Adaptor for a release mechanism

Abstract

An adaptor (71) for mounting to a vehicle port release mechanism (1). The adaptor is provided for connecting an actuating cable (61) operable to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism. The adaptor

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to an adaptor for a release mechanism. The adaptor is suitable for a release mechanism provided in a charging port of a vehicle. Aspects of the present invention also relate to a vehicle port release mechanism incorporating an adaptor; a vehicle charging assembly; and a vehicle as described herein. BACKGROUND It is known to provide a road vehicle, such as automobiles, with a traction battery which is charged from a mains electrical supply. The vehicle comprises a charging port or a charging socket configured to be electrically connected to a charging connector. A locking mechanism may be provided on the vehicle for locking the charging connector in place. For example, the locking mechanism may be engaged during a charging cycle to prevent the charging connector being disconnected. The locking mechanism is typically actuated by an actuator, for example an electromechanical actuator. The vehicle is provided with an override to enable the locking mechanism to be released, for example to enable the charging connector to be disconnected in the event of a failure or malfunction. The charging port may comprise a release port mechanism which is operated to release the locking mechanism. A known type of vehicle port release mechanism is operated by an actuating cable which is pulled manually by the user. The actuating cable has a handle which may be stowed in a location remote from the charging port, for example in a trunk (boot) or footwell of the vehicle. A disadvantage of known systems is that the release port mechanism is typically operated by applying an actuating force in a predetermined direction which is fixed by the configuration of the release port mechanism. To ensure that the actuating force is applied in the appropriate direction, the actuating cable must have a particular orientation relative to the release port mechanism. This may place additional constraints during the design of the vehicle in terms of the locations for mounting the charging port. For example, a particular release port mechanism may require that the charging port is mounted on the left-hand side of the vehicle. A possible solution would be to have different charging ports for different locations on the vehicle. However, this may potentially result in increased complexity. It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide an adaptor, a vehicle port release mechanism; a vehicle charging assembly; and a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided an adaptor for mounting to a vehicle port release mechanism and connecting an actuating cable operable to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism; wherein the adaptor comprises: at least one mounting means for mounting the adaptor to the vehicle port release mechanism; at least one cable retainer for retaining a guide tube of the actuating cable; a force conversion mechanism comprising at least one movable transfer member, a first connector for connection to an actuating core of the actuating cable, and a second connector for connection to the vehicle port release mechanism. The actuating cable is operable to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism to unlock (or to disengage) the locking mechanism. At least in certain embodiments, the at least one movable transfer member is configured to convert a first force applied to the movable transfer member by the actuating core to a second force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism. The first and second forces are applied in respective first and second directions which are angularly offset from each other. The second force is applied to operate the vehicle port release mechanism. The force conversion mechanism is configured to apply the second force in a direction suitable for operating the vehicle port release mechanism. In use, the actuating core of the actuating cable is movable relative to the guide tube. The actuating core is displaced to apply the first force to the movable transfer member. The force conversion mechanism converts the direction in which the first force is applied to generate the second force to operate the vehicle port release mechanism. The adaptor thereby changes the direction in which the actuating force is applied to the vehicle port release mechanism. At least in certain embodiments, the adaptor facilitates installation of the vehicle port release mechanism in the vehicle. The adaptor may, for example, enable the vehicle port release mechanism to be installed in a greater range of locations in a vehicle. For example, the charging port may be mounted on different sides of the vehicle. The first and second forces may have substantially the same magnitude. The force conversion mechanism may optionally be configured to convert a magnitude of the force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism. The force conversion mechanism may increase or decrease the magnitude of the force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism. The force conversion mechanism may provide a mechanical advantage. This may facilitate operation of the vehicle port release mechanism. The vehicle port release mechanism is typically associated with a charging port assembly of the vehicle. For example, the vehicle port release assembly may be incorporated into the charging port assembly. The charging port assembly comprises a charging port or a charging socket configured to be electrically connected to a charging connector. The charging connector and the charging port may, for example, comprise a plug and a socket configured to cooperate with each otherto establish an electrical connection for charging a battery. The charging port assembly comprises a locking mechanism to lock the charging connector in the charging port assembly. The locking mechanism may comprise an actuator operable to lock the charging connector in the