mounting groove 201 and collects at the bottom outlet 202, some of the water will first flow out naturally through the guide pipe 401 under the action of gravity. Due to pipe resistance and the possible non-perfect verticality of the mounting groove 201, gravity alone may not be able to completely and quickly drain the accumulated water, so a water pump 402 is installed. Optionally, a water level sensor can be installed in the mounting groove 201. When it detects water accumulation in the mounting groove 201, it will send a signal to the vehicle's control system, which will then start the water pump 402. The water pump 402 operates, generating negative pressure at its inlet, forcefully sucking the water in the mounting groove 201 through the guide pipe 401, pressurizing it, and then discharging it at high speed outside the vehicle through the drain pipe 403. The water pump 402 can overcome the limitations of gravity and pipe resistance, quickly draining most of the liquid water in the mounting groove 201, ensuring drainage efficiency even in light rain or when there is little water accumulation.
[0030] Preferably, both the water guide pipe 401 and the drain pipe 403 are made of corrosion-resistant and flexible rubber or plastic hoses, which facilitates bending and wiring within the limited space inside the vehicle body 101. The water pump 402 can be fixed in a concealed location such as inside the vehicle body 101 or under the mounting bracket 200. By introducing the water pump 402 as an active drainage power source, the limitations of relying solely on gravity for drainage are overcome, ensuring the reliability and controllability of the drainage action, thereby providing a continuous and stable low water level environment for the charging interface 100.
[0031] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the refrigeration mechanism 500 includes a blower 501, an electric refrigeration unit 502, and a guide pipe 503; Both the blower 501 and the electric chiller 502 are located above the mounting bracket 200. The air outlet of the blower 501 is connected to the guide pipe 503. The end of the guide pipe 503 away from the blower 501 is located in the mounting groove 201. The electric cooler 502 is located between the air outlet of the blower 501 and the guide pipe 503. The electric cooler 502 is used to cool the gas blown out by the blower 501 and then deliver it to the guide pipe 503.
[0032] In this embodiment, both the blower 501 and the electric cooler 502 are preferably located in the upper area of the mounting bracket 200. The blower 501 is used to generate an airflow with a certain velocity and pressure. The electric cooler 502 achieves cooling by changing the direction of the current. The air outlet of the blower 501 serves as the starting point of the airflow and is directly or indirectly connected to one end of the guide pipe 503. The electric cooler 502 is installed in series between the air outlet of the blower 501 and the guide pipe 503. Before entering the guide pipe 503, the room temperature air blown out by the blower 501 must first flow through the cold end heat exchange surface of the electric cooler 502. After the electric cooler 502 is powered on, its cold end temperature will drop rapidly to a level far below the ambient temperature (e.g., below 0°C). When the room temperature air passes over the cold end heat exchange surface at high speed, a large amount of heat is absorbed, and the air temperature drops rapidly, forming low-temperature cold air. Some of the water vapor in the air will also condense into water on the heat exchange surface due to the cold, thus playing a preliminary dehumidification role. Only after cooling and preliminary dehumidification will the cold air enter the guide pipe 503.
[0033] Optionally, the guide pipe 503 can be made of low-temperature resistant plastic tubing. The end of the guide pipe facing away from the blower 501 and the electric chiller 502 needs to extend and eventually enter the mounting slot 201. The guide pipe 503 can directionally deliver the prepared low-temperature cold air to the area requiring dehumidification. The blower 501 provides airflow power, the electric chiller 502 achieves cooling and dehumidification, and the guide pipe 503 ensures precise delivery of the cold air. The synergy of these three components allows the refrigeration unit 500 to continuously and efficiently supply low-temperature dry gas to the mounting slot 201, thereby actively and quickly reducing the absolute humidity in the confined space (i.e., the mounting slot 201). The effect is significant and unaffected by the external ambient temperature (it is equally effective in summer).
[0034] Correspondingly, a first control line 406 is provided between the electric chiller 502 and the water pump 402. The first control line 406 is connected to the control system signal of the whole vehicle. The first control line 406 is used to transmit signals so that the water pump 402 will start after the electric chiller 502 is in operation, to ensure the drainage effect.
