B column assembly, side wall assembly and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model provides a B column assembly, a side wall assembly and a vehicle. The B column assembly comprises a B column and a pedal. A first side part and a second side part which are oppositely arranged, and an outer side part connected with the first side part and the second side part are arranged between the two ends of the B column. The first side part is provided with a first installation position used for installing a car door lock catch. The second side part is provided with a second mounting position, and the pedal plate and the second mounting position are rotationally mounted, so that the pedal plate can be switched between an unfolded state and a folded state. In the unfolded state, the pedal plate extends in the direction away from the second side part from the second mounting position. And in the retracted state, the pedal plate extends from the second mounting position to the end part of the B column. The pedal is integrated to the B column, an additional pedal device does not need to be arranged in the vehicle, and the convenience of the vehicle is improved. Meanwhile, the pedal and the car door lock catch are installed in a separated mode, and the compactness and the structural strength of the B column assembly are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a B-pillar assembly, a side panel assembly, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] As technology advances, vehicle functionality is gradually improved. To meet users' needs for long-distance travel and outdoor activities, rooftop storage has become an important feature for expanding storage space. However, due to the height of the roof, users need to stand on the door frame or tires to retrieve items, which presents certain difficulties and operational risks. Currently, some foot-operated devices, such as ladders, are available for users. However, they are inconvenient to use because they require additional carrying and installation. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a B-pillar assembly, a side panel assembly, and a vehicle to solve related technical problems.

[0004] A first aspect of this application provides a B-pillar assembly for use in a vehicle, including a B-pillar and a foot pedal; a first side portion and a second side portion are disposed opposite to each other between the two ends of the B-pillar, and an outer side portion connects the first side portion and the second side portion; the first side portion is provided with a first mounting position for mounting a door lock latch; the second side portion is provided with a second mounting position, and the foot pedal is rotatably mounted to the second mounting position so that the foot pedal can switch between an extended state and a retracted state; in the extended state, the foot pedal extends from the second mounting position toward a direction away from the second side portion; in the retracted state, the foot pedal extends from the second mounting position toward the end of the B-pillar.

[0005] By integrating the foot pedal into the B-pillar, users can unfold it when needed and retract it afterward, eliminating the need for an additional foot pedal in the vehicle and improving convenience. Meanwhile, since the first mounting position is used for the door lock latch, installing the foot pedal on the side of the B-pillar opposite to the first mounting position, separate from the door lock latch, avoids mutual interference, and improves the compactness of the B-pillar assembly and the installation strength of the foot pedal.

[0006] Furthermore, the second side is provided with a recessed groove that faces the first side, and in the retracted state, the foot pedal is housed within the recessed groove. By providing the recessed groove, the foot pedal is hidden within it in the retracted state, improving aesthetics and preventing any interference with the opening and closing of the door.

[0007] Furthermore, it also includes an elastic element; both ends of the elastic element abut against the B-pillar and the foot pedal respectively; when the foot pedal is in either the extended state or the retracted state, the elastic element is tensioned, so that the elastic element can drive the foot pedal to switch to the other of the extended or retracted states. By setting the elastic element to drive the foot pedal to move, the user does not need to operate it actively, thus improving the ease of operation of the foot pedal.

[0008] Furthermore, a locking mechanism is also included. When the elastic element is in a tensioned state, the locking mechanism securely connects the B-pillar to the foot pedal. By incorporating the locking mechanism, accidental movement of the foot pedal can be prevented, thus preventing injury to the user and improving the operational safety of the foot pedal.

[0009] Furthermore, the B-pillar assembly also includes a drive element fixed to the B-pillar. The output end of the drive element is connected to the foot pedal to drive the foot pedal to switch between the extended state and the retracted state. Using a drive element to switch the foot pedal's state eliminates the need for manual operation by the user, improving ease of use.

