Description:FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A VEHICLE

APPLICANT:

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED, (an Indian Company)

at: “Chaitanya”, No. 12, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034, Tamil Nadu, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter relates to a vehicle with an assembly of components used for transferring energy between a power source and an energy storage unit of a vehicle. The present subject matter also relates to configuration and packaging of the chargers and sockets of the charging system in a vehicle.

BACKGROUND
[0002] A vehicle typically uses one or more energy storage units such as a battery and is provided with various different types of charging mechanism to charge the battery. For example, electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles are provided with different charging mechanism for charging the battery packs of the vehicle. The energy of the battery packs is then used to power the prime mover and other electrical and electronic components of the vehicle. The conventional vehicles contain a fast charger socket which is provided on the vehicle to charge the energy storage unit. This fast charger uses Direct Current (DC) which enables fast charging of the energy storage unit. Since, the energy storage unit run on DC, the DC can be directly supplied to the energy storage unit which results in faster charging. The DC fast charging is often costlier and not available at every location and has further associated limitations. There are known examples an alternative charger for charging the vehicle. This charger can be a portable charger, or a fixed charger as per the convenience of the user of the vehicle.
[0003] The alternative charger uses Alternative Current (AC) which is generally available from domestic or commercial electrical connections and normally available near the user. The AC can be used to charge the energy storage unit of vehicle. The AC is converted into DC using an adaptor or known electronic circuit such as a rectifier and then it is used to charge the energy storage unit of the vehicle. The portable charger is provided with the AC-DC converter for converting AC to DC. Vehicles are also known to employ both DC charging as well as the AC to DC charging using adapter. There are various known components that can be used for charging such as a portable charger, DC fast charger, AC charging connectors, and DC charging connectors, battery packs, cables and controllers. Due to some of these components being kept in the vehicle, a problem arises regarding efficient, safe and secure storing of these components inside the vehicle without interrupting seating or driving area for the one or more users. Naturally this also affects the overall packaging efficiency of the vehicle. An attempt to solve the problem of improper packaging was that the portable charger was kept in the storage space of the vehicles which attempts to solve the problem of low packaging efficiency of the vehicle.
[0004] The portable charger is provided at random locations in the conventional vehicle layouts due to which various problems arises such as inefficient packaging efficiency, lack of accessibility, safety of the portable chargers from the theft, and the user has to take out the entire charger every time for charging the energy storage unit. The user also faces the problems of the charging cable being tangled and lying on the ground which can trip any person causing injury. Further, during adverse weather conditions like rainy season or presence of water on road for any other reason the charging cable may get exposed to water and/or mud which could potentially affect the charging cable routed over the same area. Such improper handling of cables may also lead to damage to the cable and cause interruption in charging function which can hamper vehicle operation or in worse case cause sparking, arcing or short circuit creating a safety hazard. In case the charger is packed in a box, the user has to unpack the charger before charging, and then repack the charger into the box after charging, which becomes a cumbersome task for the user of the vehicle thereby making the charging process of the vehicle difficult, time-consuming. Such improper packing of the charger or its components can also cause damage to charger. Thus, handling of charging components of all types can become a hassle causing annoyance to the user or in worse case serious damage causing risk to operational time and safety of the vehicle. Due to these problems, there exists a need for a solution which can solve the problem of unnecessary unpacking and repacking of the charger and its cables without compromising packaging efficiency and safety of the vehicle and safer.
[0005] Another problem faced in the conventional layouts of the connectors of the vehicle was that connectors or sockets for charging were provided at the location where the fuel lid for the fuel tank is located in the conventional vehicles, i.e., the rear side panel or front side of the vehicle. In case the vehicle is provided with fast charging and portable charging mechanism, there has to be two types of connectors provided in the vehicle, i.e., one for DC fast charging and another for AC charging (requiring conversion in DC). Since one of the connectors for charging was provided on the fuel lid, the problems of locating the other charging connector also arose. Additionally, due to difference in height of the cables of the DC fast chargers and the charging points on the vehicle, there was a constant stress on the DC fast charging cables which caused issues relating to lifespan of the connectors and the vehicle has to be located in a particular proximity in order to avoid such stress which caused unnecessary limitations on the DC fast charging mechanism. The location of the other charging connector also should have accessibility, and the connectors must be connected with minimum distance to the energy storage units. If the connectors are not properly placed the wiring harness for the other charging connectors would be unnecessary elongated which will increase the power loss or voltage drop. Hence, there exists a need for determining the correct configuration and positioning the charging connectors, which also have good accessibility while also remaining secure from outside conditions. The connectors provided in the rear side panel of the vehicle instead of the fuel lid used to undergo various problems such as being prone to damage due to outside weather conditions. Further, this also meant that during the charging operation, the charger or its major portions were prone to theft. This was because the major part of the charger as well as the connector was configured to be outside the vehicle during the charging operation. The user is forced to oversee or monitor the charger during the charging operation in order to prevent theft. Since the AC portable chargers usually are not fast enough to charge the battery, it might be possible that the user of the vehicle has to oversee and monitor the charger and the vehicle for prolonged hours which is a major problem with the charging of the vehicle. In such case, the users had to make sure that the charger is secured and safe to repeatedly assure themselves. Due to this problem, there is also a need for a secure and theft proof solution for charging the vehicle with the portable charger in addition to the packaging and other problems explained above.
[0006] Thus, conventional methods known in the art for configuration of components used in charging the vehicle have associated problems and limitations pertaining to reduced packaging efficiency, complexity, accessibility problems, excessive time consuming to use, prone to theft, caused unnecessary hassle and annoyance, among other problems. Therefore, there is a need for an improved configuration for charging the battery packs of the vehicle that can overcome all of the above-mentioned problems and other problems which are known in the art and which provides a solution which is simple, compact, theft-proof, provides improved accessibility, effective, safe, secure and efficient routing of wiring harness and a hassle-free user-friendly charging configuration.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention relates to a vehicle comprising one or more energy storage units, a control unit, a charging device, and a charging socket. The one or more energy storage units is configured to store an energy. The control unit is configured to transfer the energy between a power source and the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle. The charging device is electrically connected to the control unit and is configured to transfer the energy between a first power source and the vehicle. The charging device is located at a first predefined location. The charging socket is electrically connected to the control unit, and is configured to receive the energy from a second power source. The charging socket is disposed at a second predefined location and the control unit is mounted at a third predefined location. The first predefined location, the second predefined location, and the third predefined location is concealed in a rear portion of the vehicle.
