A vehicle, a cover for the rearmost pillar of the vehicle, and a method for installing the cover on the vehicle.

Abstract

To mitigate electromagnetic interference in the rear side window radio antenna caused by the wire harness or wire harness connector related to the vehicle's electric rear gate. [Solution] The system comprises a rearmost pillar located at the rear of the vehicle and having an opening 504 in the upper part of the front side 506, a wireless antenna 206 disposed in a rear side window 205 located in front of the rearmost pillar, an electric rear gate equipped with an actuator assembly and a rear panel, a first wire harness connecting the actuator assembly and a connector disposed inside the rearmost pillar, a second wire harness 608 connecting the connector and at least one of a controller and a power supply and passing through the opening 504, and a cover 800 attached to the rearmost pillar while covering the opening and the unshielded portion of the second wire harness 608.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle, a cover for a rearmost pillar of a vehicle, and a method of attaching the cover to a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] A vehicle can include an electric rear gate and a wireless antenna disposed in, above, or around a rear side window of the vehicle (i.e., the rear side window includes the wireless antenna). For example, Patent Document 1 describes a side glass antenna device for a vehicle with improved directivity characteristics. The electric rear gate includes an actuator assembly for opening and closing the rear gate. The actuator assembly receives one or more of a power function and a control function using a wire harness. That is, the wire harness electrically connects the actuator assembly to one or more of a power source and a controller.

[0003] To connect the actuator of the actuator assembly to one or more of a power source and a controller, the wire harness can pass through a rearmost pillar of the vehicle (the pillar located most rearward in the vehicle front-rear direction) that is close to the rear side window and the wireless antenna. In such a scenario, the wire harness or a connection formed in the wire harness (e.g., between two wire harnesses or between two segments of a wire harness) can be a source of electromagnetic interference (i.e., noise) with respect to the wireless antenna.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that will be further explained in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify any significant or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to help limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. In cases where a vehicle includes a powered rear tailgate and a radio antenna integrated into the rear side window, a wire harness providing power and / or control functions to the actuator assembly of the powered rear tailgate may interfere with the radio antenna (i.e., introduce noise into the radio signal). Specifically, the actuator assembly is electrically connected to one or more of the power supply and controllers using first and second wire harnesses connected using a connector. The connector is located on the rearmost pillar of the vehicle, adjacent to the rear side window containing the radio antenna. The first wire harness extends between the connector and the actuator of the actuator assembly. The second wire harness extends between one or more of the power supply and controllers and the connector. In addition, the first and second wire harnesses pass through an opening in the rearmost pillar and have unshielded portions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In general, in one embodiment, the embodiment relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a rearmost pillar located at the rear of the vehicle and having an opening in the upper part of the front side, and a radio antenna disposed in a rear side window located in front of the rearmost pillar. The vehicle further includes an electric rear gate having an actuator assembly and a rear panel, wherein the actuator assembly is configured to selectively open and close the rear panel. The vehicle further includes a first wire harness connecting the actuator assembly to a connector disposed within the rearmost pillar. The vehicle further includes a second wire harness connected to the connector and at least one of a controller and a power supply, passing through the opening. The vehicle further includes a cover mounted on the rearmost pillar that covers the opening and the unshielded portion of the first wire harness and the unshielded portion of the second wire harness.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments, the cover and the rearmost pillar are made of metal, and the cover is attached to the rearmost pillar using an earth bolt that electrically connects the cover to the rearmost pillar. Furthermore, the upper portion of the cover may include a projection that engages with an engagement portion of the rearmost pillar, and the lower portion of the cover may be attached to the rearmost pillar by an earth bolt.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments, the vehicle further includes a tubular member passing through an opening. The cover may have a central channel along the longitudinal axis of the cover and a corrugated surface having a first flange and a second flange extending from the central channel, such that a portion of the tubular member is covered by a first flange and a portion of a second wire harness is covered by a second flange. The central channel may further include a hole for attaching the cover to a bolt mounting point on the rearmost pillar by an earth bolt. In some embodiments, the depth of the central channel varies along the longitudinal axis of the cover, for example, by gradually decreasing the depth of the central channel from the bottom to the top of the cover (or making the top shallower than the bottom).

[0009] According to one or more embodiments, the rearmost pillar further includes a first mounting point for a tubular member and a second mounting point for a second wire harness. The first flange can cover the first mounting point, or the second flange can cover the second mounting point, or the first flange and the second flange can cover the first and second mounting points, respectively. In some embodiments, the second wire harness has a larger diameter than the tubular member.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments, the vehicle further includes a rear heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (rear HVAC) system located on the rear side of the vehicle and on the same side as the radio antenna, wherein the ducts of the rear HVAC system are located on the front side of the rearmost pillar.

[0011] In general, in one embodiment, the embodiment relates to a cover for the rearmost pillar of a vehicle, provided at the rear of the vehicle and having an opening in the upper portion of the front side. The cover includes a central channel along the longitudinal axis of the cover, the central channel including holes for attaching the cover to a bolt mounting point on the rearmost pillar by earth bolts. The cover further includes a first flange and a second flange extending from the central channel and an upper portion having a projection that engages with an engaging portion of the rearmost pillar. The cover may be made of metal. The depth of the central channel may vary along the longitudinal axis of the cover.

[0012] In general, in one embodiment, the embodiment relates to a method for attaching a cover to the rearmost pillar of a vehicle. The method includes providing a vehicle with a rearmost pillar located at the rear of the vehicle and having an opening in the upper portion of the front side of the rearmost pillar and a bolt mounting point below the opening. The rearmost pillar further includes an engaging portion that protrudes and extends into the opening, the engaging portion having the opening. The method further includes providing a cover. The cover has a central channel along the longitudinal axis of the cover, the central channel including a hole for attaching the cover to the bolt mounting point of the rearmost pillar by an earth bolt. The cover further includes a first flange portion and a second flange portion extending from the central channel. The cover further includes an upper portion having a projection that engages with the engaging portion of the rearmost pillar. The cover may be made of metal. The method further includes inserting the projection into the opening of the engaging portion. The method further includes bringing the surrounding area of ​​the hole into contact with the bolt mounting point. This method further includes inserting the shaft or threaded portion of the earth bolt through a hole so that the bearing portion of the earth bolt fits into the cover, and fastening the earth bolt to the bolt mounting point.

[0013] In consideration of the above structure, embodiments of the present invention may include means adapted to perform the various steps and functions defined above according to one or more embodiments and any one of the embodiments of one or more embodiments described herein. Other embodiments and advantages of the claimed subject matter will become apparent from the following description and the appended claims. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a cover that covers an opening in the rearmost pillar and the unshielded portions of a first wire harness and a second wire harness, while allowing the second wire harness to pass through the opening (to pass inside and outside the rearmost pillar through the opening). The cover is attached to the rearmost pillar using an earth bolt that provides electrical conduction between the rearmost pillar and the cover. Thus, the cover shields the radio antenna from electromagnetic interference arising from one or more of the first wire harness, the second wire harness, and the connector. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a vehicle according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows a rear side window having a wireless antenna according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an electric rear gate according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows a spindle actuator according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a diagram of the rearmost pillar from inside a vehicle according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] This figure shows an opening in the rearmost pillar according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] This is a cross-section of the rearmost pillar according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows the upper portion of the rearmost pillar according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] This figure shows a cover according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] This is a side view of a cover according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8C]A diagram showing a first cross-sectional profile of a cover according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8D] A diagram showing a second cross-sectional profile of a cover according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] A diagram showing a cover in relation to the rearmost pillar and other components of a vehicle according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] A diagram showing an engagement portion between a protrusion of a cover and the rearmost pillar according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] A cross-sectional view of a protrusion and an engagement portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] A diagram showing a rear heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (rear HVAC) system on the same side as a rear window having a rear pillar with an opening in the front side and a wireless antenna according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A flowchart showing a method for attaching a cover to a rearmost pillar according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Similar elements in the various figures are denoted by similar reference numerals for consistency.