vehicle port release mechanism. The actuator may, for example, comprise an electromechanical actuator or a solenoid. The actuator may, for example, deploy a locking member, such as a locking pin, to engage the charging connector. Alternatively, or in addition, the locking mechanism may comprise an electromagnet which is energized to lock the charging connector in the charging port. The locking mechanism may be actuated when the charging connector is disposed in the vehicle port release mechanism. The locking mechanism may, for example, be locked to retain the charging connector in the vehicle port release mechanism during a charging cycle. The vehicle port release assembly may be actuated to release the locking mechanism. The vehicle port release mechanism provides an override to enable the locking mechanism to be unlocked. The vehicle port release assembly may provide a manual release (or a manual override) for the locking mechanism. The actuating cable may be operated manually, for example by a user pulling on a handle. At least in certain embodiments, the vehicle port release mechanism provides an override function. The vehicle port release mechanism may be operated manually. The actuating core may apply a tensile force to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism. At least in certain embodiments, the vehicle port release mechanism may provide a manual override function. For example, the vehicle port release mechanism may be actuated to override the actuator to release the locking mechanism, thereby enabling the charging connector to be removed from the vehicle port release mechanism. The vehicle port release mechanism comprises a release member. The release member is displaced, for example by application of a tensile force, to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism, thereby unlocking the locking mechanism. The force conversion mechanism may comprise at least one rotatably mounted movable transfer member. The at least one movable transfer member may comprise one or more rotatable movable transfer member. For example, the at least one movable transfer member may comprise one or more gear. The force conversion mechanism may comprise a geartrain comprising one or more gears. At least in certain embodiments, the at least one movable transfer member comprises or consists of a pivotable lever arm having a first end and a second end. The first connector may be disposed at the first end of the lever arm and the second connector may be disposed at the second end. The lever arm may be pivotable about a pivot axis. The pivot axis may extend perpendicular to a plane in which the first and second forces act. The pivot axis may be disposed between the firstand second ends of the lever arm. The lever arm may be pivotably mounted, for example by a pivot pin. The lever arm may be L-shaped. At least in certain embodiments, this arrangement may facilitate the introduction of the angular offset between the first and second directions of the respective first and second forces. The first and second directions may be substantially perpendicular to each other. For example, the first force may be applied in a longitudinal direction and the second force may be applied in a transverse direction. In use, the actuating cable may extend in a longitudinal direction such that the first force is applied in the longitudinal direction. The vehicle port release mechanism may be actuated by application of a transverse force. The adaptor may comprise a coupling for coupling the second connector to the vehicle port release mechanism. The coupling may comprise a resilient or flexible coupling, for example a cable, a cord. The coupling may comprise a tension member which, in use, is subjected to a tensile force. The coupling may transmit the second force to the vehicle port release mechanism over only a part of the range of motion of the movable transfer member, for example over an end part of the range of motion. This may provide a degree of separation between the movable transfer member and the vehicle port release mechanism, thereby helping to reduce or prevent the transmittal of forces from the vehicle port release mechanism to the movable transfer member. At least in certain embodiments, this helps to reduce the generation of unwanted sounds that may otherwise be transmitted into the vehicle. The coupling may comprise a lost motion mechanism to enable a predetermined amount of relative motion between the second connector and the vehicle port release mechanism. The lost motion mechanism may be configured to reduce or prevent the transmittal of forces from the vehicle port release mechanism to the actuating cable which may otherwise result in the generation and / or transmission of sound into the vehicle. The lost motion mechanism may comprise a drive member for selectively engaging the second connector. The drive member may be configured to engage the second connector in dependence on the application of the first force by the actuator core. The drive member may disengage (or not engage) the second connector when the first force is released. The first and second directions may be in opposite directions. The drive member may be fixedly mounted on the flexible coupling. The drive member may, for example, comprise a ball. The selective engagement of the second connector provides a lost motion mechanism. The adaptor may comprise at least one spring member for biasing the at least one movable transfer member towards a rest position. The at least one spring member may return the at least one movable transfer member to the rest position. In an embodiment comprising a lost motion mechanism, the drive member may be disengaged when the at least one moveable transfer member is in the rest position. At least in certain embodiments, the adaptor is mounted to the vehicle port release mechanism. The adaptor may comprise mounting means for mounting to the vehicle port release mechanism. The at least one mounting means may enable mounting of the adaptor directly onto the vehicle port release mechanism. The mounting means may comprise one or more mechanical fastener, for example one or more