Charger for charging a vehicle battery, system and corresponding procedure

Abstract

Charger for charging a vehicle battery (6) with a. an energy supply (56); b. a power electronics (54) to provide a charging current for the vehicle battery (6); c. a charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') that is at least partially interchangeable for connecting the charger (4) to the vehicle battery (6), wherein the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') has an interface (58; 58'; 58''; 58'''') to the vehicle battery (6); d. a bidirectional communication interface (52) through which data can be received and sent; e. at least one controller (44) comprising at least one processor (46) and at least one non-volatile memory (50), wherein a plurality of load profiles (21.1, 21.2) are stored in the memory (50), wherein i. the control unit (46) is connected to the power electronics (54), wherein the power electronics (54) can be controlled by means of the control unit (46); ii. the control unit (46) is connected to the charging port (8; 8'; 8'' 8'''') in order to read a coding specific to the vehicle battery (6) via the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8''''); iii. the controller (46) is connected to the bidirectional communication interface (52) to receive data from the bidirectional communication interface (52) and to send data via the bidirectional communication interface (52), iv. wherein the controller (46) is configured to receive a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) via the bidirectional communication interface (52), in which at least one non-volatile memory (50) is stored and used to charge the vehicle battery (6).

Description

[0001] A charger for charging a vehicle battery, in particular a bicycle battery, a system with a corresponding charger, and a method for charging a vehicle battery are described.

[0002] Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly commonplace. This applies on the one hand to automobiles such as cars, trucks, and public transport vehicles, and on the other hand also to bicycles, so-called e-bikes. E-bikes are bicycles with an electric assist motor that supports the rider's pedaling, thus reducing the effort required. E-bikes significantly expand the range of uses for bicycles, making them attractive to people who cannot ride regular bicycles due to health reasons, as well as for use in hilly regions.

[0003] Currently, there are no standards for the charging infrastructure of e-bikes, which is why each manufacturer of e-bikes or drive components, including the battery, develops and uses its own technology. This applies to both the charging parameters and the connections.

[0004] The drive technology of e-bikes is complex and represents the highest cost factor. Within this, the battery is the single largest expense. Since the battery is also a consumable part that needs to be replaced after a certain period of use, e-bikes incur significantly higher operating costs than regular bicycles. Therefore, there is a strong effort to extend the lifespan of batteries as much as possible. One way to achieve this is through the use of intelligent charging technologies. Vehicle manufacturers are thus working on new charging strategies to extend battery life. At the same time, research is being conducted into new battery technologies to make batteries more powerful and durable.

[0005] DE 20 2015 003 701 U1 discloses a charger for a power supply unit in a frame element of a vehicle with an interface for electrical connection of the power supply unit to the charger, with an extendable and self-retracting charging cable, wherein the charger is designed in such a way that it can be arranged at one end of a receptacle of the power supply unit in the frame element of the vehicle, so that when the power supply unit is inserted into the receptacle of the frame element a mechanical and electrical connection to the charger is made.

[0006] DE 20 2012 103 996 U1 discloses a charging cable for establishing an electrical connection between a public charging station and the battery of an electric vehicle, wherein the charging cable has a first plug connection which can be connected to a connector on the charging station, wherein the first connector contains a code which can be read by the charging station and which provides technical information about the battery to be charged.

[0007] WO 2016 / 025861 A1 discloses a battery charging system with a battery charger for supplying energy to a rechargeable battery, wherein the battery charger has a wireless data transceiver and wherein a remotely located server is connected to the battery charger via a network for communication, wherein the system is configured to exchange one or more charging parameters or control commands between the battery charger and a user terminal device.

[0008] Families with multiple e-bikes, possibly from different manufacturers, need to have a variety of different chargers on hand.

[0009] The task therefore is to further develop a charger and a system of the type mentioned above in such a way that a charger is more universally and future-proof than conventional chargers.

[0010] The problem is solved by a charger according to claim 1, a system according to dependent claim 8, and a method according to dependent claim 11. Further embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0011] The charger described below, designed for charging a vehicle battery, particularly a bicycle battery, provides a power supply that supplies the other components of the charger as well as the battery being charged. This power supply can be, for example, in the form of a power cable or a separate battery.