[0010] Furthermore, it also includes an overload detection element fixed to the B-pillar, used to detect the resistance encountered by the foot pedal when switching between the extended state and the retracted state. The overload detection element is electrically connected to the drive element. By setting the overload detection element, when the resistance encountered by the foot pedal is too great, the drive element can stop moving, avoiding damage to the drive element itself and preventing the user's foot from getting stuck, thus improving safety.

[0011] Furthermore, it also includes a distance detection element fixed to the B-pillar, the distance detection element being positioned close to the foot pedal, and the distance detection element being electrically connected to the drive element. Because the distance detection element is positioned close to the foot pedal, the foot pedal can automatically extend when the user lifts their foot near the foot pedal, and automatically retract when the user removes their foot, improving operational convenience.

[0012] Furthermore, the foot pedal includes a main body and an anti-slip structure disposed on the main body. When the foot pedal is in the unfolded state, the anti-slip structure faces upward. By providing the anti-slip structure, the user can be prevented from slipping when stepping on the foot pedal, thus improving safety.

[0013] A second aspect of this application provides a side panel assembly including the aforementioned B-pillar assembly. Since the B-pillar assembly improves vehicle usability and possesses high structural strength and compactness, the side panel assembly of this application also improves vehicle usability and possesses high structural stability and space utilization.

[0014] A third aspect of this application provides a vehicle including the aforementioned side panel assembly. Because this application integrates the foot pedal into the B-pillar assembly, no additional foot pedal is required, thus improving vehicle convenience. Simultaneously, due to the improved space utilization and structural stability of the side panel assembly, the vehicle of this application has a more compact spatial layout and better mechanical performance.

[0015] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this specification and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this specification.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a side panel assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A structural diagram of the center side panel assembly from another angle;

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A structural diagram of the middle side panel assembly with the foot pedal in the retracted position;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a B-pillar component in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the B-pillar assembly with the foot pedal in the deployed state;

[0022] Figure 6 This is an electrical connection block diagram of a driving element in an exemplary embodiment of this application.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals: B-pillar assembly - 1; B-pillar - 10; First side - 11; First mounting position - 110; Second side - 12; Second mounting position - 120; Receiving groove - 121; Outer side - 13; Foot pedal - 20; Main body - 21; Anti-slip structure - 22; Elastic element - 30; Locking mechanism - 40; Drive element - 50; Overload detection element - 61; Distance detection element - 62; Processor - 70; Side panel assembly - 2; Front door space - 201; Rear door space - 202. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions in the embodiments (or "implementations") of this application will be clearly and completely described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements.

[0025] If the embodiments of this application contain terms relating to directional indications or positional relationships (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, inside, outside, top, bottom, center, vertical, horizontal, longitudinal, transverse, length, width, counterclockwise, clockwise, axial, radial, circumferential, etc.), such terms are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movements between components in a specific posture (as shown in the attached figures); if the specific posture changes, the directional indications or positional relationships will also change accordingly. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" used in the embodiments of this application are only for descriptive convenience and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0026] In some vehicles, a rooftop luggage compartment is provided. Due to its height, users need to stand on the door frame or tires to retrieve or place luggage. Currently, some separate footrests exist for users, but they are inconvenient to use because they require additional carrying and installation. This application provides a B-pillar assembly and a vehicle to solve the related technical problems.

[0027] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a first aspect of this application provides a B-pillar assembly 1 for use in a vehicle, including a B-pillar 10 and a foot pedal 20. The B-pillar 10 is provided with a first side portion 11, a second side portion 12, and an outer side portion 13. The first side portion 11 and the second side portion 12 are disposed opposite to each other. The outer side portion 13 connects the first side portion 11 and the second side portion 12.

[0028] The first side 11 is provided with a first mounting position 110 for installing a door lock latch. The second side 12 is provided with a second mounting position 120, and the foot pedal 20 is rotatably mounted to the second mounting position 120 so that the foot pedal 20 can switch between an extended state and a retracted state.

