Method and device for transmitting electrical energy to a load
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AU2025278087
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-05-28
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-29
Smart Images
Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
Abstract
Description
The invention relates to a method for transmitting electrical energy to a load, specifically to an energy storage device, via an electrical plug connection. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for charging an energy storage device and to a device for transmitting electrical energy to a load, specifically to an energy storage device, wherein the device is connectable to a superordinate energy supply network via a plug connection. Electrical plug connections can be used to electrically connect loads to an electrical (switching) circuit, for example, a superordinate electrical energy supply network. For this purpose, a first element, usually a male plug, is inserted into a second element, usually a female socket or coupling, so that the respective electrical contacts of the two elements are electri cally connected and mechanically secured. Plug connections therefore generally enable both an electrical and a mechanical connection between the first and the second element. In many cases, the connection between the first and the second element is establishable without tools and also disconnectable again without tools. Plug connections may be used, for example, to connect electrical devices to the electrical energy supply network. One example of such devices are chargers for energy storage devices that can be connected to the energy supply network using plug connections. With the help of the plug connection, electrical energy can be drawn from the energy supply network and transmitted to the energy storage device via the charger. A large number of different electrical plug connections are known from the prior art. Many plug connections are standardized by standards with regard to their dimensions, number of pins, pin arrangement and electrical specifications. This ensures that devices from different manufacturers are compatible with one another or connectable to the energy supply network. Other plug connections, on the other hand, are manufacturer-specific plug connections, which are also referred to as proprietary plug connections and are usually only used within a manufacturer's ecosystem. One example of standardized plug connections are, for instance, the three-pin safety plug connections (abbreviation: Schuko plug connection), which are predominantly used in Europe and each of which comprises a safety plug as well as a safety socket or a safety coupler. All plug connections have in common the fact that, in electrical terms, they can only withstand electrical loads up to a certain limit. In particular, the electrical power or the electrical current transmitted or the electrical voltage applied cannot be selected to be arbitrarily high, since otherwise the plug connection will be damaged and the safety of the connected devices and the people in the vicinity can no longer be guaranteed. For plug connections, particularly standardized plug connections, there are therefore limit values for voltages, currents, power ratings and / or transmitted electrical energies. In many cases, however, short-term exceedances of the predetermined limit values do not pose a problem and do not impair safety or the plug connection itself, so that for some plug connections, limit values are provided both for continuous loads and for short-term loads. However, (active) electrical loads generally do not make any distinction in this regard, but instead statically limit the electrical power, the electrical current and / or the electrical voltage to the lowest predetermined limit values in order to be able to rule out any overloading of a plug connection or any exceeding of limit values in any operating situation. However, the disadvantage of this is that in certain operating situations, in which, for example, a higher current or a higher electrical power is only required for a short time, the full current or the full power cannot be drawn, although this would be theoretically possible and compatible with the permitted limit values for the electrical parameters. EP 0 464 423 B1 discloses a method in which exceeding a target energy value is avoided by switching off loads by means of controllable switches in modular units that are integrated into the building installation. In view of these statements, the object of the present invention is to mitigate or even completely eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art. Preferably, the object of the present invention is to provide a method or a device for transmitting electrical energy to a load, in which the energy transmission potential of a plug connection, in particular a safety plug connection, can be better utilized within the predetermined limit values of a plug connection. This object is achieved by a method for transmitting electrical energy to a load according to claim 1, a method for charging an energy storage device according to claim 13, and a device for transmitting electrical energy according to claim 14. According to claim 1, a method for transmitting electrical energy to a load, specifically to an energy storage device, via an electrical plug connection comprises the following steps: i) transmitting the electrical energy to the load via the plug connection; ii) capturing the electrical energy transmitted to the load via the plug connection during a capturing time window progressing over time; and iii) adjusting, in particular controlling in an open loop and / or a closed loop, an electrical quantity, in particular an electrical current flowing via the plug connection, according to a setpoint specification during a regulation time window, the regulation time window preferably adjoining the capturing time window, wherein, in the regulation time window the setpoint specification is set in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted during an observation time window, in particular an observation time window progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy, wherein the steps of the method are carried out by a device for transmitting electrical energy to a load, the device being connectable via the plug connection to a superordinate energy supply network, and the setpoint specification, in particular a setpoint curve, is set in such a way that it approaches a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device. With the method according to the invention, the specifications relating to the amounts of energy transmitted within predetermined periods of time can be met in the case of plug connec tions, without unduly restricting the energy transmission. The setpoint specification may, but of course does not have to, be set in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted corresponds to the maximum total electrical energy. The only important thing is that the electrical energy transmitted during the observation time window does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy, and that the setpoint specification is adjusted accordingly. The setpoint specification is therefore set in such a way that the energy transmitted during the observation window is not greater than the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. The setpoint specification may be set substantially freely, taking into account the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. In one embodiment of the invention, electrical parameters of the load may be taken into account when selecting the setpoint specification. In