D-pillar outer trim with hidden charging indicator light

CN224660673UActive Publication Date: 2026-08-21NINGBO ZHONGJUN SHANGYUAN AUTO PARTS
View PDF 0 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202521882305.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-02
Publication Date
2026-08-21
Estimated Expiration
2035-09-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

[0004]现有部分D柱外饰板上未设有充电状态提示灯装置,导致在插上电后需要回到驾驶室通过中控屏幕进行查看充电电量状态或者通过手机APP查看充电状态,较为麻烦,无法在插上充电器的第一时间查看是否在充电以及其他充电状态信息,当充电器未插好并且驾驶员未通过中控屏或手机APP查看充电状态时,无任何提示,具有安全隐患,并且为用户产生不必要的麻烦

Benefits of technology

1.该D柱外饰板通过半透面板与提示灯装置,实现在正常太阳照射以及外界灯光照明的情况下,内部提示灯装置为不可见,保持D柱外饰板整体外观简洁美观,当车辆充电时,提示灯装置点亮,提示灯装置的光线通过均光罩使光线在半透面板上均匀呈现,避免过度透光导致的漏光或光晕问题,实现非侵入式的充电状态提醒,既不破坏美观,又能有效传递充电信息,大幅提升用户使用体验,提升充电安全性。

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN224660673U_ABST
    Figure CN224660673U_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of automobile parts especially relates to a D column outer decorative plate of hidden charging indicating lamp, include: decorative plate body, prompt lamp device, mounting groove, mounting groove is set up on the back of decorative plate body, the half -transparent panel is set up on the front of decorative plate body, prompt lamp device includes lamp house and light emitting lamp group, light emitting lamp group sets up in the lampshade, prompt lamp device installs in the mounting groove, prompt lamp device corresponds with half -transparent panel, power plug, power plug sets up on prompt lamp device, through half -transparent panel and prompt lamp device, realize under the outside world illumination, internal prompt lamp device is invisible, keep D column outer decorative plate whole appearance simple and beautiful, avoid the problem that the light leakage or halo of excessive light transmission leads to, improve charging security, maintenance cost is lower, the durability of overall device is stronger.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of automotive parts, and in particular to a D-pillar exterior trim panel with a hidden charging indicator light. Background Technology

[0002] The D-pillar trim panel is a decorative and functional covering located on the exterior of the D-pillar area at the rear of the vehicle. It is typically used on SUVs, MPVs, or station wagons, which have a prominent D-pillar structure. As a crucial structural support connecting the roof and rear sidewalls, the D-pillar trim panel not only enhances the vehicle's appearance and streamlined look but also improves aerodynamic performance. D-pillar trim panels are often made of engineering plastics, ABS materials, or chrome-plated trim, offering excellent weather resistance, UV protection, and impact resistance, enabling them to withstand various complex climates. Furthermore, some high-end models integrate a third brake light (high-mounted brake light) or incorporate a hidden rear wiper outlet on the D-pillar trim panel, further enhancing safety and overall aesthetics. With the continuous evolution of automotive design, the D-pillar trim panel is increasingly used to create visual effects such as floating roofs and privacy glass, becoming an indispensable part of modern automotive styling language.

[0003] The electric vehicle market is gradually expanding. In electric vehicles, the design of the D-pillar exterior panel not only continues the aesthetic and functional requirements of traditional gasoline vehicles but also incorporates design concepts and technological integration unique to electric vehicles. With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, charging has become a core aspect of users' daily lives.

[0004] Some existing D-pillar exterior trim panels lack charging status indicator lights, requiring drivers to return to the driver's seat to check the charging status via the central control screen or mobile app after plugging in the charger. This is inconvenient, as it prevents drivers from immediately checking whether the charger is charging or other charging status information upon plugging in. Furthermore, there is no indication when the charger is not properly plugged in and the driver has not checked the charging status via the central control screen or mobile app, posing a safety hazard and causing unnecessary inconvenience to users.

[0005] Secondly, some existing D-pillar exterior trim panels have charging indicator lights, but under sunlight or ambient light, the indicator light elements can be seen through the trim panel, affecting the vehicle's aesthetics. When the indicator light is on, uneven light display can cause light leakage and halos, which greatly affects the vehicle's appearance and the user experience, thus impacting the vehicle's quality. Utility Model Content

[0006] This application provides a D-pillar exterior trim panel with a concealed charging indicator light, employing the following technical solution: A concealed charging indicator light on a D-pillar exterior trim panel includes: a trim panel body, an indicator light device, a mounting groove formed on the back of the trim panel body; a semi-transparent panel disposed on the front of the trim panel body; the indicator light device includes a lamp housing and a light-emitting group, the light-emitting group being disposed within the lamp housing, the indicator light device being installed in the mounting groove, and the indicator light device corresponding to the semi-transparent panel; and a power connector disposed on the indicator light device.