[0035] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the refrigeration mechanism 500 also includes an arc-shaped tube 504; The arc-shaped tube 504 is located in the mounting groove 201 and at the top of the mounting groove 201 along the height direction of the vehicle body 101. The extension direction of the arc-shaped tube 504 is consistent with the direction of the inner wall of the adjacent mounting groove 201. The top center of the arc-shaped tube 504 is connected to the end of the guide tube 503 located in the mounting groove 201.
[0036] In this embodiment, since the mounting groove 201 is usually circular or rectangular and its inner wall is a continuous curved surface or plane, the cold air blown out of the outlet of the guide pipe 503 may be concentrated in a small area, resulting in poor drying effect in the area far from the outlet. Therefore, an arc-shaped pipe 504 is set at the top position near the mounting groove 201 along the height direction (i.e., vertical direction) of the vehicle body 101.
[0037] Preferably, the shape of the arc-shaped tube 504 is adapted to the inner wall contour of the mounting groove 201. For example, if the mounting groove 201 is circular, the arc-shaped tube 504 is a concentric arc-shaped tube 504 with a slightly smaller diameter, and its radius of curvature is basically the same as the arc of the groove wall of the mounting groove 201; if the mounting groove 201 is rectangular, the arc-shaped tube 504 can be a "U"-shaped or "U"-shaped tube, with each segment parallel to the sides of the rectangle.
[0038] The arc-shaped tube 504 is typically arranged horizontally or nearly horizontally in the top area of the mounting groove 201. An interface is located at the top center of the arc-shaped tube 504 (i.e., the highest point of the arc or the geometric center) for a sealed connection with the end of the guide tube 503 located within the mounting groove 201. The cold air delivered from the guide tube 503 first enters the interior of the arc-shaped tube 504. Both ends of the arc-shaped tube 504 (or multiple locations along its extension direction) are open, serving as the final outlets for the cold air. The number and location of the openings can be designed as needed; for example, small holes can be made at regular intervals at the bottom of the arc-shaped tube 504, with larger outlets simultaneously provided at both ends.
[0039] When cold air enters the arc-shaped pipe 504, due to the pressure inside the pipe, the gas will rapidly flow to both ends and be ejected simultaneously from the openings at both ends. Because the openings at both ends are symmetrically or evenly distributed, the ejected airflow will form a nearly continuous air curtain at the top of the mounting slot 201 or multiple airflows distributed along the slot wall. Under the action of initial velocity, these airflows will flow downwards close to the inner wall surface of the mounting slot 201, forming a cold air curtain descending along the wall. This ensures that the cold air covers the entire inner wall surface of the mounting slot 201, making the condensation dehumidification and water droplet removal effects uniform and consistent. Simultaneously, the direction of the airflow flowing along the wall is exactly the same as the direction of gravity, effectively driving condensed or residual water droplets downwards to the drain outlet 202 at the bottom, playing an auxiliary drainage role, significantly improving the overall dehumidification and drying efficiency, as well as the environmental adaptability and operational reliability of the entire protective device.
[0040] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 7 As shown, the protective device also includes a vibration mechanism 600; The vibration mechanism 600 includes a mounting base 601, a vibration motor 602, and a resonant block 603; Two mounting bases 601 are provided and are arranged at intervals on the mounting frame 200. The surface of the mounting base 601 is provided with a fixing groove. The two ends of the vibration motor 602 are fixed in the fixing groove. A resonant block 603 is provided between the vibration motor 602 and the outer wall of the mounting frame 200.
[0041] In this embodiment, there are typically two or more mounting bases 601, which are symmetrically or spaced apart and fixedly installed at suitable preset positions on the back or side of the mounting frame 200. Each mounting base 601 has a semi-circular or U-shaped fixing groove for accommodating and positioning the vibration motor 602. When the vibration motor 602 is powered on, it generates high-frequency mechanical vibration. The body of the vibration motor 602 is securely engaged in the fixing groove, ensuring that the vibration energy can be effectively transmitted. The resonant block 603 is fixedly connected between the vibration motor 602 and the mounting frame 200. The resonant block 603 matches and amplifies the high-frequency vibration energy generated by the vibration motor 602, making it match the overall mechanical resonant frequency of the mounting frame 200, thereby generating the maximum overall structural vibration with minimal energy input. At the same time, the resonant block 603 also acts as a buffer, preventing the impact energy of the vibration from being too concentrated and causing local structural damage.
