Electric vehicle supply equipment, and a cover for an electric vehicle supply equipment

Abstract

An electric vehicle charger that features a housing 102 with a chamber 104 and a cover 140 that covers a chamber opening 105. The cover has a display element 146 on an outer panel face and a second di

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to electric vehicle supply equipment, in particular electric vehicle supply equipment for charging a traction battery of an electric vehicle. Aspects of the invention relate to an electric vehicle supply equipment having a housing and a cover, as well as to a cover suitable for such a housing. BACKGROUND It is known to provide an electric vehicle supply equipment for the transfer of electricity from a local power supply to charge the traction battery of a vehicle, such as an electric vehicle. A charging cable and charging gun for transferring electricity to the traction battery is connected to, or forms part of, the electric vehicle supply equipment. The electric vehicle supply equipment includes a housing for stowing electrical circuitry to control the charging process. During use, information is displayed to a user, for example to display charging characteristics, using a display element that is located proximal to the electrical circuitry. Consequently, in known electric vehicle supply equipment, the display element is positioned behind a screen or panel, resulting in the display element being obscured or restricted to the user. To install an electric vehicle supply equipment, it is mounted at a convenient height to a wall or on a stand, so that the charging cable, charging gun and controls etc. are readily available to the user. Access to the components within the housing is required to complete installation, or for subsequent maintenance. The height of the electric vehicle supply equipment places limits on the weight of any components that are mounted or dismounted to the housing during installation. 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 electric vehicle supply equipment, and a cover for an electric vehicle supply equipment as claimed in the appended claims. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an electric vehicle supply equipment including: a housing with a chamber and chamber opening, a cover, and a support assembly, wherein the cover is supported by the housing and moves relative to the housing from a first orientation, in which the chamber is accessible, to a second orientation, in which the cover closes the chamber opening. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a cover for an electric vehicle supply equipment, the cover including: inner panel face, an outer panel face, and a display element operable couplable to the electric vehicle supply equipment, wherein the display element is configured to display information on the outer panel face. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electric vehicle supply equipment including: a housing defining a chamber and a chamber opening, wherein the chamber stows a first display connector operably connected to the electric vehicle supply equipment; a cover including a second display element and a second display connector, wherein the second display connector is configured to be operably coupled to the first display connector so as to enable the display element to receive and display information about the electric vehicle supply equipment; and a support assembly including a first support member, mounted on the housing, and a second support member, mounted on the cover, wherein the first support member is engageable with the second support member; wherein the support assembly is configured so that, when the first support member is engaged with the second support member, the cover is supported by the housing and moves relative to the housing from a first orientation, in which the first display connector is accessible through the chamber opening, to a second orientation, in which the cover closes the chamber opening. In this way, the support assembly is configured to provide a range of movement of the cover relative to the housing while the cover is supported. The cover is suspended from the support assembly using the second support member, so that the cover is moved freely relative to the housing. Access to the chamber is possible for an installer without requiring assistance or means to support the cover. Thus an installer may complete installation or maintenance of the electric vehicle supply equipment of the components within the housing with both hands free. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cover for a housing of an electric vehicle supply equipment wherein the housing defines a chamber and a chamber opening, the cover including: an inner panel face; an outer panel face; a display element configured to display information on the outer panel face; a second display connector operably couplable to a first display connector of the housing; and a second support member; wherein the second support member is engageable with a first support member mounted on the housing so that, when engaged, the cover is supported by the housing and moves relative to the housing from a first orientation, to a second orientation, in which the cover closes the chamber opening. In this way, information about the electric vehicle supply equipment is transmitted to an outer panel face of the electric vehicle supply equipment for display to a user. The display element is uninhibited by intervening covers or layers. The brightness of the display element is maximised, increasing clarity of the displayed information. The efficiency of the display element is improved because all light emitted by the display element is emitted beyond the electric vehicle supply equipment. Optionally, the first support member may engage the second support member so that the cover pivots relative to the housing to move between the first orientation and the second orientation. In this way, the pivoting movement of the cover afforded by the support assembly, enables an installer to initially engage the cover with the housing, and then have easy access to the chamber through the chamber opening, while the cover is supported. The access requires significantly less effort by pivoting the cover away from the chamber opening. Due to the supporting and pivoting action, there is no need for an installer to bear the weight of the cover in order to have access to the chamber. Optionally, the chamber may include a retaining member configured to releasably hold the first display connector in a stowed position within the chamber. The stowed position is a predetermined location