[0008] The present invention further relates to a charging device for charging one or more energy storage units of a vehicle. The charging device comprises a connecting member, a first electricity transmission member, a charging connector and an electronic circuit unit. The connecting member is configured to electrically connect the charging device to a first power source and the charging connector is configured to connect to a vehicle connector. The electronic circuit unit is configured to alter one or more parameters of an energy and the first electricity transmission members is electrically connected to the connecting member, the charging connector and the electronic circuit unit. The charging device is configured to draw the energy from the first power source and is electrically connected to a control unit. The charging device is configured to be portably mounted at a first predefined location in a storage portion in a rear portion of the vehicle. The storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly where the storage portion is defined by the passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of a cover body and floorboard of the vehicle.
[0009] The present invention further relates to a vehicle connector for connecting a charging device of a vehicle. The charging device is located at a first predefined location of a storage portion of the vehicle, the charging device comprises a connecting member and a charging connector. The connecting member is configured to connect the charging device to a first power source for drawing an energy from the first power source. The charging connector is connected to the vehicle connector at a predefined angle. The vehicle connector is configured to transfer the energy between the and the charging connector and one or more energy storage units of the vehicle. The vehicle connector is configured to be disposed at a fourth predefined location of the storage portion of the vehicle, where the storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly and is defined by the passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of a cover body and a floorboard of the vehicle. The fourth predefined location is disposed on a first cover of the cover body where the first cover is configured to cover the storage portion from a first side of the vehicle. The first cover comprises a first opening configured to facilitate an access to the connecting member of the charging device.
[0010] The present invention further relates to a charging socket for charging one or more energy storage units of a vehicle. The charging socket comprises a socket body and a plurality of socket terminals. The socket body is attached to the vehicle and the plurality of socket terminals are installed on the socket body which are configured to be electrically coupled to a second power source for receiving an energy from a second power source to charge the one or more energy storage units. The charging socket is electrically connected to a control unit, and is located at a second predefined location. The second predefined location is in a storage portion in a rear portion of the vehicle. The storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly and is defined by the passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of a cover body and a floorboard of the vehicle.
[0011] The present invention along with various embodiments provides a configuration of components used in charging the vehicle which is simple, compact, theft-proof, provides improved accessibility, effective and efficient routing of wiring harness and a hassle-free user-friendly charging configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a configuration of components used in charging the vehicle. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components. Description of certain details and implementations follow, including a description below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments described below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments or implementations of the inventive concepts provided below, followed by a more detailed description with reference to the drawings.
[0013] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] Figure 2 illustrates a side perspective view of a rear portion of the vehicle as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the rear portion of the vehicle with the charging device being removed as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of rear portion of the vehicle with the charging socket and the lockable tail door in an open position as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] Figure 5 illustrates a front perspective view of the rear portion of the vehicle showing the configuration of charging device and vehicle connector as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] Figure 6 illustrates a bottom view of the rear portion of the vehicle showing the configuration of the charging socket and a control unit as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the first cover of a cover body from the inside of the vehicle as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the first cover of a cover body from the outside of the vehicle as per another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the techniques described herein can be practised without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring certain aspects.
[0022] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. Further “front” and “rear”, and “left” and “right” referred to in the ensuing description of the illustrated embodiment refer to front and rear, and left and right directions as seen from a rear portion of the vehicle and looking forward. However, it is contemplated that the disclosure in the present invention may be applied to any vehicle without defeating the spirit of the present subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of parts other than the present invention which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.
[0023] In order to address the one or more of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a configuration of components used in charging the vehicle.
[0024] As per one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle comprising one or more energy storage units, a control unit, a charging device, and a charging socket is provided. The one or more energy storage units is configured to store an energy. The control unit is configured to transfer the energy between a power source and the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle. The charging device is electrically connected to the control unit and is configured to transfer the energy between a first power source and the vehicle. The charging device is located at a first predefined location. The charging socket is electrically connected to the control unit, and is configured to receive the energy from a second power source. The charging socket is disposed at a second predefined location and the control unit is mounted at a third predefined location. The first predefined location, the second predefined location, and the third predefined location is concealed in a rear portion of the vehicle.
[0025] As per another embodiment, the first power source is an AC power source and the second power source is a DC power source. The AC power source allows charging the vehicle from the convenient location of the user, and the DC power source allows the charging from the fast chargers which could help charge the vehicle rapidly.
[0026] As per another embodiment, the vehicle comprises a frame assembly and a cover body. The cover body is configured to cover the frame assembly and the rear portion of the vehicle is a storage portion. The storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly and is defined by a passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of the cover body, and a floorboard of the vehicle. This allows better accessibility of the charging device and enable improved packaging efficiency.
[0027] As per another embodiment, the vehicle comprises a cover body which comprises a first cover configured to cover a first side of the storage portion and a charging connector of the charging device is connected to a vehicle connector. The vehicle connector is disposed on the first cover. This configuration of providing the vehicle connector on a first cover and the charging connectors being connected to the vehicle connector allows the application of present invention in the conventional vehicles where the vehicle connector is already located near the first cover.
[0028] As per another embodiment, the charging device comprises a connecting member and the connecting member of the charging device is accessible from the first cover through a first opening, and the first opening is disposed on the first cover. This feature enables the connecting member of the charging device to be accessible from the opening of the first cover thereby eliminating any need for taking the charging device out of the vehicle. This further ensures theft proof solution, since the costly components can be left secured within the vehicle itself, and the user does not need to watch over the components to ensure safety.
[0029] As per another embodiment, the second predefined location for mounting the charging socket is disposed below the floorboard of the vehicle and the charging socket is configured to be exclusively accessed by a lockable tail door. This feature enables the secure placement of the charging socket which can be a DC fast charging socket in one embodiment. This prevents the charging socket from any damage due to external factors. The third predefined location is below a floorboard of the vehicle. This feature further enables better location to enable optimum position of the control unit with respect to the charging socket, vehicle connector and wiring harness for charging connector.