[0012] Furthermore, power electronics are provided that set and supply a charging current and voltage for the vehicle battery. Depending on the embodiment, a final charging voltage and / or a supply voltage can also be provided. The power electronics can be configured to convert current and voltage according to the vehicle battery being connected and charged. The power electronics can be designed to provide a constant or variable charging current. In some embodiments, the voltage can be kept constant or varied. In addition to charging methods with constant charging power, pulse charging methods are also known and can be implemented with variants of the charger described here.

[0013] Furthermore, a charging port, at least partially interchangeable, is provided for connecting the charger to the vehicle battery. This charging port has an interface to the vehicle battery. Because the charging port is removable, a suitable charging port can be selected for the respective vehicle battery, and different vehicle battery types can be charged with the same charger. The interface to the vehicle battery can, for example, be in the form of a plug that is inserted into the vehicle battery or another part of the vehicle, such as a dedicated charging port. Depending on the design, the charging port can be located on the charger housing or on a cable.

[0014] Furthermore, a bidirectional communication interface is provided, allowing data to be received and sent. This communication interface thus enables the charger to communicate with other communication-enabled devices.

[0015] Furthermore, at least one controller is provided which has at least one processor and at least one non-volatile memory, wherein a plurality of load profiles are stored or can be stored in the memory.

[0016] The control unit is connected to the power electronics, and the power electronics can be controlled by the control unit. This allows the control unit to selectively control the power electronics, for example, to charge, discharge, format, or refresh the vehicle battery according to a charging profile. Furthermore, the connection between the control unit and the power electronics enables regulation of the latter and adherence to the specifications of the charging profile.

[0017] The control unit is also connected to the charging port in order to read a vehicle battery-specific code via the charging port. The vehicle battery type can be determined using this code.

[0018] In addition, the controller is connected to the bidirectional communication interface in order to receive data from the bidirectional communication interface and / or send data via the bidirectional communication interface.

[0019] Furthermore, the control system is designed to receive a charging profile via the bidirectional communication interface, to store this in at least one non-volatile memory, and to use it to charge the vehicle battery.

[0020] The charger described above enables a wide range of functions. Firstly, the charging port allows for the detection of the connected vehicle battery. If a suitable charging profile exists for the specific battery, it can be loaded from the non-volatile memory and executed via the power electronics to charge the battery. Furthermore, the bidirectional communication interface allows for the loading and subsequent application of additional charging profiles for both new and existing vehicle batteries. For example, an improved charging profile with adjusted charging parameters can be provided and stored on the charger. Additionally, new charging profiles for other vehicle batteries can be developed and made available in the future.Furthermore, it is also possible to create and apply individualized charging profiles, for example depending on the driving profiles of the users of the vehicle battery to be charged.

[0021] Some models may have more than one charging port.

[0022] In a first further embodiment, the charging port can have the coding, or the charging port can have a cable that has the coding, whereby in both cases the coding is a mechanical, electrical, optical, or electronic coding. Other types of coding are also conceivable.

[0023] In this way, the coding can be performed directly via the connection to the vehicle battery, which is specifically adapted to the respective vehicle battery. Thus, by selecting the geometrically compatible charging port, the appropriate charging profile or several suitable charging profiles can be selected, and the accidental selection of an incorrect charging profile, which could potentially damage or even destroy the vehicle battery, can be avoided.

[0024] Mechanical coding can be achieved, for example, via corresponding spring-loaded bolts, which are brought into different configurations by a suitably designed charging port. The configuration can be read by the control unit and used to determine the vehicle battery type. Further mechanical coding can be achieved, for example, via different connection geometries.

[0025] Electrical coding can be achieved, for example, through different pin assignments, so that different pins are assigned differently for different vehicle batteries. Alternatively or additionally, the electrical properties of the cable or charging connector can be specific to a particular vehicle battery and can be read accordingly. Alternatively or additionally, certain conductive or insulating sections can be provided downstream, which also represent a coding element.

[0026] Electronic coding can be done, for example, via readable microprocessors, memory or near-field communication devices that are provided in the charging port or in the cable.

[0027] Optical codes can be provided, for example, via barcodes, QR codes, labels recognizable by optical character recognition, or similar methods. The shape of a vehicle battery's charging port or the shape of the vehicle battery itself can also serve as a code.

[0028] The aforementioned coding options, as well as other mechanical, electrical, or electronic alternatives, can also be combined to achieve coding.

[0029] This allows the charger to be configured even for vehicle batteries that are not themselves or whose charging ports are not communication-capable, thus increasing the range of applications for the charger described here. Depending on the specific design, the charging port can be equipped with sensors or communication devices.