within the chamber. Optionally, the retaining member may include any mutually compatible components provided both within the chamber and on either the first display connector, or an associated cable of the first display connector. The mutually compatible components may include one or more of a hook, a clip, a pin, a notch or a fastener, or any suitable combination thereof. In this way, the first display connector is held in a stowed position and then selectively moved from the stowed position, for example for operably connecting to the second display connector. As the first display connector is stowed in a stowed position, an installer has ready access to the first display connector in predictable location. The first display connector is be positioned in proximity with a second display connector of the cover for coupling to one another. Optionally, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a locator element. The locator element may be configured to orientate the first display connector relative to the second display connector for coupling to one another. Optionally, the locator element may be provided on one of the first display connector or the second display connector. Optionally, the locator element includes a pair of mutually compatible locator elements. One of each of the pair of locator elements may be provided a respective display connector. Optionally, a first locator element may include an elongate rib and a second locator element may include a compatible groove or channel. Optionally, a first locator element may include a male element with a cross-sectional shape, and a second locator element may include a female element with a corresponding cross-sectional shape. In this way, the first display connector and second display connector are couplable in a predetermined rotational orientation. Each electrical connector pin of the one of the display connectors is brought into contact with the appropriate partner electrical connector socket of the other display connector. This ensures correct functioning of the coupled first display connector and second display connector. Optionally, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a locking element. The locking element may be configured so that, with the first display connector coupled to the second display connector, the first display connector is locked to the second display connector. Optionally, the locking element may be formed on one of the first display connector or the second display connector. Optionally, the locking element may include a pair of mutually compatible locator elements. One of each of the pair of locking elements may be provided a respective display connector. In this way, unintentional decoupling or separation of the first display connector and second display connector is prevented, maintaining correct function overtime. Optionally, any one of the first display connector and the second display connector may include a magnetised portion, and one other of the first display connector and the second display connector may include a magnetic portion. Optionally, the first display connector may include a magnetised portion, and the second display connector may include a magnetic portion. Optionally, the second display connector may include a magnetised portion, and the first display connector may include a magnetic portion. Optionally, the magnetised portion and the magnetic portion may be together configured to provide, in the first orientation, an urging force to draw the cover into the second orientation. The urging force may provided by a magnetic attraction between the magnetised portion and the magnetic portion. In this way, the urging force enables the cover to close the chamber opening with reduced closure force from the installer. Assembly of the electric vehicle supply equipment is quicker and easier as the installer simply has to engage the cover with the housing in a first orientation and it will be urged automatically to a second orientation, closing the chamber opening. Optionally, the urging force may couple the first display connector to the second display connector. In this way, the first display connector and second display connector are coupled without requiring further action from the installer. Due to their relative positionings, the first display connector and the second display connector locate with, and couple to, one another as the cover moves from the first orientation to the second orientation. Furthermore, the magnetic portion abuts the magnetised portion so that the cover is secured over the chamber opening. Unintentional separation of the cover from the chamber opening is prevented. Optionally, the housing may include a perimeter wall. The perimeter wall may have a first perimeter wall portion and an opposing, second perimeter wall portion. Optionally, the first support member may be mounted to the first perimeter wall portion and the first display connector may be held proximal to the second perimeter wall portion. That is, the stowed position may be proximal to the second perimeter wall portion. In this way, the stowed position stows the first display connector in proximity with the second perimeter wall portion. The first display connector is stowed at an opposing end of the housing to the support assembly so that an installer need only move the cover a minimal amount in order to have access to couple the first display connector and the second display connector. Optionally, the first support member may include an outwardly-facing channel portion. Optionally, the second support member may include at least one elongate member configured to be received along a channel portion. In these ways, the cover is guided into engagement with the housing without requiring precise alignment. Assembly time for the electric vehicle supply equipment is reduced. Furthermore, the electric vehicle supply equipment may be quickly disassembled, by simply disengaging the cover from the housing. Optionally, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a fastener assembly. The fastener assembly may be configured to secure the cover in the second orientation. In this way, the cover is secured over the chamber opening. Unintentional separation of the cover from the chamber opening is prevented. Optionally, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a water-tight sub-housing. The water-tight subhousing may include an electrical circuit associated with charging an electric vehicle. Optionally, the first display connector may be disposed external to the sub-housing and operably connected to an electrical circuit within the sub-housing. In this way, the electrical circuits are isolated from the external environment other than for the electrical connectivity provided by the cable and the charging cable. The arrangement increases safety of the device and improves longevity of the electrical circuits. Optionally, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a drum within the chamber. The drum may be for receiving windings of a charging cable to stow the charging cable in the housing. Optionally, the drum may be rotatable relative to the housing. The drum may eject and retract the charging cable relative to the housing. Optionally, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a charging cable and a charging gun. The stowed charging cable and charging gun are removable from the housing for use, by dispensing certain components from the housing for use in charging a vehicle. The charging cable and charging gun are and then retracted them into the housing after use to provide protection between uses. 