Switch device and charging port unit equipped with switch device

Abstract

To improve assembling workability of a switch device comprising a light source.SOLUTION: A switch device 30 comprises: an operation member 60; a holder 70 that holds the operation member 60; a circuit board 40 on which a switch 41, a first light source 42, and a second light source 43 are mounted; and a case 35 that includes an opening part 38d for exposing the operation member 60, a first translucent part 38e that transmits light of the first light source 42, and a second translucent part 38h that transmits light of the second light source 43. The holder 70 includes a first light interception part 72 that intercepts light from the first light source 42 toward the second translucent part 38h and intercepts light from the second light source 43 toward the first translucent part 38e.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a switch device and a charging port unit including a switch device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a charging device for use in electric vehicles. This charging device is equipped with a switch for detecting the open / closed state of the lid, a light for illuminating the power supply connector, and an indicator for displaying the charge level of the battery, around a penetration part of a base that exposes a power supply connector. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-64504 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the charging device of Patent Document 1, the switch, the indicator (first light source), and the light (second light source) must be individually attached to the case. In addition, since these electrical components must be electrically connected, it is also necessary to lay out a connection cable. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the ease of assembly of the switch device used in the charging device of Patent Document 1.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to improve the ease of assembly of a switch device equipped with a light source. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention No. 1An aspect of the present invention includes an operating member, a holder that movably holds the operating member, a circuit board on which a switch operated by the operating member, a first light source, and a second light source are attached and which is disposed on the opposite side of the holder to the operating member, and a case that has an opening for exposing the operating member, a first light-transmitting portion that transmits light of the first light source, and a second light-transmitting portion that transmits light of the second light source, and that houses the operating member, the holder, and the circuit board, and the holder has a first light-shielding portion that blocks light of the first light source toward the second light-transmitting portion and blocks light of the second light source toward the first light-transmitting portion. a third light source is further attached to the circuit board, the operation member has a third light transmitting portion that transmits light of the third light source, and the holder has a second light blocking portion that blocks light of the third light source directed toward the first light transmitting portion and the second light transmitting portion and blocks light of the first light source and the second light source directed toward the third light transmitting portion. A switch device is provided.

[0007] The switch, the first light source, and the second light source are attached to a circuit board, and the operating member, the holder, and the circuit board are housed in one case. Therefore, there is no need for connection cables to electrically connect individual electrical components to the circuit board, and there is no need to route the connection cables, improving the ease of assembly of the switch device including the light source. In addition, because the switch device including the light source is unitized, when this switch device is used in a charging port unit, the ease of assembly of the switch device to the base can be improved.

[0008] The circuit board 3 Two light sources are installed, and the case is equipped with a corresponding 3 The holder is also provided with a first light-shielding portion that blocks light from the first light source directed toward the second light-transmitting portion and blocks light from the second light source directed toward the first light-transmitting portion. The holder is also provided with a second light-shielding portion that blocks light from the third light source directed toward the first light-transmitting portion and the second light-transmitting portion, and blocks light from the first light source and the light source directed toward the third light-transmitting portion. Therefore, different parts are illuminated. 3 Even if a single light source is mounted inside the case, it is possible to ensure that only the target area is illuminated.

[0009] A second aspect of the present invention provides a charging port unit comprising a base arranged on the interior side of a charging port of a vehicle body panel, a power supply connector attached to the base, and a switch device of the first aspect attached to the base on the opposite side of the charging port, wherein the base each has exposure holes for exposing the operating member, the first light-transmitting portion, and the second light-transmitting portion to the charging port side. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, the workability of assembling a switch device having a light source can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a charging port unit including a switch device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] Cross-sectional view of line II-II in Figure 1. [Diagram 3] 3 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 2 of the charging port unit with the lid closed. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the charging port unit as viewed from the rear side. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the circuit board, the cover member, and the base. [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in Figure 5. [Figure 9] Cross-sectional view of line IX-IX in Figure 5. [Figure 10] Cross-sectional view taken along line XX in Figure 5. [Figure 11] FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] 5 is an exploded perspective view of the operating member and the holder as viewed from a different direction. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] Fig. 1 shows a charging port unit 10 including a switch device 30 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The charging port unit 10 includes a power supply connector 15 to which a charging plug (not shown) is detachably connected, and is attached to a side panel (body panel) 1 of an electric vehicle. Referring to Fig. 6, the switching device 30 includes one switch 41 and multiple (three in this embodiment) light sources 42-44, and not only detects operations by a user, but also provides a predetermined display and illuminates the power supply connector 15.

[0014] In the following description, the front-to-rear direction in the direction in which the side panel 1 extends is referred to as the X direction, the direction intersecting with the side panel 1 is referred to as the Y direction, and the up-down direction in the direction in which the side panel 1 extends is referred to as the Z direction. In each drawing, the direction indicated by the X direction arrow is the front side, and the direction opposite to the arrow is the rear side. The direction indicated by the Y direction arrow is the inside of the vehicle (inner side), and the direction opposite to the arrow is the outside of the vehicle (outer side). The direction indicated by the Z direction arrow is the upper side, and the direction opposite to the arrow is the lower side.