[0017] In the following detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description.

[0018] Throughout this application, ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third) may be used as adjectives of elements (e.g., any noun in this application). The use of ordinal numbers is not intended to imply or create a particular order of elements, nor to limit any element to only a single element, unless expressly disclosed, such as by using the terms “before,” “after,” “single,” and other such terms. Rather, the use of ordinal numbers is for distinguishing between elements. For example, the first element is different from the second element, and the first element may encompass two or more elements and may follow (or precede) the second element in the order of elements.

[0019] The embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to a cover for the rearmost pillar of a vehicle, the rearmost pillar having an opening. In particular, the embodiments disclosed herein are applicable to a vehicle having a radio antenna and an electric rear gate included in or attached to a rear side window, the rearmost pillar being located between the rear side window and the first actuator of the electric rear gate actuator assembly. One or more of the power functions and control functions are provided to the first actuator of the electric rear gate using one or more wire harnesses and connectors that pass through or are disposed on the rearmost pillar of the vehicle. The cover is configured and positioned to cover the opening in the rearmost pillar, while allowing one or more of the wire harnesses and tubular members to pass through the opening to the inside and outside of the rearmost pillar. The cover is attached to the rearmost pillar using an earth bolt to ensure electrical conduction between the cover and the rearmost pillar. The cover mitigates electromagnetic interference (i.e., noise in the radio signal) to the radio antenna, which originates from one or more wire harnesses and connectors (e.g., in the rearmost pillar, visible through the opening without the cover).

[0020] Figure 1 shows a side view of an exemplary vehicle (100). Some features of the present invention will be described with respect to the orientation of the vehicle (100) or the vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) has a front or front side (102) and a rear or rear side (104). The vehicle (100) can also be said to have, for example, a top, upper side, or upper portion for reference to the roof or direction of the roof of the vehicle (100) and a bottom, bottom side, or lower portion. The sides of the vehicle (100) other than the front side (102) and the rear side (104) may be referred to as one side and the other or opposing side, or first side and second side, respectively. In some cases, one of the first side and second side may be further designated as the driver's side or passenger side. However, since the driver's side and passenger's side of a vehicle can be reversed relative to the absolute reference system of the vehicle (100) according to local laws and customs, it may be preferable to refer to the first side and the second side when the relationship with the driver or passenger is not necessary. That is, unless otherwise specified, the first side of the vehicle (100) can refer to either the driver's side or the passenger's side.

[0021] As an example of using the orientation of the vehicle to refer to its components, the component of vehicle (100) that faces forward may be referred to as the front side. As another example, the two side windows closest to the rear of vehicle (100) may be referred to as rear side windows (105), and these two windows can be further distinguished as being located on the first and second sides of vehicle (100). These rear side windows (105) may also be referred to as triangular windows. Terms such as “interior side” and “exterior side” may be used in reference to the interior and exterior of vehicle (100), respectively.

[0022] The vehicle (100) includes pillars that support the roof of the vehicle (100) and provide structure and rigidity to the vehicle (100). The pillars are often vertical or nearly vertical and divide the field of view of the occupants of the vehicle (100) into different windows. That is, the pillars are located between the windows of the vehicle (100). The pillars of the vehicle are denoted by letters. As shown in Figure 1, starting from the front side (102) of the vehicle (100) and moving towards the rear, the pillars are designated as A-pillar (106), B-pillar (108), C-pillar (110), and D-pillar (112). Some vehicles, such as smaller vehicles, do not have a D-pillar (112). In this specification, the rearmost pillar refers to the pillar located furthest rear in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. In the example in Figure 1, the D-pillar is the rearmost pillar, but in vehicles without a D-pillar, the C-pillar is the rearmost pillar.

[0023] The exemplary vehicle (100) in Figure 1 has a D-pillar (112). Furthermore, the vehicle (100) has a rear gate (114) (in the literature, the rear gate is often also referred to as a “tailgate”) which functions as a panel or door on the rear side (104) of the vehicle (100) and can be opened and closed. As will be described in more detail below, the rear gate (114) can be powered (“electrified”) to open and close based on input commands such as the user pressing a button or applying force to the rear gate (114). As seen in the side view of Figure 1, the D-pillar (112) (on one side of the vehicle (100)) is located between the rear side window (105) and the rear gate (114).

[0024] Figure 2 shows a rear side window (205), such as the rear side window (105) in Figure 1, and a surrounding panel (202). Generally, the surrounding panel (202) may extend beyond what is shown in Figure 2. The rear side window (205) includes a radio antenna (206). The radio antenna (206) may include multiple antenna devices (e.g., two antennas, three antennas, etc.). The radio antenna (206) may be installed in, on, or around the rear side window (205). In some cases, the radio antenna (206) may not be visible, or if visible, it may be positioned so as not to obstruct visibility through the rear side window (205). The radio antenna (206) does not need to be positioned as shown in Figure 2 or have the shape factor depicted in Figure 2. Alternative shapes for the radio antenna (206) are shown in Figure 11. Both rear side windows of the vehicle do not need to have radio antennas. In other words, depending on the circumstances, the rear window on the first side may include a radio antenna, while the rear window on the second side may not include a radio antenna.

[0025] Figure 3 shows an electrically operated rear gate (314). As shown in Figure 3, the rear side structure (e.g., body, D-pillar, etc.) (302) defines the rear access opening (304) of the vehicle. The electrically operated rear gate (314) includes a rear panel (306) or rear door, one or more hinges (307), and an actuator assembly (308). Often, without excessive ambiguity, the rear panel (306) may be referred to as the rear gate. One or more hinges (307) connect the rear panel (306) to the rear side structure (302) and define a pivot axis (309) around which the rear panel (306) can pivot. The pivotal motion (310) of the rear panel (306) around the pivot axis (309) is shown in Figure 3. The pivoting motion (310) acts to open and close the rear panel (306) (or rear gate), thereby exposing and concealing the rear access opening (304), respectively.

[0026] The actuator assembly (308) supports the rear panel (306) and can cause a pivoting motion (310) to open and close the rear panel (306). The actuator assembly can also pause or reverse the pivoting motion (310). The actuator assembly (308) includes at least a first actuator (316) disposed on the first side (317) of the vehicle. The actuator assembly (308) may further include one or more of a sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor), a motor, a controller, a power supply, and a strut or strut assembly. Various arrangements of the elements of the actuator assembly (308) are considered in this application. For example, the first actuator (316) may include a motor, a Hall effect sensor, and a strut assembly. In another example, the first actuator (316) may have a controller. As yet another example, the actuator assembly (308) does not include a controller; rather, control inputs, signals, or commands (e.g., in the form of electrical signals such as supplied current or voltage) are transmitted to the actuator assembly (308) from a controller (e.g., located somewhere in the vehicle) using one or more wire harnesses and connectors. The actuator assembly (308) may include a second actuator (318) located on a second side (319) of the vehicle. The first and second actuators (316, 318), and associated motors or other components may share a common controller and / or power supply (e.g., a battery). In summary, the actuator assembly (308) includes at least a first actuator (316) and may further include any combination of one or more sensors, motors, struts, and controllers. The actuator assembly (308) provides electric function to the rear gate (314).

[0027] Figure 4 shows an exemplary first actuator as a spindle actuator (416). The spindle actuator (416) includes a first tube (402) and a second tube (404), and the relative displacement of the first tube (402) and the second tube (404) (e.g., extension of the first tube (402)) changes the length of the spindle actuator (416). The spindle actuator (416) is attached to the rear panel and rear structure of the vehicle using a pivotal mounting part such as a ball joint. Thus, the change in the length of the spindle actuator (416) corresponds to the state or position of the rear panel (e.g., open, closed, or some position between open and closed).

