Mounting structure including communication system for transmitting multiplex control signal to vehicle electrical devices

[0002] The present application is based on and incorporates herein by reference Japanese Patent Applications No. 2001-130125 filed on Apr. 26, 2001 and No. 2001-350438 filed on Nov. 15, 2001.

[0003] 1. Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a mounting structure for mounting vehicle electrical devices on an interior member such as an instrument panel.

[0005] 2. Related Art

[0006] In a vehicle, accessories (electrical devices) such as a battery charger for a mobile phone, the display of navigation equipment and a tachometer, which operate based on electrical signals received from the vehicle, are mounted on mounting portions of an interior member such as an instrument panel. It is proposed that a mounting structure for mounting the accessories on the mounting portions includes wiring for transferring the electrical signals to the respective accessories.

[0007] Therefore, when a user replaces one of the accessories with another accessory to taste, he/she should newly install the required wiring. However, this wiring work requires some technique. Accordingly it is difficult for the user to replace the accessories.

[0008] The present invention has an object to provide a mounting structure for mounting electrical devices on mounting portions of an interior member of a vehicle, which enables a user to readily replace the electrical devices.

[0009] A mounting structure according to the present invention includes a mounting portion on which an electrical device arbitrarily selected from a plurality of vehicle electrical devices is mounted. The mounting portion is disposed on an interior member in a vehicle compartment, and includes communication means for transmitting a multiplex signal into which a plurality of control signals for controlling the respective vehicle electrical devices are multiplexed to the electrical device mounted on the mounting portion.

[0010] Preferably, the mounting portion includes non-contact type power transmission means, and transmits power from the battery of the vehicle to the electrical device mounted thereon via the power transmission means without touching the electrical device. The communication means transmits the multiplex signal to the electrical device via radio waves. Further the mounting portion includes mounting means which enables a user to mount the electrical device on the mounting portion in a single procedure. Moreover, preferably, the mounting structure includes a plurality of mounting portions each of which is similar to the above mounting portion. The interior member is an instrument panel, and a cover member is detachably mounted on the top surface of the instrument panel. The mounting portions are arranged on the cover member.

[0011] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description made with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram showing an instrument panel in which a mounting structure according to a first embodiment of the present invention is incorporated;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing how accessories mounted on the mounting portions of the mounting structure are electrically connected to the electric circuit of a vehicle according to the first embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 3 is across section diagram showing the mounting structure according to the first embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 4A is a perspective diagram showing a mounting portion of the mounting structure according to the first embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 4B is a perspective diagram showing how an accessory is mounted on the mounting portion of the mounting structure according to the first embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective diagram showing a mounting structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-section diagram showing the mounting structure according to the second embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 7 is a perspective diagram showing a mounting structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 8 is a perspective diagram showing a mounting structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 9 is a cross section diagram showing a mounting structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 10 is a view seen in the direction of arrow X in FIG. 9;

[0023] FIG. 11 is a view seen in the direction of arrow XI in FIG. 9;

[0024] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a charging system for charging an accessory mounted on a mounting portion of the mounting structure according to the fifth embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 13 is a timing diagram of the operation of the charging system of FIG. 12;

[0026] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a charging system for charging an accessory mounted on a mounting portion of a mounting structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] FIGS. 15A and 15B are cross section diagrams showing amounting structure according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 16 is a perspective diagram showing a mounting structure according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 17 is a cross section diagram showing the mounting structure according to the eighth embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 18 is a cross section diagram showing amounting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 19 is a front view of a mounting structure according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 20 is a front view of the mounting structure showing that the connector of an accessory may be directly connected to the connector of a mounting portion according to the tenth embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 21 is a front view of a mounting structure according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] FIG. 22 is a front view of a mounting structure according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] FIG. 23 is across section diagram showing amounting structure according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] FIG. 24 is a cross section diagram showing amounting structure according to a modification of the thirteenth embodiment;

[0037] FIG. 25 is a cross section diagram showing amounting structure according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 26 is a perspective diagram showing a mounting structure according to a modification of the fourteenth embodiment; and

[0039] FIG. 27 is a perspective diagram showing how an accessory is mounted on a mounting portion of the mounting structure of FIG. 26.

[0040] First Embodiment

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, a mounting structure according to a first embodiment of the present invention is used for mounting accessories on the instrument panel 10 of a vehicle. A cover member 11 is detachably attached to the top of the instrument panel 10. The cover member 11 includes three mounting portions 12, which are arranged in the width direction as shown in FIG. 1. Accessories (i.e., electrical devices) 20a, 20b, 20c, which operate based on electrical control signals received from the vehicle, are mounted on the respective mounting portions 12 as shown in FIG. 2. The accessories 20a, 20b, 20care a charging apparatus such as two in one hands-free device and battery charger for a mobile phone, a display unit such as a display for navigation equipment, and an instrument such as a tachometer, respectively.

[0042] The battery charger 20areceives a first electrical control signal from the vehicle, and operates based on the first control signal. The first control signal is, for example, a speech signal which is received via a hands-free microphone. The display 20breceives a second electrical control signal which includes navigation information from the vehicle, and operates based on the second control signal. The vehicle receives the second control signal from the navigation equipment installed on the center cluster 10aof the instrument panel 10. The tachometer 20creceives a third electrical control signal which includes information on the engine speed and the like from an engine ECU of the vehicle, and operates based on the third control signal.

[0043] A vehicle-side antenna 13 is provided as communication means inside the instrument panel 10 so as to extend in the width direction as shown in FIG. 2. Each of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cincludes an accessory-side antenna. Thereby two-way radio communication between the vehicle and each of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cis possible. The radio communication is performed using signals (e.g., FM signals) which do not interfere with AM radio waves from a radio set.

[0044] The vehicle-side antenna 13 is connected to a signal converter 14 disposed inside the instrument panel 10. The signal converter 14 is in turn connected to a distribution box 15 such as a junction box which is connected to various parts of the vehicle via a wire harness 16. For example, the wire harness 16 connects between the electric circuit of an engine compartment and the electric circuit of a vehicle compartment, between the electric circuit of the vehicle compartment and the electric circuit of the instrument panel 10, and between the electric circuit of the instrument panel 10 and the electric circuit of a rear seat. The wire harness 16 transfers the electrical signals among those electric circuits and supplies power to those electric circuits.