[0015] First, an overview of the charging port unit 10 will be described.

[0016] 1 to 3, a side panel 1 is provided with a recess 2 recessed inward in the Y direction, and a charging port 3 is formed at the bottom of this recess 2. When viewed from the Y direction, the charging port 3 has a generally elliptical shape in this embodiment, but the shape can be changed as necessary.

[0017] Continuing to refer to Figures 1 to 3, charging port unit 10 includes a base 20 disposed on the vehicle interior side of charging port 3 relative to side panel 1, and a lid 25 rotatably attached to base 20. Power supply connector 15 is attached to the base 20 on the opposite side of charging port 3 so that connection port 16 faces charging port 3. Switch device 30 is attached to the base 20 on the opposite side of charging port 3 so as to be adjacent to power supply connector 15.

[0018] The base 20 is made of an opaque resin having light-shielding properties. A seal member 21 that protrudes into the recess 2 through the charging port 3 is provided on the outer surface side of the base 20 in the Y direction. The seal member 21 provides a water-tight seal between the lid 25 and the base 20 in the closed position shown in FIG.

[0019] On the inner surface side of the base 20 in the Y direction, there are provided, in order from the front side to the rear side in the X direction, a hinge connection portion 22 for rotatably connecting the lid 25, an attachment portion 23 for attaching the power supply connector 15, and an attachment portion 24 for attaching the switch device 30.

[0020] 4, the hinge connection portion 22 includes a pair of bearing plates 22a and a connecting plate 22b connecting the pair of bearing plates 22a. The pair of bearing plates 22a are spaced apart in the Z direction and each extends along the XY plane. The connecting plate 22b is connected to the front end of each of the pair of bearing plates 22a in the X direction. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, an insertion hole 22c is provided in the base 20 so as to be located between the pair of bearing plates 22a and within the charging port 3.

[0021] 4, the attachment portion 23 of the power supply connector 15 has a recess 23a recessed inward in the Y direction, and an attachment port 23b is provided at the bottom of the recess 23a. By arranging the connection port 16 of the power supply connector 15 in the attachment port 23b, the connection port 16 is exposed to the charging port 3 (see FIG. 1). An exposure hole 23d is provided on the attachment portion 24 side of the outer peripheral wall 23c of the recess 23a, exposing a light-transmitting portion 38h (described later) to the charging port 3.

[0022] 1 and 4, two exposure holes 24a, 24b are provided in mounting portion 24 of switch device 30. Exposure hole 24a is circular and exposes operation member 60 (described later) to the charging port 3 side. Exposure hole 24b is circular and has a smaller diameter than exposure hole 24a and exposes light-transmitting portion 38e (described later) to the charging port 3 side.

[0023] 1, lid 25 is a plate having a shape slightly larger than charging port 3, and is disposed on the outer side of charging port 3 in the Y direction to openably cover and conceal charging port 3. Lid 25 is rotatably attached to hinge connection portion 22 of base 20 via shaft member 26 and arm 27.

[0024] 2 and 3, the shaft member 26 is cylindrical, attached between the bearing plates 22a of the hinge connection portion 22, and rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the Z direction. The shaft member 26 is provided with a plate-shaped protrusion 26a that protrudes radially outward.

[0025] The arm 27 is disposed straddling from the vehicle exterior side to the vehicle interior side of the base 20 through the insertion hole 22c. The arm 27 is an arc-shaped plate, and the axis of the arm 27 coincides with the rotation axis of the shaft member 26. The outer end of the arm 27 is mechanically connected to the lid 25, and the inner end of the arm 27 is mechanically connected to the protruding portion 26a of the shaft member 26.

[0026] The lid 25 configured in this manner is opened and closed by an electric motor 28 (see FIG. 1) mechanically connected to the shaft member 26. Specifically, the electric motor 28 is driven to close or open in response to a command from an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) of the electric vehicle to which it is electrically connected. Note that the electric motor 28 may be controlled by a dedicated control unit attached to the switch device 30 instead of the ECU.

[0027] When the electric motor 28 is driven to close, the lid 25 rotates from the open position shown in Fig. 2 to the closed position shown in Fig. 3, covering and concealing the power supply connector 15. When the electric motor 28 is driven to open, the lid 25 rotates from the closed position shown in Fig. 3 to the open position shown in Fig. 2, exposing the connection port 16 of the power supply connector 15.

[0028] Next, the configuration of the switch device 30 will be specifically described.

[0029] 5 and 6, the switch device 30 includes three light sources 42 to 44 in addition to the switch 41. Of these, the light from the light source (first light source) 42 is visible from outside the base 20 through the exposure hole 24b (see FIG. 1) and indicates the charging state of the battery of the electric vehicle. The light from the light source (second light source) 43 is irradiated to the outside of the base 20 through the exposure hole 23d (see FIG. 1) and illuminates the connection port 16 of the power supply connector 15. The light from the light source (third light source) 44 is visible from outside the base 20 through the operation member 60 and indicates the position of the operation member 60.