[0042] During operation, the control system (linked with the water level sensor) activates the vibration motor 602. The high-frequency vibration generated by the vibration motor 602 is transmitted through the resonant block 603 to the entire mounting frame 200 and its mounting groove 201. The inner wall, bottom, and housing of the AC / DC charging interface fixed thereon of the mounting groove 201 all vibrate rapidly. This vibration causes water droplets adhering to these surfaces to shake violently, overcoming their adhesion to the solid surface, thus rapidly agglomerating and growing larger. Under the combined action of gravity and vibration, they quickly slide down and eventually collect at the outlet 202 at the bottom of the mounting groove 201. The vibration motor 602 effectively removes stubborn residual water droplets, ensuring the smooth operation of subsequent water pumping, drainage, and dehumidification. It is especially suitable for handling small water droplets remaining after light rain or charging, significantly improving the cleaning efficiency and effectiveness of the entire protection system.
[0043] Correspondingly, a second control line 407 is provided between the vibration motor 602 and the water pump 402. The second control line 407 is connected to the control system signal of the whole vehicle. The second control line 407 is used to transmit signals to realize the coordination of vibration and water pumping. When the vibration component is started, it will send a signal to the water pump 402 through the second control line 407, and the water pump 402 will start accordingly, thereby ensuring drainage efficiency.
[0044] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the protective device also includes a spring-loaded assembly 700; The spring-opening assembly 700 includes a fixed cylinder 701, a push rod 702, an elastic element 703, and a limiting slider 704; One end of the fixed cylinder 701 is vertically connected to the bottom of the mounting groove 201. One end of the push rod 702 is located inside the fixed cylinder 701 and can slide along the length of the fixed cylinder 701. The elastic element 703 is located inside the fixed cylinder 701. One end of the elastic element 703 abuts against the bottom wall of the fixed cylinder 701, and the other end abuts against the end of the push rod 702. The side wall of the fixed cylinder 701 is also provided with a limiting groove 705. The end side wall of the top rod 702 located inside the fixed cylinder 701 is provided with a limiting slider 704. The limiting slider 704 is located in the limiting groove 705 and can slide along the extension direction of the limiting groove 705.
[0045] In this embodiment, preferably, the fixing cylinder 701 is a hollow cylinder with one open end and one closed end. Its closed bottom end is vertically fixed to the bottom of the mounting groove 201, and the open end faces the protective cover 300. The top rod 702 is a cylindrical rod that slides with the inner diameter of the fixing cylinder 701. One end of the top rod is inserted into the fixing cylinder 701 from the open end and can slide freely back and forth axially inside the cylinder. The other end protrudes outside the fixing cylinder 701 and points towards the protective cover 300.
[0046] The elastic element 703 is preferably a compression spring, installed inside the fixed cylinder 701. That is, one end of the spring abuts against the bottom wall of the fixed cylinder 701, and the other end abuts against the end face of the push rod 702 located inside the fixed cylinder 701. In its natural state, the spring force pushes the push rod 702 towards the outside of the fixed cylinder 701. When the protective cover 300 is closed and locked, the inner side of the protective cover 300 presses against the exposed end of the push rod 702, forcing the push rod 702 to retract into the fixed cylinder 701 against the elastic force of the elastic element 703.
[0047] To prevent the push rod 702 from completely dislodging from the fixed cylinder 701 under the spring force and to ensure the stability of its sliding direction, a long, narrow limiting groove 705 is formed on the side wall of the fixed cylinder 701 along its axial direction. Preferably, there are two limiting grooves 705, symmetrically arranged radially along the fixed cylinder 701. Simultaneously, a protruding limiting slider 704 is fixedly installed on the end side wall of the push rod 702 located inside the fixed cylinder 701. The limiting slider 704 corresponds one-to-one with the limiting groove 705. The limiting slider 704 engages within the limiting groove 705 and can only move along the extension direction of the limiting groove 705 (i.e., the axial direction of the fixed cylinder 701). When the push rod 702 extends to its limit position, the limiting slider 704 will touch the outer end wall of the limiting groove 705, thereby preventing the push rod 702 from moving outward. When the push rod 702 retracts inward, the limiting slider 704 slides in the groove, ensuring the straightness of the push rod 702's movement.