[0045] Each of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20calways transmits a coded signal to the signal converter 14, when the accessory 20a, 20b, 20cis ON. The signal converter 14 determines which of the first, second and third electrical control signals should be transferred to the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cbased on the coded signals. Then the signal converter 14 selects the signals, which should be transferred to the accessories 20a, 20b, 20c, from various signals which are transferred from the vehicle to the junction box 15. The signal converter 14 multiplexes the selected signals into a multiplex signal, and transmits the multiplex signal to the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cvia the vehicle-side antenna 13.

[0046] Each of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20creceives the multiplex signal via the accessory-side antenna, and extracts the required control signal from the multiplex signal. For example, the tachometer 20cextracts the third control signal from the multiplex signal, and then operates based on the extracted third control signal.

[0047] If a sensor 14asuch as a gyroscope is added to the navigation equipment, the sensor 14ais connected to the signal converter 14. Then the signal converter 14 multiplexes a sensor signal from the sensor 14atogether with the first, second and third electrical control signals into a multiplex signal, and transmits the multiplex signal via the vehicle-side antenna 13. Thus the sensor 14acan be readily added on.

[0048] The mounting portions 12 for the respective accessories 20a, 20b, 20chave exactly the same construction. Therefore only the mounting portion 12 for the tachometer 20cwill be explained. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4A, the mounting portion 12 is a circular recess formed on the cover member 11. The accessory 20cincludes a disc-shaped raised portion, which is disposed in the recess when the accessory 20 is mounted on the mounting portion 12.

[0049] The mounting portion 12 includes a non-contact type power sending terminal 17 as non-contact type power transmission means, which is connected to the battery of the vehicle by a wire harness 18 for power transmission. The power sending terminal 17 includes a disc-shaped primary coil 17a, which is fit into a circular hole 11aformed on the bottom of the recess. The mounting portion 12 further includes, as mounting means, a circular fastener member 19 made of fabric fastener tape like VELCRO® hook and loop fasteners, which is glued to the bottom of the recess. The circular fastener member 19 covers the primary coils 17a, and thereby the primary coil 17ais not exposed to the vehicle compartment when the accessory 20cis not mounted on the mounting portion 12. Thus the good appearance of the instrument panel 10 is ensured even when the accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12.

[0050] On the other hand, the accessory 20cincludes a non-contact type power receiving terminal 21 on the bottom of the raised portion. The power receiving terminal 21 includes a disc-shaped secondary coil 21a, which is exposed when the accessory 20cis not mounted on the mounting portion 12. The accessory 20cfurther includes, as mounting means, an annular fastener member 22 made of resinous fastener tape like VELCRO® hook and loop fastener on the bottom of the raised portion. The annular fastener member 22 surrounds the exposed portion of the secondary coil 21a.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 4B, when a user mounts the accessory 20con the mounting portion 12, he/she places the accessory 20con the mounting portion 12 as indicated by arrow A so that the raised portion of the accessory 20cis disposed in the recess of the mounting portion 12. Further the user presses down the accessory 20cagainst the bottom of the recess so that the annular fastener member 22 of the accessory 20cis fastened to the circular fastener member 19 of the mounting portion 12. Thus the accessory 20cis fixed to the mounting portion 12 of the cover member 11.

[0052] The primary and secondary coils 17a, 21aare arranged so that the axes of the coils 17a, 21aextend in the direction of arrow A and the coils 17a21aare close and parallel to each other when the accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12. A direct current from the battery of the vehicle is applied to the power sending terminal 17. Then the power sending terminal 17 converts the direct current applied thereto into an alternating current of a high frequency, and applies the alternating current to the primary coil 17a. In response, an alternating current is generated in the secondary coil 21 of the power receiving terminal 21 by the law of electromagnetic induction. Thus the power sending terminal 17 transmits the power received from the battery to the power receiving terminal 21 without touching the power receiving terminal 21.

[0053] It is preferable that the secondary coil 21ais arranged within a distance of 2 or 3 mm from the primary coil 17aso that the power is efficiently transmitted from the power sending terminal 17 to the power receiving terminal 21. According to the present embodiment, the secondary coil 21acan be disposed within a distance of 2 or 3 mm, because the annular fastener member 22 does not cover the secondary coil 21a.

[0054] The power sending terminal 17 includes a power consumption detector in its electric circuit. If the user carelessly places a piece of metal such as a juice can on the mounting portion 12, the juice can may be heated up by the power sending terminal 17 and thereby the amount of consumed power may increase abnormally. In order to prevent such abnormality, the power consumption detector measures the amount of power consumed by the power sending terminal 17. When the measured amount of the consumed power reaches a predetermined upper threshold, it is determined that the mounting portion 12 is in an unusual situation and therefore transmission of the power to the accessory 20cis suppressed. On the other hand, when the measured amount of consumed power is lower than a predetermined lower threshold, it is determined that the accessory 20cis not mounted on the mounting portion 12 and therefore transmission of the power to the accessory 20cis also suppressed for saving of power.

[0055] The effects of the present embodiment are as follows. According to the present embodiment, the first, second and third control signals required for the accessories 20a, 20b, 20care all multiplexed into a multiplex signal, and the multiplex signal is transmitted to the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cvia the vehicle-side antenna 13. Therefore the user can readily mount an accessory arbitrarily selected from the plurality of accessories 20a, 20b, 20con a mounting portion arbitrarily selected from the plurality of mounting portions 12 to taste without newly installing the required wiring in the mounting portions 12.

[0056] Further the power sending terminal 17 transmits power to the accessory 20cwithout touching the accessory 20c, and transmits the control signals to the accessory 20cvia radio waves. Therefore the accessories 20a, 20b, 20care not required to be connected to the mounting portion 12 by cables. This enables the user to readily replace the accessories 20a, 20b, 20c. Moreover, the power sending and receiving terminals 17, 21 are immune to damage, because they are non-contact type. In contrast, contact-type terminals are subject to damage.

[0057] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the user can mount the accessory 20con the mounting portion 12 positioning the accessory 20cproperly, because the recess of the mounting portion 12 and the raised portion of the accessory 20care circular and disc-shaped, respectively. Further the accessory 20cmay be mounted facing in an arbitrary direction as indicated by arrow B in FIG. 4B, because the primary and secondary coils 17a, 21aare disc-shaped.