[0028] According to one or more embodiments, the spindle actuator (416) includes a Hall effect sensor, a motor, at least one gear or gear stage, a brake, a coil spring, a screw ("lead screw," "spindle"), and a spindle nut. These elements are disposed within a cavity formed by the first and second tubes (402, 404) or at the base of the spindle actuator (i.e., close to the rear structure). The motor drives a screw having a portion pivotally supported in the second tube (404) (i.e., close to the base) and a threaded shaft portion extending into the cavity of the first and second tubes (402, 404) which is formed to be retractable, and interacts with the spindle nut. That is, the screw is screwed into the spindle nut, and the rotation of the screw results in the movement or displacement of the spindle nut along the axial direction of the screw. The spindle nut is fixed to the first tube (402). Therefore, the rotation of the screw, driven by the motor and one or more gears or gear stages, causes the spindle nut and the first tube (402) to move linearly in the axial direction of the screw. A coil spring acts to apply a force to counteract the weight of the rear panel, which is supported via the spindle actuator (416). In some implementations, one or more gas struts may be further provided for this purpose. A brake, when activated, can prevent or act to prevent relative motion of the first and second tubes (402, 404). Hall effect sensors detect the rotation and axial position of one or more of the motor, gears, and screw. Sensor data, such as the rotation and position data from the Hall effect sensors, is used to determine the position of the rear panel relative to the vehicle (i.e., open position, closed position, or any other partially open or partially closed position).

[0029] Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, other types of actuators can be used instead of the spindle actuator (416). For example, the first actuator (316) may be an electrohydraulic linear actuator that uses a pump to move hydraulic fluid between the chamber and the reservoir to produce a relative displacement between the first tube and the second tube (or the first rod). As another example, an electrified gas structure can be used as the first actuator (316).

[0030] In some implementations, one or more of the following are used to determine the forces applied to the rear panel, such as forces applied by the user: a motor, a Hall effect sensor, and other sensors (e.g., strain gauges, current sensors, optical encoders, etc.). For example, an external force applied to the rear panel may cause a change in the position of the rear panel that induces rotation of the screw, or it may require increased motor force (e.g., an increase in the current supplied to the motor) to counteract the applied force. In response to the detection of the applied force, as well as knowledge of the state of the rear panel (e.g., being open and commanded to close) and the commanded movement, the spindle actuator (416) can operate to start, pause, or reverse the movement of the rear panel.

[0031] Figure 4 shows a spindle actuator (416) (i.e., part of the rear structure) connected to a first wire harness (406) that crosses the outer panel of the vehicle (e.g., the exterior side). Although Figure 4 shows the spindle actuator (416), the first wire harness (406) connects to the first actuator (316) of the actuator assembly (308), regardless of the type of actuator. As will be described later, the first wire harness (406) is connected to a second wire harness using a connector, and the connector (and thus the connection between the first wire harness (406) and the second wire harness) is located in the D-pillar adjacent to the first actuator (e.g., the D-pillar on the first side if the first actuator is located on the first side of the vehicle). The second wire harness is connected to one or more of the controller and / or power supply (e.g., battery). Therefore, the actuator assembly (308) receives one or more of the power function and control function using the first wire harness, the second wire harness, and the connector.

[0032] Figure 5 shows a D-pillar (512) from inside the vehicle according to one or more embodiments. The illustrated D-pillar (512) is said to be on the same side as the first actuator (316) of the actuator assembly (308) of the electric rear gate (314). For brevity, the side of the vehicle associated with the first actuator (316) and D-pillar (512) as shown in Figure 5 will be referred to as the first side unless otherwise specified. In addition, Figure 5 shows a rear side window (205) including a radio antenna (206), which is also on the first side of the vehicle. The D-pillar (512) is located between the rear access opening (304) (and the first actuator) and the rear side window (205) including the radio antenna (206). Figure 5 includes an arrow indicating the direction of the front side of the vehicle. The D-pillar (512) has a shape that can be roughly described as a rectangular parallelepiped having a front side (506) and an inner side (508) (or front and rear faces). However, in contrast to a strict rectangular parallelepiped, the D-pillar may include additional angles or curvatures along one or more of its faces. The D-pillar includes an opening (504) in the upper part of the front side (506). As will be described later, the opening (504) provides access to the rear part of the vehicle through the D-pillar (512) (e.g., a cavity within the D-pillar, an external panel adjacent to the first actuator, etc.). At least the surface members of the D-pillar are metal sheets with a hollow portion formed inside, and the opening (504) formed through the metal sheet connects the inside and outside of the D-pillar.

[0033] Figure 6A shows a closer view of the opening (504) in the D-pillar (512), which in particular has a second wire harness (608) and a connector (610). As seen in Figure 6A, the opening (504) in the D-pillar (512) allows the second wire harness (608) to enter the hollow portion of the D-pillar (512) from the interior of the vehicle. The connector (610) is located within the hollow portion of the D-pillar (512) and connects the first wire harness (406) to the second wire harness (608), which in turn connects to the actuator assembly (308) (e.g., the first actuator (316)).

[0034] According to one or more embodiments, the D-pillar (512) further includes a mounting point (604) for a second wire harness. The mounting point (604) for the second wire harness will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 7.

[0035] In some implementations, the tubular member (609) also passes through the opening (504) from the inside of the vehicle. The tubular member (609) can be used, for example, to deliver washer fluid to the rear window of the rear gate. In such cases, the D-pillar (512) may further include a mounting point (606) for the tubular member (609). The mounting point for the tubular member (609) may be referred to as the first mounting point (606), and the mounting point for the second wire harness (608) may be referred to as the second mounting point (604). The mounting point (606) for the tubular member (609) will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 7.

[0036] According to one or more embodiments in Figure 6A, the D-pillar (512) further includes a bolt mounting point (602). The bolt mounting point (602) is configured to receive a bolt. For example, in some embodiments, the bolt mounting point (602) consists of a threaded hole into which a bolt can be screwed. In other embodiments, the bolt mounting point (602) is a hole having a diameter nominally the same as the bolt that will be received by the hole. In this case, the threads of the bolt can engage with the hole without the hole being screwed in. In other embodiments, the bolt mounting point (602) does not include a hole but is an area of ​​the D-pillar designated to be punctured by a bolt or fastener (e.g., a self-tapping bolt or fastener). In other embodiments, a nut is used with the bolt, where the nut is disposed within a cavity in the D-pillar. The bolt mounting points (602) may be reinforced or have raised or recessed portions to provide additional rigidity to the D-pillar (512) near the bolt mounting points (602) or to compensate for any reduction in structural strength resulting from the acceptance of holes or bolts. As described later in this disclosure, the bolt mounting points (602) are used in conjunction with the engagement portion of the D-pillar (512) to attach a cover to the D-pillar (512).

[0037] According to one or more embodiments, the bolt used to attach the cover to the D-pillar (512) is a ground bolt (603). Figure 6A shows the ground bolt (603) at a bolt mounting point (602) of the D-pillar (512). For example, the bolt mounting point (602) can hold the ground bolt (603) while waiting for the cover to be installed. Then, in order to install the cover, the ground bolt (603) is temporarily removed from the D-pillar (512) and reused to attach the cover to the D-pillar (512). The D-pillar (512) and the cover are each made of metal (e.g., steel). Often, one or more of the D-pillar (512) and the cover have painted surfaces in which the paint can attenuate or prevent electrical conductivity. The ground bolt (603) is made of a conductive material such as metal (e.g., steel). Furthermore, the ground bolt (603) has projections (e.g., sharp edges or protrusions) on both its threads and bearing surface. The protrusions are configured to remove paint from the mating portion (i.e., the cover and the D-pillar (512)). Therefore, the ground bolt allows electrical conduction between the cover and the D-pillar (512). As will be described in more detail later in this disclosure, by using the ground bolt (603) to attach the cover to the D-pillar (512), the cover can absorb energy that could cause electromagnetic interference to radio signals (received by the radio antenna (206)) originating from one or more of the first wire harness (406), the second wire harness (608), and the connector (610), and dissipate it throughout the vehicle body. In contrast to other bolts or mounting methods (e.g., welding the cover to the D-pillar (512)), the advantages of using a ground bolt (603) to attach the cover to the D-pillar (512) include reduced labor by performing the removal of paint from one or more of the cover and D-pillar (512) and the installation of the cover and D-pillar (512) simultaneously, and the ability to easily attach and detach the cover to the D-pillar (512) during initial construction and maintenance or repair work. Suitable ground bolts for use in the illustrated embodiment include any suitable commercially available ground bolts known to those skilled in the art, such as those manufactured by Iwata Bolt.