[0030] In some configurations, the bidirectional communication interface can be integrated into the charging port, enabling it to both detect the vehicle battery and receive a charging profile. This way, only one communication interface is required. Furthermore, the corresponding charging profile can be stored, for example, within the vehicle battery itself, eliminating the need for a connection to another device, whether via short-range or long-range communication.

[0031] Another further embodiment may provide that the charging port has a charging socket or a terminal from which a mechanical, electrical, or electronic code can be read, with the charging socket or terminal being connected to the control unit. As described above, the charging socket or terminal may have corresponding sensors and / or communication means. A terminal is a connection on the charger's housing.

[0032] In another, more advanced embodiment, an identifier can be stored in the charger, which can be transmitted via the bidirectional communication interface. This identifier can be unique to the charger and, for example, consist of a serial number. Such a serial number can be stored, for instance, in non-volatile memory, particularly in a protected area, or in ROM. Alternatively, the MAC address or another unique identifier for the communication interface can be used. Transmitting an identifier enables additional functions, such as saving the charger's configuration so that it can be transferred to a new charger, assigning the charger to a specific user, and the like.

[0033] The charger may also have a user interface for operation by the user. This user interface may include, for example, a display and / or other indicator lights such as LEDs and buttons, or a touchscreen.

[0034] The controller can initiate the transmission of the identifier via the bidirectional communication interface. For example, the controller can read the identifier from memory or instruct the bidirectional communication interface to send the corresponding MAC address.

[0035] In another, more advanced embodiment, the non-volatile memory can have multiple memory areas, in which load profiles, user profiles, the identifier, and / or diagnostic data are stored and / or can be stored. Other data can also be stored in the memory. The non-volatile memory can be divided into a protected and an unprotected area.

[0036] In another, more advanced configuration, the charger can be equipped with a clock to achieve time-controlled charging profiles. This allows, for example, the configuration of trickle charging during winter. An energy storage device can be integrated into the charger to power the clock.

[0037] In another advanced embodiment, the control unit can be configured to read the coding and a user profile, and to select a charging profile based on the coding and the user profile and apply it to charge the vehicle battery.

[0038] In another, more advanced embodiment, at least one user preset can be stored in the non-volatile memory. The controller is configured to read the user preset, select a charging profile based on the preset, and apply it to charge the vehicle battery. In this way, the charger can select a suitable charging profile for the user, which, for example, only fully charges the vehicle battery when needed, such as before a long bike ride. On days when only shorter distances are covered, such as the daily commute to work, the vehicle battery can be charged only as much as necessary, thus extending its lifespan.

[0039] A first independent object relates to a system comprising a charger of the type described above and a user terminal, wherein the charger and user terminal are capable of being connected to each other in a communication link, wherein a charging profile stored on the user terminal can be sent to the charger via the communication link and stored in the non-volatile memory of the charger, and / or a central computer connected to a supra-regional network, wherein the central computer and charger are capable of being connected to each other in a communication link, wherein a charging profile stored on the central computer can be sent to the charger via the communication link and stored in the non-volatile memory of the charger.

[0040] The user terminal device may have a communication interface to establish the communication connection.

[0041] The charger can communicate with a user device and / or a central computer. Communication via a user device can be local, while communication via a central computer can occur, for example, via the internet. Therefore, the charger can be configured via the user device, the central computer, or both.

[0042] In a first, more advanced embodiment of the system, the user device can be a mobile device, in particular a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or a notebook, or a stationary device, in particular a personal computer, wherein a computer program for managing the charger is stored and executable on the user device. A mobile phone can, for example, be a smartphone. A smartphone is a mobile phone that offers more extensive functionalities, comparable to those of a computer, than a conventional mobile phone.

[0043] This allows for the local configuration of a charger that, for example, cannot connect to a regional network due to its location, such as being in a garage, basement, or similar location without network coverage.

[0044] According to another, more advanced embodiment, the user terminal and the central computer can be connected, allowing data from the user terminal to be stored on the central computer. The central computer is configured to send at least one charging profile to the user terminal and / or charger based on this data. This allows the charger to be configured via the user terminal. The user terminal can have a user-friendly interface and be used to load charging profiles from the central computer and save them to the charger. The user terminal can simultaneously manage multiple chargers. Premium services can also be accessed via the user terminal. Firmware updates and similar updates can also be installed via the user terminal.