this way, it is possible to supply the load individually with the electrical voltage, the electrical current, the electrical energy and / or the electrical power that it requires, insofar as the maximum total electrical energy in the observation window allows this. This is particularly advantageous with regard to charging energy storage devices. In particular, the setpoint specification may be adjusted to the load and its requirements, needs, or conditions. For example, if communication with the load is possible, the setpoint specification may be adjusted to one or more parameters output by the load. If, for example, the load is an energy storage device connected to a charger, the setpoint specification may be adjusted to a charging curve of the energy storage device defined by at least one electrical parameter. The setpoint specification may, for example, specify a charging current and / or a charging voltage. This also indirectly sets the energy transmitted via the plug connection. With the method according to the invention, it is possible, for example, to carry out a charging process for an energy storage device, i.e., to start and complete it. In particular, with the method according to the invention, the charging process can be carried out quickly, at a high charging speed and efficiently by maximizing the electrical energy and / or electrical power. In other words, the charging speed can be maximized while maintaining the maximum total electrical energy during the observation time window. When maximizing the electrical energy and / or the electrical power, a charging curve of the energy storage device can also be taken into account in order to charge the energy storage device as needed and not to overload it or to protect it. At the same time, the method according to the invention can be used to avoid exceeding the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. Thus, in one embodiment, the method according to the invention may be used to start a charging process for an energy storage device and, preferably, to complete it without interruption, in which the energy storage device is charged as closely as possible according to its individual charging curve, ensuring that the electrical energy transmitted during the observation time window does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. If the charging process is carried out without interruption, the energy storage device can be charged particularly efficiently. In an uninterrupted charging process, elec trical energy is continuously charged into the energy storage device during the charging process. An uninterruptible charging process may be achieved, for example, by reducing the charging power as needed. The maximum total electrical energy is thereby not exceeded. In one embodiment of the invention, a charging process refers to the period between the start of the transmission of energy to the energy storage device and the point in time at which the energy storage device is charged according to a predetermined state of charge. In an uninterruptible charging process, the energy storage device is charged continuously during this period without interruption. The predetermined state of charge may, for example, be substantially 100 % (fully charged energy storage device) or even lower, for example 90 % or 80 %. The energy storage device may be, for example, a lithium-ion accumulator or a lead-acid accumulator. Examples of lithium-ion accumulators include LFP, LTO, NMC, NCA, NCO, LMO or LCO accumu lators. Examples of lead-acid accumulators include PzS, GiS, PzV, GiV or CSM accumulators. Examples of lead crystal accumulators include EVFJ, CNFJ or NiCd accumulators. The electrical quantity to be adjusted may be adjusted by a regulating unit. The adjustment may be carried out, in particular, by means of open loop and / or closed loop control. The adjustment may be made directly or indirectly, for example, by adjusting a charging current output by the charger to the energy storage device and / or a charging voltage output by the charger according to the setpoint specification, which also results in an electrical current flowing into the charger and thus the energy transmitted via the plug connection being adjusted. The electrical quantity may be, for example, an electrical current and / or an electrical voltage. In one embodiment, the electrical parameter is a current flowing through the plug connection, which is adjusted according to the setpoint specification. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the load is an energy storage device, and the electrical quantity is a charging current and / or a charging voltage for an energy storage device, which is / are adjusted according to the setpoint specification. By adjusting the charging voltage or the charging current, the current flowing through the plug connection is also adjusted. In other words, by adjusting the charging current and / or the charging voltage, the energy transmitted via the plug connection can also be regulated. Steps i), ii) and / or iii) may be carried out at least partially overlapping or simultaneously, i.e., temporally parallel. The plug connection preferably comprises a first plug element and a second plug element. The plug connection establishes an electrical and a mechanical contact between the plug elements. The first and second plug elements may preferably be connectable to one another without tools and / or disconnectable from one another without tools. The first plug element may be designed as an electrical plug. The second plug element may be designed as an electrical socket or as an electrical coupler. Preferably, the first plug element is a safety plug and the second element is a safety socket or a safety coupler. The safety plug may be a safety plug according to CEE 7 / 4 (CEE = Commission on the Rules for the Approval of Electrical Equipment). This safety plug is also known as a Type F safety plug. The safety socket may be a safety socket conforming to CEE 7 / 3. The plug connection, in particular the safety plug and / or the safety socket, may be standardized, for example, with regard to geometric dimensions and / or electrical specifications. Standardization may be structured differently in different countries. After the electrical plug connection has been established or the first and second plug elements have been joined, electrical energy is transmitted to the load in step i). The electrical energy transmitted may be captured in step ii) using a measuring device. The measuring device, which may form a component of the capturing unit mentioned below, may be integrated, for example, into a device for transmitting electrical energy to a load, in particular a charger for an energy storage device. For example, by measuring the electrical voltage at the plug connection and the electrical current through the plug connection, the electrical power can be determined, and by temporal integration of the electrical power, the electrical energy transmitted over a period of time, in particular during the capturing time window, can be determined. In particular, the transmitted energy may be captured as a temporal energy profile. The capturing time window preferably extends into the past and reaches into the present, i.e., up to the current point in time, which is constantly progressing. The captur ing time window may have a predetermined duration, which, however, may be settable. Progressing over time preferably means that the entire capturing time window shifts over time, i.e., its start and its end are shifted over time. However, in one embodiment of the invention, progressing over time may also mean that only the end of the capturing time window progresses over time. In