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 any way 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: FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic rear view, and FIG. 1B illustrates a schematic front view, of a cover of an electric vehicle supply equipment in accordance with embodiments of the invention; FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic front view of a housing of an electric vehicle supply equipment in accordance with embodiments of the invention; FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic side view of the cover of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, as well as the housing of FIG. 2, prior to engagement; FIG. 4A illustrates a close up perspective view of a first display connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention; FIG. 4B illustrates a close up perspective view of a second display connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention; FIG. 5A illustrates a close up perspective view of a first support member in accordance with embodiments of the invention; FIG. 5B illustrates a close up perspective view of a second support member in accordance with embodiments of the invention; FIG. 6A illustrates a schematic side view of the cover and housing of FIG. 3 in a first orientation; FIG. 6B illustrates a schematic side view of the cover and housing of FIG. 3 in a second orientation; FIG. 7A illustrates a schematic side view of another cover and another housing in accordance with embodiments of the invention in a first orientation; FIG. 7B illustrates a schematic side view of the cover and housing of FIG. 7A in a second orientation; FIG. 8A illustrates a schematic front view of a first display connector of the housing of FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B; and FIG. 8B illustrates a schematic front view of a second display connector of the cover of FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION It is known to provide an electric vehicle supply equipment at home address, and a vehicle can be connected to the supply equipment and receive charge therefrom to charge an energy store of the vehicle. Discussion here in supply of electrical charge to the vehicle should be understood as a supply of electrical charge of an energy storage means of the vehicle e.g. a rechargeable battery. An electric vehicle supply equipment (or simply supply equipment) may be understood to be a “charger” or “home charger”, i.e. an apparatus which can be connected to a vehicle (and the electrical energy storage of that vehicle) for the provision of charge from the supply equipment to the vehicle, to recharge the electrical energy storage. The vehicle may be a battery electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, for example. Electric vehicle supply equipment and covers suitable for the electric vehicle supply equipment, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, are described herein with reference to the accompanying FIG. 1A to FIG. 8B. With reference to FIG. 1A to FIG. 6B, there is shown an electric vehicle supply equipment 100 according to embodiments of the invention. The electric vehicle supply equipment 100 includes a housing 102 and a cover 140. Referring particularly to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, there is shown the cover 140 for the housing 102. The cover 140 is formed as a panel, having an inner panel face 142 and an outer panel face 144. The inner panel face 142 and outer panel face 144 are arranged as opposing faces of the cover 140 so that, when mounted to the electric vehicle supply equipment 100, the inner panel face 142 faces towards the housing 102 and the outer panel face 144 faces away from the electric vehicle supply equipment 100. The cover 140 is circumscribed by a cover periphery 141. The cover periphery 141 includes a first cover periphery portion and an opposing, second cover periphery portion. The first cover periphery portion forms an upper end to the cover 140. The second cover periphery portion forms a lower end to the cover 140. The cover 140 includes a display element 146. The display element 146 is configured to display information on the outer panel face 144. The display element 146 is mounted to the cover 140, for example using suitable fasteners and I or adhesive. The display element 146 is mounted to the cover 140 in proximity with the second cover periphery portion. The display element 146 is mounted so that a portion of the display element 146 forms part of the outer panel face 144. The display element 146 is mounted through an aperture in the cover 140. The aperture in the cover 140 is circumscribed by an aperture periphery. With the display element 146 mounted through the aperture, the outer surface of the display element 146 is flush with the aperture periphery. The display element 146 forms a continuous surface with the outer panel face 144. The display element 146 includes, for example, one or more of: an electronic screen, a light, a series of lights, or other suitable visual indicators. The display element 146 is capable of displaying information to a user, for example using text, numerals, icons, symbols, etc. to inform a user about the electric vehicle supply equipment 100. The cover 140 also includes a second display connector 150. The second display connector 150 extends from the inner panel face 142. The second display connector 150 is operably connected to the display element 146, and couplable to a corresponding first display connector 120 provided in the housing 102. In this way, information about the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 may be transmitted to the display element 146, for display to a user. In addition, as