[0045] Another related subject matter described here concerns a method for charging a vehicle battery, in particular a bicycle battery, using a charger, wherein a charging port suitable for the vehicle battery is selected, the type of vehicle battery is recognized based on the charging port, a corresponding charging profile is loaded from a non-volatile memory of the charger and the charging profile is applied to charge the vehicle battery, wherein a communication connection is established with a user terminal device and / or a central computer via a bidirectional communication interface of the charger, and wherein a charging profile is loaded from the user terminal device and / or the central computer and stored in the non-volatile memory.

[0046] A first further aspect of the procedure involves sending an identifier from the charger to the user terminal and / or the central computer.

[0047] According to a further aspect, a user profile is loaded from non-volatile memory and used to select the load profile. Further features and details are provided in the following description, in which – possibly with reference to the drawing – at least one embodiment is described in detail. The described and / or illustrated features, either individually or in any meaningful combination, constitute the subject matter, possibly also independently of the claims, and may in particular also be the subject matter of one or more separate applications. Identical, similar, and / or functionally equivalent parts are designated with the same reference numerals. The following are shown schematically: Fig. 1. A view of a system with one charger in one configuration; Fig. 2 a system with a charger in a second configuration; Fig. 3 a system with a charger in a third configuration; Fig. 4 a system with a charger in a fourth configuration; Fig. 5 a block diagram of the charger; Fig. 6 a first variant of a charging port; Fig. 7 a second variant of a charging port; Fig. 8 a third variant of a charging port; Fig. 9 a fourth variant of a charging port; Fig. 10 a flowchart of a procedure for charging a bicycle battery, as well as Fig. 11 a continuation of the diagram from Fig. 10.

[0048] For better readability, identical or equivalent components will be given the same reference symbols in the following text.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows a view of a system 2 with a charger 4 in a configuration.

[0050] The charger 4 is designed for charging a vehicle battery 6. In this case, the vehicle battery 6 is a bicycle battery for an e-bike. The vehicle battery 6 does not have its own communication capability.

[0051] The charger 4 has a charging port 8. The charging port 8 is located on a charging cable 12. The charging cable terminates in a charging socket 10, in which an adapter end piece is inserted, which is used in connection with the Fig. Sections 6 to 9 are explained. The vehicle battery 6 is connected for charging via the adapter end piece.

[0052] Furthermore, a smartphone 14 is provided, which has a communication link 15 with the charger 4. The charger 4 is equipped for bidirectional communication and can therefore send data to and receive data from the smartphone 14.

[0053] The smartphone 14 is connected to the Internet 16 via a communication link 15.2 and can receive data from and send data to the Internet 16.

[0054] Furthermore, a server 18 is provided, which is also connected to the internet 16 via a communication link 15.3. The smartphone 14 can communicate with the server 18 via the internet 16 using communication links 15.2 and 15.3.

[0055] Server 18 is equipped with storage that includes various areas for storing public and non-public data records, such as manuals in a public area and firmware, charging profiles, user profiles, etc., in a non-public area. The user profiles can contain an identifier for the charger 4, names, addresses, and other data of the smartphone 14 user and the charger 4 user, the charger 4 software version (e.g., the firmware installed on the charger 4) and any stored charging profiles, and user profiles relating to typical bicycle usage, for example.

[0056] To access the data of server 18, appropriate software (app) can be stored on the smartphone 14, which regulates communication with the charger 4 and with the server 18 and serves to configure the charger 4.

[0057] The connection between the charger 4 and the smartphone 14 can be established via an ad-hoc wireless connection (e.g., via Bluetooth or WLAN).

[0058] To log in to server 18, user identification can take place, which is done via a corresponding user identification number and / or via the identifier of charger 4.

[0059] Via the internet 16, further service providers 20 can be connected via communication links 15.4, enabling additional functions for controlling the charger 4. Such service providers could be, for example, home automation providers, allowing the charger to be integrated into a more complex home control system.

[0060] The smartphone 14 can receive data from and send data to the charger 4. Furthermore, the charger 4 can be started and stopped using the smartphone 4.

[0061] The smartphone 14 can transfer a charging profile 21.1 to the charger 4.

[0062] Fig. Figure 2 shows a system 2' with a charger 4 in a second configuration.