[0007] Preferably, the light transmittance of the semi-transparent panel is 10% to 15%.

[0008] Preferably, the lamp housing is divided into a base and a light diffuser, the light diffuser is fixedly connected to the base, the light-emitting lamp group is disposed between the base and the light diffuser, and the light diffuser faces the semi-transparent panel.

[0009] Preferably, a foam pressing area is provided around the light-diffusing mask, and foam is provided between the light-diffusing mask and the semi-transparent panel. The foam and the foam pressing area cooperate to achieve that the thickness of the foam after cooperating with the foam pressing area is consistent with the thickness of the center of the light-diffusing mask.

[0010] Preferably, the base has a groove, and the power connector is placed in the groove.

[0011] Preferably, the light-emitting lamp assembly is provided with screws, and the light-emitting lamp assembly is fixedly connected to the lamp housing by the screws.

[0012] Preferably, the light-emitting lamp assembly is divided into a first lamp panel and a second lamp panel, and a connector is provided between the first lamp panel and the second lamp panel, and the first lamp panel and the second lamp panel are connected by the connector.

[0013] Preferably, the decorative panel body is provided with a breathable membrane, which is located on the front side of the decorative panel body.

[0014] Preferably, a foam frame is provided on the back of the decorative panel body to prevent light leakage from the light-emitting lamp assembly.

[0015] Preferably, a number of mounting clips are fixedly connected to the back of the decorative panel body.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: 1. The D-pillar exterior trim panel, through a semi-transparent panel and indicator light device, ensures that the internal indicator light device is invisible under normal sunlight and external lighting conditions, maintaining the overall clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance of the D-pillar exterior trim panel. When the vehicle is charging, the indicator light device illuminates, and the light from the indicator light device is evenly distributed on the semi-transparent panel through a light diffuser, avoiding light leakage or halo problems caused by excessive light transmission. This achieves non-intrusive charging status reminders, which not only do not compromise the aesthetics but also effectively convey charging information, significantly improving the user experience and enhancing charging safety.

[0017] 2. This D-pillar exterior trim panel uses a light source consisting of a first light panel and a second light panel, which are connected by a connector to achieve a flexible layout. This allows it to be adapted to different D-pillar curvatures or length requirements and facilitates future maintenance. If a single light panel is damaged, only that light panel needs to be replaced, resulting in lower maintenance costs. Furthermore, the foam at the junction of the diffuser and the semi-transparent panel effectively prevents dust, seals, and cushions the light. This ensures that the thickness of the foam bonding area is consistent with the height of the center of the diffuser, preventing local protrusions that could cause panel deformation or changes in the lighting angle, thus improving the overall durability of the device. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be discussed below. Obviously, the technical solutions described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other embodiments and their accompanying drawings can be obtained from the embodiments shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a rear view of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of this utility model.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the lamp housing of this utility model.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the base of this utility model.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the light-emitting lamp assembly of this utility model.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the uniform light mask of this utility model.

[0026] Figure 8This is a cross-sectional view of the indicator light device of this utility model.

[0027] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged diagram of point A in the middle.

[0028] Reference numerals: 1. Decorative panel body; 101. Mounting groove; 102. Semi-transparent panel; 2. Indicator light device; 3. Lamp housing; 301. Base; 311. Groove; 302. Light diffuser; 321. Foam pressing area; 4. Light-emitting lamp assembly; 401. First lamp panel; 402. Second lamp panel; 403. Power connector; 404. Connector; 5. Foam; 6. Breathable membrane; 7. Screw; 8. Foam frame; 9. Mounting clip. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The technical solutions of various embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0030] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "both ends," "one end," and "the other end," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "equipped with," "connected," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] An embodiment of this utility model provides a D-pillar exterior trim panel with a concealed charging indicator light.