[0058] The accessory 20cis fixed to the mounting portion 12 by fastening the annular fastener member 22 of the accessory 20cto the circular fastener member 19 of the mounting portion 12. Therefore, the user can further readily mount the accessory 20a, 20b, 20con the mounting portion 12 so that the accessory 20cfaces in an arbitrary direction as indicated by arrow B in FIG. 4B.

[0059] If screws are employed for fixing the accessory 20cto the mounting portion 12 instead of the fastener members 19, 22, holes are bored in the mounting portion 12 and therefore the holes should be backfilled after the accessory 20a, 20b, 20cis dismounted from the mounting portion 12. Further the commercial value of the vehicle in the secondhand car market is reduced in this case. In contrast, according to the present embodiment, the user can mount the accessory 20con the mounting portion 12 without boring holes. Accordingly the user is not required to perform backfilling after he/she dismounts the accessory 20cfrom the mounting portion 12 and the commercial value of the vehicle is not reduced.

[0060] The fastener members 19, 22 are not heated up even when a current is applied to the primary coil 17a, because the fastener members 19, 22 are made of nonmagnetic materials. In contrast, if magnetic fastener members are employed instead, they are heated up due to the electromagnetic induction when a current is applied to the primary coil 17a.

[0061] According to the present invention, the accessories 20a, 20b, 20care supported steady from the below and further the display 20band the tachometer 20care clearly visible to the user, because the instrument panel 10 is selected as an interior member on which the accessories 20a, 20b, 20care mounted. Further the mounting portions 12 are formed on the cover member 11 detachably attached to the top of the instrument panel 10. Therefore the vehicle may be equipped with the mounting portions 12 at the user's option after the vehicle comes onto the market.

[0062] The signal converter 14 disposed inside the instrument panel 10 selects the first, second, and third control signals from various signals, and transmits a multiplex signal which includes only the selected signals to the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cvia the vehicle-side antenna 13. Therefore each of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20ccan readily extract the required signal from the multiplex signal.

[0063] Further according to the present embodiment, the vehicle can perform two-way communication with each of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20c. Therefore information from one of the accessories 20a, 20b, 20ccan be transmitted to another via the signal converter 14. For example, information on incoming calls received by a mobile phone can be transmitted from the battery charger 20ato the display 20bof the navigation equipment, and then displayed. Further information on the engine speed can be transmitted from the tachometer 20cto the display 20bof the navigation equipment, and then displayed.

[0064] Second Embodiment

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a mounting structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes non-contact type power sending and receiving terminals 17, 21, which are similar to those included in the mounting structure according to the first embodiment, in a mounting portion 12 of a cover member 11 and an accessory 20c, respectively. The mounting portion 12 includes a first infrared transceiver 130 at the center of a doughnut-shaped primary coil 17aof the power sending terminal 17, while the accessory 20cincludes a second infrared transceiver 23 at the center of a doughnut-shaped secondary coil 21aof the power receiving terminal 21. Thereby two-way infrared communication can be performed between the vehicle and the accessory 20cvia infrared light. The first, second and third control signals are transmitted from the first transceiver 130 to the second transceiver 23.

[0066] Thus the required control signals are transmitted to the accessories 20a, 20b, 20cvia infrared light according to the present embodiment, while they are transmitted via radio waves of a FM frequency according to the first embodiment. Therefore the mounting structure according to the present embodiment does not include the vehicle-side antenna 13, which is included in the mounting structure according to the first embodiment. The other portions of the mounting structure according to the present embodiment are the same as the first embodiment, and the mounting portions 12 are connected to the electric circuit of the vehicle in a manner similar to the first embodiment.

[0067] According to the first embodiment, the FM signals transmitted via the vehicle-side antenna 13 would interfere with FM signals transmitted via a vehicle-side antenna 13 of another vehicle. According to the present embodiment, such interference is prevented because the control signals are transmitted via infrared light.

[0068] Further according to the present embodiment, the single signal converter 14 is disposed inside the instrument panel for transmitting all the required control signals to the first infrared transceiver 130. Therefore the number of parts included in the mounting structure is reduced and wiring installed between a junction box 15 and the signal converter 14 can be simple in comparison with the case that a plurality of signal converters corresponding to the respective mounting portions 12 are included in the mounting structure. Further a new mounting portion can be easily added on, and therefore the mounting structure according to the present embodiment can be used for various types of vehicles in common.

[0069] Third Embodiment

[0070] Referring to FIG. 7, a mounting structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention includes two contact-type power sending terminals 170 in a mounting portion 12 of a cover member, and further includes two contact-type power receiving terminals 210 on an accessory 20c. The power sending terminals 170 are an anode terminal and a cathode terminal, respectively. The power receiving terminals 210 are also an anode terminal and a cathode terminal, respectively. The power sending terminals 170 are plate type terminals which are arranged on the inner wall of a circular recess of the mounting portion 12 so that the anode terminal is opposite to the cathode terminal across the diameter of the recess. The power receiving terminals 210 are spring type terminals which are arranged on the outer wall of a disc-shaped raised portion of the accessory 20cso that the anode terminal is opposite to the cathode terminal across the diameter of the raised portion.

[0071] When the accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12, the power receiving terminals 210 come into contact with the power sending terminals 170. Then power from the battery of a vehicle is transmitted to the accessory 20cvia the terminals 170, 210. Thus the power is transmitted to the accessory 20cvia the contact-type terminals 170, 210 according to the present embodiment, while the power is transmitted via non-contact type terminals 17, 21 according to the first or second embodiment. According to the present embodiment, the accessory 20ccan be mounted on the mounting portion 12 facing in an arbitrary direction within an angle slightly less than 180°. The aspect of the accessory 20cis thus limited because the mounting portion 12 and the accessory 20ceach include the anode terminal and the cathode terminal.

[0072] The other portions of the mounting structure according to the present embodiment are the same as the second embodiment, and the mounting portions 12 are connected to the electric circuit of the vehicle in a manner similar to the second embodiment.

[0073] The effects of the present embodiment are as follows. A power transmission mechanism which employs contact type terminals as shown in the present embodiment is inexpensive in comparison with a power transmission mechanism which employs non-contact type terminals.