[0029] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The foot pedal 20 is in the unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the foot pedal 20 extends from the second mounting position 120 in a direction away from the second side 12. Figure 3 The foot pedal 20 is in the retracted state. In the retracted state, the foot pedal 20 extends from the second mounting position 120 toward the end of the B-pillar 10. In the retracted state, the foot pedal 20 can extend upwards or downwards.

[0030] By integrating the foot pedal 20 into the B-pillar 10, the user can unfold the foot pedal 20 when needed and retract it after use, eliminating the need for an additional foot pedal device in the vehicle and improving vehicle convenience. Meanwhile, since the first mounting position 110 is used to install the door latch, installing the foot pedal 20 on the side of the B-pillar 10 opposite to the first mounting position 110, separating it from the door latch, reduces mutual interference, improves the compactness of the B-pillar assembly 1, and enhances the installation strength of the foot pedal 20.

[0031] The second side portion 12 is provided with a receiving groove 121. The receiving groove 121 is recessed from the second side portion 12 toward the first side portion 11. In the retracted state, the foot pedal 20 is received in the receiving groove 121. By providing the receiving groove 121, the foot pedal 20 is hidden in the receiving groove 121 in the retracted state, which improves the aesthetics and avoids affecting the opening and closing of the door.

[0032] Please refer to the following: Figure 4 As shown, the B-pillar assembly 1 also includes an elastic element 30 and a locking mechanism 40. The two ends of the elastic element 30 abut against the B-pillar 10 and the foot pedal 20, respectively. When the foot pedal 20 is in either the extended or retracted state, the elastic element 30 is tensioned, allowing it to drive the foot pedal 20 to switch to the other of the extended or retracted states. By using the elastic element 30 to drive the foot pedal 20, no active user operation is required, improving the ease of operation of the foot pedal 20.

[0033] Specifically, when the elastic element 30 is in a tensioned state with the foot pedal 20 in the extended state, the elastic element 30 can provide a pulling force to pull the foot pedal 20 back. In this embodiment, when the user needs to use the foot pedal 20, the foot pedal 20 can be manually extended. After use, the elastic element 30 automatically pulls the foot pedal 20 back. When the elastic element 30 is in a tensioned state with the foot pedal 20 in the retracted state, the elastic element 30 can provide a pushing force to push the foot pedal 20 to extend. In this embodiment, when the user needs to use the foot pedal 20, the elastic element 30 automatically pushes the foot pedal 20 to extend. After use, the user manually operates the foot pedal 20 to pull it back.

[0034] When the elastic element 30 is in a tensioned state, the locking mechanism 40 securely connects the B-pillar 10 to the foot pedal 20. By setting the locking mechanism 40, accidental movement of the foot pedal 20 can be prevented, thus preventing injury to the user and improving the operational safety of the foot pedal 20.

[0035] In some embodiments, when the foot pedal 20 is in the retracted state, the elastic element 30 is in a tensioned state, and the locking mechanism 40 locks, fixing the B-pillar 10 to the foot pedal 20. When it is necessary to unfold the foot pedal 20, the user manually unlocks the locking mechanism 40, the fixed connection between the B-pillar 10 and the foot pedal 20 is broken, and the foot pedal 20 rotates under the tension of the elastic element 30, automatically switching to the unfolded state.

[0036] In other embodiments, when the foot pedal 20 is in the extended state, the elastic element 30 is in a tensioned state, and the locking mechanism 40 locks, fixing the B-pillar to the foot pedal 20. When it is necessary to retract the foot pedal 20, the user manually unlocks the locking mechanism 40, the fixed connection between the B-pillar 10 and the foot pedal 20 is broken, and the foot pedal 20 rotates under the tension of the elastic element 30, automatically switching to the retracted state.