[0038] Figure 6A further shows a cut surface or section (650). The section (650) shows the plane formed by cutting the elements depicted in Figure 6A to form the section (or partial section) shown in Figure 6B. That is, Figure 6B shows a section of the D-pillar (512) that has been cut out. As can be seen in Figure 6B, the second wire harness (608) and the tubular member (609) each pass through the opening (504) of the D-pillar (512). Within the D-pillar (512), the second wire harness (608) is connected to the first wire harness (406) using a connector (610). A portion of the first wire harness (406) adjacent to the connector (610), for example, a portion about 10 cm from the connector (610) (the base portion relative to the connector (610)), is an unshielded portion (704) that is not covered by the cover. The first wire harness (406) is connected to the actuator assembly (e.g., the first actuator (316)).

[0039] Figure 7 shows another view of the upper portion of the D-pillar (512) according to one or more embodiments. In Figure 7, the second wire harness (608) and the tubular member (609) can be seen entering the opening (504) of the D-pillar (512) from the interior side of the vehicle's passenger compartment into the opening (the hollow interior of the D-pillar). According to one or more embodiments, the first mounting point (606) includes a pressure clip (e.g., a quick-connect clip) that secures the tubular member (609) and prevents it from moving. The stated benefit of the first mounting point (606) is that it facilitates the mounting of the cover to the D-pillar (512) by preventing the tubular member (609) from interfering with or obstructing the bolt mounting point (602).

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the second mounting point (604) includes a strap, such as a Velcro® strap or a strap and buckle assembly, for securing the second wire harness (608) to the D-pillar (512). In other embodiments, the second mounting point (604) includes a pressure clip similar to that depicted as the first mounting point (606). Without the second mounting point (604), the second wire harness (608) may sway due to vibrations while the vehicle is in motion. A portion of the second wire harness (608) close to the connector (610), for example, a portion about 10 cm from the connector (610) (the base portion relative to the connector (610)), is an unshielded portion (704) that is not covered by the cover. Figure 7 shows a portion of the unshielded portion (704), and the remaining portion of the unshielded portion includes the unseen portion of the second wire harness (608) extending to the connector (610). According to one or more embodiments, the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608) includes a 10 cm length of the second wire harness (608) on the connector side of the second wire harness (608) or on the side of the second wire harness (608) that connects to the connector (610). Due to the shaking or movement of the second wire harness (608), at least from the viewpoint of a radio antenna (206) included in a nearby (i.e., on the same side of the vehicle (first side)) rear side window (205), the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608) may not be covered by the cover. Therefore, the benefits of the second mounting point (604) include facilitating the mounting of the cover to the D-pillar (512) by preventing the second wire harness (608) from interfering with or obstructing the bolt mounting point (602), and ensuring that the cover covers the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608).

[0041] In one or more embodiments, as shown in Figure 7, the D-pillar (512) may further include an engaging portion (702). As will be described later with respect to Figures 10A and 10B, the engaging portion (702) engages with a projection of the cover, which works in cooperation with the ground bolt (603) and bolt mounting point (602) to ensure secure and easy attachment of the cover to the D-pillar (512). Generally, in order to securely attach the cover to the D-pillar (512) and to prevent noise generation inside the vehicle due to vibration of the cover while the vehicle is being driven, the cover is attached to the D-pillar (512) using at least two contact areas. In one or more embodiments, the two contact areas with respect to the D-pillar are the bolt mounting point (602) and the engaging portion (702). In one or more embodiments, the engaging portion (702) is an extension of the front side surface (506) of the D-pillar (512) into the opening (504). In other words, the engaging portion (702) is a projection that partially protrudes inward from the upper part of the inner periphery of the opening (504). The engaging portion (702) includes an opening (702a) (e.g., a hole, a square opening, etc.) for receiving the projection of the cover described later. Using the engaging portion (702) to attach the cover to the D-pillar means that only one bolt (i.e., the ground bolt (603)) is required to attach the cover to the D-pillar. Using only one bolt, in contrast to two bolts where one bolt is used for each contact area, reduces the manufacturing and material costs and weight of the vehicle.

[0042] Figure 8A shows a cover (800) according to one or more embodiments. The cover is made of metal (e.g., steel). The description of the cover (800) is made with respect to the longitudinal axis (802) and the front side (804) of the cover. The cover (800) has a complex shape which can be manufactured, for example, by stamping or press forming. With respect to the front side (804), the cover (800) has a central channel (806) or recess which extends along the length of the cover (800) with respect to the longitudinal axis (802). Thus, the cover (800) is a corrugated surface or can be considered a corrugated surface. As described in relation to Figures 8C and 8D, the depth of the central channel (806) may vary along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800).

[0043] According to Figure 8A, the lower portion of the cover (800) includes a hole (808) in a convex central channel (806) extending along the longitudinal axis. The hole (808) is configured to receive an earth bolt (603) which serves as a component for attaching the cover (800) to the D-pillar (512). The diameter of the hole (808) is larger than the shaft or threaded portion of the earth bolt (603) and smaller than the bearing portion of the earth bolt (603).

[0044] According to one or more embodiments, the cover (800) includes a first flange (810) and a second flange (812), respectively, extending laterally from the central channel (806) (in both left and right directions intersecting the longitudinal axis (802)). In some embodiments, the cover includes only the second flange (812). As described later, the first flange (810) covers a portion of the tubular member (609) when the cover (800) is attached to the D-pillar (512). Similarly, the second flange (812) covers a portion of the second wire harness (608), including the unshielded portion (704), when the cover (800) is attached to the D-pillar (512). The cover (800) further includes a claw-shaped projection (814) extending from the upper portion of the cover (800). The protrusion (814) is molded to interlock with the engaging portion (702) of the D-pillar (512). The interlocking of the protrusion (814) and the engaging portion (702) is shown in Figures 10A and 10B.

[0045] Figure 8A shows the section lines and section AA, and the corresponding section view is shown in Figure 8B. Figure 8A also shows the first intersecting plane (820) and the second intersecting plane (830), which are located along the longitudinal axis (802) of the section profile of the cover (800) shown in Figures 8C and 8D, respectively.

[0046] Thus, Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the cover (800) corresponding to section AA shown in Figure 8A. According to one or more embodiments, the cover (800) has an average side profile (840) that approximates the side profile of the D-pillar (512). As seen in the previous example of the D-pillar (512) (see Figures 6A and 6B), the upper portion of the front side of the D-pillar (512) can be curved or bent toward the front of the vehicle. To fit with the D-pillar (512), the cover (800) is molded to substantially match the contour of the upper portion and front side of the D-pillar (512). In other words, since the upper part of the D-pillar protrudes further forward than the lower part, as shown in Figure 9, etc., the upper part of the cover fixed to the upper part of the D-pillar may protrude further forward than the lower part. To reduce the amount of overhang of the upper part of the cover, it is effective to make the upper depth of the central channel (806) smaller than the lower depth. In the example shown in Figure 8B, the average side profile (840) of the cover (800) is concave with respect to the front side (804) of the cover (800). In some embodiments, the upper portion and front side of the D-pillar (510) are straight, and the average side profile (840) is also straight. In other embodiments, the average side profile (840) of the cover (800) is defined using a single bend at a given position and angle along the longitudinal axis (802). In other embodiments, the average side profile (840) is curved, and the curve is smooth and continuous.