this case, the duration of the capturing time window increases over time. In this case, the capturing time window may also only increase up to a defined period of time, after which the entire time window, i.e., including the start of the capturing time window, shifts over time. This is particularly advantageous at the beginning of the method according to the invention. However, it is also conceivable that the capturing time window continues to grow and that all energy values are recorded and stored. In step iii), the electrical quantity is adjusted, in particular controlled in an open loop and / or closed loop, according to a setpoint specification during the regulation time window. As mentioned, the electrical quantity may be adjusted directly or indirectly, for example, by adjusting another electrical quantity that is related to the electrical quantity. In one embodiment of the invention, the load may be an energy storage device and the electrical quantity may be a charging current and / or a charging voltage output by a charger, which is / are adjusted to the setpoint specification, which also results in a current flowing through the plug connection being adjusted. The regulation time window preferably follows directly after the capturing time window and is preferably in the future. The end of the capturing time window and the start of the regulation time window may therefore coincide at the current point in time, which progresses over time. Both the end of the capturing time window and the start of the regulation time window may progress over time. The regulation time window is used for future plan ning of the temporal profile of the electrical quantity. The regulation time window preferably has a predetermined settable duration. The duration of the regulation time window may be selected, in particular, as a function of the energy transmitted in the capturing time window. The regulation time window may advance as a whole over time. If the start of the regulation time window progresses over time, but the end is at least temporarily temporally fixed, the duration of the regulation time window can also be reduced. The regulation time window may also be reduced only up to a certain, predetermined duration, and then the entire regulation time window, i.e., both the start and the end of the regulation time window, can advance over time. Conversely, the regulation time window may also be extended by pushing the end of the regulation time window further into the future. Increasing and reducing the regulation time window can be advantageous, particularly during transition phases, for example, when no or only a small amount of electrical energy has been transmitted via the plug connection in the recent past, as will be described in more detail below. The observation window may at least partially overlap with the capturing time window and / or with the regulation time window. The observation window, in particular its start and its end, may advance over time. The obser vation time window may also have an settable duration. The observation time window may lie at least partially in the past and / or in the future. However, since the condition that the transmitted energy must not exceed the predetermined maximum to tal energy must be met at all times for the observation time window, it is irrelevant for the invention what the temporal relationship is between the observation window and the capturing time window and the regulation time window. In an implementation of the invention, the observation time window may therefore coincide with the capturing time window, for example. In this case, the setpoint specification must be set in such a way that, at a later point in time, when the observation time window passes by, the predetermined maximum total energy is not exceeded. In other words, in this implementation, the setpoint specification is planned for the future in such a way that, when the observation time window later passes over the period planned by the (current) regulation time window, the condition that the transmitted energy does not exceed the predetermined maximum total energy is met. However, it is also possible for the end of the observation time window to coincide with the end of the regulation time window. In this preferred implementation, the observation time window lies at least partially in the future and, if the regulation time window is shorter than the observation time window, may also extend into the past. The setpoint specification in the regulation time window is set in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted corresponds at most to the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. As already mentioned, the transmitted energy may, but does not have to, correspond to the predetermined maximum total energy. If a large amount of electrical energy has already been transmitted in the capturing or observation time window, the setpoint specification is adjusted accordingly so that the electrical energy transmitted does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. In order to set the setpoint specification in the regulation time window in such a way that the predetermined maximum total electrical energy is not exceeded, previously captured values of the energy transmitted via the plug connection can be taken into account. In order to reduce the electrical energy transmitted, an electrical current and / or an electrical voltage may be reduced, for example. Conversely, by increasing the current and / or the voltage, more energy can be transmitted. As al ready mentioned, the electrical quantity may, for example, be an electrical current flowing through the plug connection. If the load is an energy storage device, however, the electrical quantity may also be a charging current and / or a charging voltage. For example, reducing the charging current and / or the charging voltage also leads to a reduction in the current and thus in the electrical energy transmitted via the plug connection, due to the reduced transmission of energy between the charger and the energy storage device. Unless otherwise indicated, the electrical values given in this disclosure are root mean square values. the observation time window is between 2 hours and 4 hours, in particular substantially 3 hours. A particularly advantageous variant of the invention arises when the observation time window coincides with the capturing time window, and in particular corresponds to the capturing time window. In this embodiment of the invention, the observation time window also preferably lies exclusively in the past. The setpoint specification can be planned in the regulation time window in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted in the observation time window that passes by later does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. Accordingly, past values of the transmitted energy can be taken into account when planning the setpoint specification. Preferably, the duration of the capturing time window is at least 60 minutes, preferably at least 120 minutes, or at least 180 minutes. It is advantageous if the duration of the capturing time window is at least as long as the duration of the observa tion time window. In periods in which little or no energy was previously transmit ted, the energy transmission can be planned further into the future without exceeding the predetermined maximum total electrical energy in the observation time window. It is therefore advantageous if the duration of the regulation time window is set table in a variable manner. Thus, at times when no electrical energy has previously been transmitted, for example, 3 hours previously, the regulation time window may be extended, for ex