[0063] Unlike System 2, Fig. In addition, a communication connection 15.5 is established between the charger 4 and the internet 16. In this mode, the charger 4 can communicate directly with the server 18 via the internet 16 and thereby obtain, for example, firmware updates or new charging profiles 21.2.

[0064] The smartphone 14 can be used to configure the internet access of the charger 4. The smartphone 14 can provide the corresponding access data for a network connection, or the access data can be entered via the smartphone 14 and saved on the charger 4.

[0065] In some versions, a user configuration can also be created on the smartphone 14 and saved on the charger 4. In this case, the smartphone 14 serves as an interface between the charger 4 and the internet 16.

[0066] Fig. Figure 3 shows a System 2'' with a charger 4 in a third configuration.

[0067] In this configuration, there is no direct radio connection between the smartphone 14 and the charger 4. The charger 4 is only connected to the server 18, the smartphone 14, and the service provider 20 via the internet 16. This allows for remote control of the charger 4.

[0068] A connection 15.1 (shown as a dashed line) of the smartphone 14 with the charger 4 is only needed to establish the communication connection 15.5 of the charger 4 with the Internet 16, for example to save access data and create user profiles.

[0069] Fig. Figure 4 shows a system 2''' with a charger 4 in a fourth configuration.

[0070] Here, the charger 4 is in a self-contained operating mode, in which it can be used without a connection to the internet or connection to the smartphone 14.

[0071] The configurations according to the Fig. Tasks 1 to 4 can be performed with the same charger 4. Other chargers may be designed so that only certain configurations are possible.

[0072] Fig. Figure 5 shows a block diagram of the charger 4.

[0073] The charger 4 has a housing 40 with a user interface 42. The user interface 42 allows the user to interact with the charger 4. The user interface 42 can provide a variety of information, such as the status of a charging process, the status of a network connection, diagnostic data, and the like. Furthermore, the user interface 42 can allow inputs that, for example, start and stop a charging process.

[0074] Furthermore, a controller 44 (outlined with a dashed line) is provided, which includes a processor 46. Additionally, a ROM memory 48 and a RAM memory 50 are provided, the latter being non-volatile and capable of being written with data.

[0075] The RAM 50 contains various memory areas 50.1 to 50.5. Different data can be stored in each of these memory areas, for example, network access data, network keys, and network names in one protected area, an assignment table in another, and different charging profiles 21.1 and 21.2 for vehicle batteries from different manufacturers in a third. The RAM 50 can have a varying number of memory areas in different embodiments, in particular more than those shown here.

[0076] In one embodiment, the charging profiles for all compatible vehicle batteries may already be stored upon delivery of the charger 4. In another embodiment, these profiles may be stored upon commissioning.

[0077] Furthermore, it can be provided that new loading profiles 21.1 and 21.2 are loaded via an established communication connection and stored in memory area 50.1 in RAM 50. This allows loading profiles to be updated when newer versions are available, or premium loading profiles with special properties to be stored. Incompatible loading profiles can also be deleted. Such specific loading profiles can be made available via value-added services through server 18 or service provider 20. A separate memory area can store the firmware version number.

[0078] A further memory area 50.2 can be provided for diagnostic data 51, whereby memory area 50.2 is initially empty upon delivery of the corresponding charger 4. The diagnostic data 51 is entered during operation. This diagnostic data 51 can include the number of charging cycles per specific battery, total operating time and / or the sum of the charging cycles, status data of the vehicle battery 6, etc. This diagnostic data 51 can be made available via the network connection.

[0079] Another area 50.5 of the memory 50 can be reserved for user profiles 53. Individual charging profiles depending on time, day of the week, electricity price, etc., can be stored there, as well as possible preferred charging profiles, which may include, for example, charging profiles designed for maximum range as well as those designed for maximum battery lifespan.

[0080] An identifier 55 can be stored in ROM memory 48.

[0081] In memory area 50.2, user preferences 57 can be stored, e.g. a start time or a special loading profile selection.

[0082] Furthermore, a radio module 52 is provided, which is equipped for bidirectional communication with the smartphone 14 and / or the internet 16. The radio module 52 can be, for example, a WLAN module, a Bluetooth module, or a module that supports multiple communication protocols. The radio module 52 is connected to the controller 44. This allows the controller 44 to communicate with the smartphone 14 and / or the server 18 and / or the service provider 20 via the radio module 52. A charging process can be started or stopped via the radio module 52.