threaded bolt, clip or retainer. The adaptor may comprise at least one of a first mount and a second mount for mounting the at least one movable transfer member. The first mount and the second mount may define respective first and second pivot axis for the at least one movable transfer member. The first and second pivot axis may be offset from each other. The first mount may be suitable for mounting the at least one movable transfer member in a first orientation. The second mount may be suitable for mounting the at least one movable transfer member in a second orientation. The at least one movable transfer member may be selectively mounted in one of the first and second mounts. The first and second mounts may be offset from each other. The provision of the first and second mounts may enable the adaptor to operate in different applications. For example, the direction in which the first force is applied may be reversed depending on whether the at least one movable transfer member is mounted in the first mount or the second mount. The orientation of the at least one movable transfer member may be reversed. Alternatively, the adaptor may comprise a first movable transfer member configured to be mounted in the first mount; and a second movable transfer member configured to be mounted in the second mount. The first movable transfer member may be configured to be mounted in the first orientation; and the second movable transfer member may be configured to be mounted in the second orientation. The adaptor may comprise at least one of a first cable retainer and a second cable retainer. The first and second cable retainers may be provided to enable the adaptor to be used in different applications. The first cable retainer may be configured to retain the cable when the at least one movable transfer member is mounted in the first mount. The second cable retainer may be configured to retain the cable when the at least one movable transfer member is mounted in the second mount. The first cable retainer may be configured to retain the guide tube in a first orientation. The second cable retainer may be configured to retain the guide tube in a second orientation. The guide tube may extend in opposite directions in the first and second orientations. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle charging assembly comprising a vehicle port release mechanism and an adaptor as described herein. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle port release assembly for a charging port on a vehicle, the vehicle port release assembly comprising: a vehicle port release mechanism for releasing a locking mechanism; and a connector assembly for connecting an actuating cable operable to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism, the connector assembly comprising at least one cable retainer for retaining a guide tube of the actuating cable; a force conversion mechanism comprising at least one movable transfer member, a first connector for connection to an actuating core of the actuating cable, and a second connector for connection to the vehicle port release mechanism; wherein the at least one movable transfer member is configured to convert a first force applied by the actuating core to a second force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism, the first and second forces being applied in respective first and second directions which are angularly offset from each other. At least in certain embodiments, the at least one movable transfer member is configured to convert a first force applied to the movable transfer member by the actuating core to a second force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism. The force conversion mechanism functions as an adaptor to change the direction in which the actuating force is applied to the vehicle port release mechanism. The first and second forces are applied in respective first and second directions which are angularly offset from each other. The second force is applied to operate the vehicle port release mechanism. The force conversion mechanism is configured to apply the second force in a direction suitable for operating the vehicle port release mechanism. At least in certain embodiments, the force conversion mechanism facilitates installation of the vehicle port release mechanism in the vehicle. In use, the actuating core of the actuating cable is movable relative to the guide tube. The actuating core is displaced to apply the first force to the movable transfer member. The vehicle port release assembly may comprise at least one of a first mount and a second mount for mounting the at least one movable transfer member. The first mount and the second mount may define respective first and second pivot axis for the at least one movable transfer member. The first and second pivot axis may be offset from each other. The first mount may be suitable for mounting the at least one movable transfer member in a first orientation. The second mount may be suitable for mounting the at least one movable transfer member in a second orientation. The at least one movable transfer member may be selectively mounted in one of the first and second mounts. The first and second mounts may be offset from each other. The provision of the first and second mounts may enable the vehicle port release assembly to be in used in different applications. For example, the direction in which the first force is applied may be reversed depending on whether the at least one movable transfer member is mounted in the first mount or the second mount. The orientation of the at least one movable transfer member may be reversed. Alternatively, the vehicle port release assembly may comprise a first movable transfer member configured to be mounted in the first mount; and a second movable transfer member configured to be mounted in the second mount. The first movable transfer member may be configured to be mounted in the first orientation; and the second movable transfer member may be configured to be mounted in the second orientation. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising an adaptor as described herein or a vehicle charging assembly as described herein. At least in certain embodiments, the vehicle port release mechanism described herein is a charging port release mechanism. The charging port release mechanism may be configured to release a locking mechanism of a charging port. The charging port may be configured to receive a charging connector, for example to charge a traction battery on the vehicle. The locking mechanism may be configured to engage the charging connector, for example to prevent the charging connector being disconnecting during a charging cycle. At least in certain embodiments, the charging port release mechanism is used in combination with, or integrated into, the charging port. The charging port release mechanism may be operable to unlock the locking mechanism to release the charging connector. The charging port release mechanism may, for example, provide a manual override for unlocking the locking mechanism so that the charging connector can be disconnected. The vehicle port release mechanism may form part of a vehicle port release assembly. The vehicle port release mechanism may be integrated into the vehicle port release assembly. The vehicle port release assembly may be referred to as a charging port release assembly. Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in anyway and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a vehicle comprising a vehicle port release assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the vehicle shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of the vehicle port release assembly shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 shows an adaptor mounted to the vehicle port release assembly shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a movable transfer member of the adaptor shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a return spring of the adaptor shown in Figure 4; Figure 7 shows the movable transfer member of the adaptor in a rest position; Figure 8 shows the movable transfer member of the adaptor in a deployed position; Figure 9 shows the movable transfer member of the adaptor in the rest position with the coupling extended; Figure 10 shows the adaptor mounted in a reverse arrangement with the movable transfer member in a rest position; and Figure 11 shows the adaptor mounted in the reverse arrangement shown in Figure 10 with the movable transfer member in a deployed position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION An adaptor 71 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures. As shown in Figure 1, the adaptor 71 is mounted on a vehicle port release assembly 1 installed in a vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 is an automobile in the present embodiment. It will be understood that the vehicle port release assembly 1 may be installed in other types of vehicle, such as a utility vehicle, a sports utility vehicle or a motorbike. The vehicle 100 is described herein with reference to a longitudinal axis X, a transverse axis Y and a vertical axis Z. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle 100 in the present embodiment is a battery electric vehicle (BEV). In a variant, the vehicle 100 may be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The vehicle 100 comprises at least one electric drive unit (EDU) 13, a traction battery 15 and an inverter 17. The at least one EDU 13 comprises an electric traction motor 19 for propelling the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 comprises a charging port assembly 21 for connection to an external electrical power supply (denoted generally by the reference numeral 23) to supply electrical current to charge the traction battery 15. The electrical power supply 23 may, for example, comprise a charging station 23 connected to a mains (grid) electrical supply. The charging of the traction battery 15 may be controlled manually or automatically. For example, the charging of the traction battery 15 can be controlled using a human machine interface (HMI). The HMI can be provided on one or more of the following: the vehicle 100, the charging station 23 and a software application operating on a cellulartelephone 25. Alternatively, or in addition, the charging may be controlled in dependence on an estimated state of charge (SOC) of the traction battery 15. As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the charging port assembly 21 comprises a charging socket 31 and a locking mechanism 33. The vehicle port release assembly 1 is incorporated into the charging port assembly 21. The vehicle port release assembly 1 provides a manual release for the locking mechanism 33. The charging socket 31 is configured to be electrically connected to a charging connector 37. The charging connector 37 is connected to the electrical power supply 12 by an electrical cable 29. The charging socket 31 and the charging connector 37 comprise cooperating electrical connectors. The charging connector 37 in the present embodiment comprises a plug for cooperating with the charging socket 31. It will be understood that the plug and socket arrangement of the charging socket 31 and the charging connector 37 may be reversed. The charging connector 37 is displaced relative to the charging socket 31 to connect / disconnect the charging station 23 to / from the vehicle 100. The charging socket 31 is fixedly mounted to a body of the vehicle 100. An electrical cable 39 is provided to connect the charging socket 31 to the inverter 17. In the present embodiment, the charging socket 31 is mounted to a left side of the vehicle 100. The charging socket 31 may be mounted to the vehicle 100 in other locations, for example on a front ora rear of the vehicle 100 or on a right side of the vehicle 100. The charging socket may 31 also be mounted to a variety of locations on the left side of the vehicle 100 orthe right side of the vehicle 100. The locking mechanism 33 is operative to lock the charging connector 37. When activated, the locking mechanism 33 locks the charging connector 37 in the charging socket 31. The vehicle port release assembly 1 comprises a vehicle port release mechanism 35 operable to unlock the locking mechanism 33 to release