ample, to 3 hours. The duration of the regulation time window may be selected de pending on the energy transmitted in the capturing time window. It has proven to be particularly advantageous for the duration of the regulation time window to be between 0 minutes and 180 minutes, preferably between 30 minutes and 90 minutes, or between 45 minutes and 75 minutes, in particular substantially 60 minutes. In one embodiment of the invention, it has proven advantageous for the regulation time window to be at least 10 minutes, at least 30 minutes, or at least 1 hour. In one embodiment of the invention, the setpoint specification is a temporal setpoint curve, the setpoint curve preferably being predetermined by at least one electrical parameter, the parameter being specified, in particular, by the load. The at least one electrical parameter may be, for example, a parameter for an electrical current, for an electrical voltage, for an electrical power and / or for an electrical energy. If the load, for example, is an electrical energy storage device, the parameter may be, for example, a parameter for a charging curve, or a charging curve can be derived from the parameter. Multiple parameters may also be predetermined by the load. In order not to overload the plug connection, it is advantageous if the predetermined maximum total electrical energy is between 6,000 Wh and 9,000 Wh, preferably between 6,500 Wh and 8,000 Wh or between 7,200 Wh and 7,500 Wh, in particular substantially 7,360 Wh. In one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the setpoint specification assumes at most a predetermined maximum value. In other words, the electrical quantity is additionally limited in terms of its level. The maximum value may also be time-dependent and vary. Of course, the electrical quantity does not have to assume the maximum value. Taking into account the predetermined maximum total energy, the electrical quantity can assume all values below the maximum value. In one embodiment of the invention, the electrical quantity is an electrical current flowing through the plug connection. In this case, it is advantageous if the predetermined maximum value is, in particular, substantially between 10 amperes and 16 amperes. For example, the predetermined maximum value may be 10 A, 11 A, 12 A, 13 A, 14 A, 15 A, or 16 A (A for amperes). The values indicated are preferably root mean square values. If the setpoint specification relates to an electrical quantity associated with the elec trical current flowing through the plug connection, for example, a charging current or a charging voltage, the maximum value may also be selected so that the current flowing through the plug connection does not exceed the above values. In one variant of the invention, provision can be made for the electrical energy and / or electrical power transmitted to the load during the regulation time window to be maximized. In this way, the load can be supplied with a high level of energy, which is particularly advantageous with regard to a charging process of an energy storage device. An energy storage device can thus be charged quickly and preferably without interruption, without exceeding the maximum total electrical energy. In this case, at least one parameter of the load can also be taken into account so as not to overload the load. In particular, if the load is an energy storage device, a charging curve predetermined by at least one parameter can be taken into account when maximizing the electrical energy or power transmitted. When maximizing the electrical energy and / or the electrical power transmitted, the maximum value of the setpoint specification can also be taken into account. By maximizing the electrical power and / or the electrical energy, an energy storage device, for example, can be charged quickly - if necessary, taking into account at least one parameter, in particular a parameter for a charging curve or from which a charging curve can be derived. It is advantageous if the load is an energy storage device, in particular a lithium-ion accumulator, and the setpoint specification, in particular a setpoint curve, is set in such a way that it approaches a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device, in particular substantially corre sponds to this curve. If the setpoint specification specifies a charging current and / or a charging voltage, this also indirectly sets the energy transmitted via the plug connection. The charging curve may be defined by at least one parameter of the energy storage device or may be derived from it. The setpoint curve may be approximated to the charging curve to the extent permitted by the predetermined maximum total energy or, at most, by the maximum value of the setpoint specification. If the predetermined maximum total energy and, if applicable, the maximum value allow it, the setpoint specification may correspond to the charging curve. In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the load is an energy storage device, in particular a lithium-ion accumulator, and that a charging plan for charging the energy storage device is created, according to which the setpoint specification is set. The charging plan may, in particular, be a temporal charging plan. The charging plan may take into account, for example, the fact that the available electrical power is currently limited, since a great deal of energy has been trans mitted via the plug connection in the last few hours. The charging plan may specify that charging is delayed until more energy or power can again be transmitted without exceeding the predetermined maximum total energy in the observation window. The object described above is also achieved by a method for charging an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device of a vehicle. In this case, the energy storage device is charged with electrical energy via a plug connection, and the method for transmitting electrical energy to a load of the type described above is applied. The object described above is further achieved by a device for transmitting electrical energy to a load. The device is connectable to a superordinate energy supply network via a plug connection and comprises the following: a capturing unit, configured to capture the electrical energy transmitted to the plug connection during a capturing time window progressing over time; a regulating unit, in particular an open-loop and / or closed-loop control unit, configured to adjust, in particular to control in an open loop and / or closed loop, an electrical quantity, in particular an electrical current flowing via the plug connection, according to a setpoint specification during a regulation time window adjoining the capturing time window, wherein, in the regulation time window, the open-loop and / or closed-loop control unit is further configured to set the setpoint specification in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted during an ob servation time window, progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy, wherein the device is configured to set the setpoint specification, in particular a setpoint curve, in such a way that it approaches a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device. The advantages, effects and features described above in connection with the method for transmitting electrical energy to a load are transmittable to the device for transmitting electrical energy. The device for transmitting electrical energy to a load may be a stand-alone device which is arranged between the load and the superordinate energy supply network. The connection to the superordinate energy supply network is made via the plug connection. The electrical energy is therefore transmitted to the load