[0074] Further according to the present embodiment, since spring terminals are employed as the power receiving terminals 210, the terminals 210, 170 are more immune to damage when the accessory 20cis mounted on or dismounted from the mounting portion 12. Moreover, the power receiving terminals 210 can certainly come into contact with the power sending terminals 170 because of the spring of the power receiving terminals 210.

[0075] Since the power sending terminals 170 are provided on the inner wall of the recess of the mounting portion 12 and the power receiving terminals 210 are provided on the outer wall of the raised portion of the accessory 20c, the power receiving terminals 210 come into contact with the power sending terminals 170 as a result of mounting the accessory 20con the mounting portion 12. Accordingly the user can readily replace the accessories 20a, 20b20c.

[0076] Fourth Embodiment

[0077] Referring to FIG. 8, amounting structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention includes, as a power receiving terminal and a second communication terminal, a cylindrical plug 211 on an accessory 20c, and further includes, as a power sending terminal and a first communication terminal, a jack 171 in amounting portion 12 of a cover member. The plug 211 and the jack 171 are well-known triple-pole terminals, for example, a ø 3.5 mm stereo jack and a stereo plug.

[0078] The jack 171 is formed at the center of a circular recess of the mounting portion 12, and an elastic member is attached to the jack 171. The upper portion 171aof the jack 171 is a cathode terminal for power transmission. The middle portion 171bof the jack 171 is an anode terminal for power transmission. The lower portion 171cof the jack 171 is a communication terminal.

[0079] The plug 211 protrudes from the center of a disc-shaped raised portion of the accessory 20c. The upper portion 211aof the jack 211 is a cathode terminal for power transmission. The middle portion 211bof the jack 211 is an anode terminal for power transmission. The lower portion 211cof the jack 211 is a communication terminal.

[0080] When the accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12, the plug 211 is inserted into the jack 171 so that the plug 211 comes in contact with the elastic member and further the elastic member is deformed. Then power and the first, second and third control signals are transmitted to the accessory 20cvia the jack 171 and the plug 211. The plug 211 is pressed against the jack 171 due to the elastic force of the elastic member, and thereby the plug 211 is certainly held in contact with the jack 171. Further the elastic member prevents the plug 211 from being accidentally disconnected from the jack 171. The accessory 20ccan be mounted on the mounting portion 12 facing in an arbitrary direction, because the cylindrical plug 211 and jack 171 are provided at the center of the disc-shaped raised portion and the circular recess.

[0081] A signal converter disposed inside the instrument panel transmits a multiplex signal, which includes first, second and third control signals selected based on coded signals received from the accessories 20a, 20b, 20c, to the jack 171 in a manner similar to the first or second embodiment. Then the accessories 20a, 20b, 20ceach receive the multiplex signal via the plug 211, and extract the required signal from the multiplex signal.

[0082] According to the fourth embodiment, the electrical control signals are not prone to interfere with other electrical signals, because they are not transmitted via radio waves. Further a communication system which employs the plug 211 and the jack 171 as shown in the present embodiment is inexpensive in comparison with a radio communication system.

[0083] Further according to the fourth embodiment, as a result of inserting the plug 211 into the jack 171, the accessory 20cis mounted and held on the mounting portion 12 and further all the required connections (i.e., the connection for power transmission and the connection for communication) are established. Therefore the user can readily replace the accessories 20a, 20b, 20c.

[0084] Fifth Embodiment

[0085] Referring to FIG. 9, a mounting structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is used for mounting an accessory 20cwhich includes a battery charger 24 and a battery-powered device 25 on amounting portion 12 of a cover member 11. The battery-powered device 25 is detachably attached to and charged by the battery charger 24.

[0086] The battery charger 24 includes a casing 24aand an insert 24bprotruding from the bottom surface of the casing 24a. A release switch SW1 and a charge mode set switch SW3 are provided on the casing 24a. The insert 24bincludes a protrusion at its end as shown in FIG. 9, and further includes anode and cathode power receiving terminals 212, a communication terminal 213 and a terminal 214 for detecting disconnection from the mounting portion 12 at the end of the protrusion as shown in FIG. 10.

[0087] The mounting portion 12 includes a generally cylindrical pedestal 120, which is embedded in and fixed to the cover member 11. A cavity 120ais formed on the top of the pedestal 120. An opening 11bcorresponding to the cavity 120ais formed on the designed top surface of the cover member 11, so that the cavity 120aof the pedestal 120 communicates with the vehicle compartment through the opening 11b. The cavity 120aincludes an inmost portion 120bwhich has a shape complementary to the shape of the protrusion of the insert 24b. The inmost portion 120bincludes the terminals 172, 173, 174 corresponding to the respective terminals 212, 213, 214 of the accessory 20c, that is, anode and cathode power sending terminals 172, a communication terminal 173 and a terminal 174 for detecting disconnection of the accessory 20cas shown in FIG. 11.

[0088] The cover member 11 includes, as a part of its designed top surface, a designed cover 30 over the cavity 120aof the pedestal 120. The designed cover 30 includes a pivot 30aretained by a holder 11cof the cover member 11. The designed cover 30 is thus supported by the cover member 11 so as to be able to pivot on the pivot 30aas indicated by arrow E in FIG. 9. When the accessory 20cis not mounted on the mounting portion 12, an elastic member urges the designed cover 30 to close the opening 11b, that is, to conceal the pedestal 120.

[0089] When the accessory 20cis forced into the cavity 120a, the designed cover 30 is pushed down against the elastic force of the elastic member so that the opening 11bis open. If the insert 24bis further inserted into the cavity 120aas indicated by arrow F in FIG. 9 and pressed into the inmost portion 120b, the terminals 212, 213, 214 of the accessory 20ccome in contact with the terminals 172, 173, 174 of the mounting portion 12. The pedestal 120 includes a guide 120cadjacent to the inmost portion 120bin the cavity 120a, and thereby the protrusion of the insert 24bcan be readily inserted into the inmost portion 120b. Further the user does not bother to open the designed cover 30 before he/she mounts the accessory 20cin the cavity 120a.