the display element 146 forms a continuous surface of with the outer panel face 144, the information displayed by the display element 146 is presented to the user on the outer panel face 144. In this way, the display element 146 is uninhibited or unimpeded by intervening covers or layers. The brightness of the display element 146 is maximised, increasing clarity of the displayed information. The efficiency of the display element 146 is improved because any light emitted by the display element 146 is emitted from the outer panel face 144. The cover 140 includes a second support member 130. The second support member 130 is mounted to the inner panel face 142 at the first cover periphery portion. The second support member 130 is configured to be engageable with a first support member 110 mounted on the housing 102, as described with reference to FIG. 5B below. The cover 140 includes a second fastener 156b. The second fastener 156b is arranged on the inner panel face 142 of the cover 140, in proximity with the second cover periphery portion. In the example, the second fastener 156b is a bracket with a threaded aperture. The second fastener 156b is part of a fastener assembly, for securing the cover 140 to the housing 102, as described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6B. Referring particularly to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, there is shown a housing 102 of an electric vehicle supply equipment 100. The housing 102 defines a chamber 104 and a chamber opening 105. In the example shown, the chamber opening 105 spans substantially all of one face of the housing 102. The chamber 104 is configured to stow components of the electric vehicle supply equipment 100. The stowed components may be removable from the housing 102 for use, for example by dispensing certain components from the housing 102 for use in charging a vehicle, and then retracted them into the housing 102 after use. For example, the electric vehicle supply equipment may include a charging cable and a charging gun for coupling to an electric vehicle to charge the rechargeable battery of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle supply equipment may include a drum within the chamber for receiving windings of the charging cable to stow the charging cable in the housing. The drum may be rotatable relative to the housing to eject and retract the charging cable relative to the housing. The housing 102 includes a perimeter wall 106. The perimeter wall 106 has a first perimeter wall portion 108 and an opposing, second perimeter wall portion 109. The first perimeter wall portion 108 forms an upper wall portion of the housing 102. The second perimeter wall portion 109 forms a lower wall portion of the housing 102. The housing 102 includes a first support member 110. The first support member 110 is mounted to the housing 102 at the first perimeter wall portion 108. The first support member 110 is configured to engage the second support member 130 so that the cover 140 is mounted to the housing 102. With the second support member 130 engaged with the first support member 110, the cover 140 is supported by the housing 102 and moves relative to the housing 102, as described with reference to FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, from a first orientation, to a second orientation in which the cover 140 closes the chamber opening 105. The housing 102 includes a first fastener 156a. The first fastener 156a is arranged within the chamber 104, in proximity with the second perimeter wall portion 109. The second fastener 156b is part of a fastener assembly, and is mutually compatible with the first fastener 156a of the cover 140. In the example, the second fastener 156b is bracket with a threaded bolt mounted through the bracket. The threaded bolt is engageable with the threaded aperture of the first fastener 156a of the cover to secure the second fastener 156b to the first fastener 156a. The electric vehicle supply equipment 100 includes a water-tight sub-housing 114. The sub-housing 114 is arranged at a lower end of the housing 102. The sub-housing 114 encloses all of the electrical circuits of the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 for receiving and discharging electrical charge. The sub-housing 114 includes a cable 122 that exits from the sub-housing 114 via a first water-tight outlet. The sub-housing 114 also receives an end of the charging cable (not shown) via a second water-tight outlet, so that the charging cable is operably connected to the electrical circuits within the sub-housing 114. In this way, the electrical circuits are isolated from the external environment other than for the electrical connectivity provided by the cable 122 and the charging cable. The arrangement increases safety of the device and improves longevity of the electrical circuits. The chamber 104 includes the first display connector 120. The first display connector 120 is disposed external to the sub-housing 114 and is operably connected to electrical circuits within the sub-housing 114 using the cable 122. The first display connector 120 is operably couplable with the second display connector 150 of the cover 140 to provide information about the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 to the display element 146, as described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. The chamber 104 includes a retaining member 124. The retaining member 124 is located in at the lower end of the housing 102. The retaining member 124 is configured to releasably hold the first display connector 120 in a stowed position within the chamber 104. In particular, the retaining member 124 includes a strap and a receiving pin. The strap is formed as a loop secured to the receiving pin within the chamber 104. The strap is sufficiently long that the cable 122 and first display connector 120 may inserted through the loop. The strap is releasably secured to the receiving pin. In this way, the first display connector 120 may be selectively moved from the stowed position, for example for operably connecting to the second display connector 150. As will be apparent, any suitable retaining member may be provided to releasable secure the first display connector 120 in the stowed position. The retaining member may include any mutually compatible components within the chamber 104 and on the first display connector 120, or its cable 122, such as hooks, clip, or fasteners. With the cable 122 and first display connector 120 inserted through the loop of the strap, the first display connector 120 is in a stowed position within the chamber 104. In the stowed position, the first display