via the device. Advantageously, this does not involve any intervention in existing electrical installations. When the energy storage device is being charged, the charging process is preferably not interrupted, i.e., energy is continuously charged into the energy storage device during the charging process. In one embodiment of the invention, the capturing unit may be configured to directly or indirectly measure an electrical current flowing through the plug connection and an electrical voltage at the plug connection. From the measured values, an electrical power may be determined, and by temporal integration, the electrical energy transmitted via the plug connection may be deter mined. In one embodiment of the invention, the capturing unit may be designed as a stand-alone unit. In another embodiment, the capturing unit may be arranged within a housing of the device. The regulating unit may comprise a microprocessor. If the load is configured as an energy storage device, the regulating unit may be configured to adjust a charging current and / or a charging voltage. In one embodiment of the invention, the device may be configured as a charger for charging an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device in a vehicle. The vehicle may be, for example, an electrically powered vehicle or an industrial truck, wherein the energy storage device is used to supply energy to a drive for the vehicle. Electric cars are particularly preferably charged. If the device is designed as a charger, the electrical parameter is preferably a charging current and / or a charging voltage, the open loop or closed loop control of which also affects the energy transmitted. By adjusting the charging current or the charging voltage, the energy transmitted via the plug connection can thus also be controlled in an open loop and / or closed loop. The capturing unit may be inserted or attached inside a housing or to a housing of the charger. In this embodiment of the invention, the capturing unit can capture the electrical voltage at the plug connection by measuring an input voltage at an electrical input of the charger, in particular if the electrical input is directly connected to the plug connection via a supply cable. In this case, the electrical current flowing through the plug connection can also be captured by measuring an input current of the charger, provided that no other electrical devices are connected to the plug connection, since the electrical current flowing through the plug connection necessarily also flows through the input of the charger. In a further embodiment of the invention, provision may be made for a charging current and a charging voltage for the energy storage device to be captured and for the electrical energy transmitted to be determined from this by calculating the electrical power and temporal integration. The electrical energy transmitted to the energy storage device corresponds substantially, apart from negligible losses and the electrical energy required for the open loop or closed loop control of the charger, to the electrical energy transmitted via the plug connection. In other words, by capturing the charging power and the charging energy, the power and energy transmitted via the plug connection can also be determined. The invention may also be described on the basis of the following embodiments: Embodiment 1: A method for transmitting electrical energy to a load via an electrical plug connection, comprising the steps of: i) transmitting the electrical energy to the load via the plug connection; ii) capturing the electrical energy transmitted to the load via the plug connection during a capturing time window progressing over time; and iii) adjusting, in particular controlling in an open loop and / or a closed loop, an electrical quantity, for example an electrical current flowing via the plug connection, according to a setpoint specification during a regulation time window, the regulation time window preferably adjoining the capturing time window, wherein, in the regulation time window the setpoint specification is set in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted during an observation time window, in particular an observation time window progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy. Embodiment 2: The method according to embodiment 1, wherein a duration of the observation time window is between 2 hours and 4 hours, in particular substantially 3 hours. Embodiment 3: The method according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the observation time window coincides with the capturing time window, in particular corresponds to the capturing time window. Embodiment 4: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein a duration of the capturing time window is at least 60 minutes, preferably at least 120 minutes, or at least 180 minutes. Embodiment 5: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein a duration of the regulation time window is setta ble in a variable manner. Embodiment 6: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein a duration of the regulation time window is between 0 minutes and 180 minutes, preferably between 30 minutes and 90 minutes or between 45 minutes and 75 minutes, in particular substantially 60 minutes. Embodiment 7: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the setpoint specification is a temporal setpoint curve, the setpoint curve preferably being predetermined by at least one electrical parameter, the parameter being specified, in particular, by the load. Embodiment 8: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined maximum total electrical energy is between 6,000 Wh and 9,000 Wh, preferably between 6,500 Wh and 8,000 Wh or between 7,200 Wh and 7,500 Wh, in particular substantially 7,360 Wh. Embodiment 9: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the setpoint specification assumes at most a pre determined maximum value, preferably wherein the electrical quantity is an electrical current flowing through the plug con nection and the predetermined maximum value is, in particular, substantially between 10 amperes and 16 amperes. Embodiment 10: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the electrical energy and / or an electrical power transmitted to the load during the regulation time window is maximized. Embodiment 11: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the load is an energy storage device, in particu lar a lithium-ion accumulator, and the setpoint specification, in particular a setpoint curve, is set in such a way that it ap proaches a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device, in particular substantially corresponds to this curve. Embodiment 12: The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the load is an energy storage device, in particu lar a lithium-ion accumulator, and a charging plan for charging the energy storage device is created, the setpoint specification being set according to the charging plan. Embodiment 13: A method for charging an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device of a vehicle, in which the energy storage device is charged with electrical energy via a plug connection, wherein the method for transmitting electrical energy to a load via a plug connection according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12 is used. Embodiment 14: A device for transmitting electrical energy to a load, wherein the device is connectable via a plug connection to a superordinate energy supply network and comprises the following: a capturing unit, configured to capture the electrical energy transmitted to the plug connection during a capturing time window progressing over time; a regulating unit, in particular