the charging connector 37. The locking mechanism 33 is engaged during charging of the traction battery 15 to prevent the charging connector 37 being disconnected. The locking mechanism 33 is disengaged when charging of the traction battery 15 is complete to enable the charging connector 37 to be disconnected. Other control strategies are contemplated for controlling operation of the locking mechanism 33. For example, the locking mechanism 33 may be user-controlled. The locking mechanism 33 comprises an actuator (not shown) operative to engage the charging connector 37. The actuator in the present embodiment is an electromechanical actuator. An electronic control unit (ECU) 43 is provided for controlling operation of the actuator. The ECU 43 comprises at least one electrical processor 45 and a memory device 47. A set of computational instructions 49 is stored on the memory device 47. When executed, the computational instructions 49 cause the at least one electrical processor 45 to perform the method(s) described herein. The ECU 43 is configured to control the actuator to engage the locking mechanism 33 while the traction battery 15 is charging; and to control the actuator to disengage the locking mechanism 33 when charging of the traction battery 15 is complete. The vehicle port release mechanism 35 is combined with the locking mechanism 33. Alternatively, the vehicle port release mechanism 35 may be formed separately from the locking mechanism 33. The vehicle port release mechanism 35 comprises a manual release mechanism 51 operable manually to unlock the locking mechanism 33. The manual release mechanism 51 is operable independently of the actuator and provides a manual override for the locking mechanism 33. In use, the manual release mechanism 51 is operable to disengage the locking mechanism 33 to enable the charging connector 37 to be disconnected from the charging socket 31. The manual release mechanism 51 comprises a release member 53 (shown in Figure 7) which is movable to disengage the locking mechanism 33. The release member 53 in the present embodiment is rotatable to disengage the locking mechanism 33. The release member 53 is in the form of a coiled member which extends as the actuating force F2 is applied. In a variant, the release member 53 may be slidable to disengage the locking mechanism 33. The application of an actuating force F2 causes the release member 53 to rotate the and to disengage the locking mechanism 33. A spring member (not shown) is provided to bias the release member 53 towards a rest (neutral) position. The actuating force F2 overcomes the biasing force applied by the spring member to operate the manual release mechanism 51. The biasing force returns the release member 53 to the neutral position when the actuating force F2 is released. The actuating force F2 is a linear force which in the present embodiment is applied in a transverse direction. In particular, the actuating force F2 is applied along a transverse axis Y1 extending substantially perpendicular to the outer face 31A of the charging socket 31. It will be understood that the locking mechanism 33 may be configured such that the actuating force F2 is applied in different directions. The vehicle port release mechanism 35 is operated by an actuating cable 61, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The actuating cable 61 is connected to a handle 63 for manual operation. The actuating cable 61 comprises a guide tube 65 and an actuating core 67. The actuating core 67 is located inside the guide tube 65. The actuating core 67 is movable relative to the guide tube 65 and transmits the actuating force F2 to operate the manual release mechanism 51. The actuating cable 61 is connected at a first end to the handle 63 and at a second end to the vehicle port release assembly 1. The actuating cable 61 enables the handle 63 to be located distal from the locking mechanism 33. The handle 63 may, for example, be disposed in a cabin or a trunk of the vehicle 100. As shown in Figure 4, a mechanical connector 69 is fastened to a distal end of the actuating core 67 for connecting the actuating core 67 to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The mechanical connector 69 may, for example, be crimped onto the actuating core 67. As shown in Figure 4, an adaptor 71 is mounted to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The adaptor 71 comprises a base 73, first and second cable retainers 75-1,75-2 and a force conversion mechanism 77. The base 73 comprises at least one mounting means 79 for mounting the adaptor 71 to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The at least one mounting means 79 may, for example, comprise a mechanical fastener, such as a threaded fastener or a spring clip fastener. The first and second cable retainers 75-1, 75-2 are diametrically opposed to each other on the base 73. First and second cable retainers 75-1,75-2 are provided to enable the operation of the adaptor 71 to be reversed, for example to enable the adaptor 71 to be used in different applications in which the orientation of the actuating cable 61 is connected in opposing first and second directions. Depending on the orientation of the actuating cable 61 relative to the vehicle port release mechanism 35, either the first cable retainer 75-1 or the second cable retainer 75-2 engages the actuating cable 61. In the actuating arrangement shown in Figures 3 and 4, the actuating cable 61 extends in a first direction and is retained in the first cable retainer 75-1. In the actuating arrangement shown in Figures 10 and 11 (described later), the actuating cable 61 extends in a second direction and is retained in the second cable retainer 75-2. A different force conversion mechanism 77 may be installed (or the force conversion mechanism 77 may be reversed) for the different mounting arrangements. The adaptor 71 may have only one cable retainer. For example, one of the first and second cable retainers 75-1,75-2 may be omitted. Alternatively, or in addition, the base 73 may be mountable to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 in different orientations. In a variant, the