[0030] The switch device 30 of this embodiment, which detects user operations, provides predetermined displays, and illuminates predetermined areas, is unitized and includes a circuit board 40, a cover member 50, an operating member 60, and a holder 70 within a case 35.

[0031] Continuing to refer to Figures 5 and 6, the case 35 includes a base 36 and a cover 38, which are connected by screws (not shown).

[0032] 7, the base 36 is molded from an opaque resin having light-shielding properties, and includes a plurality of bus bars 37 integrated by insert molding. 7 and 8, each bus bar 37 includes a connection terminal 37a protruding outward in the Y direction and a connection terminal 37b protruding inward in the Y direction.

[0033] 7, the base 36 is provided with a positioning protrusion 36a, a boss 36b, and a support portion 36c that protrude outward in the Y direction. The positioning protrusion 36a positions the circuit board 40 at a predetermined interval outside the base 36 in the Y direction. The boss 36b screws the circuit board 40 to the base 36. The support portion 36c is located behind the switch 41, and prevents the circuit board 40 from being deflected when the operating member 60 is pressed.

[0034] 4 and 8, a connector portion 36d that protrudes inward in the Y direction is formed on the base 36. A connection terminal 37b of the bus bar 37 is arranged inside the connector portion 36d. By connecting a counterpart connector (not shown) to the connector portion 36d, the switch device 30 is electrically connected to the ECU.

[0035] 5 and 6, the cover 38 includes an end wall portion 38a disposed on the base 20, and a cylindrical outer wall portion 38b protruding inward in the Y direction from the outer periphery of the end wall portion 38a. A curved surface portion 38c shaped to fit along the outer periphery wall 23c is provided in the end wall portion 38a and the outer wall portion 38b at a portion corresponding to the attachment portion 23 of the power supply connector 15.

[0036] 6 and 8, end wall portion 38a is provided with a circular opening 38d that exposes a part of operation member 60 on the charging port 3 (see FIG. 1) side. Opening 38d and exposure hole 24a of base 20 are arranged on the same axis.

[0037] 6 and 9, the end wall portion 38a is provided with a light-transmitting portion (first light-transmitting portion) 38e that transmits light from the light source 42. The light-transmitting portion 38e includes a convex portion 38f that protrudes outward in the Y direction and is disposed in the exposure hole 24b of the base 20, and a cylindrical portion 38g that protrudes inward in the Y direction toward the light source 42. The convex portion 38f and the cylindrical portion 38g are provided on the same axis.

[0038] 6 and 10, the curved surface portion 38c is provided with a light-transmitting portion (second light-transmitting portion) 38h that transmits light from the light source 43. The light-transmitting portion 38h protrudes forward in the X direction from the curved surface portion 38c, passes through the exposure hole 23d of the base 20, and has a tip located within the recess 23a.

[0039] 7, the circuit board 40 is a printed circuit board in which a conductive foil-like conductive part (not shown) is laid on an insulating substrate. The circuit board 40 is provided with a terminal connection part 40a to which the connection terminal 37a is soldered, a positioning hole 40b that is positioned by the positioning protrusion 36a, and a screw hole 40c that corresponds to the boss 36b. The above-mentioned switch 41 and three types of light sources 42 to 44 are also mounted on the circuit board 40.

[0040] 7 and 8, the switch 41 is disposed approximately in the center of the circuit board 40 so as to be located on an axis (not shown) extending in the Y direction of the exposure hole 24a and the opening 38d. The switch 41 is, for example, a normally open tactile switch, and switches from an OFF state to an ON state when pressed by operating the operating member 60. By switching the ON / OFF state of the switch 41, the ECU can detect whether the operating member 60 is being operated or not.

[0041] In this embodiment, when the ECU detects operation of the operating member 60 by the switch 41, it drives the electric motor 28 to close. Furthermore, when the ECU detects operation of an open switch (not shown) inside the vehicle, it drives the electric motor 28 to open. However, when the ECU detects operation of the operating member 60 by the switch 41, it may also stop charging, start quick charging, or unlock the charging plug.

[0042] 7 and 9, the light source (first light source) 42 is disposed on the circuit board 40 so as to be positioned on an axis (not shown) extending in the Y direction of the exposure hole 24b and the light-transmitting portion 38e. The light source 42 is, for example, a two-color LED capable of emitting red and green light, and is controlled by the ECU. Specifically, the light source 42 is turned on when the charging plug is connected to the power supply connector 15, and turned off when it is not connected. Also, the light source 42 emits red light during charging, emits green light when the battery is fully charged, and the display state is switched depending on the charging state (charging level).

[0043] 7 and 10, the light source (second light source) 43 is disposed at a position on the circuit board 40 closest to the exposure hole 23d and the light-transmitting portion 38h, that is, on the front side of the circuit board 40 in the X direction. The light source 43 is composed of, for example, two LEDs capable of emitting neutral white light, and is controlled by the ECU. Specifically, the light source 43 is turned on when the lid 25 is in the open state shown in FIG. 2, and illuminates the power supply connector 15 (inside the recess 23a). The light source 43 is turned off when the lid 25 is in the closed state shown in FIG. 3.