an open-loop and / or closed-loop control unit, configured to adjust, in particular to control in an open loop and / or closed loop, an electrical quantity, for example an electrical current flowing via the plug connection, according to a setpoint specification during a regulation time window adjoining the capturing time window, wherein, in the regulation time window, the open-loop and / or closed-loop control unit is further configured to set the setpoint specification in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted during an observation time window, in particular an observation time window progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy. Embodiment 15: The device according to embodiment 13, wherein the device is configured as a charger for charging an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device in a vehicle. In the following, the invention will be described in greater detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, to which, however, it should not be limited. In the drawings: Fig. 1 schematically shows a load in the form of an energy storage device that is connected to a charger which is supplied with electrical energy via a plug connection; Fig. 2A shows a schematic temporal current profile for a method for transmitting electrical energy to a load from the prior art, according to a first variant; Fig. 2B shows a schematic temporal current profile for a method for transmitting electrical energy to a load from the prior art, according to a second variant; Fig. 3A shows a schematic temporal current profile in a method according to the invention for transmitting electrical energy to a load; Fig. 3B shows an alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, wherein the schematic current profile corresponds to that of Fig. 3A; Fig. 4A shows a further schematic temporal current profile in a method according to the invention for transmitting electrical energy to a load; Fig. 4B shows an alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, wherein the schematic current profile corresponds to that of Fig. 4A. Fig. 1 shows a load 1 in the form of an energy storage device 5, which is connected to a charger 4. The charger 4 is connected via a plug connection 2 to a energy supply network 3 with, for example, a supply voltage of 230 V (as well as the permitted tolerances), so that electrical energy E can be charged into the energy storage device 5 via the charger 4. The charger 4 itself thus forms a device 51 for transmitting electrical energy E to a load 1. The charger 4 or the device 51 is independent of any building installations and can thus be connected to or disconnected from the energy supply network 3 by connecting and dis connecting the plug connection 2. The plug connection 2 has a plug 6 in the form of a safety plug 7 and a socket 8 in the form of a safety socket 9. The plug 6 is detachably connected to the socket 8 without the use of tools. The charger 4 is connected to the plug 6 via a supply line 10. The charger 4 is in turn connected to the energy storage device 5 via a connecting cable 11, which can likewise be disconnected without tools and which may be designed as a two-pole cable. The energy storage device 5 may be designed as a lithium-ion accumulator 5a. Data, in particular electrical parameters, can be transmitted between the charger 4 and the energy storage device 5 via a wireless or wired data communication connection 54. The energy storage device 5 may be, for example, an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle (not shown) and can supply the vehicle's drive system with electrical energy. An electrical alternating voltage U, which is typically substantially 230 V, is applied to the plug connection 2. In North America, however, the alternating voltage U may also be only 110 V-120 V. Furthermore, an electrical current I flows through the plug connection 2. In an embodiment not shown, the voltage U and the current I can be measured directly at the plug connection 2. In a further embodiment of the invention, the voltage U and the current I can be measured using a capturing unit 12 in or on the charger 4. In the representation shown, the input voltage UE measured at an input 13a of the charger 4 substantially corresponds to the electrical voltage U applied to the plug connection 2. The input current IE flowing at the input 13a substantially corresponds to the current I flowing through the plug connection. From the electrical voltage U or the input voltage UE and the electrical current I or the input current IE, a power P transmitted at the plug connection 2 can be determined. By temporally integrating the power P, an energy E trans mitted via the plug connection 2 can be determined. In a further embodiment of the invention, a charging voltage UL, in particular a DC voltage, and a charging current IL, in particular a direct current, may additionally or alternatively be determined at an output 13b of the charger 4, which can be set, in particular controlled in an open loop and / or closed loop, by a regulating unit 52, in particular an open-loop and / or closed-loop control unit. By multiplying the charging current IL by the charging voltage UL, a charging power PL can be determined, from which, in turn, a charging energy EL can be determined by tem poral integration. Due to the energy balance of the device 51, the electrical energy E transmitted via the plug connection 2 substantially corresponds to the charging energy EL, with the exception of negligible losses or negligible energy for control ling the charger 4 in an open loop or closed loop. Thus, the electrical energy E at the plug connection 2 can also be cap tured by determining the charging energy EL. Plug connections 2 are typically assigned limit values in order to avoid damage and to ensure safety. In most cases, different limit values apply for different electrical quantities, such as current, voltage, power and / or energy. The limit values may also be time-dependent and dependent on one another. In the prior art, it is known for electrical applications, for example, for the current I and the voltage U, to use the lowest limit values for all operating situations in order to avoid a possible exceeding of the limit values and a possible energy overload of the plug connection 2 in all operating situations. Such a situation is shown in Fig. 2A. Fig. 2A shows a temporal current profile in a graph according to a prior art method. The x-axis of the graph represents time t in hours. The ordinate of the graph represents the current I that is transmitted at a plug connection 2 in amperes. In order to avoid possible energy overloads of the plug connection 2, the current I is limited to 10 A, regardless of the respective operating situation. The electrical energy that is transmittable in three hours is thus limited to substantially 6.9 kWh at a voltage U of 230 V. It can be seen in Fig. 2A that 10 A are transmitted continuously for two hours. After a one-hour break, a current of 10 amperes is again transmitted for 4 hours. Subsequently, 5 amperes are transmitted for one hour. The disadvantage of this method is that the transmittable energy E is limited. In the case of plug connections 2 which are designed as safety sockets according to Type F, however, short-term higher electrical currents I or higher electrical powers P can be harmless to the plug connection 2 if they are temporally limited. Theoretically, it would therefore be possible and permissible to transmit higher currents I and thus higher electrical powers P and higher electrical energies E for shorter periods of time in the case of safety plug connections. However, this is not possible with the prior art method shown in Fig. 