[0047] Figure 8C shows the first cross-sectional profile (842) of the cover (800) at the position of the first intersecting plane (820) along the longitudinal axis (802), as shown in Figure 8A. As can be seen, the first flange (810), the central channel (806), and the second flange (812) are connected such that the cross-sectional profile of the cover (800) is "hat-shaped". A "hat shape" is defined as a structure having, for example in Figure 8C, an upwardly projecting central channel (806) and a first brim (810) and a second brim (812) that project laterally from each side of the widthwise edge of the central channel, respectively. The central channel (806) has depth, which may vary along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800). In Figure 8C, the central channel (806) has a first depth (850). Furthermore, the first flange (810) and the second flange (812) can each be characterized by their width. Figure 8C, showing the first cross-sectional profile (842) in the first intersecting plane (820), shows that the first flange (810) has a first width (872) and the second flange (812) has a second width (874). The first width (872) and the second width (874) do not have to be the same. For example, the first width (872) can correspond to the diameter of the tubular member (609) (e.g., twice the diameter of the tubular member (609)), and the second width (874) can correspond to the diameter of the second wire harness (608) (e.g., 1.5 times the diameter of the second wire harness (608)).

[0048] Figure 8D shows the second cross-sectional profile (844) of the cover (800) at the position of the second intersecting plane (830) along the longitudinal axis (802), as shown in Figure 8A. As can be seen, the first flange (810), the central channel (806), and the second flange (812) are connected such that the cross-sectional profile of the cover (800) is "hat-shaped". In Figure 8D, the central channel (806) has a second depth (855). The second depth (855) does not have to be the same as the first depth (850). That is, a comparison of Figures 8C and 8D shows that the depth of the central channel (806) can vary along the longitudinal axis. According to one or more embodiments, the depth of the central channel (806) gradually decreases from the bottom (lower portion) to the top (upper portion) of the cover (800) (or the top is shallower than the bottom). The benefit of these embodiments, in which the depth of the central channel (806) gradually decreases from the bottom (lower portion) to the top (upper portion) of the cover (800) (or the top is shallower than the bottom), is that the upper portion of the cover (800) does not displace significantly from the front side of the D-pillar (512). That is, when the cover (800) is mounted on the D-pillar (512), it does not protrude much from the front side of the D-pillar (512) and does not substantially increase the width of the inner side (508) of the D-pillar (512). Thus, the intrusion of trim components positioned around the D-pillar (512) and the cover (800) (e.g., interior panels) into the interior of the vehicle is reduced (interference between trim components and the cover is suppressed). Furthermore, as will be explained in more detail with respect to Figure 11, the overall size or extent of the upper portion of the cover (800) is reduced (for example, the front-to-back width or the width of the inner side of the cover), so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the rear heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system ducts located on the front side of the D-pillar (512) can be maintained along the vertical length of the D-pillar. In other words, there is no need to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the ducts located in front of the front side of the D-pillar (for example, toward the upper portion of the D-pillar (512)).

[0049] Figure 8D, showing the second cross-sectional profile (844) in the second intersecting plane (830), shows a first flange (810) having a third width (873) and a second flange (812) having a fourth width (875). The third width (873) and the fourth width (875) do not need to be the same. A comparison of Figures 8C and 8D shows that the widths of the first flange (810) and the second flange (812) can vary along the longitudinal axis (802).

[0050] According to one or more embodiments, the cover (800) has a “hat-shaped” cross-sectional profile along the entire longitudinal axis (802). In other words, the cover (800) has a corrugated surface formed by a first flange (810), a second flange (812), and a central channel (806) located between the first and second flanges. The benefit of the corrugated surface (or hat-shaped cross-sectional profile) of the cover (800) is that the strength and rigidity of the cover (800) are increased.

[0051] Figure 9 shows a cover (800) associated with the D-pillar (512). In particular, in Figure 9, the cover (800) is slightly offset from its position relative to the D-pillar (512) when installed. The D-pillar (512) and cover (800), which have an opening (504) in the upper part of the front side, are positioned on the same side of the vehicle (e.g., the first side) as the rear side window (205) having a radio antenna (206).

[0052] As shown in Figure 9, the cover (800) covers the opening (504) of the D-pillar (512), allowing the tubular member (609) and the second wire harness (608) to pass through the opening (504) from the interior side of the passenger compartment and enter the hollow portion inside the D-pillar. When the cover (800) is attached to the D-pillar (512) by an earth bolt (not shown), it can conduct electricity to the D-pillar (512). That is, the cover (800) is electrically grounded to the D-pillar (512). The second flange (812) covers at least the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608). Although not shown in Figure 9, in one embodiment, the second flange (812) covers the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608) and the second mounting point (604). The advantages of covering the second mounting point (604) include preventing the second wire harness (608) from being pinched between the cover (800) and other parts of the vehicle during vehicle assembly, thereby improving work efficiency, and ensuring that the unshielded portion (704) is reliably covered by the cover. However, as will be explained below, there are other advantages to covering only the unshielded portion (704) with the second flange portion (812), especially when the second wire harness (608) has a larger diameter than the tubular member (609). In such cases, as can be seen in Figure 9, maintaining the first mounting point (604) near the cover (800) maintains the advantages of preventing the second wire harness (608) from being pinched between the cover (800) and other parts of the vehicle during vehicle assembly, and preventing the unshielded portion (704) from protruding outside the cover (800). Similarly, the first flange (810) may extend to cover the first mounting point (as shown in Figure 9), the advantages of which include preventing the tubular member (609) from being pinched between the cover (800) and another part of the vehicle during vehicle assembly.Since the opening (504) and the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608) are covered by the cover (800), electromagnetic interference from one or more of the first wire harness (406), the second wire harness (608), and the connector (610) is reduced or prevented in the radio antenna (206), thereby reducing noise in the radio signal.

[0053] Figure 9 shows the midline (990) of the cover (800). The midline (990) can, for example, indicate the position of a bend on the cover along the longitudinal axis. As seen in Figure 9, the lengths of the first flange (992) and the second flange (994) defined from the midline (990) to the bottom of the cover (800) do not need to be the same. The cover (800) can cover the first mounting point and / or the second mounting point by selecting the lengths of the first and second flanges (992, 994).

[0054] According to one or more embodiments, the second wire harness (608) has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular member (609). Furthermore, the length of the second flange (994) is such that the second flange (812) covers the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608) but does not cover (or extends over) the second mounting point (604). The stated benefit of keeping the length of the second flange (994) as short as possible (i.e., covering the unshielded portion (704) of the second wire harness (608)) and not covering the second mounting point (604) is that the cover (800) can be kept close to the front side (506) of the D-pillar (512). In other words, if the second mounting point (604) is covered by the cover (800), it may increase the amount of the cover (800) protruding from the D-pillar (512), which is undesirable in order to maintain the small profile of the D-pillar (512), given that the added HVAC duct and / or interior trim is located on the front side of the D-pillar.

[0055] According to one or more embodiments, the bolt mounting point (602) is located only a short distance (e.g., 1-5 cm) below the lower edge of the opening (504). The benefit of the short distance between the bolt mounting point (602, not shown in Figure 9) and the lower edge of the opening (504) is that the length of the cover (800) (or, more specifically, the length of the bottom portion of the central channel) is reduced. For example, if the bolt mounting point (602) is located at the first position (950) shown in Figure 9, the cover (800) would need to be made larger to align the hole (808) in the cover (800) with the bolt mounting point (602).