[0030] As per another embodiment, the second predefined location for mounting the charging socket is configured to be offset from a vertical axis (XX’) when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle, the vertical axis is configured to divide a third opening, the third opening is disposed on the cover body.
[0031] As per yet another embodiment of the present invention a charging device for charging one or more energy storage units of a vehicle is disclosed. The charging device comprises a connecting member, a first electricity transmission member, a charging connector and an electronic circuit unit. The connecting member is configured to electrically connect the charging device to a first power source and the charging connector is configured to connect to a vehicle connector. The electronic circuit unit is configured to alter one or more parameters of an energy and the first electricity transmission members is electrically connected to the connecting member, the charging connector and the electronic circuit unit. The charging device is configured to draw the energy from the first power source and is electrically connected to a control unit. The charging device is configured to be portably mounted at a first predefined location in a storage portion in a rear portion of the vehicle. The storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly where the storage portion is defined by the passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of a cover body and floorboard of the vehicle.
[0032] As per another embodiment, the electronic circuit unit is disposed at a predefined point on the first electricity transmission member thereby dividing the first electricity transmission member in a predefined ratio. A first end of the first electricity transmission member is connected to the connecting member, and a second end of the first electricity transmission member is connected to the charging connector, and a first length is a length between the first end and the electronic circuit unit, and a second length is the length between the second end and the electronic circuit unit, the predefined ratio is defined by dividing the first length and the second length. This allows the determination of the optimum size of the first electricity transmission member and enables proper routing of the wiring to ensure that the user experiences a hassle-free user-friendly operation of the charging device.
[0033] As per another embodiment, the charging connecter is connected to a vehicle connector at a predefined angle and the vehicle connector is disposed at a fourth predefined location on a first cover of the cover body. The first cover is configured to cover a first side of the storage portion. This configuration allows better packaging efficiency and modularity of the charging device. Further, it can be used to prevent the access of the vehicle connector and the charging connector from the first opening.
[0034] As per another embodiment, the first cover comprising a first opening and the connecting member is accessible from the first opening. This feature enables the connecting member of the charging device to be accessible from the opening of the first cover thereby eliminating any need for taking the charging device out of the vehicle. This further ensures theft proof solution, since the costly components can be left secured within the vehicle itself, and the user does not need to watch over the components to ensure safety.
[0035] As per another embodiment, the first predefined location is on a floorboard of the vehicle. The charging device can be placed at the floorboard to avoid any costly affairs for mounting and dismounting of the charging device.
[0036] As per another embodiment, the first predefined location is behind a backrest of a passenger seat assembly and the charging device is mounted on the passenger seat assembly towards the left side of the passenger seat assembly when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle. This configuration allows improved packaging efficiency and also improves aesthetics of the storage portion of the vehicle.
[0037] As per another embodiment, the charging device is stored within a casing and the casing comprising a second opening for accessing the connecting member. This configuration would allow the charging device to have a retractable system where the user can simply pull the connecting member and connect it to the first power source. The user can then simply disconnect and release the connecting member.
[0038] As per another embodiment, the storage portion in the rear portion of the vehicle that is adjacent to the charging device is configured to accommodate at least one of a spare wheel, a tool kit or one or more luggage of the user of the vehicle. This allows further improved packaging efficiency of the vehicle.
[0039] As per yet another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle connector for connecting a charging device is disclosed. The charging device is located at a first predefined location of a storage portion of the vehicle, the charging device comprises a connecting member and a charging connector. The connecting member is configured to connect the charging device to a first power source for drawing an energy from the first power source. The charging connector is connected to a vehicle connector at a predefined angle. The vehicle connector is configured to transfer the energy between the charging connector and one or more energy storage units of the vehicle. The vehicle connector is configured to be disposed at a fourth predefined location of the storage portion of the vehicle, where the storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly and is defined by the passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of a cover body and a floorboard of the vehicle. The fourth predefined location is disposed on a first cover of the cover body where the first cover is configured to cover the storage portion from a first side of the vehicle. The first cover comprises a first opening configured to facilitate an access to the connecting member of the charging device.
[0040] As per another embodiment, the first cover comprising a protrusion at the fourth predefined location in the storage portion of the vehicle and the protrusion being configured at the predefined angle. The predefined angle, can be chosen to enable the protrusion to be on the lower side towards the bottom or upper side depending on the vehicular configuration for easy access by the user. The protrusion comprises a slot for holding the vehicle connector. This feature helps in placement of the vehicle connector at the predefined angle and allows the connectors to join at the desired angle. This feature further helps in allocating the same location which was used in conventional vehicle layouts for the vehicle connector.
[0041] As per yet another embodiment of the present invention a charging socket for charging one or more energy storage units of a vehicle is provided. The charging socket comprises a socket body and a plurality of socket terminals. The socket body is attached to the vehicle and the plurality of socket terminals are installed on the socket body which are configured to be electrically coupled to a second power source for receiving an energy from the second power source to charge the one or more energy storage units. The charging socket is electrically connected to a control unit, and is located at a second predefined location. The second predefined location is in a storage portion in a rear portion of the vehicle. The storage portion is disposed behind a passenger seat assembly and is defined by the passenger seat assembly, at least a portion of a cover body and a floorboard of the vehicle.
[0042] As per another embodiment, the second predefined location being below a floorboard of the vehicle. This feature further enables better location to enable optimum position of the charging connector with respect to the control unit and wiring harness for charging connector.
[0043] As per another embodiment, the charging socket is configured to be exclusively accessed by a lockable tail door, the lockable tail door is installed on the cover body. This feature enables the secure placement of the charging socket which can be a DC fast charging socket in one embodiment. This prevents the charging socket from any damage due to external factors. Further, the charging socket is electrically connected to the control unit via a second electricity transmission member, the second electricity transmission member is routed below the floorboard. This configuration allows an optimum connection length between the charging socket and the control unit.
[0044] As per another embodiment, the second predefined location for mounting the charging socket is configured to be offset from a vertical axis when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle and the vertical axis is configured to divide a third opening, the third opening is disposed on the cover body. This configuration improves accessibility since, the lockable tail door has a configuration which is generally opened from first side, providing the charging socket offset allows better accessibility and eliminates any need for completely opening the lockable tail door, as it can be configured to set according to the configuration of the lockable tail door, and provide ease of accessibility when lockable tail door is opened.