[0044] 7 and 8, the light source (third light source) 44 is disposed on the circuit board 40 so as to be adjacent to the switch 41. The light source 44 is made of an LED capable of emitting light of a color different from the light sources 42 and 43, and is controlled by the ECU. Specifically, the light source 44 is turned on when the lid 25 is in the open state shown in FIG. 2 to indicate the position of the operating member 60. The light source 44 is turned off when the lid 25 is in the closed state shown in FIG. 3.

[0045] 6 and 7, the cover member 50 is a rubber sheet that covers the circuit board 40. The cover member 50 is formed of opaque silicone rubber that is elastically deformable and has light-shielding properties. The cover member 50 includes an end surface portion 50a having a shape corresponding to the shape of the circuit board 40 when viewed from the Y direction, an outer periphery portion 50b that surrounds the outer periphery of the circuit board 40, and a seal portion 50c that is sandwiched between the base 36 and the cover 38.

[0046] 8 to 10, the end surface portion 50a is disposed so as to be in surface contact with the outer surface of the circuit board 40 in the Y direction. The outer peripheral portion 50b is continuous with the outer periphery of the end surface portion 50a and protrudes inward in the Y direction beyond the circuit board 40. The seal portion 50c protrudes outward along the XZ plane from the end of the outer peripheral portion 50b opposite to the end surface portion 50a.

[0047] 6 and 7, the end surface portion 50a is provided with a bulging portion 50d that bulges outward in the Y direction and covers the connection terminal 37a protruding from the circuit board 40. The end surface portion 50a is also provided with an opening 51 that exposes the first light source 42, a notch 52 that exposes the second light source 43, an opening 54 that exposes the third light source 44, and a movable portion 55 that corresponds to the switch 41.

[0048] 6, 7, and 9, the opening 51 is a rectangular hole penetrating the end surface portion 50a in the Y direction, and the hole wall surrounds the light source 42. As shown most clearly in FIG. 9, the thickness of the portion of the end surface portion 50a where the opening 51 is formed is thicker than the thickness of the light source 42.

[0049] 6, the cutout 52 is generally triangular and is formed by cutting out the end surface 50a, including the outer circumferential portion 50b, from the front side to the rear side in the X direction. Referring to Fig. 11, a pair of reinforcing ribs 52a protruding inward in the Y direction are provided on the edge of the cutout 52 in the end surface 50a.

[0050] 7 and 10, a lens 53 that guides light from the light source 43 to the front side in the X direction (the connection port 16 of the power supply connector 15) is attached to the cutout portion 52. The shape of the lens 53 corresponds to the shape of the cutout portion 52, and watertightness is ensured by pressing the lens 53 against the reinforcing rib 52a. The thickness of the lens 53 in the Y direction is thicker than the thickness of the cover member 50, and the lens 53 protrudes outward from the cover member 50 in the Y direction.

[0051] 10, an irradiation surface 53a of the lens 53 located on the front side in the X direction is in surface contact with the inner surface of a portion where the light-transmitting portion 38h is formed among the curved portion 38c of the cover 38. Referring to Fig. 11, the lens 53 is provided with a notch 53b for placement on the circuit board 40 and an accommodating recess 53c for accommodating the light source 43, which are recessed outward in the Y direction.

[0052] 6, 7, and 8, the opening 54 is a rectangular hole penetrating the end surface portion 50a in the Y direction, and the hole wall surrounds the light source 44. The end surface portion 50a is provided with a reinforcing rib 56 that protrudes outward in the Y direction so as to surround the opening 54 and the movable portion 55. The thickness of the portion of the end surface portion 50a where the reinforcing rib 56 is formed is thicker than the thickness of the light source 44.

[0053] 6, the movable part 55 is provided adjacent to the opening 54 and is reinforced by a reinforcing rib 56. With reference to Fig. 7 and Fig. 11, the movable part 55 includes a first protrusion 55a and a second protrusion 55b that protrude outward in the Y direction, and an accommodating recess 55c that is recessed outward in the Y direction, and the second protrusion 55 is movable in the Y direction.

[0054] 7 and 8, the first protrusion 55a has a circular shape smaller than the reinforcing rib 56. The Y-direction outer end face of the first protrusion 55a is located further inward in the Y-direction than the Y-direction outer end face of the reinforcing rib 56. The second protrusion 55b has a circular shape smaller than the first protrusion 55a and protrudes outward in the Y-direction from the first protrusion 55a. The Y-direction outer end face of the second protrusion 55b is located further outward in the Y-direction than the Y-direction outer end face of the reinforcing rib 56.