[0037] The specific structures of the elastic element 30 and the locking mechanism 40 are not limited. For example... Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 In this embodiment, the elastic element 30 is a torsion spring structure, a spring structure, etc. The locking mechanism 40 is a button mechanism with a locking hook. When the foot pedal 20 is in the retracted state, the elastic element 30 is in a tensioned state, and the locking mechanism 40 fixes the foot pedal 20 to prevent it from moving. When the user needs to unfold the foot pedal 20, they press the locking mechanism 40, the locking hook unlocks, and the foot pedal 20 unfolds under the drive of the elastic element 30. When the user needs to retract the foot pedal 20, they can manually lift the foot pedal 20 until the locking mechanism 40 fixes it.

[0038] The foot pedal 20 includes a main body 21 and an anti-slip structure 22 disposed on the main body 21. When the foot pedal 20 is in the unfolded state, the anti-slip structure 22 faces upward. By providing the anti-slip structure 22, the user can be prevented from slipping when stepping on the foot pedal 20, thus improving safety. The anti-slip structure 22 may be an anti-slip pad attached to the main body 21 or an anti-slip texture formed on the surface of the main body 21.

[0039] In some embodiments, the foot pedal 20 can be electrically opened and closed to improve the user experience. Please refer to [further details omitted]. Figure 6 As shown, the B-pillar 10 may include a drive element 50. The output end of the drive element 50 is connected to the foot pedal 20 to drive the foot pedal 20 to switch between an extended state and a retracted state.

[0040] The driving element 50 is used to switch the state of the foot pedal 20 without requiring manual operation by the user, thus improving ease of use. The driving element 50 can be a motor or other similar device, and the specific type is not limited. An electric button electrically connected to the driving element 50 can be provided on the B-pillar 10 or the vehicle door to open or close the driving element 50, thereby driving the foot pedal 20 to extend or retract.

[0041] In embodiments where the foot pedal 20 is deployed or retracted via the drive element 50, the B-pillar assembly 1 may further include an overload detection element 61 and a distance detection element 62. Both the overload detection element 61 and the distance detection element 62 are fixed to the B-pillar 10 and are electrically connected to the drive element 50.

[0042] The overload detection element 61 is used to detect the resistance encountered by the foot pedal 20 when switching between the extended and retracted states. By setting the overload detection element 61, when the resistance encountered by the foot pedal 20 is too great, the drive element 50 can stop moving, avoiding damage to the drive element 50 itself and preventing the user's foot from getting stuck, thus improving safety. The overload detection element 61 can be a pressure sensor, etc.

[0043] The distance detection element 62 is positioned close to the foot pedal 20 to detect the user's position, enabling the drive element 50 to automatically extend or retract based on the user's position, thus improving operational convenience. The distance detection element 62 can be an infrared sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, etc.

[0044] Specifically, when a user lifts their foot near the foot pedal 20, the distance detection element 62 detects the user's approach and sends a signal to the drive element 50. The drive element 50 then starts operating and switches to the deployed state. When the user moves away from the foot pedal 20, the distance detection element 62 detects the user's departure and sends a signal to the drive element 50, causing the foot pedal 20 to retract. To avoid false triggering, some preconditions can be added. For example, the distance detection element 62 needs to operate when the car door is open. When the car door is closed, the distance detection element 62 stops detecting, preventing the foot pedal 20 from being falsely deployed when the vehicle is in motion or when the user approaches the distance detection element 62. In some embodiments, a processor 70 is provided on the B-pillar 10. The overload detection element 61 and the distance detection element 62 are first electrically connected to the processor 70, and the processor 70 is then electrically connected to the drive element 50. The overload detection element 61 and the distance detection element 62 are indirectly electrically connected to the drive element 50 through the processor 70. In other embodiments, the overload detection element 61 and the distance detection element 62 can be directly electrically connected to the drive element 50.

[0045] The connection between the foot pedal 20 and the B-pillar 10 is made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel. Aluminum alloy or stainless steel have higher structural strength, which improves the connection strength between the foot pedal 20 and the B-pillar 10, preventing the foot pedal 20 from breaking off from the B-pillar 10 during use and improving safety. The foot pedal 20 may have only the part connecting it to the B-pillar 10 made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel, or the entire foot pedal 20 may be made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel.