[0045] As per another embodiment, the charging socket comprises a cover member, the cover member is configured to releasably cover the charging socket from external elements. This feature ensures that the charging socket is secured from being damaged by any external factors.
[0046] As per another embodiment, the second predefined location is configured to be determined based on the shortest distance between a third predefined location of the control unit and a power unit of the vehicle, and the second predefined location is at a predefined height. This feature of shortest distance allows most efficient and effective routing of the wiring harness for charging socket as well as the power unit of the vehicle thereby reducing power loss and voltage drop as well as enhanced energy efficiency. The predefined height allows synchronisation with the chargers of the charging systems thereby reducing slackness of the charging cables of the fast chargers of the charging systems.
[0047] Thus, the mentioned invention provides a configuration of components used in charging the vehicle.
[0048] The present subject matter is further described with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0049] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms of particular fields of use disclosed. As such, it is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modifications to the present disclosure, whether explicitly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Having thus described embodiments of the present disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0050] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the manner of making and using various embodiments of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the forms of the disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials processed or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Moreover, certain features of the disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, and “is”, used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components, or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.
[0051] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense, and would in no way be construed as limiting the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are only used to aid the reader’s understanding of the present invention, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position orientation, or use of the system and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other.
[0052] Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and/or numerical terms, should also be taken as identifiers, to assist the reader’s understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and/or modifications of the present disclosure, and may not create any limitations, particularly as to the order, or preference, of any element, embodiment, variation, and/or modification relative to, or over, another element, embodiment, variation and/or modification.
[0053] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/ figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed, or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments.
[0054] Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4 illustrates a rear portion (not shown) of the vehicle (100). The figures are taken together for describing the present subject matter. The vehicle (100) comprises a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion is located in front side of the vehicle (100) and the rear portion is located at a rear side of the vehicle (100). The front portion and the rear portion may be separated by a partition wall. The front portion is configured to accommodate a driver of the vehicle (100) and the rear portion is configured to accommodate at least one of a load deck or section to accommodate passengers of the vehicle (100). In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the front portion and the rear portion configured to accommodate one or more batteries of the vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) generally comprises a frame assembly (not shown) which provides a structural support to the vehicle, and a cover body (101) is provided to cover the frame assembly of the vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) may be a two-wheeled vehicle, three-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled vehicle and may also be a multi-axled vehicle in different embodiments, the present invention is applicable in different types of vehicles, wherever there is a need for two different types of charging systems. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure the vehicle (100) may be an Electric Vehicle (EV), a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) based vehicle and have components suitable for traction. The vehicle (100) is provided with a floorboard (102) which is disposed on the frame assembly of the vehicle (100). A passenger seat assembly (109) is disposed on the floorboard (102) for providing a seating space to the passengers of the vehicle (100). The cover body (101) is also provided with a lockable tail door (112) which is used to provide access to a storage portion of the vehicle (100). The lockable tail door (112) is installed on the cover body (101) on the rear side of the vehicle (100). The storage portion is provided in the rear portion of the vehicle (100) as per the preferred embodiment. The storage portion is disposed in the rear portion of the vehicle behind the passenger seat assembly (109). As per one embodiment of the present invention, the storage portion can be defined by the passenger seat assembly (109), at least a portion of the cover body (101) and the floorboard (102) of the vehicle. In other words, in the rear portion the space between the passenger seat assembly (109), the cover body (101), and the floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100) is the storage portion as per the present invention. The vehicle (100) is also provided with one or more energy storage units (not shown) which stores an energy which can used to power various components of the vehicle such as the power unit (119). The energy storage units have a limited storage capacity and requires to be often recharged to operate the vehicle. In case of commercial vehicles, this requirement of recharging often becomes a cumbersome task and is required to be managed efficiently or else the user of the vehicle (100) becomes uncomfortable in using these types of hybrid vehicles or electric vehicles. Hence, the present invention provides a simple and hassle-free configuration of components which are used in charging the vehicle (100). These components used in charging the vehicle as stated in the background can be various components such as the energy storage unit itself, a control unit (103, shown in Fig.6), a charging device (104), a charging socket (105), and other components.
[0055] The control unit (103) is configured to control a transfer of the energy between a power source and the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle (100). The control unit (103) is mounted at a third predefined location (117, shown in Fig. 6) in a rear portion of the vehicle (100). The charging device (104) is electrically connected to the control unit (103) and the charging device (104) is configured to transfer the energy between a first power source (not shown) and the vehicle (100). The charging device (104) is located at a first predefined location (115). The charging socket (105) is also electrically connected to the control unit (103) and the charging socket (105) is configured to receive the energy from a second power source (not shown). The charging socket (105) is disposed at a second predefined location (116). The first predefined location (115), the second predefined location (116), and the third predefined location (117) are located in the rear portion of the vehicle (100). The first predefined location (115), the second predefined location (116), and the third predefined location (117) are determined based on different factors to ensure that the components are secured from external factors and are concealed in the rear portion of the vehicle (100). The first predefined location (115) at which the charging device (104) is disposed is as per a preferred embodiment situated behind a passenger seat assembly (109) in the storage portion. In one embodiment, the charging device (104) can be mounted on the passenger seat assembly (109), such as at the rear side of the passenger seat assembly (109) i.e., a backrest of the passenger seat assembly (109) and may also be disposed directly on the floorboard (102) in the storage portion itself. The mounting of the charging device (104) has several benefits relating to improved packaging efficiency and neat and clean mounting of the charging device (104) further allowing improved aesthetic design for the user of the vehicle (100).
[0056] The second predefined location (116) of the charging socket (105) is situated at the rear side of the vehicle in the storage portion of the vehicle (100). In one embodiment, the second predefined location (116) can be below a floorboard (102) in the storage portion of the vehicle (100). The second predefined location (116) of the charging socket (105) can be accessed from the lockable tail door (112). As per the preferred embodiment, this charging socket (105) can only be accessible from the lockable tail door (112) and prevents any unauthorised access. This reduces the chances of damage to the charging socket (105) caused by external factors. The charging socket (105) due to being exposed to external factors were prone to damage from different environmental dust and debris, since this debris used to get accumulated in the charging socket (105) it could result in further damages due to weather conditions such as humidity, rain, heat, etc. To reduce the chances of damage further, a cover member (not shown) is provided in another embodiment, which releasably cover the charging socket (105) from external elements.