2A. The prior art method shown in Fig. 2B meets the need for higher currents. Fig. 2B shows another prior art method for transmitting energy E via a plug connection 2. This variant makes it possible to transmit a higher electrical current I and thus more electrical energy E for short periods of time, but requires a subsequent transmission pause 53 of at least one hour for the current I or the energy E, during which, for safety reasons, no more electrical energy E is transmitted via the plug connection 2. Fig. 2B also shows an exemplary current profile in a time diagram. The abscissa again represents the time t in hours. The ordinate represents the current I flowing through the plug connection 2 in amperes. As can be seen in Fig. 2B, in this variant, 16 A will be transmitted several times, each time continuously for two hours. Subsequently, however, a transmission pause 53 of one hour must be observed in order to protect the plug connection 2. In this variant, an energy E of 7.36 kWh can be transmitted in two hours at a voltage of 230 V. The disadvantage is that the transmission pause of one hour, during which no en ergy E can be transmitted, must be strictly observed, meaning that the flexibility of energy transmission via the plug connec tion 2 is significantly limited. In order to avoid the transmission pause, as shown in Fig. 2B, and nevertheless, if necessary, to be able to transmit more electrical current I, at least for a short time, than is possible with the variant according to Fig. 2A, the method according to the invention provides for the following steps: i) transmitting the electrical energy E to the load 1 via the plug connection 2; ii) capturing the electrical energy E transmitted to the load 1 via the plug connection 2 during a capturing time window 14 progressing over time; and iii) adjusting, in particular controlling in an open loop and / or a closed loop, an electrical quantity, for example the electrical current I, according to a setpoint specification R during a regulation time window 15, the regulation time window preferably adjoining the capturing time window 14, wherein, in the regulation time window 15 the setpoint specification R is set in such a way that the electrical energy E transmitted during an observation time window 16, in particular an observation time window progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax. Advantageously, the method according to the invention makes it possible to comply with a temporal energy transmission limitation, such as that provided for in safety sockets. At the same time, however, the limit values for electrical quantities can be better utilized and the flexibility with regard to energy transmission can be increased. Thus, for example, the energy storage device 5 can be charged as quickly as possible, i.e., at a high charging speed, and preferably taking into account a charging curve L, without exceeding the predetermined maximum total elec trical energy Emax during the observation time window 16. Likewise, the charging process is preferably not interrupted. Fig. 3A shows an embodiment of the method according to the invention in a time diagram. The x-axis describes the time t in hours. The ordinate describes the current I flowing through the plug connection 2 in amperes. The voltage U at the plug connection 2 is substantially 230 V, so that the transmitted current is proportional to the transmitted energy E. From the current I and the voltage U, a transmitted power P and a transmitted en ergy E can be derived. Fig. 3A shows a capturing time window 14, which in the embodi ment shown has a duration T14 and moves as a whole with time t. In other words, a start 14a and an end 14b of the capturing time window 14 advance, as it were, with the time t. The time period T14 is thus maintained. During the capturing time window 14, the transmitted energy E is captured, recorded, and stored. In the embodiment shown, the duration T14 of the capturing time window 14 is substantially 3 hours. In the embodiment shown, the end 14b of the capturing time window 14 coincides with the current time 50 and progresses with it. The current time 50 is denoted as 0 h on the x-axis in the diagram shown. The capturing time window 14 is a time window that lies in the past, with the ex ception of the end 14b, which coincides with the current time 50. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown, it may also be provided that only the end 14b of the capturing time window 14 progresses with time t, while the start 14a of the capturing time window 14 remains temporally fixed. As a result, the capturing time window 14 increases with time t. This may be the case, in particular, at the beginning of the method, when the method is started and the capturing time window 14 only builds up over time t. However, it is also conceivable that the capturing time window 14 grows continuously with time t, i.e., it records and stores all energy values from the start of the method. Fig. 3A also shows a regulation time window 15 that progresses with time t, the start 15a of which coincides with the end 14b of the capturing time window 14 and thus also with the current time 50, which progresses with time t. An end of the regulation time window 15b lies in the future. The regulation time window 15 preferably shifts over time. The regulation time window 15 is a time window that lies in the future, with the exception of the beginning 15a. In the illustration shown, the regulation time window 15 has a duration T15 of one hour. The time period T15 is preferably variably settable and, in particular, adjustable during the method. This is advantageous, for example, during transition phases in which little or no energy E was most recently transmitted via the plug connection 2. In particular, if no energy E has been transmitted via the plug connection 2 for a long time, planning can be extended further into the future and the regulation time window 15 may be extended, for example, to three hours. The duration T15 of the regulation time window 15 may preferably be selected as a function of the energy E transmitted in the capturing time window 14, as will be shown further below in connection with Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B. In the regulation time window 15, the setpoint specification R for an electrical quantity, for example, for the current I, for the charging current IL or for the charging voltage UL, can be set. In the embodiment shown, for the sake of clarity, the setpoint specification R for the current I is predetermined by the plug connection 2. In this case, the setpoint specification R can be determined by a specification of the plug connection 2. However, if the load 1 is an energy storage device 5, the charging current IL and / or the charging voltage UL are preferably adjusted according to a setpoint specification R, which are linked to the current I flowing through the plug connection 2 and influence said current as well as the transmitted energy E. The setpoint specification R may be a temporal setpoint curve K. In other words, the future progression of the electrical quantity is determined in the regulation time window 15 using the setpoint specification R. In this case, the electrical quantity may be adjusted directly or indirectly, and in particular regulated and / or controlled. Indirect open loop and / or closed loop control results, for example, from adjusting another electrical quantity that is related to the electrical quantity. The setpoint specification R is set in such a way that the electrical energy E transmitted during an observation time window 16, which progresses over time in particular, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax. In