[0056] According to one or more embodiments, the bolt mounting point (602) is located on the D-pillar between the tubular member (609) and the second wire harness (608) (for example, midway between the first mounting point (606) and the second mounting point (604). A first offset is provided between the tubular member (609) and / or the first mounting point (606) and the bolt mounting point (602). A second offset is provided between the second wire harness (608) and / or the second mounting point (604) and the bolt mounting point (602). The first and second offsets may correspond to the diameters of the tubular member (609) and the second wire harness (608), respectively. The first and second offsets are configured such that neither the tubular member (609) nor the second wire harness (608) interferes with the bolt mounting point (602). For example, an improper first or second offset could cause either the tubular member (609) or the second wire harness (608) to come into contact with the cover (800), preventing the area around the hole (808) from engaging with the area around the bolt mounting point (602). In other words, an improper first or second offset could cause the cover (800) to "float" in front of the front side (506) of the D-pillar (512).

[0057] According to the present invention, a cover (800) having a first flange (810), a second flange (812), and a central channel (806) that form a "hat-shaped" cross-sectional profile solves the above-mentioned problems of large covers (800) and covers (800) that "float" or are poorly fitted.

[0058] In Figure 9, the second wire harness (608) is shown as being connected to or having a connection point with the third wire harness (910). According to one or more embodiments, the third wire harness (910) extends to the other side of the vehicle (i.e., the opposite side, the second side). The vehicle's controller (e.g., an electronic control unit (ECU)) or actuator assembly (308) may be located on the second side of the vehicle (specifically, the rear side and the second side). In addition, a power source such as a battery may be located on the second side of the vehicle (specifically, the rear side and the second side). According to one or more embodiments, the third wire harness (910) connects to one or more of the controllers and power sources located on the rear side and the second side of the vehicle. The third wire harness (910) can pass through the D-pillar on the second side of the vehicle, through the opening in the D-pillar on the side facing the first side (i.e., the in-vehicle side of the other D-pillar).

[0059] Figures 10A and 10B illustrate the interaction between the engaging portion (702) of the D-pillar (512) and the protruding portion (814) of the cover (800) for mounting the cover (800) to the D-pillar. The engaging portion (702) and the protruding portion (814) work together with the ground bolt (603) in the hole (808) of the cover (800) and the bolt mounting point (602) of the D-pillar (512) to form two contact areas between the cover (800) and the D-pillar (512). The two contact areas ensure secure mounting of the cover (800) to the D-pillar (512) and prevent noise generated by the cover (800) due to vibrations of the vehicle while it is in motion.

[0060] Figure 10A is a view from the rear of the vehicle through the opening (504) of the D-pillar (512), showing the cover (800) approaching the D-pillar. The engaging portion (702) of the D-pillar (512) partially extends into the opening (504) and has an opening (702a). The width of the projection (814) of the cover (800) is smaller than the width of the opening (702a) of the engaging portion (702) so that the projection (814) can be inserted into the opening (702a). Figure 10A also shows a section line and section BB, and a section view corresponding to section BB is shown in Figure 10B.

[0061] As shown in Figure 10B, the protruding portion (814) of the cover (800) has two bent portions, namely a first bent portion (1002) and a second bent portion (1004). The two bent portions divide the protruding portion (814) into three parts: a lower portion (1006), a middle portion (1008), and an upper portion (1010). In order to insert the protruding portion (814) into the opening (702a) and transition to the state shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the upper portion (1010) should be inserted from the lower side (inside) of the opening (702a) and the upper portion (1010) should be brought into close contact with the upper surface of the engaging portion (702) as shown. To attach the cover (800) to the D-pillar (512), the cover is initially angled so that the upper part (1010) of the projection (814) can enter the opening (702a) of the engagement part (702). The initial angle of the cover (800) is such that the area around the hole (808) of the cover (800) does not come into contact with the area around the bolt mounting point (602). That is, the lower part of the cover (800) is not fitted to the front side (506) of the D-pillar (512). When the upper part (1010) of the projection (814) is inserted into the opening (702a) of the engagement part (702), the lower part of the cover (800) comes into contact with or fits to the front side (506) of the D-pillar (512). With the lower part of the cover (800) in contact with the front side (506) of the D-pillar, the middle part (1008) of the projection (814) passes upward through the opening (702a) of the engaging part (702), and the lower part (1006) and upper part (1010) of the projection (814) are located on the inside and outside of the engaging part (702), respectively, and on opposite sides (both sides). Since the lower part (1006) and upper part (1010) of the projection (814) are located on both sides of the engaging part (702), the projection (814) and the engaging part (702) are securely engaged, and the engagement can only be released by reversing the installation operation. The lower portion of the cover (800) is attached to the D-pillar at the bolt mounting point (602) using an earth bolt (603) that extends through the hole (808) in the cover and is fastened (for example, using threads) to the bolt mounting point (602), thereby preventing the protruding portion (814) and the engaging portion (702) from disengaging.Therefore, the cover (800) is attached to the D-pillar by first inserting the protruding portion (814) of the cover (800) into the opening (702a) of the engaging portion (702) of the D-pillar (512), and then fastening the lower portion of the cover (800) to the bolt mounting point (602) of the D-pillar (512) using the earth bolt (603).

[0062] If a different bolt (e.g., an earth bolt) is used instead of the protrusion (814) and engagement (702) (for example, if the cover is secured at two points, top and bottom, with an earth bolt), an additional hole must be made in the cover (800) (i.e., two holes must be drilled). As shown in at least Figures 8A, 8B, 9, and 10A, the cover (800) may have a curved side profile. Therefore, to make the hole (808) and the additional hole, two different drilling processes are required because the surface angle of the cover (800) at the hole location differs depending on its location. The stated benefit of using the protrusion (814) and engagement (702) is at least a reduction in the number of manufacturing processes associated with the cover (800) and the cost of manufacturing it. In addition, during the installation of the cover (800), the installer only needs to work on the lower part of the cover (800) including the hole (808), improving work efficiency. Furthermore, if the configuration in the illustrated embodiment is reversed, that is, if the upper part of the cover is fixed with an earth bolt and the protruding part (814) and engaging part (702) provided on the lower part of the cover are engaged, the bolt fixing work using the hole provided on the upper part of the cover becomes an installation work at a high position, which worsens the workability.

[0063] Figure 11 shows a rear-side HVAC system (1102) enclosed by a dashed ellipse. The rear-side HVAC system (1102) may include one or more of a compressor, evaporator, condenser, cooling fluid (e.g., refrigerant), throttling device, and blower or fan. In some implementations, elements of the rear-side HVAC system (1102), such as the condenser, are located elsewhere in the vehicle. Generally, the rear-side HVAC system (1102) performs a thermodynamic cycle on the cooling fluid to remove heat or energy from a forced airflow (e.g., an airflow forced using a fan or blower). For example, a blower may press air into an evaporator of the rear-side HVAC system (1102), which carries a low-temperature or cooled cooling fluid to remove heat or energy from the air. The cooled air can be distributed throughout the vehicle using one or more ducts.

[0064] According to one or more embodiments, the rear HVAC system (1102) is located on the same side as the rear side window (205), including the first actuator (316) of the actuator assembly (308) of the electric rear gate (314), the D-pillar (512) and cover (800) as described herein, and the radio antenna (206). Note that the radio antenna (206) depicted in Figure 11 has a different arrangement and shape factor than those previously depicted. This is intended to demonstrate that embodiments of the present disclosure are applicable to a wide variety of radio antennas that may be included in the rear side window. As shown in Figure 11, the duct (1104) passes in front of the D-pillar (512) together with the cover (800). The cover (800), when configured and arranged as described herein, does not protrude much from the front side of the D-pillar (512). In other words, the width of the inner surface (508) of the D-pillar (512), including the attached cover (800), is maintained near the minimum width (e.g., given strength and rigidity requirements). Thus, the intrusion of trim components positioned around the D-pillar (512) and cover (800) (e.g., interior panel) into the interior of the vehicle is reduced. Furthermore, since the overall size or extent of the upper portion of the cover (800) is reduced, the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct (1104) of the rear HVAC system (1102) positioned on the front side of the D-pillar (512) is maintained along the vertical length of the D-pillar (512). That is, there is no need to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct (1104) positioned in front of the front side of the D-pillar, and reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct (1104) is disadvantageous because it would cause an increase in the drag of the duct (1104) and irreversible loss of forced airflow.