[0057] Figure 5 illustrates a front perspective view of the rear portion of the vehicle (100) when viewed from the inside showing the configuration of charging device (104). The rear portion of the vehicle (100) is provided with a first opening (111) in a first cover (110) of the cover body (101). The first cover (110) covers the first side of the rear portion of the vehicle (100) and also covers the storage portion of the vehicle (100). In one embodiment, the first cover (110) may also cover a left side of the rear portion of the vehicle (100) when viewed from the rear side of the vehicle (100). The first opening (111) is provided certain conventional vehicles in terms of providing an inlet of fuel and is covered by a fuel lid. This is the place where the fuel of the vehicle is filled. The first opening (111) is provided at this same location instead of fuel lid in order to maintain modularity and this allows the present invention to also be applied in case of already existing vehicles. In certain conventional vehicles, the ports for fast charging are provided at this location. In one embodiment, the first cover (110) may also cover a right side of the rear portion of the vehicle (100) when viewed from the rear side of the vehicle (100)
[0058] As per one embodiment of the present invention, the charging device (104) is placed or mounted near this first opening (111) i.e., towards a left side of the vehicle (100) when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle (100) to facilitate access to the charging device (104) from the first opening (111). The charging device (104) comprises a connecting member (not shown), a first electricity transmission member (107), a charging connector (not shown), and an electronic circuit unit (not shown). The connecting member is a connector for making an electrical connection between a first power source (not shown) and the charging device (104). In another embodiment, the connecting member of the charging device (104) can be accessed from the vehicle (100) and the connecting member can be extended from within the vehicle (100) and connected to the first power source during charging and in this configuration, the remaining parts of the charging device (104) will remain secured within the vehicle (100) itself.
[0059] In another embodiment, the charging device (104) and the connecting member is configured such that there is some tension between the first electricity transmission member (107) and due to this tension, the first electricity transmission member (107) is being prevented to touch the ground. This ensures enhanced safety and increased life of the charging device (104).
[0060] In one embodiment, the first power source can be a DC power source (not shown), and in a preferred embodiment the first power source is an AC power source (not shown) for facilitating charging directly from the convenient locations available near the user of the vehicle (100). Since the AC power source is easily available at low prices, charging the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle (100) with AC power source is considered an efficient and viable option. The connecting member is configured to connect with the first power source and the connection is a detachable connection, and may also be made with the help of a male connector and a female connector, and the connecting member can be both in different embodiments. The connecting member helps in drawing the energy from the first power source. The connecting member is based on the location of the user of the vehicle and may be made considering the standards of connectors of that particular region. The first electricity transmission member (107) is connected to the connecting member and the charging connector, and transfers energy between the connecting member and the charging connector. The charging connector is configured to connect to the vehicle connector (114) and accordingly configured to electrically connect and transfer the energy between the vehicle connector (114) and the charging connector. The charging connector can be configured as both the female connector or the male connector as per different layouts.
[0061] The charging device (104) can be in one embodiment, be stored within a casing (108) comprising a second opening for accessing the connecting member. The first electricity transmission member (107) can also be accessible from the second opening in another embodiment. This configuration would allow the mounting of the charging device (104) easier and would also help in properly storing the wiring for the charging device (104) properly. In one embodiment, the charging device (104) can be stored within a casing (108) and the casing (108) comprises a retractable wiring mechanism, where the connecting member can be extended easily and then the retractable mechanism of the casing (108) can pull the connecting member back to the charging device (104) thereby creating a hassle-free experience for the user as the user will not have to deal with tangled wires and untangling the wires thereby eliminating any annoyance caused by the user of the vehicle (100). The vehicle connector (114) is the connector which is configured in the vehicle (100) and transfers the energy received from the charging device (104) to the control unit (103) of the vehicle (100) or the energy storage units of the vehicle. from and the charging connector. The vehicle connector (114) is also already present in conventional vehicles and the charging connector of the charging device (104) is configured to connect to the vehicle connector (114) of the conventional vehicles. The charging device (104) is modular and can be implemented in the existing conventional vehicles as well. The vehicle connector (114) is placed at a predefined angle (P). The charging connector and the vehicle connector (114) are connected to each other at the predefined angle (P). In one embodiment, the predefined angle (P) can be within range of 0 – 90 degrees and in a preferred embodiment, the predefined angle (P) can be within a range of 10- 40 degrees. The vehicle connector (114) is provided at a fourth predefined location (118, shown in Fig. 7) on the first cover (110) of the cover body (101). This configuration allows better packaging efficiency and modularity of the charging device (104), since the charging device (104) is now located near the left corner allowing more space for storing other components.
[0062] In one embodiment, the charging device (104) is disposed in the storage portion such that the portion adjacent to the charging device (104) is configured to accommodate at least one of a spare wheel, a tool kit, or one or more luggage of the user of the vehicle. As per the configuration provided in the present invention, the storage portion is provided with the component used in charging the vehicle without reducing the packaging efficiency of the vehicle, rather the packaging efficiency is improved as compared to conventional vehicle layouts. Further, the predefined angle (P) can be used to prevent the access of the vehicle connector (114) and the charging connector from the first opening. The vehicle connector (114) can also be provided in the storage portion itself in another embodiment, however, to maintain accessibility and improve packaging efficiency, the vehicle connector (114) is provided in the first cover (110). The electronic circuit unit is configured to alter one or more parameters of the energy such as the voltage, polarity, current, frequency, etc. The electronic circuit unit is also provided between the charging connector and the connecting member and the first electricity transmission member (107) connects the charging connector and the connecting member at either ends and the electronic circuit unit is connected at a predefined point (not shown) in between. The electronic circuit unit, in a preferred embodiment, divides the first electricity transmission member (107) in a predefined ratio. This allows the determination of the optimum size of the first electricity transmission member (107) and enables proper routing of the wiring to ensure that the user experiences a hassle-free user-friendly operation of the charging device. A first end (not shown) of the first electricity transmission member (107) is connected to the connecting member, and a second end (not shown) of the first electricity transmission member (107) is connected to the charging connector. The first predefined ratio is calculated based on a first length (not shown) between the first end and the predefined point i.e., the electronic circuit unit, and a second length (not shown) between the second end and the predefined point. The ratio between the first length and the second length is the predefined ratio. This ratio can be in range of 2 - 10 times. The ratio can be based on the need of the length of the first length for the connecting member, since the first power source might be at a certain length, the ratio can be altered according to the need of the user of the vehicle (100). As per a preferred embodiment, the charging device (104) is located in the storage portion portably, such that the charging device (104) can be placed outside also for different reasons including but not limited to, increasing the length of the wiring for charging, or for charging another vehicle, or for further increasing packaging efficiency or storage space within the storage portion of the vehicle (100).