[0048] Specifically, when the user issues a command to unlock the charging cover via the vehicle's control system or key, the protective cover 300 is unlocked. The compressed spring, freed from external constraint, immediately returns to its original shape, pushing the push rod 702 outward rapidly. The end of the push rod 702 then strikes the inner side of the protective cover 300, giving it an initial outward opening impulse, thus automatically popping the protective cover 300 open. The user can then fully open the protective cover 300 by hand or with the help of the automatic mechanism. By incorporating the pop-up component 700, the user does not need to manually pry open the protective cover 300, making the operation more convenient.
[0049] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 5 and Figure 10As shown, a positioning groove 103 is provided on the vehicle body 101. The positioning groove 103 is connected to the mounting hole 102. An inductive electronic lock 800 is fixed in the positioning groove 103. A lock hole 301 is provided on the protective cover 300 opposite to the inductive electronic lock 800. The inductive electronic lock 800 can lock with the lock hole 301.
[0050] In this embodiment, a positioning groove 103 is provided near the mounting hole 102 on the vehicle body 101 for mounting the positioning mounting bracket 200, and the positioning groove 103 communicates with the mounting hole 102 to accommodate and fix the sensor electronic lock 800. The sensor electronic lock 800 includes a sensor lock body 801 fixedly connected in the positioning groove 103 and a retractable latch 802 mounted on the sensor lock body 801. The sensor lock body 801 can receive signals from the vehicle's control system, such as locking or unlocking commands. A lock hole 301 is provided at a corresponding position (usually the inner side of the free end) of the protective cover 300, and the position and size of the lock hole 301 are adapted to and correspond to the latch 802 of the sensor electronic lock 800. When the protective cover 300 is closed, the latch 802 can be precisely aligned and extended into the lock hole 301.
[0051] Specifically, when the user finishes charging and manually or electrically closes and presses the protective cover 300 shut, the protective cover 300 will compress the aforementioned spring-loaded component 700. After the protective cover 300 is fully closed, the control system sends a locking command to the sensor-operated electronic lock 800. The actuator inside the sensor lock body 801 actuates, causing the bolt 802 to extend and tightly insert into the lock hole 301 of the protective cover 300, thereby locking the protective cover 300 in the closed position. At this time, the spring of the spring-loaded component 700 is in a compressed, energy-stored state.
[0052] When the user needs to charge, they can send an unlock command via a button inside the vehicle, the key, or a mobile app. Upon receiving the command, the control system sends an unlock command to the sensor-operated electronic lock 800. The actuator inside the sensor lock body 801 reverses its action, retracting the bolt 802 from the keyhole 301. The protective cover 300, no longer restrained, automatically pops open under the action of the pop-up component 700. The sensor-operated electronic lock 800 and the pop-up component 700 work perfectly together to achieve automatic locking and unlocking of the protective cover 300. The entire process requires no manual intervention from the user, greatly enhancing convenience and technological sophistication, while also preventing security risks caused by forgetting to close or properly lock the protective cover 300.
[0053] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, a sealing ring 302 is provided on the side of the protective cover 300 facing the mounting groove 201, and the sealing ring 302 is continuously arranged along the peripheral edge of the protective cover 300.
[0054] In this embodiment, to prevent dust, rainwater, or car wash water from entering the mounting groove 201 through the gap between the protective cover 300 and the vehicle body 101 or mounting bracket 200 when the vehicle is in motion (especially in rainy weather) or not charging, a sealing ring 302 is provided on the inner side of the protective cover 300 facing the mounting groove 201.
[0055] Optionally, the sealing ring 302 is a continuous annular component made of an elastomeric material, the shape and size of which match the inner side edge contour of the protective cover 300 and the shape of the mounting hole 102 or the front end face of the mounting bracket 200. The sealing ring 302 is continuously and uninterruptedly fixed along the inner side peripheral edge of the protective cover 300 by means of bonding, slot embedding, or secondary injection molding.
[0056] When the protective cover 300 closes under the action of the electronic lock 800, the sealing ring 302 is compressed between the protective cover 300 and the vehicle body 101 (or the front end face of the mounting bracket 200). Due to the excellent elasticity and compressibility of the ring material, it undergoes elastic deformation, tightly filling and sealing all the tiny gaps between them, effectively resisting the intrusion of external low-pressure water flow (such as rainwater or car wash water). At the same time, the continuous layout eliminates any potential leakage channels, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the seal.