[0083] Furthermore, a power electronics unit 54 is provided, which is connected on one side to a power supply 56 and on the other side to the charging port 8. The power electronics unit is also connected to the control unit 44, which serves to apply a loaded charging profile and to regulate the charging process. The control unit 44 can configure the power electronics unit 54 so that the charging profile is adhered to.

[0084] The power electronics 54 can be equipped with appropriate sensors to monitor the charging process of the vehicle battery 6. This monitoring can be used to store diagnostic data in the RAM memory 50.

[0085] The control unit 44 is also connected to the charging port 8 in order to obtain information about the type of bicycle battery 6 via the charging port 8. The charging port 8 is interchangeable for this purpose.

[0086] In one embodiment, the charging port 8 can have a mechanical socket that is connected to the charger 4 via the charging cable 12 and into which an adapter piece can be inserted that fits mechanically and electrically into the socket. The adapter end piece has a code that is specific to the bicycle battery 6 to be connected. Different coding options are described in the Fig. Numbers 6 to 9 are shown.

[0087] Fig. Figure 6 shows a first variant of the charging port 8.

[0088] The charging port 8 is equipped with a fixed socket 10 into which an adapter end piece 58 is inserted. Socket 10 and adapter end piece 58 are connected via pins 59.

[0089] The adapter end piece 58 provides an electronic coding 61 via a chip 60.

[0090] Fig. 7 a second variant of the charging port 8'.

[0091] The corresponding adapter end piece 58' includes a chip 62 in the bicycle accumulator 6, which represents an electronic code 61'.

[0092] As shown here, chip 62 can be conductively connected to pins 59 and thus communicate. Alternatively, the chip can also have wireless communication capabilities that can be read via charger 4. For this purpose, suitable communication devices can be provided in charger 4, e.g., in charging port 8'. Alternatively or additionally, radio module 52 can be used for this purpose.

[0093] Fig. Figure 8 shows a third variant of the 8'' charging port.

[0094] This variant provides for the use of an adapter end piece 58'' in which spring-loaded bolts 64 are provided at the charging socket 10''. These bolts are compressed to different depths by corresponding recesses 66 in the adapter end piece 58''. This can be read via the charging port. The recesses 66 represent a mechanical code 61''.

[0095] Fig. Figure 9 shows a fourth variant of a charging port 10'''.

[0096] In this embodiment, an adapter end piece 58''' is used, in which electrical coding 61''' takes place via a pin assignment of certain pins 68. Some of the pins 68 are not plated through, which allows for a unique assignment.

[0097] The charger 4 can be operated in three different modes: in general operation, as in Fig. 4 shown, via a smartphone, as in Fig. 1 shown or via the Internet, as in Fig. 3 shown.

[0098] The mobile phone 14 is therefore not necessary for the simple use of the charger 4; the charger 4 can also be used independently. The mobile phone 14 can be used to establish a wireless connection via a corresponding program stored and executed on the smartphone 14 in order to register the charger 4 with the server 18, establish an internet connection between the charger 4 and the internet 16, install firmware updates, load and save new charging profiles (with an existing direct or indirect connection via the internet 16), start and stop charging processes, etc.

[0099] To initiate a charging process via the smartphone 14, the controller 44 can check whether the bicycle battery 6 is connected and, depending on the outcome of the check, start the charging process or not. In some embodiments, feedback can be provided via the user interface 42 and / or the smartphone 14 in these cases. If a bicycle battery 6 is connected, its charge level can be checked, and charging can be prevented if the charge level is too high. In some embodiments, a diagnostic check can also be initiated, and, depending on the outcome of the diagnostic check, the bicycle battery 6 can be conditioned.

[0100] The firmware can be updated via the direct or indirect connection of the charger 4 with the smartphone 14, whereby the program on the smartphone 14 queries the firmware version number from the RAM 50 using the control 44 and, if a firmware with a higher version number is available, performs or initiates a transfer and installation of the new firmware on the charger 4.

[0101] Furthermore, individual user profiles can be created using the program stored on the smartphone 14, so that charging of the bicycle battery 6 is possible depending on time, day of the week, electricity price, special charging request (full charging, life-extending charging).

[0102] User profiles can be stored on the charger 4, the smartphone 14, or the server 18. When saving to the server 18, the identifier of the charger 4 can be used to assign the user profile.