[0065] Figure 11 illustrates the airflow path from a rear HVAC system (1102) through a duct (1104) and exiting through a vent (1108) located in the roof trim of the vehicle. The vehicle may include additional vents and airflow paths not shown. For example, additional vents may be included in the roof trim, for example, toward the front of the vehicle. As another example, another duct located below the rear window (205) may carry cooled air from the rear HVAC system (1102), which can exit through one or more vents located on this duct. As yet another example, cooled air may be carried by a duct in the roof trim from a front HVAC system (not shown) through a duct (1104) to another duct located below the rear window (205) having one or more vents. By using the cover (800) of this disclosure, the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct (1104) is ensured to allow, for example, proper airflow from the rear HVAC system (1102) to the vent (1108).

[0066] Figure 12 shows a method for attaching a cover to a D-pillar according to one or more embodiments. As shown in the figure, step 1202 provides a vehicle including a D-pillar. The D-pillar includes an opening in the upper portion of the front side of the D-pillar. The D-pillar further includes a bolt mounting point below the opening and an engaging portion extending into the opening, the engaging portion including the opening.

[0067] In step 1204, a cover is provided. The cover includes a central channel along the longitudinal axis of the cover, the central channel including holes for attaching the cover to the bolt mounting points of the D-pillar by earth bolts. The cover further includes a first flange and a second flange extending, for example, laterally from the central channel, and an upper portion having projections that engage with the engaging portion of the D-pillar.

[0068] In step 1206, the projection of the cover is inserted into the opening of the engagement portion of the D-pillar. According to one or more embodiments, the projection has a first bend and a second bend that divide the projection into a lower, middle, and upper portion. Thus, more specifically, the upper portion of the projection is inserted through the opening of the engagement portion such that the middle portion traverses the opening. To insert the projection into the opening of the engagement portion, it may be necessary to angle the cover so that the projection is substantially perpendicular to the opening and / or nearly perpendicular to it. In some embodiments, angling the cover for inserting the projection into the opening requires that there be space between the lower portion of the cover and the bolt mounting point (or surrounding area) of the D-pillar. That is, angling the cover for inserting the projection into the opening may be such that the cover and the D-pillar (or the front side of the D-pillar) do not come into contact (at least in the lower portion of the cover).

[0069] In step 1208, contact is made between the area surrounding the hole in the cover and the bolt mounting point. For example, if the cover is angled to insert a projection into the opening, once inserted, the cover may no longer be angled. According to one or more embodiments, the lower portion of the cover fits onto the front side of the D-pillar in at least a portion of the D-pillar below the opening adjacent to the central channel.

[0070] In step 1210, the shaft or threaded portion of the earth bolt is inserted into or passed through the hole in the cover. The earth bolt further includes a bearing portion, which is fitted onto the front side of the cover.

[0071] In step 1212, the ground bolt is fastened to the bolt mounting point on the D-pillar. Fastening the ground bolt may involve rotating the ground bolt about its central axis. The ground bolt is made of a conductive material such as metal (e.g., steel). Furthermore, the ground bolt has projections (e.g., sharp edges or protrusions) on both its threads and bearing portion. The projections are configured to remove paint from the mating portion (i.e., the cover and the D-pillar). Thus, by fastening the ground bolt, the cover is attached to the D-pillar, and at the same time, paint is removed from the cover and the D-pillar (if painted), allowing electrical conduction between the cover and the D-pillar.

[0072] In summary, Figure 12 outlines a method for attaching a cover to the D-pillar of a vehicle. The D-pillar has a specific structure that includes the features of an opening and an engaging portion. In particular, the opening is located on the upper portion and the front side of the D-pillar. Furthermore, the engaging portion extends into the opening and includes the opening. The cover includes a projection that can be at least partially inserted into the opening of the engaging portion. Furthermore, the cover includes a central channel with a hole that can compress a portion of the D-pillar below the opening and be fastened using an earth bolt.

[0073] Embodiments of the present disclosure may have one or more of the following advantages. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a cover for blocking noise (such as radio signals or received by a radio antenna) originating from an unshielded portion of a wire harness near the end of a wire harness or connector. The cover is made of a conductive material such as metal. The cover is attached to a grounding component (i.e., the rearmost pillar) using a grounding bolt that allows electrical conduction between the cover and the grounding component. One or more of the cover and the grounding component (i.e., the rearmost pillar) can be painted. The grounding bolt has projections formed in the bearing portion and threaded portion that remove paint from the cover and the grounding component. By fastening the cover to the rearmost pillar using a grounding bolt rather than a general fastening bolt, fastening and paint removal are performed simultaneously, reducing labor. Furthermore, electrical conduction between the cover and the rearmost pillar is ensured by using a grounding bolt so that the cover can absorb the energy that generates radio signal noise and dissipate it throughout the vehicle body, with the energy originating from the wire harness (i.e., the unshielded portion of the second wire harness) or connector. Furthermore, attaching the cover to the rearmost pillar using earth bolts is easier than welding, facilitating maintenance and repair work.

[0074] To securely attach the cover to the rearmost pillar and prevent acoustic noise from being generated by vibrations of the vehicle in motion, the cover needs to be secured to the rearmost pillar at at least two points. According to embodiments of this disclosure, by using the engagement portion, only one ground bolt is required to attach the cover to the rearmost pillar. Compared to using two bolts, the cost and weight of at least one bolt (and possibly associated nut) are eliminated. Furthermore, when the cover is attached using two bolts, the positions of the two different holes would be on parts of the cover with different surface angles, thus requiring two different drilling processes to form two different holes in the cover. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the manufacturing process and the manufacturing cost of the cover are simplified and reduced, respectively.

[0075] Furthermore, since the engaging portion is located on the upper part of the rearmost pillar (for example, above the opening) and the bolt mounting point is below the opening, the user or installer only needs to pay attention to the lower part of the cover during installation, improving efficiency.

[0076] The first and second mounting points ensure that the tubular member and the second wire harness do not interfere with the mounting of the cover to the rearmost pillar, respectively. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the cover has a hat-shaped cross-sectional profile with a first flange, a central channel, and a second flange. This cross-sectional profile allows for close proximity of the first mounting point, the second mounting point, and the bolt mounting point, and reduces the overall size (e.g., length) and protrusion (from the front side of the rearmost pillar) of the cover. The hat-shaped cross-sectional profile (i.e., corrugated nature) in the upper portion of the cover, for example, also increases the strength of the cover and improves the engagement between the engaging portion and the protruding portion.

[0077] According to one or more embodiments, the depth of the central channel in the upper portion of the cover is less than or equal to the depth of the central channel in the lower portion of the cover. By varying the depth of the central channel along the longitudinal axis, the cover can remain closely aligned or fitted with the front side of the rearmost pillar. That is, the cover does not unnecessarily extend from the front side of the rearmost pillar, saving space for one or more of the interior trim and / or HVAC ducts.

[0078] The second mounting point prevents the second wire harness from shaking or moving while the vehicle is being driven. This ensures that the unshielded portion of the second wire harness is always covered by the cover, even if the second mounting point itself is not covered by the cover. In fact, in some embodiments, it is advantageous for the cover not to cover the second mounting point in order to reduce the size of the cover (e.g., length) and to reduce the profile or extension of the cover from the front side of the rearmost pillar (i.e., the front-to-rear width of the cover).

[0079] According to one or more embodiments, a portion of the tubular member and the second wire harness is covered by a cover. The advantage of covering at least these portions of the tubular member and the second wire harness is to prevent damage to the tubular member and the second wire harness during vehicle assembly (e.g., installation of interior panels or trim). By preventing damage during assembly, assembly efficiency is improved.