[0055] 8 and 11, when viewed from the Y direction, the accommodating recess 55c is a circular depression having a diameter larger than that of the second protrusion 55b and smaller than that of the first protrusion 55a, and is capable of accommodating the switch 41. An operating protrusion 55d that protrudes inward in the Y direction and operates an operated portion of the switch 41 is provided at the bottom of the accommodating recess 55c. The operating protrusion 55d is generally frustum-shaped and is provided on the same axis as the second protrusion 55b.

[0056] By forming the accommodation recess 55c, a flexible portion 55e having a thickness that allows elastic deformation is formed between the first protrusion 55a and the second protrusion 55b. In other words, the second protrusion 55b and the operation protrusion 55d are connected to the first protrusion 55a via the flexible portion 55e and are movable in the Y direction relative to the first protrusion 55a.

[0057] 6 and 8, the operating member 60 is composed of a slider 61 and a waterproof cover 62. The slider 61 is movably held by a holder 70. The waterproof cover 62 is disposed in the opening 38d of the cover 38, and covers the slider 61 while preventing water from entering the case 35 through between the cover 38 and the holder 70.

[0058] The slider 61 is molded from a translucent resin and also functions as an illumination lens. With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 12, the slider 61 includes an operation receiving portion 61a, a light receiving portion 61e that receives light from the light source 44, and a pressing portion 61g that presses the movable portion 55 of the cover member 50.

[0059] 8 and 12, the operation receiving portion 61a is cylindrical, and a portion of it penetrates the opening 38d and protrudes outward in the Y direction. The operation receiving portion 61a receives an operation by the user via the waterproof cover 62 and moves inward in the Y direction. When the user's operation is released, the operation receiving portion 61a moves outward in the Y direction as the switch 41 and the cover member 50 are restored to their original state.

[0060] A lens surface 61b having a number of irregularities with a triangular cross section is formed on the inner surface of the operation receiving portion 61a in the Y direction. A pair of guide grooves 61c and a pair of guide ribs 61d are provided on the outer periphery of the operation receiving portion 61a. The pair of guide grooves 61c are provided at positions facing each other in the radial direction of the operation receiving portion 61a, each recessed radially inward and penetrating the operation receiving portion 61a in the axial direction. The pair of guide ribs 61d are provided with an interval in the Z direction and each protrudes forward in the X direction from the operation receiving portion 61a.

[0061] The light receiving portion 61e protrudes forward in the X direction and inward in the Y direction from between a pair of guide ribs 61d of the operation receiving portion 61a toward the light source 44. The light receiving portion 61e includes a light receiving surface 61f positioned outward in the Y direction from the light source 44 with a gap therebetween. The light receiving surface 61f extends along the XZ plane and receives light from the light source 44 irradiated outward in the Y direction.

[0062] The pressing portion 61g is connected to the light receiving portion 61e via the connecting portion 61h. The pressing portion 61g protrudes rearward in the X direction from the light receiving portion 61e and is in surface contact with the second convex portion 55b of the cover member 50. The pressing portion 61g has a circular shape extending along the XZ plane, and the diameter of the pressing portion 61g is larger than the diameter of the second convex portion 55b. As a result, when the slider 61 (operation member 60) is moved inward in the Y direction by a user's operation, the pressing portion 61g can turn on the switch 41 via the movable portion 55.

[0063] Continuing to refer to Figures 8 and 12, the waterproof cover 62 comprises an opaque cover body 63 having light-blocking properties, and a light-transmitting portion (third light-transmitting portion) 64 having light-transmitting properties, which are integrally formed by two-color molding.

[0064] The cover body 63 is formed of elastically deformable silicone rubber. The cover body 63 includes a circular outer end portion 63a covering the outer end surface of the operation receiving portion 61a in the Y direction, a cylindrical outer peripheral portion 63b covering the outer periphery of the operation receiving portion 61a, and a flange portion 63c protruding radially outward from the inner end of the outer peripheral portion 63b in the Y direction. The flange portion 63c is sandwiched between the cover 38 and the holder 70, and provides a liquid-tight seal between them. When the user presses the operation member 60 from the outside to the inside in the Y direction, the outer end portion 63a elastically deforms as the slider 61 moves inward in the Y direction.

[0065] The light-transmitting portion 64 is made of rubber or resin, is formed on the outer end portion 63a of the cover body 63, and is capable of transmitting light from the light source 44 that has passed through the slider 61. The light-transmitting portion 64 in this embodiment is configured as a mark that indicates that it is the operating member 60.

[0066] 6 and 8, the holder 70 is molded from an opaque resin having light-shielding properties. The holder 70 is disposed between the operation member 60 and the cover member 50 (circuit board 40), and movably holds the slider 61 (operation member 60). Specifically, the holder 70 includes a holding portion 71 that holds the slider 61, and a light-shielding portion (first light-shielding portion) 72 that prevents the light of the first light source 42 from being mixed with the light of the other light sources 43, 44.

[0067] 12, the holding portion 71 is in the shape of a plate that is slightly larger than the waterproof cover 62, and is provided with a holding recess 71a that is recessed inward on the outer surface side in the Y direction. The holding recess 71a has the same shape as the waterproof cover 62, and holds the waterproof cover 62 by fitting it therein.