[0103] Should the user wish to charge the bicycle battery 6 at a different charger, for example at their workplace or at another charging station, and should that charger also be connectable to the central computer 18 and capable of implementing the functions of the previously described charger 4, the selected charging profile can be applied in this way. To establish a connection between the bicycle battery 6 and the corresponding charging station, an ad-hoc communication link can be established between the smartphone 14 and the charging station to transmit the necessary information.

[0104] Fig. Figure 10 shows a flowchart of a procedure for charging the bicycle battery 6.

[0105] The flowchart assumes that the charging port 8, which is compatible with the bicycle battery 6, is connected to the charger 4 in order to charge the bicycle battery 6. If this is not the case, the appropriate adapter end piece 58 to 58''' is first inserted into the charging socket 10 to 10'''.

[0106] After the procedure is started, it is first checked whether a bicycle battery 6 is connected.

[0107] If the test is negative, a message is issued and the procedure is terminated.

[0108] If the test is successful, the coding is read out via the charging port 8 and it is checked whether a suitable charging profile is present in the non-volatile memory 50.

[0109] If this is not the case, a message is issued and the process is aborted. In further developments, it may be possible at this point to download, save, and execute a suitable charging profile if a connection to the smartphone 14 or the central computer 18 exists. Depending on the design, this can occur with or without the prior consent of a user of the charger 4.

[0110] If the charging profile is available, the charging profile is transferred to the power electronics 54, or the latter is controlled or regulated by the control unit 44 according to the charging profile.

[0111] Furthermore, the bicycle battery can have 6 different charging profiles. In this case, a user can select the desired charging profile to be applied before the power electronics unit 54 is handed over.

[0112] In a subsequent step, it is checked whether the charging voltage is below the final charging voltage of the bicycle battery 6.

[0113] If this is not the case, a message will be issued and the procedure will be aborted, as the bicycle battery 6 is sufficiently charged.

[0114] If the charging voltage is below the final charging voltage, the procedure is carried out as described in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the process continues. In this case, the procedure continues until the final charging voltage is reached. As long as this is not the case, diagnostic data is generated and stored in non-volatile memory 50.

[0115] When the final charging voltage is reached, a message is issued, the procedure is terminated, and a results log is stored as diagnostic data in non-volatile memory 50.

[0116] Although the subject matter has been illustrated and explained in detail by means of exemplary embodiments, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples, and other variations can be derived from them by a person skilled in the art. It is therefore clear that a multitude of possible variations exist. It is also clear that the exemplary embodiments mentioned are merely examples and are not to be interpreted in any way as limiting, for example, the scope of protection, the possible applications, or the configuration of the invention.Rather, the preceding description and the description of the figures enable the person skilled in the art to implement the exemplary embodiments in concrete terms, whereby the person skilled in the art, with knowledge of the disclosed inventive concept, can make various changes, for example with regard to the function or the arrangement of individual elements mentioned in an exemplary embodiment, without leaving the scope of protection defined by the claims and their legal equivalents, such as further explanation in the description. Reference symbol list 2, 2', 2'', 2''' System 4 chargers 6 bicycle battery 8, 8', 8'', 8''' charging port 10, 10', 10'', 10'' Charging socket 12 charging cables 14 Smartphones 15.1, 15.2, 15.3, 15.4, 15.5 Communication link 16 Internet 18 servers 20 service providers 21.1, 21.2 Loading profile 40 cases 42 User interface 44 Control 46 processor 48 GB ROM memory 50 GB RAM 50.1-50.5 Memory area 51 diagnostic data 52 radio module 53.1, 53.2 User profile 54 Power Electronics 55 Identifier 56 Power supply 57 User preference 58, 58', 58'', 58''' Adapter end piece 59 pins 60 Chip 61, 61', 61'', 61''' coding 62 Chip 64 spring bolts 66 depressions