[0090] The pedestal 120 includes an electric catching device 40, which includes a pin-type operative part 42 as a catching member and a solenoid 41 as an actuator for the operative part 42. When the accessory 20cis not mounted on the mounting portion 12, the operative part 42 is in a first position (shown by broken lines in FIG. 9), that is, it is evacuated from the cavity 120a. When the catching device 40 detects intrusion of the accessory 20cinto the cavity 120a, it moves the operative part 42 into a second position (shown by soil lines in FIG. 9), that is, it projects the operative part 42 by applying a current to the solenoid 41. The projected operative part 42 fits into a hole 24cformed in the insert 24bof the accessory 20c. Thus the operative part 42 engages with the insert 24b. According to this construction, the accessory 20cis prevented from being accidentally disconnected from the pedestal 120 even when the vehicle vibrates largely or crashes.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 12, the battery charger 24 includes a control circuit 24das control means, and further includes a charge control circuit 24e. The battery-powered device 25 includes a rechargeable battery 25aand a main part 25b. The terminals 172, 173, 174 of the mounting portion 12 are connected to the battery of the vehicle through a power transmission control circuit 55. When the terminals 172, 173, 174 of the mounting portion 12 are connected with the terminals 212, 213, 214 of the accessory 20c, this is detected by the power transmission control circuit 55.

[0092] When the user operates the release switch SW1 for disengaging the operative part 42 from the insert 24b, are lease signal is provided for the control circuit 24d. In response to the release signal, the control circuit 24dcontrols the catching device 40 so that the operative part 42 is disengaged from the insert 24b.

[0093] However, the control circuit 24dmay control the catching device 40 so that the operative part 42 is disengaged from the insert 24b, only when the release signal is received from the release switch SW1 under a condition where a predetermined criterion is satisfied. In this case, the operative part 42 also acts as antitheft means if the criterion is appropriately determined. The criterion is, for example, that an antitheft device such as an immobilizer is inactive, that the accessory switch of the vehicle is ON, or that the ignition switch of the vehicle is ON. The user cannot dismount the accessory 20cfrom the pedestal 120 until the operative part 42 is disengaged from the insert 24b.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 13, if the user turns on a power switch SW2 connected to the power transmission control circuit 55 when the terminals 172, 173, 174 of the mounting portion 12 are connected to the terminals 212, 213, 214 of the accessory 20c, the control circuit 24dand the charge control circuit 24eof the battery charger 24 supply electricity to the battery-powered device 25 for a fixed length of time. Then the rechargeable battery 25aof the battery-powered device 25 accumulates the supplied electricity, and transmits a coded signal as an identification signal. The coded signal is transmitted via the power receiving and sending terminals 212, 172. However, an output terminal and an input terminal for transmitting the coded signal may be provided on the accessory 20cand the mounting portion 12, respectively. The coded signal indicates to the control circuit 24dof the battery charger 24 that the battery-powered device 25 is a device powered by a rechargeable battery.

[0095] Thereafter the control circuit 24dof the battery charger 24 identifies the type of the accessory 20cbased on the coded signal, and controls the charge control circuit 24eaccording to a charging program appropriate for identified type of the accessory 20c. The charging program provides a switching frequency and a duty cycle appropriate for the accessory 20c. Further the charging program appropriately switches between an intermittent mode and a continuous mode based on the coded signal according to the type of the accessory 20c.

[0096] In the intermittent mode, electricity is supplied to the battery-powered device 25 intermittently so that the life of the rechargeable battery 25ais prolonged. In the continuous mode, electricity is supplied to the battery-powered device 25 continuously so that the rechargeable battery 25ais charged rapidly. Thus the charge control circuit 24echarges the battery-powered device 25 according to the charging program.

[0097] The user can change the charging scheme, which is automatically determined by the control circuit 24dof the battery charger 24, using the charge mode set switch SW3, if necessary. That is, the user can switch the battery charger 24 between the intermittent mode and the continuous mode using the charge mode set switch SW3. Further the user can adjust the switching frequency or the duty cycle using the charge mode set switch SW3. When the quantity of electricity supplied to the battery-powered device 25 reaches a predetermined value, the charge control circuit 24 ends the supply of electricity so that overcharge is prevented.

[0098] According to the present embodiment, the battery charger 24 determines a scheme for charging the accessory 20cbased on the coded signal, and therefore it does not supply electricity to the accessory 20cuntil it receives one of predetermined coded signals from the accessory 20c. Accordingly, abnormality is prevented, even when a battery-powered device and the battery charger 24 are mismatched or an accessory which does not comply with the specification of the mounting portion 12 is mounted on the mounting portion 12.

[0099] In the present embodiment, the pedestal 120 is fixed to cover member 11. However, the pedestal 120 may be supported by the cover member 11 so as to be pivotable on its vertical axis. In this case, if the user turns the accessory 20c, it pivots along with the pedestal 120. Thus the user can turn accessory 20caround so that the accessory 20cfaces in the desired direction.

[0100] The insert 24 of the accessory corresponds to a convex portion of the electrical device of the present invention, and the inmost portion 120bof the mounting portion 12 corresponds to a concave portion of the mounting portion.

[0101] Sixth Embodiment

[0102] Referring to FIG. 14, a mounting structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is also used for mounting an accessory 20cwhich includes a battery charger 24 and a battery-powered device 25 on a mounting portion 12 of a cover member. The mounting structure includes non-contact type power sending and receiving terminals similar to those employed by the mounting structure according to the first embodiment.

[0103] The power sending terminal of the mounting portion 12 includes a primary coil 17aconnected to a power transmission control circuit 55, while the power receiving terminal of the battery charger 24 includes a secondary coil 21aconnected to a control circuit 24dof the battery charger 24. The secondary coil 21aincludes a plurality of coils 21b, 21c, 21dwhich are severally connected to the control circuit 24dand differ in the number of turns included therein. The mounting portion 12 is connected to the battery of the vehicle in a manner similar to the fifth embodiment. Further the mounting portion 12 includes communication means 13, 130 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first or second embodiment.

[0104] The control circuit 24dhas the capability to measure the voltage of a rechargeable battery 25aof the battery-powered device 25 before it begins to charge the rechargeable battery 25a, and the capability to measure the charging current. The control circuit 24ddetermines a proper voltage applied to the rechargeable battery 25aof the battery-powered device 25 based on the measured voltage of the battery-powered device 25. Then the control circuit 24dselects one of the coils 21b, 21c, 21dbased on the proper voltage, and then the proper voltage is applied to the rechargeable battery 25a.