[0068] The holding portion 71 further includes a through-hole 71b having a shape corresponding to the shape of the slider 61. The through-hole 71b includes a first portion 71c that movably holds the operation receiving portion 61a, and a second portion 71d that movably holds the light receiving portion 61e. The first portion 71c is generally circular and passes through the holding portion 71 in the Y direction. The second portion 71d is generally rectangular, passes through the holding portion 71 in the Y direction, and is spatially connected to the first portion 71c.

[0069] The holding portion 71 further includes a guide rib 71e inserted into the guide groove 61c of the slider 61, and a guide groove 71f inserted into the guide rib 61d of the slider 61. The guide rib 71e protrudes radially inward from the hole wall of the first portion 71c and protrudes outward in the Y direction. The guide groove 71f extends in the X direction and spatially communicates with the first portion 71c.

[0070] 13, the holding portion 71 further includes a reinforcing rib 71g protruding outward in the Y direction from the edge of the through portion 71b. The shape of the reinforcing rib 71g when viewed from the Y direction corresponds to the shape of the reinforcing rib 56 of the cover member 50, and the inner end surface of the reinforcing rib 71g in the Y direction is in surface contact with the outer end surface of the reinforcing rib 56 in the Y direction. The holding portion 71 further includes an annular positioning rib 71h protruding inward in the Y direction from the reinforcing rib 71g. With reference to FIGS. 6 and 8, the positioning rib 71h is press-fitted between the first protrusion 55a and the reinforcing rib 56 of the cover member 50.

[0071] Referring to Figure 8, the holding portion 71 configured in this manner has a cylindrical shape due to the formation of the through portion 71b, and functions as a light-shielding portion (second light-shielding portion) that prevents the light from the third light source 44 from mixing with the light from the other light sources 42, 43.

[0072] Specifically, the light source 44 is surrounded by the hole wall of the opening 54 of the cover member 50, and the opening 54 is surrounded by the holding portion 71. The internal space of the holding portion 71 is blocked by the cover body 63. The cover member 50, the holding portion 71, and the cover body 63 all have light-shielding properties. Meanwhile, the slider 61 disposed in these spaces and the light-transmitting portion 64 of the waterproof cover 62 have light-transmitting properties. In other words, the hole wall of the opening 54, the holding portion 71, and the cover body 63 define an optical path 75 that is spatially connected from the light source 44 to the light-transmitting portion 64 and is light-shielded from other portions.

[0073] Since the light-shielding walls that define the optical path 75 block the transmission of light in both directions, the light emitted by the light source 44 is transmitted only through the light-transmitting portion 64. Furthermore, the light emitted by the other light sources 42 and 43 is not irradiated from the light-transmitting portion 64 in the optical path 75.

[0074] 9 and 12, the light-shielding portion (first light-shielding portion) 72 is provided adjacent to the holding portion 71, and is cylindrical extending from the light source 42 to the light-transmitting portion 38e. The light-shielding portion 72 is disposed radially outside the holding portion 71, and is integral with the holding portion 71. The light-shielding portion 72 includes a first portion 72a surrounding the opening 51 (light source 42) of the cover member 50, and a second portion 72b surrounding the tube portion 38g of the light-transmitting portion 38e.

[0075] 9 and 13, the first portion 72a is generally rectangular tubular, and the inner end surface in the Y direction of the first portion 72a is in surface contact with the periphery of the opening 51 of the end surface portion 50a of the cover member 50. With reference to Fig. 9 and 12, the second portion 72b is generally cylindrical, and the tube portion 38g of the light-transmitting portion 38e is inserted therein.

[0076] The light source 42 is surrounded by the hole wall of the opening 51 of the cover member 50, and the opening 51 is surrounded by the light-shielding portion 72. The internal space of the light-shielding portion 72 is blocked by the light-transmitting portion 38e. Both the cover member 50 and the light-shielding portion 72 have light-shielding properties, and the light-transmitting portion 38e (cover 38) has light-transmitting properties. In other words, the hole wall of the opening 51 and the light-shielding portion 72 define an optical path 76 that is spatially connected from the light source 42 to the light-transmitting portion 38e and is shielded from other portions.

[0077] Since the light-shielding walls that define the optical path 76 block the transmission of light in both directions, the light emitted by the light source 42 is transmitted only through the light-transmitting portion 38e. Furthermore, the light emitted by the other light sources 43 and 44 is not irradiated from the light-transmitting portion 38e in the optical path 76.

[0078] As described above, the light of the first light source 42 passes only through the light-transmitting portion 38e by the light path 76 without being mixed with the light of the other light sources 43, 44, and is visible from outside the base 20. In addition, the light of the third light source 44 passes only through the light-transmitting portion 64 by the light path 75 without being mixed with the light of the other light sources 42, 43, and is visible from outside the base 20. In addition, the light of the second light source 43 passes only through the light-transmitting portion 38h by the two light paths 75, 76 without being mixed with the light of the other light sources 42, 44, and illuminates the power supply connector 15. In other words, for the light source 43, the internal space of the case 35 other than the light paths 75, 76 becomes a dedicated light path.