adaptor 71 may be combined with the vehicle port release mechanism 35. In this arrangement, the base 73 may be formed integrally with the vehicle port release mechanism 35, for example as a sidewall of a housing. The at least one mounting means 79 may be omitted. The force conversion mechanism 77 comprises a movable transfer member 80 and a coupling 81 for connection to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The movable transfer member 80 is movable between a rest position (shown in Figure 7) and deployed position (shown in Figure 8). In Figure 4, the movable transfer member 80 is represented by solid lines in the rest position, and in the deployed position by broken lines. The movable transfer member 80 in the present embodiment is in the form of a lever arm 80 which is pivotable about a pivot axis Z1. The movable transfer member 80 comprises a pivot pin 82 which locates in at least one pivot aperture 83 formed in the base 73 (shown in Figure 4). In the present embodiment, first and second pivot apertures 83-1, 83-2 are formed in the base 73 to enable the orientation of the movable transfer member 80 to be reversed. The first and second pivot apertures 83-1,83-2 are offset from each other to define respective first and second pivot axis Z1, Z2. The first and second pivot axis Z1, Z2 extend parallel to each other. In the actuating arrangement shown in Figures 3 and 4, the movable transfer member 80 is pivotable about the first pivot axis Z1. In the actuating arrangement shown in Figures 10 and 11 (described further later), the movable transfer member 80 is pivotable about the second pivot axis Z2. By reversing the orientation of the movable transfer member 80, the adaptor 71 can be used for different applications in which the actuating cable 61 is connected in opposing first and second directions. As outlined above, the first and second cable retainers 75-1,75-2 are provided to accommodate the different orientations of the actuating cable 61. The adaptor 71 may have only one pivot aperture 83. For example, one of the first and second pivot apertures 83-1,83-2 may be omitted. A return spring 86 (shown in Figure 6) is provided to bias the movable transfer member 80 to a rest position. The return spring 86 may, for example, comprise a coil spring located around the pivot pin 82. The movable transfer member 80 is an L-shaped member comprising first and second arms 85A, 85B, as shown in Figure 5. The included angle between the first and second arms 85A, 85B is approximately ninety degrees (90°). The first arm 85A is shorter than the second arm 85B in the present embodiment. In a variant, the first and second arms 85A, 85B may have least substantially the same length, or the first arm 85A may be longer than the second arm 85B. The movable transfer member 80 has a first end 81A disposed on the first arm 85A; and a second end 81B disposed on the second arm 85B. A first connector 87A is provided at the first end 81 A; and a second connector 87B is provided at the second end 81B. The actuating core 67 of the actuating cable 61 is connected to the first connector 87A; and the coupling 81 is connected to the second connector 87B. The coupling 81 comprises a first end and a second end. The first end of the coupling 81 is fixedly connected to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. As described in more detail herein, the second end of the coupling 81 is configured selectively to engage the second connector 87B. The force conversion mechanism 77 is configured to convert a first force F1 applied to the movable transfer member 80 by the actuating core 67 to a second force F2. The second force F2 is an actuating force which is applied to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 to release the locking mechanism 33. The conversion comprises changing a direction in which the first force F1 is applied. The first force F1 and the second force F2 are applied in respective first and second directions, the first and second directions are angularly offset from each other. The second force F2 is transmitted from the movable transfer member 80 to the coupling 81 and applied to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 as the actuating force F2 to unlock the locking mechanism 33. In the present embodiment, the first and second directions are substantially perpendicular to each other. The first and second directions may be angularly offset from each other by an angle which is less than or greater than ninety degrees (90°). The included angle of the L-shaped member may be less than or greater than ninety degrees (90°). The force conversion mechanism 77 thereby changes the direction in which the force is applied to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The first force F1 is applied along longitudinal axis X1 and the second force F2 is applied along the transverse axis Y1. The longitudinal axis X1 and the transverse axis Y1 are substantially perpendicular to each other. Other configurations are contemplated for the force conversion mechanism 77. For example, the force conversion mechanism 77 may comprise one or more rotatable drive member. The one or more rotatable drive member may comprise a gear, for example. The coupling 81 in the present embodiment provides a lost motion mechanism. The coupling 81 is configured to enable a finite relative movement (travel) between the movable transfer member 80 and the vehicle port release mechanism 35 without transmitting the second force F2. The second force F2 is transmitted to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 only when the movement of the movable transfer member 80 is greater than the finite relative movement determined by the coupling 81. As shown in Figures 7, 8 and 9. the coupling 81 comprises an elongated member 89. The finite relative movement is determined by the length of the elongated member 89. The elongated member 89 has a length which is greater than the shortest distance between the second connector 87B (disposed at the second end 81B of the movable transfer member 80) and the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The coupling 81 does not transmit a second