[0063] While the first power source and the second power source are referred to as the power sources, the vehicle connector (114) and the charging socket (105) can be used for both purposes. These can be used to charge the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle (100) itself, and can also be used to charge one or more energy storage units of another vehicle. In one embodiment, these may also be provided with vehicle to vehicle charging and may also be used to power any other load.
[0064] Figure 6 illustrates a bottom view of the rear portion of the vehicle (100) showing the configuration of the charging socket (105) and the control unit (103) and one or more energy storage unit (not shown). The charging socket (105) comprises a socket body (not shown) and a plurality of socket terminals (not shown). The socket body is attached to the vehicle (100) at the second predefined location (116). In another embodiment, the charging socket can also be mounted on a bracket or a mounting member using fastening members. The plurality of socket terminals is installed on the socket body and are configured to be electrically coupled to the second power source and receiving the energy from the second power source to charge the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle (100). The plurality of socket terminals connects with the DC fast charger terminals of the charger station and receive the energy from the charging station and transfer to the charging socket (105). The charging socket (105) is electrically connected to the control unit (103) and located at the second predefined location in the storage portion of the vehicle (100). The charging socket (105) in another embodiment may also be placed below the floorboard of the vehicle (100). The charging socket (105) is provided below the floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100) for various reasons such as secure placement, efficient packaging efficiency of the vehicle and being aligned closely to the control unit (103). Further, in another embodiment, the charging socket (105) is securely concealed within the storage portion, and is exclusively accessible from the lockable tail door (112) provided on the cover body (101). The charging socket (105) is electrically connected to the control unit (103) via a second electricity transmission member (106) which is also routed below the floorboard (102).
[0065] In another embodiment, the charging socket (105) is provided such that the charging socket is offset to a vertical axis (XX’) (as shown in Fig. 4). The charging socket (105) can be provided on a right side (not shown) of the vertical axis (XX’) in one embodiment. The charging socket (105) may also be provided in the centre of a third opening (113), where the third opening (113) is provided in the cover body (101) which is covered by the lockable tail door (112). The vertical axis (XX’) is configured to divide the third opening (113) and the charging socket (105) can be provided on the vertical axis (XX’) or maybe a little offset towards the right side of the vehicle (100) in different embodiments. It is also pertinent to note that the little offset towards right side or providing the charging socket (105) towards the right side is beneficial since this configuration improves accessibility, the lockable tail door (112) has a configuration which is generally opened from the right side, providing the charging socket (105) on the right side allows better accessibility and eliminates any need for completely opening the lockable tail door (112). The charging socket (105) may also be provided towards the left side of the vehicle (100) in another embodiment as per requirements and layout of the vehicle (100). In a preferred embodiment, the charging socket (105) is offset in opposite side to the opening side of the lockable tail door (112), for example in case the lockable tail door (112) is opened from the right side towards the left side, the charging socket (105) is a little offset towards the right side of the vehicle, and vice versa in case the lockable tail door (112) is opened from the left side towards the right side, then the charging socket (105) is a offset towards the left side of the vehicle (100) when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle (100). This configuration helps in improved accessibility of the charging socket (105) and eliminates the need for completely opening the lockable tail door (112).
[0066] In another embodiment, the charging socket (105) is provided at a predefined height in order to solve the problems of the wire sagging due to differences in height. The predefined height is determined to match the height of the chargers available at the charging stations. Since, the height of the charging socket (105) in the vehicle (100) has been configured to match with that of the charging stations the problems, such as improper alignment/connection, slacking of cables, caused to the difference of the heights are eliminated. Further, the problems related to stress on the charging cables of the charging stations are also eliminated due to synchronised height of the charging socket (105) and the chargers available at the charging stations. Further, this configuration as per the present invention is advantageous since the configuration of the control unit (103) is also within close proximity to the charging socket (105) which results in efficient charging configuration. The control unit (103) is mounted on the third predefined location (117) which may be below the floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100) as per preferred embodiment of the present invention. The control unit (103), the charging socket (105) and the second electricity transmission member (106) are provided below the floorboard (102) to conceal them from external factors since these are protected by the cover body (101) and the floorboard (102) while also being accessible by the lockable tail door (112). Further, the second predefined location (116) is determined based on the shortest distance between the third predefined location (117) of the control unit (103)and the power unit (119). The second predefined location (116) is also determined based on the shortest distance for the wiring harness for enabling electrical connection between the charging socket (105) and the control unit (103). The shortest distance between the control unit (103) and the charging socket (105), and the shortest distance between the control unit (103) and the vehicle connector (114) is essential to achieve the configuration where the least complex wiring is used which has several advantages in terms of increased charging efficiency and packaging efficiency of the vehicle (100). Further, this configuration helps to prevent unnecessary extra wiring harness used in providing electrical connection and the control unit (103), the charging socket (105) and the second electricity transmission member (106) are provided in close proximity to each other to reduce the wiring harness, which results in reduction of unnecessary costs and providing a simpler configuration. The configuration of the second predefined location (116) and the third predefined location (117) is such that there exists minimal distance between the charging socket (105), the control unit (103), one or more energy storage unit such as a battery pack and the power unit (119) thereby significantly reducing any voltage drop or loss of energy during transfer. Thus, the present configuration is beneficial to minimize energy losses, prevent voltage drop, and simplify infrastructure design. Further, in an embodiment where the vehicle (100) is an electric vehicle, placing the power unit (119) close to the control unit (103) offers several advantages. This arrangement minimizes power loss by reducing cable length, decreases electromagnetic interference, optimizes system integration, facilitates effective cooling, helps achieve better weight distribution, and simplifies maintenance and repairs. Furthermore, the proximity of the power unit (119) to the control unit (103) enhances efficiency, reliability, and ease of vehicle design and operation.