[0105] When the measured voltage is almost zero, that is, the rechargeable battery 25ais fully discharged, the control circuit 24dselects a coil that provides the lowest voltage from the coils 21b, 21c, 21d. Thereafter the control circuit 24dswitches to a coil that provides higher voltage, if the measured charging current vanishes in a predetermined length of time. Thus the control circuit 24dis prevented from applying a voltage higher than the proper voltage to the rechargeable battery 25a.

[0106] In this way, the battery charger 24 can adapt to change in the proper voltage to be applied to the accessory 20c. Further accessories which differ in the proper voltage may be alternately mounted on the same mounting portion and charged. That is, the accessories can share the battery charger 24, and thereby the total number of battery chargers that should be installed in the vehicle compartment is reduced.

[0107] In the present embodiment, contact type power sending and receiving terminals similar to those employed by the mounting structure according to the fifth embodiment may be employed instead of the non-contact type power sending and receiving terminals. In this case, the above-described advantages are also provided if the battery charger 24 has the capability to control the voltage applied to the rechargeable battery 25a.

[0108] In the present embodiment, the control circuit 24dadjusts the voltage applied to the rechargeable battery 25aby selecting one of the coils 21b, 21c, 21d. However, the control circuit 24 may control the current applied to the rechargeable battery 25aby adjusting the switching frequency and/or the duty cycle keeping the voltage constant.

[0109] Seventh Embodiment

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, a mounting structure according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention includes a mounting portion 12 which includes a cylindrical cavity and a link member 60. The cavity is formed in the cover member 11 so that the longitudinal axis of the cavity extends vertically. An opening 11bcorresponding to the cavity is formed on the designed top surface of the cover member 11, so that the cavity communicates with the vehicle compartment through the opening 11b.

[0111] The link member 60 is pivotably supported by a pivot 61, and projects its tail end 60ainto the cavity as shown in FIG. 15A. The head 60bof the link member 60 includes two power sending terminals 172, which are an anode terminal and a cathode terminal. The power sending terminals 172 are connected to the battery of the vehicle by a wire harness 18 for power transmission. Further the mounting portion 12 includes communication means 13, 130, 173 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first, second or fifth embodiment.

[0112] A generally cylindrical accessory 20cis mounted in the mounting portion 12 so as to be partially inserted into the cavity as shown in FIG. 15B. The accessory 20cincludes a waist on its circumferential surface. Two power receiving terminals 212, which are an anode terminal and a cathode terminal, are circumferentially provided on the waist of the accessory 20c.

[0113] A designed cover 31 is disposed in the cavity. An elastic member 50 disposed in the cavity biases the designed cover 31 so that the designed cover 31 is flush with the designed top surface of the cover member 11 as shown in FIG. 15A when the accessory 20cis not mounted on the mounting portion 12. When the accessory 20cis forced into the cavity, the designed cover 31 is pushed down against the elastic force of the elastic member. Then the designed cover 31 moves down keeping its surface horizontal, so that the cavity is open. Therefore the user is not required to bother to open the designed cover 31 before he/she mounts the accessory 20con the mounting portion 12.

[0114] When the accessory 20cis further inserted into the cavity, the bottom of the accessory 20chits the tail end 60aof the link member 60. Then the link member 60 pivots, so that the head 60bof the link member 60 projects into the cavity and engages with the waist of the accessory 20cas shown in FIG. 15B. Thereby the power sending terminals 172 of the link member 60 engage with the power receiving terminals 212 of the accessory 20c. Then power from the battery of the vehicle is transmitted to the accessory 20c. When the link member 60 engages with the accessory 20c, the link member 60 is in intimate contact with a release pin 62. Thus the link member 60 is locked, so that the accessory 20cis prevented from being accidentally dismounted from the mounting portion 12 even if the vehicle vibrates largely or crashes.

[0115] When the user dismounts the accessory 20cfrom the mounting portion 12, the user pulls up the release pin 62. Then the link member 60 is released, and then the accessory 20cis pushed up along with the designed cover 31 due to the elastic force of the elastic member 50. The accessory 20cpushes the head 60bof the link member 60 into the cover member 11, and thereby the link member 60 pivots so as to disengage from the accessory 20c. Thus the accessory 20cis dismounted from the mounting portion 12.

[0116] The mounting structure according to the present embodiment includes the catching member (i.e., link member) 60 which are mechanically actuated to engage with the accessory 20c, while the mounting structure according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention includes the catching member (i.e., operative part) 42 which are electrically actuated. The mechanically actuated catching member 60 is inexpensively provided in comparison with the electrically actuated catching member 42.

[0117] Eighth Embodiment

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, a mounting structure according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention includes as a mounting portion 12 a pedestal 121 embedded in a cover member 11, and further includes a designed cover 32 pivotably supported by the cover member 11. An opening 11bis formed on the top surface of the cover member 11, and a cavity 11dcorresponding to the opening 11bis formed in the cover member 11. The pedestal 121 is disposed in the cavity 11dso as to be vertically movable.

[0119] Recesses 121afor mounting accessories 20care formed on the top surface of the pedestal 121, and non-contact type power sending terminals corresponding to the respective recesses 121aare provided in the pedestal 121. When an accessory 20cthat has non-contact type power receiving terminal is mounted in the recess 121a, power from the battery of the vehicle is transmitted to the accessory 20c. Further the mounting portion 12 include communication means 13, 130 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first or second embodiment.

[0120] When the designed cover 32 is open, the pedestal 121 and the accessory 20cmounted thereon is exposed to the vehicle compartment as shown in FIG. 16. The pedestal 121 is linked with the designed cover 32 by a linkage mechanism. Therefore, when the user closes the designed cover 32, that is, pivots the designed cover 32 as indicated by arrow G in FIG. 16, the pedestal 121 moves vertically in the direction H. When the designed cover 32 is completely closed, the pedestal 121 and the accessory 20 mounted thereon are concealed as shown in FIG. 17. Thus the accessory 20cis housed. Transmission of power to the accessory 20cis suppressed for saving of power, when the designed cover 32 is completely closed. In FIG. 17, the positions of the pedestal 121 and the accessory 20cwhen the designed cover 32 is open are indicated by broken lines.