force F2 to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 for relative movements less than the finite relative movement. The length of the elongated member 89 is less than the greatest distance between the second connector 87B and the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The coupling 81 transmits the second force F2 to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 only when the movement of the movable transfer member 80 relative to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 is greater than the finite relative movement. The elongated member 89 could be connected directly to the second connector 87B. In the present embodiment, the coupling 81 comprises an engagement member 91 operative to engage the second connector 87B to transmit the second force F2. The second connector 87B comprises an aperture through which the elongated member 89 travels. The engagement member 91 is disposed at a distal end of the elongated member 89 and has an enlarged profile so as to engage the second connector 87B, thereby transmitting the second force F2. By allowing a relative movement between the movable transfer member 80 and the vehicle port release mechanism 35, the lost motion mechanism enables the actuating cable 61 at least partially to be isolated from (or decoupled from) the vehicle port release mechanism 35 and / or the locking mechanism 33. This helps to reduce or prevent the transmission offerees to the actuating cable 61, for example when the locking mechanism 33 is engaged or disengaged by the actuator. This may reduce or prevent displacement of the actuating cable 61, thereby helping to avoid the generation of noise. Other arrangements may be used to provide a lost motion function. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the adaptor 71 is mounted to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The actuating cable 61 is connected to the adaptor 71 by locating the guide tube 65 in the first cable retainer 75-1. The actuating core 67 is connected to the first connector 87A provided on the first arm 85A of the movable transfer member 80. The movable transfer member 80 is pivotably mounted to the adaptor 71 by locating the pivot pin 82 in the first pivot aperture 83-1 formed in the base 73. The coupling 81 is connected to the second connector 87E3 provided on the second arm 85B of the movable transfer member 80. The first end of the coupling 81 is connected to the release member 53 of the manual release mechanism 51. The second end of the coupling 81 is connected to the second arm 85B of the movable transfer member 80. The vehicle port release mechanism 35 is operable manually to disengage the locking mechanism 33 by pulling the handle 63. The movable transfer member 80 is shown in the rest position in Figure 7; and in the deployed position in Figure 8. After the handle 63 is released, the movable transfer member 80 returns to the rest position and the engagement member 91 disengages from the second connector 87B, as shown in Figure 9. The movable transfer member 80 is shown in the rest position with the elongated member 89 extending through aperture formed in the second connector 87B. The first force F1 is transmitted by the actuating core 67 to the force conversion mechanism 77. The actuating core 67 applies the first force F1 to the first arm 85A of the movable transfer member 80 in a first direction extending in a longitudinal direction. The first force F1 rotates the movable transfer member80 and transmits the second force F2 in a second direction extending in a transverse direction. The second force F2 is transmitted by the coupling 81 and applied as an actuating force to the release member 53 of the manual release mechanism 51. The adaptor 71 converts the direction in which the force applied by the actuating core 67 is transmitted to the vehicle port release mechanism 35. The orientation in which the adaptor 71 is mounted to the vehicle port release mechanism 35 can be reversed. At least in certain embodiments, this may enable the vehicle port release mechanism 35 to be installed in different locations on a vehicle 100, for example on opposing sides of a vehicle 100. The adaptor 71 is shown in a reversed configuration in Figures 10 and 11. The actuating cable 61 in this arrangement extends in a second direction and is retained in the second cable retainer 75-2. The movable transfer member 80 is replaced for connection to the actuating cable 61. The movable transfer member 80 in this embodiment is pivotable about the second pivot axis Z2. The position of the first connector 87A on the first arm 85A is changed for connection to the actuating cable 61. The actuating core 67 is movable relative to the guide tube 65 and transmits the second force F2 to operate the manual release mechanism 51. The movable transfer member 80 is shown in the rest position in Figure 10; and in the deployed position in Figure 11. It will be understood that the direction in which the second force F2 is applied is the same in each of the embodiments described herein. Thus, the adaptor 71 facilitates connection of the actuating cable 61 in different directions. It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. An adaptor for mounting to a vehicle port release mechanism and connecting an actuating cable operable to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism; wherein the adaptor comprises:at least one mounting means for mounting the adaptor to the vehicle port release mechanism;at least one cable retainer for retaining a guide tube of the actuating cable;a force conversion mechanism comprising at least one movable transfer member, a first connector for connection to an actuating core of the actuating cable, and a second connector for connection to the vehicle port release mechanism;wherein the at least one movable transfer member is configured to convert a first force applied to the movable transfer member by the actuating core to a second force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism, the first and second forces being applied in respective first and second directions which are angularly offset from each other.