[0033] Example 1: As Figure 1-9The image shows a concealed charging indicator light on a D-pillar exterior trim panel, comprising: a trim panel body 1, an indicator light device 2, a mounting groove 101 formed on the back of the trim panel body 1; a semi-transparent panel 102 disposed on the front of the trim panel body 1; the indicator light device 2 comprising a lamp housing 3 and a light-emitting group 4, the light-emitting group 4 disposed within the lamp housing 3, the indicator light device 2 mounted within the mounting groove 101, and the indicator light device 2 corresponding to the semi-transparent panel 102; and a power connector 403 disposed on the indicator light device 2. The semi-transparent panel 102 has a light transmittance of 10%. With a light transmittance of 10%, the indicator light device 2 can be effectively protected from excessively strong external light, especially under direct sunlight, extending its service life. Furthermore, the indicator light device 2 can be normally transmitted through the semi-transparent panel 102 during charging. The lamp housing 3 is divided into a base 301 and a light diffuser 302. The light diffuser 302 is fixedly connected to the base 301. The light-emitting lamp group 4 is disposed between the base 301 and the light diffuser 302, with the light diffuser 302 facing the semi-transparent panel 102. A foam pressing area 321 is provided around the periphery of the light diffuser 302. Foam 5 is provided between the light diffuser 302 and the semi-transparent panel 102. The foam 5 cooperates with the foam pressing area 321 to achieve a thickness consistent with the central thickness of the light diffuser 302. A groove 311 is provided on the base 301, and the power connector 403 is placed within the groove 311. Screws 7 are provided on the light-emitting lamp group 4, which are fixedly connected to the lamp housing 3 via the screws 7. The light-emitting light assembly 4 is divided into a first light panel 401 and a second light panel 402. A connector 404 is provided between the first light panel 401 and the second light panel 402, and the first light panel 401 and the second light panel 402 are connected by the connector 404. A breathable membrane 6 is provided on the trim panel body 1. The breathable membrane 6 is located on the front of the trim panel body 1. The breathable membrane 6 is used to prevent moisture from being generated inside the trim panel body 1 due to environmental conditions such as temperature difference and humidity, which could damage the electronic components inside the indicator light device 2. Moisture residue on the inner wall of the semi-transparent panel 102 would also reduce the light transmission effect of the indicator light device 2 due to moisture. A foam frame 8 is provided on the back of the trim panel body 1 to prevent light leakage of the light-emitting light assembly 4. Several mounting clips 9 are fixedly connected to the back of the trim panel body 1, and the whole assembly is installed with the vehicle mounting part through the foam frame 8 and the mounting clips 9.

[0034] In this embodiment, the wall thickness of the semi-transparent panel 102 is optionally 3.5 mm, and the overall thickness of the decorative panel body 1 is optionally 3 mm. In the area where the mounting buckle 9 is provided, the local thickness of the decorative panel body 1 can be increased to 3.5 mm to enhance structural strength and assembly stability. It should be understood that the above thickness parameters can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual structural design, material properties, and assembly requirements, and this utility model is not limited to specific values.

[0035] The light-emitting group 4 can use low-power LED light sources, such as RGB LEDs with a rated power of approximately 0.2 W, and the number can be set to about 30, arranged evenly in groups of three connected in series. Driven by a control circuit, it can emit various colors such as green, yellow, red, and blue to simulate different states during the charging process, such as charging complete, charging waiting, charging failure, and external discharge. When the vehicle is in a parked charging state, the system can trigger the corresponding color light display based on the current charging information, providing an intuitive visual status indication. It should be understood that the above-mentioned light group parameters can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual structural design, material properties, and actual needs; this utility model is not limited to a specific device.

[0036] The light distribution cover 302 and the base 301 can be fixedly connected by ultrasonic welding or other methods to achieve a good sealing effect and meet environmental reliability requirements such as dustproof and waterproof. Other connection methods that can achieve reliable sealing and fixation (such as laser welding, bonding, or snap-fit) are also within the scope of this utility model.

[0037] Example 2: A concealed charging indicator light on a D-pillar exterior trim panel, comprising: a trim panel body 1, an indicator light device 2, a mounting groove 101 formed on the back of the trim panel body 1; a semi-transparent panel 102 disposed on the front of the trim panel body 1; the indicator light device 2 comprising a lamp housing 3 and a light-emitting group 4, the light-emitting group 4 disposed within the lamp housing 3, the indicator light device 2 being installed within the mounting groove 101, the indicator light device 2 corresponding to the semi-transparent panel 102; and a power connector 403 disposed on the indicator light device 2. The semi-transparent panel 102 has a light transmittance of 15%. With a light transmittance of 15%, even under excessively bright external light, the light from the indicator light device 2 can still pass through the semi-transparent panel 102 to achieve a good display effect, preventing the indicator light device 2 from being difficult to see during charging due to excessively bright light. The lamp housing 3 is divided into a base 301 and a light diffuser 302. The light diffuser 302 is fixedly connected to the base 301. The light-emitting lamp group 4 is disposed between the base 301 and the light diffuser 302, with the light diffuser 302 facing the semi-transparent panel 102. A foam pressing area 321 is provided around the periphery of the light diffuser 302. Foam 5 is provided between the light diffuser 302 and the semi-transparent panel 102. The foam 5 cooperates with the foam pressing area 321 to achieve a thickness consistent with the central thickness of the light diffuser 302. A groove 311 is provided on the base 301, and the power connector 403 is placed within the groove 311. Screws 7 are provided on the light-emitting lamp group 4, which are fixedly connected to the lamp housing 3 via the screws 7. The light-emitting light assembly 4 is divided into a first light panel 401 and a second light panel 402. A connector 404 is provided between the first light panel 401 and the second light panel 402, and the first light panel 401 and the second light panel 402 are connected by the connector 404. A breathable membrane 6 is provided on the trim panel body 1. The breathable membrane 6 is located on the front of the trim panel body 1. The breathable membrane 6 is used to prevent moisture from being generated inside the trim panel body 1 due to environmental conditions such as temperature difference and humidity, which could damage the electronic components inside the indicator light device 2. Moisture residue on the inner wall of the semi-transparent panel 102 would also reduce the light transmission effect of the indicator light device 2 due to moisture. A foam frame 8 is provided on the back of the trim panel body 1 to prevent light leakage of the light-emitting light assembly 4. Several mounting clips 9 are fixedly connected to the back of the trim panel body 1, and the whole assembly is installed with the vehicle mounting part through the foam frame 8 and the mounting clips 9.