connector 120 is held proximal to the second perimeter wall portion 109. In this way, the first display connector 120 and the first support member 110 are at opposing ends of the chamber 104 prior to engagement of the cover 140 with the housing 102. Referring particularly to FIG. 3, the cover 140 is shown positioned before engaging the housing 102. The cover 140 is positioned in front of the chamber opening 105, with the first support member 110 aligned with the second support member 130. The cover 140 is slightly larger than the chamber opening 105. That is, the perimeter wall 106 and the cover periphery 141 have substantially the same shape and size. In this way, when the cover 140 is mounted to the chamber opening 105, it closes the chamber opening 105 and forms a closure to the chamber 104. The first display connector 120 is in the stowed position, although the retaining member 124 is not shown, in order to aid clarity of the schematic. Each of the first display connector 120 and second display connector 150 are located at opposing ends of the housing 102 to the first support member 110 and second support member 130. Referring now to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the first display connector 120 and second display connector 150 are shown in more detail. In FIG. 4A, the first display connector 120 is shown in a stowed position, as described above. A portion of the cable 122 that extends from the first display connector 120 to the sub-housing 114 is shown with an intermediary point of the cable 122 retained by the retaining member 124. The first display connector 120 is a female connector, including cavity circumscribed by a cylindrical wall. A series of electrical connector pins are provided within the cavity. Each of the electrical connector pins are oriented axially within the cavity. The first display connector 120 includes a locator element 152a. The locator element 152a is formed as elongate rib extending partly along an inner surface of the cylindrical wall. The elongate rib extends in the axial direction of the cavity, from a mouth of the cavity to approximately halfway into the cavity. The first display connector 120 includes a locking element 154a. The locking element 154a is provided as a formation on the inner surface of the cylindrical wall, beyond the elongate rib of the locator element 152a. Referring now to FIG. 4B - the second display connector 150 is shown. The second display connector 150 is operably coupled to the display element 146 through a short length of cable. The second display connector 150 includes a locator element 152b and a locking element 154b. The second display connector 150 includes a cylindrical protrusion with a series of electrical connector sockets for receiving one each of the electrical connector pins. The cylindrical protrusion is circumscribed by an annular channel. The locator element 152a is formed as an axial groove in the annular channel. The locator element 152a of the first display connector 120 is configured to engage with corresponding locator element 152b provided on the second display connector 150 to orient the first display connector 120 relative to the second display connector 150 for coupling to one another. Stated differently, the pair of locator elements 152a, 152b are configured so that the second display connector 150 is received within the first display connector 120 in a predetermined rotational orientation. In this way, each electrical connector pin of the first display connector 120 contacts the appropriate partner electrical connector socket of the second display connector 150. This ensures correct functioning of the coupled first display connector 120 and second display connector 150. The locking element 154a is provided within the annular channel. The locking element 154a is configured to engage with the compatible locking element 154b provided on the second display connector 150 to lock the first display connector 120 to the second display connector 150 after they are coupled to one another. Stated differently, the pair of locking elements 154a, 154b are cooperatingly configured so that the second display connector 150 is locked within the first display connector 120 after coupling. For example, the locking elements 154a, 154b may include a notch and a cooperating nub located at distal ends of the elongate rib and the axial groove to engage one another when the first display connector 120 and 150 are coupled. In this way, unintentional decoupling or separation of the first display connector 120 and second display connector 150 is prevented, maintaining correct function overtime. Referring now to FIG. 5A to FIG. 6B, the support assembly of the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 is shown and described in use. In FIG. 5A, the first support member 110 of the support assembly is shown in more detail. In FIG. 5B, the second support member 130 of the support assembly is shown in more detail. The first support member 110 includes a pair of channel portions 112. Each channel portion 112 is mounted to an inner face of the first perimeter wall portion 108 of the housing 102. Each channel portion 112 projects out of the chamber opening 105. The channel portions 112 are arranged to be spaced apart along first perimeter wall portion 108. In this way, the channel portions 112 form a discontinuous and outwardly-facing channel. The second support member 130 includes a pair of elongate members 132. Each elongate member 132 adjoins a bracket for attachment to the inner panel face 142 of the cover 140. The elongate members 132 are arranged to be spaced apart along the first cover periphery portion. In this way, the elongate member 132 forms a discontinuous hook, oriented inward from the first cover periphery portion. Each elongate member 132 is configured to engage with a corresponding channel portions 112 as the cover 140 is engaged with the housing 102. The elongate members 132 hook into the corresponding channel portion 112 so that the cover 140 is supported over the chamber opening 105 of the housing 102. The channel portions 112 and elongate members 132 are configured to provide a range of movement of the cover 140 relative to the housing 102 while the supported. In particular, the cover 140 is pivotable relative to the housing 102. That is, the cover 140 is suspended from the support assembly using the second support member 130 to be moved freely about the first support member 110. Referring particularly to FIG. 6A , the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 is shown with the first support member 110 engaged with the second support member 130, with the cover 140 in a