[0057] In addition, the sealing ring 302 can also be designed with properties such as aging resistance and resistance to high and low temperatures to adapt to the harsh environment of long-term outdoor use of automobiles. When the protective cover 300 is closed, the sealing ring 302 can minimize the entry of external moisture and contaminants into the mounting groove 201, thereby reducing the workload of the drainage and dehumidification system and ensuring that the charging interface 100 is always in a dry and clean environment when not charging.
[0058] According to one embodiment provided by the present invention, such as Figure 8 As shown, a buffer pad 706 is provided at the end of the top rod 702 facing the protective cover 300; The protective cover 300 is also provided with a protective plate 303 on the side facing the mounting groove 201, and the protective plate 303 is adapted to the charging interface 100.
[0059] In this embodiment, to mitigate the instantaneous impact force of the tip of the push rod 702 on the inner side of the protective cover 300 when the pop-up assembly 700 automatically pops open the protective cover 300, and to prevent dents or coating damage to the surface of the protective cover 300 due to long-term impact, and also to reduce impact noise, a buffer pad 706 is fixedly connected to the end of the push rod 702 facing the protective cover 300. Preferably, the buffer pad 706 is made of a material with a certain degree of hardness but good elasticity, such as rubber, polyurethane, or silicone. Its shape can be a circular pad covering the end face of the push rod 702, or a cap-shaped structure fitted onto the end of the push rod 702. When the spring pushes the push rod 702 to extend quickly, the soft buffer pad 706, rather than the rigid end of the push rod 702, first contacts the protective cover 300. Through its own elastic compression deformation, the buffer pad 706 absorbs and disperses most of the impact energy, significantly reducing the impact force and impact noise of the push rod 702, thereby protecting the surface quality of the protective cover 300 and improving auditory comfort.
[0060] Secondly, to provide additional physical protection for the AC / DC charging interface itself, a protective plate 303 is fixedly installed on the inner side of the protective cover 300 facing the mounting groove 201. The position and outline of the protective plate 303 are precisely matched to the shape of the front end face of the charging interface 100 in the mounting groove 201. When the protective cover 300 is closed, the protective plate 303 will be inserted into the mounting groove 201 and will be in close or almost close to the exposed surface of the charging interface 100. The protective plate 303 is preferably made of insulating rubber or insulating soft plastic, which acts as a physical barrier to prevent external objects from directly contacting the live charging interface 100 terminals when the protective cover 300 is accidentally squeezed or bumped, thus improving safety. Since the protective plate 303 is made of insulating material, it can also isolate even if there is a slight leakage current in the interface. The installation of the buffer pad 706 and the protective plate 303 enhances the structural protection and safety of the protective cover 300 and the charging interface 100.
[0061] Example 2 The present invention provides an automobile that includes the above-described protective device.
[0062] In this embodiment, the vehicle includes the aforementioned protective device. Specifically, the vehicle can be a new energy vehicle that uses an AC / DC charging interface 100, such as a pure electric vehicle, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extended electric vehicle.
[0063] During the design and manufacturing phase of the vehicle, the aforementioned protective device, which integrates components such as the protective cover 300, the automatic pop-out component 700, the sensor electronic lock 800, the drainage mechanism 400, the cooling mechanism 500, and the vibration motor 602, is integrated, either as a whole or separately, into the vehicle's preset installation position according to its structural connection relationship and installation requirements.
[0064] The power supply and control signal harness of the protective device are connected to the vehicle's power supply and control bus. The vehicle's control system can automatically control the sensor-operated electronic lock 800 of the protective cover 300 to unlock or lock based on the charging gun's plug-in / unplug status, the vehicle's central locking status, and user operation commands (such as car key, in-vehicle buttons, or mobile APP), and control the start and stop of the blower 501, electric cooler 502, water pump 402, and vibration motor 602, realizing full automation and intelligence of the charging port protection process.
[0065] For example, when a user unlocks the vehicle and presses the charging port open button, the vehicle control system first controls the sensor-operated electronic lock 800 to unlock, and the pop-up component 700 automatically pops open the protective cover 300. The user plugs in the charging gun. During charging, if the water level sensor detects that the ambient water level is too high, the control system automatically starts the vibration motor 602, the water pump 402, and the cooling component to perform drainage and dehumidification operations. After charging is complete, the user unplugs the charging gun, and the control system can control (or manually close) the protective cover 300. Upon detecting a locking signal, it automatically controls the sensor-operated electronic lock 800 to lock.