2. An adaptor as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one movable transfer member comprises or consists of a pivotable lever arm having a first end and a second end, the first connector being disposed at the first end of the lever arm and the second connector being disposed at the second end of the lever arm.

3. An adaptor as claimed in claim 2, wherein the lever arm is L-shaped.

4. An adaptor as claimed in any one of claims 1,2 or 3, wherein the first and second directions are substantially perpendicular to each other.

5. An adaptor as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a coupling for coupling the second connector to the vehicle port release mechanism.

6. An adaptor as claimed in claim 5 wherein the coupling comprises a lost motion mechanism to enable a predetermined amount of relative motion between the second connector and the vehicle port release mechanism.

7. An adaptor as claimed in claim 6, wherein the lost motion mechanism comprises a drive member for selectively engaging the second connector.

8. An adaptor as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one spring member for biasing the at least one movable transfer member towards a rest position.

9. An adaptor as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a first mount for movably mounting the at least one movable transfer member in a first orientation.

10. An adaptor as claimed in claim 9 comprising a second mount for movably mounting the at least one movable transfer member in a second orientation; the at least one movable transfer member being mounted on one of the first and second mounts.

11. An adaptor as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one cable retainer comprises a first cable retainer and a second cable retainer, the first cable retainer being configured to retain the guide tube in a first orientation and the second cable retainer being configured to retain the guide tube in a second orientation.

12. A vehicle charging assembly comprising a vehicle port release mechanism and an adaptor as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

13. A vehicle port release assembly for a charging port on a vehicle, the vehicle port release assembly comprising:a vehicle port release mechanism for releasing a locking mechanism; anda connector assembly for connecting an actuating cable operable to actuate the vehicle port release mechanism, the connector assembly comprising at least one cable retainer for retaining a guide tube of the actuating cable;a force conversion mechanism comprising at least one movable transfer member, a first connector for connection to an actuating core of the actuating cable, and a second connector for connection to the vehicle port release mechanism;wherein the at least one movable transfer member is configured to convert a first force applied by the actuating core to a second force applied to the vehicle port release mechanism, the first and second forces being applied in respective first and second directions which are angularly offset from each other.

14. A vehicle comprising an adaptor as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 or a vehicle charging assembly as claimed in claim 12 or a vehicle port release assembly as claimed in claim 13.

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