[0067] Figure 7 and Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the first cover (110) of the cover body (101) of the vehicle (100). The first cover (110) is provided with the first opening (111) and near the first opening (111), the fourth predefined location (118) is provided. The fourth predefined location (118) may be provided with a cutout or an opening to accommodate the vehicle connector (114). In one embodiment, the fourth predefined location (118) is provided with a protrusion facing the storage portion of the vehicle (100). In another embodiment, the protrusion is disposed at the predefined angle (P) and a slot for disposing the vehicle connector (114) is provided. The predefined angle (P) can be chosen based on vehicular configuration to facilitate easy access to the vehicle connector (114). In the present embodiment it can also be seen that protrusion is provided on the bottom side to facilitate easy access. However, depending on the vehicular configuration including the storage portion, the protrusion can be disposed at different positions and sides for easy accessibility to the vehicle connector (114) and related components. The slot can be used to position the vehicle connector (114) in the predefined angle thereby facilitating the connection at the predefined angle between the vehicle connector (114) and the charging connector of the charging device (104). There may be different embodiments, providing different configuration of mounting the vehicle connector (114) at the predefined angle (P). In one embodiment, the first opening (111) may also be provided with a lid to cover from external factors. The first opening (111) allows accessibility of the connecting member and allows the user to directly access the connecting member from the first opening (111) itself and extend the connecting member and the first electricity transmission member (107) from the first opening (111) for connection to the first power source. Thus, this configuration allows the charging device (104) to be stored secured within the storage portion itself. This provides safety and security for the charging device (104) and ease to the user to access the connecting member from the first opening (111) thereby enabling a user-friendly operation. Since the charging device (104) will be stored within the storage portion there will be no need for hassling with the wires of the charging device (104) and the user can finally experience ease of using the charging mechanism for the vehicle. This also provides the additional advantage that the length of the first electricity transmission member (107) between the electronic circuit unit and the charging connector, which gets connected to the vehicle connector (114), is kept minimum so that the power loses and voltage drop can be minimised.
[0068] Thus, as per the present subject matter, a configuration for components used in charging the vehicle is provided.
[0069] According to the above disclosure, the present subject matter provides various advantages. The charging configuration supports charging from different power sources including AC/DC as well as DC charging The placement of the charging device at the first predefined location, the charging socket at the second predefined location, and the control unit at the third predefined location in the rear portion of the vehicle has increased packaging efficiency. Further, the disclosed configuration provides enhanced ease of access for the user since the user will be able to directly access the connecting member of the charging device from the same opening which was earlier present as fuel lid. As a result, the present subject matter can be applied in existing conventional vehicle layouts. Further, the present invention is such that there is no need for changing the configuration of the cover body of the vehicles with conventional layouts, thereby making the present configuration modular and applicable in already existing vehicles. This also saves costs, time and effort required for redesigning the vehicle body. Further, it has enabled a hassle-free user-friendly charging configuration which is also simple, compact, and theft-proof. Further this placement has also allowed reduced complexity for wiring mechanism and has led to effective and efficient routing of wiring harness which results in reduction in power loss. This has in turn led to improve the ease of maintenance as well as servicing the charging components of the vehicle. The configuration as per the present subject matter also secures the charging components thereby providing safety from external factors. The present subject matter provides a solution at a reduced costs and reduced weight since the configuration as per present invention is applicable in existing vehicles and is also applicable in different layouts such as commercial vehicles, and passenger vehicles as well, the present configuration is versatile in terms of applicability in vehicles having different layouts. Since the present configuration is applicable in multiple layouts there is no need for special configuration in different layouts thereby saving time and costs in development of the special configuration. Further, the configuration as per the present invention helps in reduction of slackness in the charging cables and has provided a configuration in which the charging cables avoid touching the ground due to which the related safety concerns have been addressed.
[0070] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0071] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0072] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.

List of References

Reference Numeral Meaning
100 Vehicle
101 Cover Body
102 Floorboard
103 Control Unit
104 Charging Device
105 Charging Socket
106 Second Electricity Transmission Member
107 First Electricity Transmission Member
108 Casing
109 Passenger Seat Assembly
110 First Cover
111 First Opening
112 Lockable Tail Door
113 Third Opening
114 Vehicle Connector
115 First Predefined Location
116 Second Predefined Location
117 Third Predefined Location
118 Fourth Predefined Location
119 Power Unit
P Predefined Angle
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising:
one or more energy storage units, the one or more energy storage units being configured to store an energy;
a control unit (103), the control unit (103) being configured to control a transfer of the energy between a power source and the one or more energy storage units of the vehicle (100);
a charging device (104), the charging device (104) being electrically connected to the control unit (103), the charging device (104) being configured to transfer the energy between a first power source and the vehicle (100), the charging device (104) being configured to be located at a first predefined location (115); and
a charging socket (105), the charging socket (105) being electrically connected to the control unit (103), the charging socket (105) being configured to receive the energy from a second power source, the charging socket (105) being disposed at a second predefined location (116), the control unit (103) being mounted at a third predefined location (117) and
the first predefined location (115), the second predefined location (116), and the third predefined location (117) being concealed in a rear portion of the vehicle (100).
2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first power source being an AC power source, and the second power source being a DC power source.
3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle (100) comprises a frame assembly and a cover body (101), the cover body (101) being configured to cover the frame assembly, and the rear portion of the vehicle (100) being a storage portion, the storage portion being disposed behind a passenger seat assembly (109) and the storage portion being defined by a passenger seat assembly (109), at least a portion of the cover body (101) and a floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100).
4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the cover body (101) comprising a first cover (110), the first cover (110) being configured to cover a first side of the rear portion of the vehicle (100) and a charging connecter of the charging device (104) being connected to a vehicle connector (114), the vehicle connector (114) being disposed on the first cover (110).