[0046] like Figure 1As shown, a second aspect of this application provides a side panel assembly 2, including the aforementioned B-pillar assembly 1. Since the B-pillar assembly 1 improves vehicle usability and has high structural strength and compactness, the side panel assembly 2 of this application also improves vehicle usability and has high structural stability and space utilization.

[0047] The side panel assembly 2 is generally frame-shaped, with the B-pillar assembly 1 located in the middle. The B-pillar assembly 1 can be a separate component or integrally formed with the side panel assembly 2. A front door space 201 is provided on one side of the B-pillar assembly 1, and a rear door space 202 is provided on the other side. The first mounting position 110 is located on the side of the B-pillar assembly 1 facing the front door space 201. The foot pedal 20 is installed on the side of the B-pillar assembly 1 facing the rear door space 202.

[0048] A third aspect of this application provides a vehicle including the aforementioned side panel assembly 2. Since this application integrates the foot pedal 20 into the B-pillar assembly 1, no additional foot pedal is required, thus improving vehicle convenience. Simultaneously, due to the improved space utilization and structural stability of the side panel assembly 2, the vehicle of this application has a more compact spatial layout and better mechanical performance.

[0049] The vehicle in this application may be an SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), or station wagon, etc., and there is no limit to the specific type of vehicle.

[0050] It should be noted that the technical solutions or features described in the above embodiments can be combined or supplemented with each other without conflict. The scope of protection of this application is not limited to the precise structures described in the above embodiments and shown in the accompanying drawings; all modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A B-pillar assembly for use in a vehicle, characterized in that include: The B-pillar and foot pedal; the two ends of the B-pillar are provided with a first side and a second side that are arranged opposite to each other, and an outer side that connects the first side and the second side; The first side is provided with a first mounting position for installing a door lock latch; the second side is provided with a second mounting position, and the foot pedal is rotatably mounted to the second mounting position so that the foot pedal can switch between an extended state and a retracted state; In the extended state, the foot pedal extends from the second mounting position toward a direction away from the second side; in the retracted state, the foot pedal extends from the second mounting position toward the end of the B-pillar.

2. The B-pillar assembly of claim 1, wherein The second side is provided with a receiving groove that is recessed toward the first side, and in the retracted state, the foot pedal is received in the receiving groove.

3. The B-pillar assembly of claim 1, wherein It also includes an elastic element; the two ends of the elastic element respectively abut against the B-pillar and the foot pedal; When the foot pedal is in either the extended state or the retracted state, the elastic element is in a tensioned state, so that the elastic element can drive the foot pedal to switch to the other of the extended state or the retracted state.

4. The B-pillar assembly of claim 3, wherein It also includes a locking mechanism that, when the elastic element is in a tensioned state, fixes the B-pillar to the foot pedal.

5. The B-pillar assembly of claim 1, wherein, The B-pillar assembly also includes a drive element fixed to the B-pillar, the output end of which is connected to the foot pedal to drive the foot pedal to switch between the extended state and the retracted state.

6. The B-pillar assembly of claim 5, wherein, It also includes an overload detection element fixed to the B-pillar, used to detect the resistance encountered by the foot pedal when switching between the extended state and the retracted state, and the overload detection element is electrically connected to the drive element.

7. The B-pillar assembly of claim 5, wherein It also includes a distance detection element fixed to the B-pillar, the distance detection element being disposed near the foot pedal, and the distance detection element being electrically connected to the drive element.

8. The B-pillar assembly of claim 1, wherein, The foot pedal includes a main body and an anti-slip structure disposed on the main body. When the foot pedal is in the unfolded state, the anti-slip structure is disposed facing upward.

9. A side panel assembly, characterized in that, include: The B-pillar assembly as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. A vehicle characterized by comprising: include: The side panel assembly as described in claim 9.

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