[0121] According to the present embodiment, the appearance of the cover member 11 is not spoiled, since the designed cover 32 forms a part of the top surface of the cover member 11 when it is closed. Moreover the accessory 20ccan be protected against theft, because the designed cover 32 conceals the accessory 20cwhen it is closed. The closed designed cover 32 can be opened only when a predetermined criterion is satisfied. Alternatively, the designed cover 32 may be constructed so that the alarm is sounded if the closed designed cover 32 is opened under a condition where the predetermined criterion is not satisfied. The criterion is, for example, that an antitheft device such as an immobilizer is inactive, that the accessory switch of the vehicle is ON, or that the ignition switch of the vehicle is ON. If the designed cover 32 is constructed so as to be able to be opened only when such criterion is satisfied, the accessory 20ccan be securely protected against theft.

[0122] Ninth Embodiment

[0123] Referring to FIG. 18, a mounting structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention includes as a mounting portion 12 a cavity formed in the cover member 11. An opening 11bcorresponding to the cavity is formed on the designed top surface of the cover member 11, and the cavity communicates with the vehicle compartment through the opening 11b. An accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12 so as to be partially inserted into the cavity. The mounting portion 12 includes a primary coil 17a, while the accessory 20cincludes a secondary coil 21a. The mounting portion 12 is similar to the first embodiment, and includes communication means 13, 130 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first or second embodiment.

[0124] Two recesses 24ffor accommodating catching members 80 are formed on the side wall of a casing 24aof the accessory 20c. Elastic members 81 are disposed in the respective recesses 24f, and the catching members 80 are arranged on the respective elastic members 81 in the recesses 24f. A groove 80afor engaging with the cover member 11 is formed on the outer surface of each of the catching members 80. A designed cover 31 similar to that included in the mounting structure according to the seventh embodiment is disposed in the cavity. Elastic members 50 disposed in the cavity bias the designed cover 31 so that the designed cover 31 is flush with the designed top surface of the cover member 11, when the accessory 20cis not mounted in the mounting portion 12.

[0125] When the accessory 20cis forced into the cavity, the designed cover 31 is pushed down against the elastic force of the elastic members 50. Then the designed cover 31 moves down keeping its surface horizontal, so that the cavity is open. When the accessory 20cis further inserted into the cavity, the edge (i.e., engaging portion) of the cover member 11 engages with the grooves 80aas shown in FIG. 18 and then the elastic members 81 press the catching members 80 against the edge of the cover member 11. Thereby the accessory 20cis prevented from being accidentally dismounted from the mounting portion 12.

[0126] The mounting portion 12 includes switches SW4 corresponding to the respective catching members 80. When the edge of the cover member 11 engages with the grooves 80aof the catching members 80, the switches SW4 are turned ON by the lower portions of the catching members 80 so that power from the battery of the vehicle is transmitted to the primary coil 17aof the mounting portion 12. Then the power is transmitted from the primary coil 17ato the secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20c.

[0127] According to this construction, the power is not transmitted to the accessory 20cuntil the accessory 20cis mounted in the mounting portion 12. Therefore, if a piece of metal such as a juice can is carelessly placed on the mounting portion 12, power is not transmitted to the primary coil 17aof the mounting portion 12 because the switches SW4 are not turned ON. That is, the power is not transmitted to the primary coil 17aof the mounting portion 12 until an accessory which has catching members 80 is mounted in the mounting portion 12. Thus abnormality is prevented.

[0128] When the user dismounts the accessory 20cfrom the mounting portion 12, he/she pushes the catching members 80 into the recesses 24fagainst the elastic force of the elastic members 81. Then the edge of the cover member 11 disengages from the grooves 80aof the catching members 80, and thereby the user can dismount the accessory 20cfrom the mounting portion 12.

[0129] The mounting structure according to the present embodiment includes the catching members 80 attached to the accessory 20cas described above, while the mounting structure according to the fifth, sixth or seventh embodiment includes the catching member 42, 60 attached to the mounting portion 12.

[0130] Tenth Embodiment

[0131] Referring to FIG. 19, a mounting structure according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention includes a secondary coil connector C1 provided in an accessory 20cand a primary coil connector C2 provided in a mounting portion. A primary coil 17ais connected to the primary coil connector C2 in the mounting portion, while a secondary coil 21ais connected to the secondary coil connector C1 in the accessory 20c. The secondary coil 21ais fixed to a first bottom cover 20dof the accessory 20c. The mounting portion is similar to the first embodiment, and includes communication means 13, 130, 173 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first embodiment.

[0132] The primary coil 17areceives power from the battery of the vehicle via the primary coil connector C2, and then transmits the received power to the secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20c. The power is further transmitted from the secondary coil 21ato the accessory 20cvia the secondary coil connector C1. However, the secondary coil connector C1 of the accessory 20cmay be connected directly to the primary coil connector C2 of the mounting portion as shown in FIG. 20. Specifically, the first bottom cover 20dis replaced with a second bottom cover 20e, and thereafter the secondary coil connector C1 is fixed to the second bottom cover 20eand then connected to the primary coil connector C2. In this case, power from the battery of the vehicle can be transmitted to the accessory 20cvia the connectors C2, C1.

[0133] In the case that the user once mounts the accessory 20con the mounting portion and thereafter leaves the accessory 20cmounted on the mounting portion, that is, the accessory 20cis not dismounted from the mounting portion for a relatively long time, it is preferable that the connectors C1, C2 are directly connected. The primary and secondary coils 17a, 21aare not required to be prepared in this case, and thereby costs can be reduced.

[0134] Furthermore, the operation of an accessory which does not include a secondary coil 21acan be checked without preparing the secondary coil 21a, because the secondary coil connector C1 of the accessory can be directly connected to the primary coil connector C2 of the mounting portion. If the mounting portion originally includes the primary coil 17aconnected to the primary coil connector C2, the secondary coil connector C1 of the accessory can be directly connected to the primary coil connector C2 because the primary coil 17acan be readily disconnected from the primary coil connector C2.

[0135] Eleventh Embodiment

[0136] Referring to FIG. 21, a mounting structure according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention includes primary and secondary coil connectors C2, C1 and primary and secondary coils 17a, 21asimilar to those included in the mounting structure according to the tenth embodiment. A mounting portion according to the present invention is similar to the first embodiment, and includes communication means 13, 130 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first or second embodiment. The secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20cis connected to the primary coil 17aof the mounting portion by an extension cord unit 90. The extension cord unit 90 includes a vehicle-side coil 91, a cord reel 92, an extension cord 93 and an accessory-side coil 94.