[0080] Another advantage of the embodiments of this disclosure is that the duct associated with the rear HVAC system can be positioned in front of or forward of the front side of the rearmost pillar without the cover significantly reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct. That is, the cover is compact in relation to the projection or extension distance from the front side (or front-to-back width, or width of the inner side) of the rearmost pillar. Therefore, it is not necessary to make the duct so large that it reduces the interior space or volume of the vehicle. In addition, since the duct does not require modification, the interior trim or other interior panels do not require modification or customization. With such a layout, it is possible to provide an air conditioning vent in the roof trim to draw air from the roof trim into the passenger compartment. Furthermore, by maintaining the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct even when considering the installed cover, the airflow performance is improved and noise caused by the airflow is suppressed.

[0081] <Summary> i.) Radio antennas, positioned in, above, or around the rear side windows, are preferably located on the same side as the driver of the vehicle. That is, the radio antennas face the center of the road and are set away from houses, buildings, and other roadside objects to improve transmission and reception sensitivity.

[0082] ii) When a controller (e.g., an ECU) is installed on the rear side of a vehicle (for example, between the inner body panel and the trim, or between the inner body panel and the outer body panel), it is preferable to position the controller on the opposite side of the wireless antenna (if the wireless antenna is installed on the first side, the controller is preferably installed on the second side) to reduce the influence of noise on or caused by the wireless antenna.

[0083] iii.) The rear HVAC system must be installed on the same side as the radio antenna in layouts where the controller is located on the rear side and opposite the radio antenna. In other words, generally there is not enough space on the same side of the rear of the vehicle for the rear HVAC system and one or more controllers.

[0084] iv.) Considering (i.)-(iii.), since the rear HVAC duct is positioned in front of the rearmost pillar and close to the radio antenna, the width (or front-to-rear width) of the inner surface of the rearmost pillar and the attached cover must be small to provide adequate space for the duct without reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the duct, without encroaching on the interior space or volume of the vehicle, or without requiring custom interior trim. In addition, in order to limit the width of the inner surface of the rearmost pillar, an opening must be formed on the front side of the rearmost pillar (i.e., the opening cannot be formed on the inner surface of the rearmost pillar). The opening on the front side of the rearmost pillar provides a line of sight between one or more of the first wire harness, the second wire harness, and the connector and the radio antenna.

[0085] v.) To mitigate electromagnetic interference (i.e., noise) generated by one or more of the first wire harness, the second wire harness, and the connectors affecting the radio signal and / or radio antenna, a cover is mounted on the rearmost pillar so as to cover the opening and the unshielded portion of the second wire harness with respect to the radio antenna.

[0086] The cover disclosed herein satisfies all constraints and solves all of the problems listed in (i) to (v). For example, by varying the depth of the central channel of the cover, the front-to-rear width of the cover is minimized, ensuring an appropriate cross-sectional area for the rear HVAC duct.

[0087] Although only a few exemplary embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily understand that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the present invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A rearmost pillar (112) is provided at the rear of the vehicle and has an opening (504) in the upper part of the front side (506), A radio antenna (206) is installed in the rear side window (205) located in front of the rearmost pillar (112), An electric rear gate (114) comprising an actuator assembly (308) and a rear panel (306), wherein the actuator assembly (308) is configured to selectively open and close the rear panel (306), A first wire harness (406) connects the actuator assembly (308) and the connector (610) disposed within the rearmost pillar (112), A second wire harness (608) connects the connector (610) to at least one of the controller and the power supply, and passes through the opening (504), A cover (800) is attached to the rearmost pillar (112) while covering the opening (504) and the unshielded portions (704) of the first wire harness (406) and the second wire harness (608), A vehicle (100) equipped with the following.

2. The cover (800) is made of metal. The rearmost pillar (112) is made of metal. The vehicle (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cover (800) is attached to the rearmost pillar (112) using an earth bolt (603) that electrically connects the cover (800) and the rearmost pillar (112).

3. The upper portion of the cover (800) is provided with a projection (814) that engages with the engaging portion (702) of the rearmost pillar (112), The vehicle (100) according to claim 2, wherein the lower portion of the cover (800) is attached to the rearmost pillar (112) by the earth bolt (603).

4. The system further comprises a tubular member (609) passing through the opening (504), The cover (800) has a corrugated surface comprising a central channel (806) along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800), and a first flange (810) and a second flange (812) extending from the central channel (806), A portion of the tubular member (609) is covered by the first flange (810), and a portion of the second wire harness (608) is covered by the second flange (812), The vehicle (100) according to claim 2, wherein the central channel (806) has a hole (808) for attaching the cover (800) to the bolt mounting point (602) of the rearmost pillar (112) by the earth bolt (603).

5. The vehicle (100) according to claim 4, wherein the depth of the central channel (806) varies along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800).

6. The vehicle (100) according to claim 5, wherein the depth of the central channel (806) is shallower at the top than at the bottom of the cover (800).

7. The rearmost pillar (112) further comprises a first mounting point (606) for the tubular member (609) and a second mounting point (604) for the second wire harness (608), The vehicle (100) according to claim 4, wherein the first flange portion (810) covers the first mounting point (606).

8. The vehicle (100) according to claim 7, wherein the second wire harness (608) has a larger diameter than the tubular member (609).

9. The rearmost pillar (112) further comprises a first mounting point (606) for the tubular member (609) and a second mounting point (604) for the second wire harness (608), The vehicle (100) according to claim 4, wherein the second flange portion (812) covers the second mounting point (604).

10. The rearmost pillar (112) further comprises a first mounting point (606) for the tubular member (609) and a second mounting point (604) for the second wire harness (608), The vehicle (100) according to claim 4, wherein the first flange portion (810) covers the first mounting point (606) and the second flange portion (812) covers the second mounting point (604).

11. A rear heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (rear HVAC) system (1102) is provided on the rear side of the vehicle (100) and on the same side as the radio antenna (206), wherein the duct (1104) of the rear HVAC system (1102) is provided on the front side of the rearmost pillar (112). The vehicle (100) according to claim 1, further comprising the above.

12. A cover (800) for the rearmost pillar (112) of a vehicle (100) provided at the rear of the vehicle, having an opening (504) in the upper part of the front side (506), A central channel (806) is positioned along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800) and has a hole (808) for attaching the cover (800) to the bolt mounting point (602) of the rearmost pillar (112) by the earth bolt (603), The first flange portion (810) and the second flange portion (812) extend from the central channel (806), It comprises an upper portion having a protruding portion (814) that engages with the engaging portion (702) of the rearmost pillar (112), Cover (800) is made of metal.

13. The cover (800) according to claim 12, wherein the depth of the central channel (806) varies along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800).

14. The step of providing a vehicle (100) having a rearmost pillar (112) having the following configuration: The rearmost pillar (112) is provided at the rear of the vehicle. An opening (504) is provided in the upper part of the front side surface (506) of the rearmost pillar (112), A bolt mounting point (602) is provided below the opening (504), An engaging portion (702) extending within the opening (504), the engaging portion (702) having an opening (702a), Equipped with, The step of providing a cover (800) having the following configuration: The cover (800) is A central channel (806) along the longitudinal axis (802) of the cover (800), the central channel (806) having a hole (808) for attaching the cover (800) to the bolt mounting point (602) of the rearmost pillar (112) by an earth bolt (603), The first flange portion (810) and the second flange portion (812) extend from the central channel (806), The rearmost pillar (112) has an upper portion having a projection (814) that engages with the engaging portion (702), and the cover (800) is made of metal. Furthermore, each of the following steps The steps include inserting the protruding portion (814) into the opening (702a) of the engaging portion (702), The steps include bringing the area surrounding the hole (808) into contact with the bolt mounting point (602), The steps include inserting the shaft or threaded portion of the earth bolt (603) through the hole (808) so that the bearing portion of the earth bolt (603) fits into the cover (800), The steps include fastening the earth bolt (603) to the bolt mounting point (602), A method for attaching a cover to a vehicle, including the following.

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