first orientation. The second cover periphery portion is spaced apart from the second perimeter wall portion 109 to provide access to the chamber 104 through the chamber opening 105. Access to the chamber 104 is particularly easy at the lower end of the chamber 104, in proximity with the second perimeter wall portion 109. Thus an installer may complete installation of the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 by coupling the first display connector 120 to the second display connector 150 while the cover 140 is supported by the support assembly. Due to the pivoting movement of the cover 140 afforded by the support assembly, an installer may initially engage the cover 140 with the housing 102, and then have access to the chamber 104 while the cover 140 is supported from its second support member 130 by lifting the second cover periphery portion away from the second perimeter wall portion 109. Due to the supporting and pivoting action, there is no need to bear the weight of the cover 140 in order to provide access to the chamber 104. As the first display connector 120 is stowed in a stowed position, the installer has ready access to the first display connector 120 once the cover 140 is engaged with the housing 102. Furthermore, as the stowed position stows the first display connector 120 in proximity with the second perimeter wall portion 109, that is at an opposing end of the housing 102 to the support assembly, an installer need only move the cover 140 a minimal amount in orderto have access to couple the first display connector 120 and second display connector 150. To couple the first display connector 120 and second display connector 150, the first display connector 120 is separated from the retaining member 124, for example by detaching the strap from its receiving pin. The first display connector 120 is then free to be moved towards the cover 140, beyond the chamber opening 105, in orderto reach the second display connector 150 for coupling together. Referring particularly to FIG. 6B, the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 is shown with the first support member 110 engaged with the second support member 130, with the cover 140 moved to a second orientation. The second cover periphery abuts the perimeter wall 106 to close the chamber opening 105. The chamber 104 is isolated from the external environment with the first display connector 120 and second display connector 150 coupled together and the display element 146 coupled to the first display connector 120. The display element 146 is enabled to receive and display information about the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 on the outer panel face 144. Although not shown in FIG. 6B, with the cover 140 in the second orientation, the first fastener 156a and second fastener 156b are also brought into proximity so that the threaded bolt of the second fastener 156b may be coupled to the threaded aperture of the first fastener 156a. In this way, the cover 140 is secured to the housing 102 in the second orientation. With reference to FIG. 7A to FIG. 8B, there is shown another electric vehicle supply equipment 700 according to embodiments of the invention. The electric vehicle supply equipment 700 is similar to the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 described with reference to FIG. 1A to FIG. 6B, other than the display connectors 720, 750 are configured differently. The electric vehicle supply equipment 700 includes a housing 702 and a cover 740. The housing 702 defines a chamber 704 and a chamber opening 705. The chamber opening 705 spans substantially all of one face of the housing 702. The chamber 704 is configured to stow components of the electric vehicle supply equipment 100. The housing 702 includes a perimeter wall 706 having a first perimeter wall portion and an opposing, second perimeter wall portion. The first perimeter wall portion forms an upper wall portion of the housing 702. The second perimeter wall portion forms a lower wall portion of the housing 702. The cover 740 for the housing 702 is formed as a panel, substantially the same as the cover 140 described previously. The cover 740 has an inner panel face 742 and an opposing outer panel face 744, and is circumscribed by a cover periphery. The cover 740 includes a display element 746 configured to display information on the outer panel face 744. The display element 746 is mounted to the cover 740, for example using suitable fasteners and / or adhesive, to enable an outer surface of the display element 746 to be flush with the aperture periphery. The display element 746 forms a continuous surface with the outer panel face 744. The cover 740 includes a second support member 730 mounted to the inner panel face 742 at the first cover periphery portion. The second support member 730 is configured to be engageable with a first support member 710 mounted on the housing 702, to move pivotably relative to the housing 702, as described with the electric vehicle supply equipment 100 described previously. The housing 702 includes a first support member 710, substantially the same as the first support member 110 described previously, and mounted to the housing 702 at the first perimeter wall portion. The first support member 710 is configured to engage the second support member 730 so that the cover 740 is mounted to the housing 702. With the second support member 730 engaged with the first support member 710, the cover 740 is supported by the housing 702 and pivots relative to the housing 702 from a first orientation (see FIG. 7A), to a second orientation (see FIG. 7B). In the second orientation, the cover 740 closes the chamber opening 705. Referring additionally to FIG. 8A, a first display connector 720 of the chamber 704 is shown. The first display connector 720 is operably couplable to a second display connector 750 of the cover 740. The first display connector 720 is a female connector, including a first locator element 752a. The first locator element 752a includes a cavity 726 circumscribed by a wall. The wall has a polygonal cross-sectional shape so that the cavity 726 is a polygonal cavity in the first display connector 720. In the example shown, the polygon is a heptagon. In this way, the first locator element 752a has shape that will receive only a compatible male connector, ensuring rotational orientation between the first display connector 720 and second display connector 750. A series of electrical connector pins 728 are provided within the cavity 726. Each of the electrical connector pins 728 are oriented axially within the cavity. The first display connector 720 includes a magnetised portion 