[0137] The primary coil 17atransmits power from the battery of the vehicle to the vehicle-side coil 91 of the extension cord unit 90 without touching the vehicle-side coil 91. The power is further transmitted to the accessory-side coil 94 via the extension cord 93. Then the accessory-side coil 94 transmits the power to the secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20cwithout touching the secondary coil 21a. The cord reel 92 is used for taking up the extension cord 93.

[0138] The accessory 20ccan be placed at any position within the reach of the extension cord 93 according to the present embodiment, while the accessory 20ccannot be placed at a position other than the predetermined position according to the first to tenth embodiments.

[0139] Twelfth Embodiment

[0140] Referring to FIG. 22, a mounting structure according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention includes primary and secondary coil connectors C2, C1 and a secondary coil 21asimilar to those included in the mounting structure according to the tenth or eleventh embodiment. A mounting portion according to the present invention is similar to the first embodiment, and includes communication means 13, 130, 173 similar to that included in the mounting portion according to the first, second, or fifth embodiment. The secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20cis connected to the primary coil connector C2 of the mounting portion by an extension cord unit 90.

[0141] The extension cord unit 90 includes a cord reel 92, an extension cord 93, an accessory-side coil 94 and a complementary connector C3 attached to the cord reel 92. That is, the extension cord unit 90 does not include a vehicle-side coil 91, which is included in the extension cord unit 90 according to the eleventh embodiment. Accordingly, the cord reel 92 of the extension cord unit 90 is directly connected to the primary coil connector C2 according to the present embodiment. A primary coil 17ais connectable to the complementary connector C3 of the extension cord unit 90.

[0142] The accessory 20cconnected to the mounting portion by the extension cord 93 can be placed at any position within the reach of the extension cord 93. The accessory 20ccan be also mounted on the primary coil 17aconnected to the complementary connector C3 of the extension cord unit 90. Therefore, when the accessory 20cis connected to the mounting portion by the extension cord unit 90 as shown in FIG. 22, another accessory may be connected to the primary coil 17aconnected to the complementary connector C3. That is, two accessories can be connected to one mounting portion at a time according to the present embodiment.

[0143] Thirteenth Embodiment

[0144] Referring to FIG. 23, a mounting structure according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention includes as amounting portion 12 a cavity formed in a cover member 11. An opening 11bcorresponding to the cavity is formed on the designed top surface of the cover member 11, and the cavity communicates with the vehicle compartment through the opening 11b. Further the mounting portion 12 includes communication means 13, 130 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first or second embodiment. A user mounts an accessory 20con the mounting portion by placing it in the cavity.

[0145] The mounting portion 12 includes a primary coil 17aon one side, while the accessory 20cincludes a secondary coil 21aon the side corresponding to the primary coil 17a. The mounting portion 12 and the accessory 20care constructed so that the secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20cis placed opposite to the primary coil 17aof the mounting portion 12 when the accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12. The primary coil 17atransmits power from the battery of the vehicle to the secondary coil 21awithout touching the secondary coil 21a.

[0146] The mounting structure according to the present embodiment does not include a designed cover or a catching member, while the mounting structure according to the ninth embodiment includes the designed cover 31a, the catching member 80, the elastic members 50, 81 for biasing the designed cover and a catching member 80, and the power switch SW4 to be turned on by the catching member 80. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, not only an accessory (shown by broken lines in FIG. 23) that fits the cavity but also a smaller accessory 20c(shown by solid lines in FIG. 23) can be mounted in the mounting portion 12.

[0147] The bottom of the cavity may incline to the side on which the primary coil 17ais placed as shown in FIG. 24. In this case, the user is not required to place the accessory 20cexactly in the correct position, because the accessory 20cis surely moved to the correct position by gravitation. Therefore the user can mount the accessory 20cin the cavity more readily.

[0148] Fourteenth Embodiment

[0149] Referring to FIG. 25, a mounting structure according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention includes an adjustable primary coil 17ain a mounting portion 12 and a secondary coil 21ain an accessory 21c. Further the mounting portion 12 includes communication means 13, 130 similar to that included in the mounting portion 12 according to the first or second embodiment. The primary coil 17acan be inclined and further its inclination is adjustable as indicated by arrows I in FIG. 25. Thereby an accessory 20csmaller than an accessory that fits the mounting portion 12 can be mounted in the mounting portion 12 reclining against the inner wall of the mounting portion 12. In this case, the secondary coil 21aof the accessory 20cis arranged parallel to the primary coil 17aof the mounting portion 12 so that power from the battery of the vehicle may be efficiently transmitted to the accessory 20c.

[0150] The mounting portion 12 may include a tapered holding portion 12aas shown in FIGS. 26 and 27. The accessory 20cis mounted in the mounting portion 12 reclining against the holding portion 12ain this case. Then the side walls 11bof the holding portion 12ahold the accessory 20cin position.

[0151] Modifications

[0152] In the first to fourth embodiments, the mounting structure includes a plurality of mounting portions 12. However, the mounting structure may include only one mounting portion 12. Further a solar battery, a dry-cell battery or a storage battery may be installed in the accessory 20c, and the installed battery may be used as a power source for supplying power to the accessory 20cinstead of the battery of the vehicle.

[0153] In the first to third embodiments, the fastener members 19, 22 made of the faster tape are employed for fixing the accessory 20cto the mounting portion 12. However, the mounting portion 12 may include an electromagnetic coil which acts as an electromagnet when the accessory 20cis mounted on the mounting portion 12. The accessory 20cmounted on the mounting portion 12 is fixed to the mounting portion 12 by the electromagnetic force of the electromagnetic coil in this case. Further, conventional mechanical resinous fixtures, which enable the user to mount the accessory 20cin a single procedure, may be employed for fixing the accessory 20cto the mounting portion 12 instead of the fastener members 19, 22.

[0154] In the first to fourteenth embodiments, the mounting structure may be used for mounting an accessory 20con an interior member other than the instrument panel 10. That is, the mounting structure may be used for mounting an accessory 20con, for example, an armrest, a door, or an interior member disposed around the rear seat. The mounting structure according to the above embodiments is suitable especially for mounting an accessory 20con a designed interior member disposed in the vehicle compartment.

[0155] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and modifications, but may be variously embodied within the scope of the invention.