[0038] In this embodiment, the wall thickness of the semi-transparent panel 102 is optionally 3.5 mm, and the overall thickness of the decorative panel body 1 is optionally 3 mm. In the area where the mounting buckle 9 is provided, the local thickness of the decorative panel body 1 can be increased to 3.5 mm to enhance structural strength and assembly stability. It should be understood that the above thickness parameters can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual structural design, material properties, and assembly requirements, and this utility model is not limited to specific values.

[0039] The light-emitting group 4 can use low-power LED light sources, such as RGB LEDs with a rated power of approximately 0.2 W, and the number can be set to about 30, arranged evenly in groups of three connected in series. Driven by a control circuit, it can emit various colors such as green, yellow, red, and blue to simulate different states during the charging process, such as charging complete, charging waiting, charging failure, and external discharge. When the vehicle is in a parked charging state, the system can trigger the corresponding color light display based on the current charging information, providing an intuitive visual status indication. It should be understood that the above-mentioned light group parameters can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual structural design, material properties, and actual needs; this utility model is not limited to a specific device.

[0040] The light distribution cover 302 and the base 301 can be fixedly connected by ultrasonic welding or other methods to achieve a good sealing effect and meet environmental reliability requirements such as dustproof and waterproof. Other connection methods that can achieve reliable sealing and fixation (such as laser welding, bonding, or snap-fit) are also within the scope of this utility model.

[0041] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that it can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of this invention. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered exemplary and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of this invention is defined by the appended claims, not by the foregoing description, and is therefore intended to encompass all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0042] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A D-pillar exterior trim panel with a concealed charging indicator light, comprising: Decorative panel body (1), indicator light device (2). Its features are: Mounting groove (101) is formed on the back of the decorative panel body (1); A semi-transparent panel (102) is disposed on the front side of the decorative panel body (1); The indicator light device (2) includes a lamp housing (3) and a light-emitting lamp group (4). The light-emitting lamp group (4) is disposed inside the lamp housing (3). The indicator light device (2) is installed in the mounting groove (101). The indicator light device (2) corresponds to the semi-transparent panel (102). A power connector (403) is provided on the indicator light device (2).

2. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The translucent panel (102) has a light transmittance of 10% to 15%.

3. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lamp housing (3) is divided into a base (301) and a light diffuser (302). The light diffuser (302) is fixedly connected to the base (301). The light-emitting lamp group (4) is disposed between the base (301) and the light diffuser (302). The light diffuser (302) faces the semi-transparent panel (102).

4. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 3, characterized in that: The light distribution mask (302) is provided with a foam pressing area (321) around its periphery. Foam (5) is provided between the light distribution mask (302) and the semi-transparent panel (102). The foam (5) cooperates with the foam pressing area (321) to achieve a thickness that is consistent with the thickness of the center of the light distribution mask (302) after the foam (5) and the foam pressing area (321) are cooperated.

5. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 3, characterized in that: The base (301) has a groove (311) and the power connector (403) is placed in the groove (311).

6. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light-emitting lamp assembly (4) is provided with screws (7), and the light-emitting lamp assembly (4) is fixedly connected to the lamp housing (3) by screws (7).

7. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 6, characterized in that: The light-emitting lamp group (4) is divided into a first lamp board (401) and a second lamp board (402). A connector (404) is provided between the first lamp board (401) and the second lamp board (402). The first lamp board (401) and the second lamp board (402) are connected by the connector (404).

8. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The decorative panel body (1) is provided with a breathable membrane (6), which is located on the front side of the decorative panel body (1).

9. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The back of the decorative panel body (1) is provided with a foam frame (8) to ensure that the light-emitting lamp group (4) does not leak light.

10. The D-pillar exterior trim panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: Several mounting clips (9) are fixedly connected to the back of the decorative panel body (1).