753. The magnetised portion 753 surrounds the first locator element 752a and is oriented to face outward from the first display connector 720 to engage a magnetic portion 755 provided on the second display connector 750. Referring additionally to FIG. 8B, a second display connector 750 of the cover 740 is shown. The second display connector 750 is a male connector, including a corresponding second locator element 752b. The second locator element 752b includes a protrusion 751 having a polygonal cross-sectional shape. In the example, the protrusion has a heptagonal cross-sectional shape to mate with the cavity 726 of the first display connector 720 when the second display connector 750 is coupled to the first display connector 720. In this way, the second display connector 750 will couple to the first display connector 720 in a predetermined rotational orientation. A series of electrical connector sockets 757 are provided on the second display connector 750. Each of the electrical connector sockets 757 are configured to be receive one of the corresponding electrical connector pins 728 of the first display connector 720. In this way, the first locator element 752a and second locator element 752b are configured so that the second display connector 750 is received within the first display connector 720 in a predetermined rotational orientation. The electrical connector pins 728 of the first display connector 720 each contacts the appropriate partner of the electrical connector sockets 757 of the second display connector 750. This ensures correct functioning of the coupled first display connector 720 and second display connector 750. The second display connector 750 also includes a magnetic portion 755. The magnetic portion 755 is magnetically attracted to the magnetised portion 753. The magnetic portion 755 is arranged to surround the second locator element 752b and oriented to face outward from the second display connector 750 so engage the magnetised portion 753 of the first display connector 720. To couple the first display connector 720 and second display connector 750, the cover 740 is, initially, engaged with the housing 702 using the first support member 710 and second support member 730. The cover 740 is then moved relative to the housing 702 to a first orientation, so that the magnetised portion 753 and magnetic portion 755 are close enough to interact with one another. For example the cover 740 may be moved to the first orientation by an installer pivoting the cover 740 about the first support member 710, or by the cover 740 pivoting towards a vertical orientation under gravity. In the first orientation, the magnetised portion 753 and magnetic portion 755 are close enough to derive an urging force to draw the cover 740 towards the housing 702, and into the second orientation. The urging force enables the cover 740 to close the chamber opening 705. In the example, the urging force is provided by magnetic attraction between the magnetised portion 753 and the magnetic portion 755. Due to the configuration of the first display connector 720 and second display connector 750, the urging force engages the second locator element 752b with the first locator element 752a. The second locator element 752b is inserted into the first locator element 752a. Consequently, the electrical connector pins 728 are received within the electrical connector sockets 757, so as to operably couple the first display connector 720 and second display connector 750. In this way, the first display connector 720 and second display connector 750 are coupled without requiring further action from the installer. Due to their relative positionings, the first display connector 720 and the second display connector 750 locate with, and couple to, one another as the cover 740 moves from the first orientation to the second orientation. In the second orientation, the cover 740 is secured to the housing 702. The magnetic portion 755 abuts the magnetised portion 753 so that the cover 740 is secured over the chamber opening 705. Unintentional decoupling or separation of the first display connector 720 and second display connector 150 is prevented, maintaining correct function overtime. Unintentional separation of the cover 740 from the chamber opening 705 is prevented. Optionally, the first display connector and second display connector may include any suitable alternative connectors, independent of other features of associated the housing and cover. Optionally, the first display connector and second display connector may include a pair of mutually compatible USB-type connectors. The first display connector or the second display connector may include a male USB-type connector. The second display connector or the first display connector may include a female USB-type connector, depending on the location of the male USB-type connector. Optionally, the first display connector and second display connector may include a pair of mutually compatible wireless display connectors. The wireless display connectors may be configured to operably couple to one another once in proximity with one another, such as by abutting one another, in the second orientation. The first display connector may include a transmitter and the second display connector may include a receiver, or each of the first display connector and the second display connector may include a transceiver. In these ways, the electric vehicle supply equipment is coupled to the display element to receive information about the electric vehicle supply equipment. 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 electric vehicle supply equipment comprising:a housing defining a chamber and a chamber opening, wherein the chamber stows a first display connector operably connected to the electric vehicle supply equipment;a cover comprising a display element and a second display connector, wherein the second display connector is configured to be operably coupled to the first display connectorso as to enable the display element to receive and display information about the electric vehicle supply equipment; anda support assembly comprising a first support member, mounted on the housing, and a second support member, mounted on the cover, wherein the first support member is engageable with the second support member;wherein the support assembly is configured so that, when the first support member is engaged with the second support member, the cover is supported by the housing and moves relative to the housing from a first orientation, in which the first display connector is accessible through the chamber opening, to a second orientation, in which the cover closes the chamber opening.