Claims

[1] Charger for charging a vehicle battery (6) with a. an energy supply (56); b. a power electronics (54) to provide a charging current for the vehicle battery (6); c. a charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') that is at least partially interchangeable for connecting the charger (4) to the vehicle battery (6), wherein the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') has an interface (58; 58'; 58''; 58'''') to the vehicle battery (6); d. a bidirectional communication interface (52) through which data can be received and sent; e. at least one controller (44) comprising at least one processor (46) and at least one non-volatile memory (50), wherein a plurality of load profiles (21.1, 21.2) are stored in the memory (50), wherein i. the control unit (46) is connected to the power electronics (54), wherein the power electronics (54) can be controlled by means of the control unit (46); ii. the control unit (46) is connected to the charging port (8; 8'; 8'' 8'''') in order to read a coding specific to the vehicle battery (6) via the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8''''); iii. the controller (46) is connected to the bidirectional communication interface (52) to receive data from the bidirectional communication interface (52) and to send data via the bidirectional communication interface (52), iv. wherein the controller (46) is configured to receive a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) via the bidirectional communication interface (52), in which at least one non-volatile memory (50) is stored and used to charge the vehicle battery (6). [2] Charger according to claim 1, wherein the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') has the coding (61; 61'; 61'' 62'''') and / or wherein the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') has a cable (12) wherein the cable (12) has the coding, wherein the coding is a mechanical coding (61''), an electrical coding (61'''), an optical coding or an electronic coding (61; 61'). [3] Charger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''') has a terminal or charging socket (10; 10'; 10''; 10'''') via which a mechanical, electrical or electronic coding (61; 61'; 61''; 62'''') can be read, wherein the terminal or charging socket (10; 10'; 10''; 10''') is connected to the control unit (46). [4] Charger according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an identifier (55) is stored in the charger (4), wherein the identifier (55) can be sent via the bidirectional communication interface (52). [5] Charger according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the non-volatile memory (50) has a plurality of memory areas (50.1, 50.2, 50.3, 50.4, 50.5), wherein charging profiles (21.1, 21.2), user profiles (53.1, 53.2), the identifier (55) and / or diagnostic data (51) are stored and / or can be stored in the memory areas (50.1, 50.2, 50.3, 50.4, 50.5). [6] Charger according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (46) is configured to read the coding (61; 61'; 61''; 62''') and a user profile (53.1, 53.2) and to select a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) based on the coding (61; 61'; 61''; 62''') and the user profile (53.1, 53.2) and to apply it to charge the vehicle battery (6). [7] Charger according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one user preset (57) can be stored in the non-volatile memory (50), wherein the controller (46) is configured to read the user preset (57) and to select a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) based on the user preset (57) and to apply it to charge the vehicle battery (6). [8] System comprising a charger (4) according to any of the preceding claims as well as a. a user terminal device (14), wherein the charger (4) and the user terminal device (14) can be brought into communication connection (15.1) with each other, wherein a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) stored on the user terminal device (14) can be sent to the charger (4) via the communication connection (15.1) and can be stored in the non-volatile memory (50) of the charger (4), and / or b. a central computer (18) connected to a supra-regional network (16), wherein the central computer (18) and the charger (4) can be brought into communication connection (15.5) with each other, wherein a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) stored on the central computer (18) can be sent to the charger (4) via the communication connection (15.5) and can be stored in the non-volatile memory (50) of the charger (4). [9] System according to claim 8, wherein the user terminal is a mobile user terminal, in particular a mobile phone (14), a tablet computer or a notebook or a stationary user terminal, in particular a personal computer, wherein a computer program product for managing the charger (4) is stored and executable on the user terminal (14). [10] System according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the user terminal device (14) and the central computer (18) are connectable, wherein data from the user terminal device (14) can be stored on the central computer (18), wherein the central computer (14) is configured to send at least one charging profile (21.1, 21.2) depending on the data to the user terminal device (14) and / or charger (4). [11] Method for charging a vehicle battery (6) using a charger (4), wherein a charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8''') suitable for the vehicle battery (6) is selected, the type of vehicle battery (6) is recognized based on the charging port (8; 8'; 8''; 8'''), a corresponding charging profile (21.1, 21.2) is loaded from a non-volatile memory (50) of the charger (4), and the charging profile (21.1, 21.2) is applied to charge the vehicle battery (6), wherein a communication connection is established with a user terminal device (14) and / or a central computer (18) via a bidirectional communication interface (52) of the charger (4), and wherein a charging profile (21.1, 21.2) is loaded by the user terminal device (14) and / or the central computer (18) and stored in the non-volatile memory (50) is stored. [12] Method according to claim 11, wherein an identifier (55) is sent from the charger (4) to the user terminal (14) and / or the central computer (18). [13] Method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein a user profile (53.1, 53.2) is loaded from the non-volatile memory (50) and applied to select the load profile (21.1, 21.2).

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