5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the charging device (104) comprises a connecting member, the connecting member being configured to connect the charging device (104) to the first power source and the connecting member being accessible from the first cover (110) through a first opening (111), the first opening (111) being disposed on the first cover (110).
6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the second predefined location (116) for mounting the charging socket (105) being disposed below the floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100) and the charging socket (105) being configured to be exclusively accessed by a lockable tail door (112), the third predefined location (117) being below the floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100).
7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the second predefined location (116) for mounting the charging socket (105) being configured to be offset from a vertical axis (XX’) when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle (100), the vertical axis (XX’) being configured to divide a third opening (113), the third opening (113) being disposed on the cover body (101).
8. A charging device (104) for charging one or more energy storage units of a vehicle (100), the charging device (104) comprising:
a connecting member, the connecting member being configured to electrically connect the charging device (104) to a first power source;
a first electricity transmission member (107);
a charging connector, the charging connector being configured to connect to a vehicle connector (114); and
an electronic circuit unit, the electronic circuit unit being configured to alter one or more parameters of an energy, the first electricity transmission member (107) being electrically connected to the connecting member, the charging connector and the electronic circuit unit;
wherein the charging device (104) being configured to draw the energy from the first power source, the charging device (104) being electrically connected to a control unit (103), the charging device (104) being configured to be portably mounted at a first predefined location (115) in a storage portion in a rear portion of the vehicle (100), the storage portion being disposed behind a passenger seat assembly (109), the storage portion being defined by the passenger seat assembly (109), at least a portion of a cover body (101) and a floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100).
9. The charging device (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the electronic circuit unit being disposed at a predefined point on the first electricity transmission member (107) thereby dividing the first electricity transmission member (107) in a predefined ratio, a first end of the first electricity transmission member (107) being connected to the connecting member, and a second end of the first electricity transmission member (107) being connected to the charging connector, and a first length being a length between the first end and the electronic circuit unit, and a second length being the length between the second end and the electronic circuit unit, the predefined ratio being defined by dividing the first length and the second length.
10. The charging device (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the charging connecter being connected to a vehicle connector (114) at a predefined angle (P), the vehicle connector (114) being disposed at a fourth predefined location (118) on a first cover (110) of the cover body (101), the first cover (110) being configured to cover a left side of the storage portion wherein the first cover (110) comprising a first opening (111), the connecting member being accessible from the first opening (111).
11. The charging device (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the first predefined location (115) being on a floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100).
12. The charging device (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the first predefined location (115) being behind a backrest of a passenger seat assembly (109), the charging device (104) being mounted on the passenger seat assembly (109) towards a first opening (111) of the cover body (101).
13. The charging device (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the charging device (104) being stored within a casing, the casing comprising a second opening for accessing the connecting member.
14. The charging device (104) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the storage portion adjacent to the charging device (104) in the rear portion of the vehicle (100) being configured to accommodate at least one of a spare wheel, a tool kit or one or more luggage of a user of the vehicle.
15. A vehicle connector (114) for connecting a charging device (104) of a vehicle (100), the charging device (104) being located at a first predefined location (115) of a storage portion of the vehicle (100), the charging device (104) comprising:
a connecting member, the connecting member being configured to connect the charging device (104) to a first power source for drawing an energy from the first power source; and
a charging connector, wherein:
the vehicle connector (114) being configured to connect with the charging connector at a predefined angle (P);
the vehicle connector (114) being configured to transfer the energy between the charging connector and one or more energy storage units of the vehicle (100); and
the vehicle connector (114) being configured to be disposed at a fourth predefined location (118) of the storage portion of the vehicle (100), the storage portion being disposed behind a passenger seat assembly (109) of the vehicle (100), and the storage portion being defined by the passenger seat assembly (109), at least a portion of a cover body (101) of the vehicle (100) and a floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100), and
the fourth predefined location (118) being disposed on a first cover (110) of the cover body (101), the first cover (110) being configured to cover the storage portion from a first side of the vehicle (100), and the first cover (110) comprising a first opening (111), the first opening (111) being configured to facilitate an access to the connecting member of the charging device (104).
16. The vehicle connector (114) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the first cover (110) comprising a protrusion at the fourth predefined location (118) facing the storage portion of the vehicle (100), the protrusion being configured at the predefined angle (P), the protrusion comprising a slot, the slot being configured to hold the vehicle connector (114).
17. A charging socket (105) for charging one or more energy storage units of a vehicle (100), the charging socket (105) comprising:
a socket body, the socket body being attached to the vehicle (100);
a plurality of socket terminals, the plurality of socket terminals being installed on the socket body, the plurality of socket terminals being configured to be electrically coupled to a second power source for receiving an energy from the second power source to charge the one or more energy storage units;
wherein the charging socket (105) being electrically connected to a control unit (103), the charging socket (105) being located at a second predefined location (116), the second predefined location (116) being in a storage portion in a rear portion of the vehicle (100), the storage portion being disposed behind a passenger seat assembly (109), the storage portion being defined by the passenger seat assembly (109), at least a portion of a cover body (101) and a floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100).
18. The charging socket (105) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the second predefined location (116) being below a floorboard (102) of the vehicle (100).
19. The charging socket (105) as claimed in claim 18, wherein the charging socket (105) being configured to be exclusively accessed by a lockable tail door (112), the lockable tail door (112) being installed on the cover body (101); and
wherein the charging socket (105) being electrically connected to the control unit (103) via a second electricity transmission member (106), the second electricity transmission member (106) being routed below the floorboard (102).
20. The charging socket (105) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the second predefined location (116) for mounting the charging socket (105) being configured to be offset from a vertical axis (XX’) , when viewed from a rear direction of the vehicle (100), the vertical axis (XX’) being configured to divide a third opening (113), the third opening (113) being disposed on the cover body (101).
21. The charging socket (105) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the charging socket (105) comprises a cover member, the cover member being configured to releasably cover the charging socket (105) from external elements.
22. The charging socket (105) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the second predefined location (116) being configured to be determined based on the shortest distance between a third predefined location (117) of the control unit (103), the one or more energy storage units and a power unit (119) of the vehicle (100), the second predefined location (116) being at a predefined height.

Dated this 15th day of December, 2023

(Digitally Signed)
Sudarshan Singh Shekhawat
IN/PA-1611
Agent for the Applicant