[0066] By integrating the protective device of the charging port 100 with the vehicle itself, the safety and convenience issues of charging new energy electric vehicles in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, and humidity are solved at the vehicle level. This not only improves the user experience but also fundamentally eliminates serious safety hazards such as short circuits, corrosion, and leakage that may be caused by water accumulation or excessive humidity at the port, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of the entire vehicle in complex environments.
[0067] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A protective device installed at the charging port of a vehicle, characterized in that, Includes mounting brackets, protective covers, drainage mechanisms, and refrigeration mechanisms; The vehicle body side wall is provided with mounting holes, the mounting bracket is installed in the mounting holes, the mounting bracket has a mounting groove, the opening of the mounting groove faces the outside of the vehicle body, and the charging interface is located in the mounting groove; The protective cover is hinged to the vehicle body on one side of the mounting hole, and the protective cover can cover and seal the mounting hole; The bottom wall of the mounting frame is provided with the drainage mechanism, which is connected to the mounting groove. The water accumulated in the mounting groove is discharged to the outside of the mounting groove through the drainage mechanism. The top of the mounting bracket is also provided with the refrigeration mechanism, which can blow cold air into the mounting slot to condense the water vapor in the air in the mounting slot into water droplets and discharge them to the outside of the mounting slot through the drainage mechanism.
2. The protective device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drainage mechanism includes a water guide pipe, a water pump, and a drain pipe; The bottom of the mounting slot is provided with a water outlet, the water guide pipe is installed below the water outlet, one end of the water pump is connected to the end of the water guide pipe away from the water outlet, the other end of the water pump is connected to the drain pipe, and the end of the drain pipe away from the water pump extends outward from the vehicle body.
3. The protective device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The refrigeration mechanism includes a blower, an electric refrigeration unit, and a flow guide pipe; Both the blower and the electric cooler are located above the mounting bracket. The air outlet of the blower is connected to the guide pipe, and the end of the guide pipe away from the blower is located in the mounting groove. The electric cooler is located between the air outlet of the blower and the guide pipe. The electric cooler is used to cool the gas blown out by the blower and then deliver it to the guide pipe.
4. The protective device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The refrigeration mechanism also includes an arc-shaped tube; The arc-shaped tube is disposed in the mounting groove and is located at the top of the mounting groove along the height direction of the vehicle body. The extension direction of the arc-shaped tube is consistent with the direction of the inner wall of the adjacent mounting groove. The top center of the arc-shaped tube is connected to the end of the guide tube located in the mounting groove.
5. The protective device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The protective device also includes a vibration mechanism; The vibration mechanism includes a mounting base, a vibration motor, and a resonant block; Two mounting bases are provided and are spaced apart on the mounting frame. The surface of the mounting base is provided with a fixing groove. The two ends of the vibration motor are fixed in the fixing groove. The resonant block is provided between the vibration motor and the outer wall of the mounting frame.
6. The protective device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The protective device also includes a spring-loaded assembly; The spring-opening assembly includes a fixed cylinder, a top rod, an elastic element, and a limiting slider; One end of the fixed cylinder is perpendicularly connected to the bottom of the mounting groove, one end of the push rod is located inside the fixed cylinder and can slide along the length of the fixed cylinder, the elastic element is provided inside the fixed cylinder, one end of the elastic element abuts against the bottom wall of the fixed cylinder, and the other end abuts against the end of the push rod; The side wall of the fixed cylinder is also provided with a limiting groove, and the end side wall of the top rod located inside the fixed cylinder is provided with the limiting slider. The limiting slider is located in the limiting groove and can slide along the extension direction of the limiting groove.
7. The protective device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The vehicle body has a positioning groove that communicates with the mounting hole. An electronic lock is fixed in the positioning groove. The protective cover has a lock hole opposite to the electronic lock. The electronic lock can lock with the lock hole.
8. The protective device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The protective cover has a sealing ring on the side facing the mounting groove, and the sealing ring is continuously arranged along the peripheral edge of the protective cover.
9. The protective device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The top rod is provided with a buffer pad at the end facing the protective cover; The protective cover is further provided with a protective plate on the side facing the mounting groove, and the protective plate is adapted to the charging interface.
10. A car, characterized in that, Includes the protective device as described in any one of claims 1-9.