2. The electric vehicle supply equipment of claim 1, wherein the first support member engages the second support member so that the cover pivots relative to the housing to move between the first orientation and the second orientation.

3. The electric vehicle supply equipment of claim 1 or 2, wherein the chamber includes a retaining member configured to releasably hold the first display connector in a stowed position within the chamber.

4. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a locator element, configured to orientate the first display connector relative to the second display connector for coupling to one another.

5. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a locking element, configured so that, with the first display connector coupled to the second display connector, the first display connector is locked to the second display connector.

6. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein any one of the first display connector and the second display connector comprises a magnetised portion, and one other of the first display connector and the second display connector comprises a magnetic portion, and wherein the magnetised portion and the magnetic portion are together configured to provide, in the first orientation, an urging force to draw the cover into the second orientation.

7. The electric vehicle supply equipment of claim 6, wherein the urging force also couples the first display connector to the second display connector.

8. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the housing comprises a perimeter wall having a first perimeter wall portion and an opposing, second perimeter wall portion, and wherein the first support member is mounted to the first perimeter wall portion and the first display connector is held proximal to the second perimeter wall portion.

9. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first support member comprises an outwardly-facing channel portion, and the second support member comprises at least one elongate member configured to be received along the channel portion.

10. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a fastener assembly configured to secure the cover in the second orientation.

11. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a water-tight sub-housing, wherein the first display connector is disposed external to the sub-housing and operably connected to an electrical circuit within the sub-housing.

12. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a drum within the chamber for receiving windings of a charging cable to stow the charging cable in the housing.

13. The electric vehicle supply equipment of claim 12, wherein the drum is rotatable relative to the housing to eject and retract the charging cable relative to the housing.

14. The electric vehicle supply equipment of any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a charging cable and a charging gun.

15. A cover for a housing of an electric vehicle supply equipment wherein the housing defines a chamber and a chamber opening, the cover comprising:an inner panel face;an outer panel face;a display element configured to display information on the outer panel face;a second display connector operably couplable to a first display connector of the housing; anda second support member;wherein the second support member is engageable with a first support member mounted on the housing so that, when engaged, the cover is supported by the housing and moves relative to the housing from a first orientation, to a second orientation, in which the cover closes the chamber opening.

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