[0079] Since the cover 38 is entirely translucent, the light emitted by the second light source 43 may be transmitted to the outside of the cover 38 from the outer wall portion 38b other than the translucent portion 38h. However, in this embodiment, the light source 43 is covered with the lens 53, so that leakage of the light from the light source 43 to other than the translucent portion 38h can be minimized. Moreover, since the light source 43 is disposed on the vehicle inner side of the base 20 of the switch device 30, even if some light from the light source 43 leaks, it cannot be seen from outside the base 20.

[0080] The switch device 30 configured in this manner has the following features.

[0081] The switch 41 and the light sources 42, 43 are attached to the circuit board 40, and the operation member 60, the holder 70, and the circuit board 40 are housed in one case 35. Therefore, there is no need for connection cables to electrically connect the individual electrical components to the circuit board 40, and there is also no need to lay out the connection cables, improving the ease of assembly of the switch device 30 including the light sources 42, 43. Furthermore, because the switch device 30 including the light sources 42, 43 is unitized, when the switch device 30 is used in the charging port unit 10, the ease of assembly of the switch device 30 to the base 20 can be improved.

[0082] Two light sources 42, 43 are attached to the circuit board 40, and two corresponding light-transmitting portions 38e, 38h are provided in the case 35. In addition, the holder 70 is provided with a light-shielding portion 72 that blocks the light of the first light source 42 directed toward the second light-transmitting portion 38h and blocks the light of the second light source 43 directed toward the first light-transmitting portion 38e. Therefore, even if the two light sources 42, 43 that illuminate different portions are attached inside the case 35, it is possible to reliably illuminate only the target portion.

[0083] Since the light-shielding portion 72 constitutes at least a part of the cylindrical light path 76 extending from the light source 42 to the light-transmitting portion 38e, mixing with the light of other light sources 43 can be reliably prevented.

[0084] A third light source 44 is attached to the circuit board 40, and a third light-transmitting portion 64 is provided on the operation member 60. The holder 70 also includes a holding portion 71 that blocks the light of the third light source 44 directed toward the light-transmitting portions 38e, 38h and functions as a second light-shielding portion that blocks the light of the light sources 42, 43 directed toward the third light-transmitting portion 64. Therefore, even if the three light sources 42 to 44 are attached inside the case 35, it is possible to reliably illuminate only the target portion.

[0085] The light shielding portion 72 constitutes at least a part of a cylindrical light path 76 surrounding the first light source 42, and the holding portion 71 constitutes at least a part of a cylindrical light path 75 surrounding the third light source 44. Therefore, the space inside the case 35 other than the light paths 76, 75 (light shielding portions 71, 72) can be used as a light path for the second light source 43. In other words, since there is no need to provide a light shielding portion for the second light source 43, the configuration of the switch device 30 can be simplified compared to the case where a light shielding portion is provided for each of the light sources 42 to 44.

[0086] The holding portion 71 is cylindrical and surrounds the operation member 60 and the third light source 44, so that it is possible to reliably prevent mixing of light other than that from the third light source 44. In addition, since the holding portion (light blocking portion) 71 movably holds the operation member 60, the configuration of the holder 70 can be simplified.

[0087] The first light-transmitting portion 38e is an indication that shows the charging state, the second light-transmitting portion 38h is an illumination that illuminates the power supply connector 15, and the third light-transmitting portion 64 is an indication that shows the position of the operating member 60. Therefore, with the charging port unit 10 including the switch device 30, even in dark surroundings, the charging plug can be easily connected to the power supply connector 15, the charging state can be easily confirmed, and the operating member 60 can be easily operated. This improves convenience for users of electric vehicles.

[0088] The present invention is not limited to the configurations of the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible.

[0089] For example, the switch device 30 may be configured to include only the two light sources 42 and 43 and not include the third light source 44.

[0090] The light blocking portion 72 is not limited to being cylindrical, and may be modified as necessary as long as it has a configuration capable of preventing the light of the first light source 42 from being mixed with the light of the other light sources 43 and 44 .

[0091] The second light-shielding part is not limited to a configuration using the holding part 71, and may be provided exclusively. In addition, the second light-shielding part is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and can be changed as necessary as long as it has a configuration capable of preventing the light of the third light source 44 from being mixed with the light of the other light sources 42 and 43.

[0092] The cover 38 may be formed by two-color molding so that only the light-transmitting portions 38e, 38h have light-transmitting properties, and the rest of the cover 38 has light-blocking properties.

[0093] Switch device 30 is not limited to charging port unit 10, but may be applied to any device that requires a switch 41 for detecting an operation and light sources 42, 43 for display or illumination.

[0094] If a waterproof structure is not required, the switch device 30 does not need to be provided with the cover member 50. In this case, it is preferable that the holding portion 71 and the light blocking portion 72 constituting the optical paths 75, 76 are extended to the circuit board 40 so as to surround the light sources 44, 42. The operating member 60 may be composed of only the slider 61. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1 Side panel (body panel) 2 Recess 3 Charging port 10 Charging port unit 15 Power supply connector 16 Connection port 20 Base 21 Sealing material 22 Hinge connection 22a bearing plate 22b Connecting plate 22c Insertion hole 23 Mounting part 23a Recess 23b Mounting port 23c outer wall 23d exposure hole 24 Mounting part 24a exposure hole 24b Exposure hole 25 Lid 26 Shaft member 26a Protrusion 27 Arm 28 Electric Motor 30 Switching device 35 cases 36 Base 36a Positioning protrusion 36b Boss 36c Support part 36d Connector part 37 Busbar 37a, 37b Connection terminal 38 Cover 38a End wall 38b Exterior wall 38c curved part 38d opening 38e Transparent part (1st transparent part) 38f Convex 38g cylinder part 38h Transparent part (second transparent part) 40 Circuit Board 40a Terminal connection 40b Positioning hole 40c screw hole 41 Switch 42 Light source (1st light source) 43 Light source (second light source) 44 Light source (3rd light source) 50 Cover member 50a End section 50b outer periphery 50c Seal part 50d bulge 51 Opening 52 Notch 52a Reinforcement rib 53 Lens 53a Irradiation surface 53b Notch 53c Storage recess 54 Opening 55 Moving parts 55a First protrusion 55b Second protrusion 55c Recessed part 55d Operation protrusion 55e Flexible part 56 Reinforcing rib 60 Operating member 61 Slider 61a Operation receiver 61b Lens surface 61c Guide groove 61d Guide rib 61e Light receiving unit 61f Photosensitive surface 61g Pressing part 61h Continuous section 62 Waterproof cover 63 Cover body 63a Outer end 63b Outer periphery 63c Flange 64 Transparent part (3rd transparent part) 70 Holder 71 Holding part (second light shielding part) 71a Retaining recess 71b Penetration 71c Part 1 71d 2nd part 71e Guide rib 71f Guide groove 71g Reinforcement rib 71h Positioning rib 72 Light shielding section 72a Part 1 72b Part 2 75 Light path 76 Light path

Claims

1. An operating member; A holder that movably holds the operating member; a circuit board on which a switch operated by the operation member, a first light source, and a second light source are attached, the circuit board being disposed on an opposite side of the holder from the operation member; a case that includes an opening for exposing the operation member, a first light-transmitting portion for transmitting light from the first light source, and a second light-transmitting portion for transmitting light from the second light source, and that accommodates the operation member, the holder, and the circuit board; Equipped with the holder includes a first light-shielding portion that blocks light of the first light source directed toward the second light-transmitting portion and blocks light of the second light source directed toward the first light-transmitting portion, A third light source is further attached to the circuit board; the operation member has a third light transmitting portion that transmits light from the third light source, A switch device, wherein the holder has a second light-shielding portion that blocks light from the third light source toward the first light-transmitting portion and the second light-transmitting portion, and blocks the light from each of the first light source and the second light source toward the third light-transmitting portion.

2. The switch device according to claim 1 , wherein the first light-shielding portion is cylindrical, surrounds the first light source, and forms at least a part of an optical path extending from the first light source to the first light-transmitting portion.

3. 3. The switch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second light-shielding portion is provided adjacent to the first light-shielding portion, is cylindrical and movably holds the operating member, surrounds the operating member and the third light source, and constitutes at least a part of an optical path extending from the third light source to the third light-transmitting portion.

4. A base that is placed on the inside of the charging port on the vehicle body panel; a power supply connector attached to the base; a switch device attached to the base on the opposite side to the charging port; Equipped with The switch device includes: An operating member; A holder that movably holds the operating member; a circuit board on which a switch operated by the operation member, a first light source, and a second light source are attached, the circuit board being disposed on an opposite side of the holder from the operation member; a case that includes an opening for exposing the operation member, a first light-transmitting portion for transmitting light from the first light source, and a second light-transmitting portion for transmitting light from the second light source, and that accommodates the operation member, the holder, and the circuit board; Equipped with the holder has a first light-shielding portion that blocks light of the first light source directed toward the second light-transmitting portion and blocks light of the second light source directed toward the first light-transmitting portion, the base has exposure holes for exposing the operation member, the first light-transmitting portion, and the second light-transmitting portion to a charging port side, A third light source is further attached to the circuit board; the operation member has a third light transmitting portion that transmits light from the third light source, the holder has a second light-shielding portion that blocks light of the third light source directed toward the first light-transmitting portion and the second light-transmitting portion, and blocks light of the first light source and the second light source directed toward the third light-transmitting portion; A charging port unit equipped with a switch device.

5. The switch device is disposed adjacent to the power supply connector, The light of the first light source is transmitted through the first light transmitting portion and is visible from outside the base, The light from the second light source is transmitted through the second light transmitting portion to illuminate the power supply connector, The light of the third light source is transmitted through the third light transmitting portion and is visible from outside the base. A charging port unit comprising the switch device according to claim 4.

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