other words, the setpoint specification R is set in such a way that the electrical energy E transmitted during the observation time window 16, which will be described in more detail below, does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax. For example, the electrical quantity may be reduced or even set to zero in order to prevent the predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax from being exceeded. Preferably, however, the electrical quantity is only reduced so as not to interrupt a charging process. The setpoint specification R may be used to plan the future progression of the electrical quantity, but on the condition that the electrical energy transmitted in the observation window 16 does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax. The electrical quantity is thus related to the electrical energy E transmitted. The setpoint specification R can be influenced by at least one parameter P of the load 1. For example, the setpoint specification R can be adjusted to a charging curve L of an energy storage device 5, which is determined by at least one parameter P. However, if adjustment to the charging curve L would result in the predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax being exceeded in the observation time window 16, the electrical quantity, for example the current I through the plug connection 2, the charging current IL or the charging voltage UL, can be reduced accordingly. However, the charging curve L can still be approximated by the setpoint specification R, insofar as this is permitted by the predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax. If the load 1 is an energy storage device 5, the state of charge of an energy storage device 5 may also be read out via the data communication connection 54, and the remaining charging time can be determined. As a result, a charging process of the energy storage device 5 can be adjusted even better to the energy storage device 5. Preferably, the capturing time window 14, the regulation time window 15, and the observation time window 16 move with time t. The condition that the electrical energy E transmitted during the observation time window 16 does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax should preferably be met at all times during the method according to the invention. The observation window 16, which progresses over time, can thus be arranged in any desired temporal relation to the current time 50 or to the capturing time window 14 or to the regulation time window 15. Whether the observation time window 16 lies at least partially or even completely in the future or in the past is ir relevant to the invention and is only of importance for the specific implementation of a particular embodiment of the invention. The only thing that is relevant to the invention is that, at all times during the execution of the method, the condition is met that the electrical energy E transmitted during the ob servation time window 16 does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax. The observation time window 16 can be arranged at any time in relation to the current time 50 and, in particular, can move with the time t. In one variant, the observation time window 16 is positioned in relation to the start of a charging process of an energy storage device 5. In order to satisfy the aforementioned condition, the setpoint specification R is predetermined or planned in the regulation time window 15 in such a way that the described condition is satisfied at all future points in time. For this purpose, the values of the electrical energy E already captured during the capturing time window 14 can be taken into account when planning the setpoint specification R. Based on the physical relationship between the electrical quantity for which the setpoint specification R is predetermined and the electrical energy E, the setpoint specification R can be set in such a way that the abovementioned condition remains fulfilled for all possible temporal arrangements of the observation time window 16 during the method according to the invention. In a specific, particularly preferred implementation of the invention, an end 16b of the obser vation time window 16 may coincide with the end 15a of the regulation time window 15 (see Fig. 3B) and advance with it. In an alternative implementation of the invention, the end 16b of the observation time window 16 coincides with the current point in time 50 and progresses with time t (see Fig. 3A). It is particularly advantageous if a time period T16 of the observation time window 16 is three hours long. In this case, the start 16a of the observation time window 16 may also coincide with the start 14a of the capturing time window 14, as shown in Fig. 3A. The predetermined maximum total electrical energy is preferably 7360 Wh. In the embodiment shown, the duration T16 of the observation time window 16 is three hours. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3A, the setpoint specification R is set in the regulation time window 15 in such a way that the predetermined maximum total electrical energy Emax will not be exceeded in the observa tion time window 16 that passes by later. In other words, the future setpoint specification R is selected in such a way that the maximum total electrical energy Emax is not exceeded as a result. In Fig. 3A, it can be seen that the capturing time window 14 coincides with the observation time window 16. The regulation time window 15 with a duration T15 of one hour follows directly after the capturing time window 14 or the observation time window 16. It is assumed that at the current time 50, to which the hour 0h is assigned in Fig. 3A, a load 1, in particular an energy storage device 5, is connected, which is to be supplied with as much power P and energy E as possible. Since only a small amount of electrical current I, amounting to 5 A, and thus only a small amount of energy E, namely E1 = 2300 Wh, was transmitted via the plug connection 2 in the observation time window 16 or the capturing time window 14 over the last two hours, it is possible to set the setpoint specification R in the one-hour regulation time window 15 in such a way that 16 A are transmitted. In the fu ture, therefore, an energy of E2 = 3680 Wh will be consumed in the regulation time window 15. The setpoint specification R can also take into account a maximum value M. This may be 16 A, for example. If the observation time window 16 later shifts over this period, which encompasses the regulation time window 15 at the current point as well as the past two hours, a total of 2300 Wh + 3680 Wh = 5980 Wh will thus have been consumed within the observation time window 16, and therefore less than 7360 Wh. Since the regulation time window 15 is shifted with time t, such planning or adjustments to the setpoint specification R will be made on an ongoing basis. Fig. 3B shows the same situation as in Fig. 3A, with the only difference being that the end 16b of the observation time window 16 coincides with the end of the regulation time window 15b. Fig. 4A shows a further embodiment of the invention according to a further time diagram. It can be seen that no current I and thus no energy E was transmitted via the plug connection 2 within the capturing time window 14. For this reason, the regulation time window 15 can be extended in order to plan the energy transmission further into the future. In the embodiment shown, the regulation time window 15 is extended to a duration T15 of three hours, and the setpoint specification R is continuously adjusted according to a charging curve L (as setpoint curve K). It is also possible for the duration T15 of the regulation time window 15 to be extended to a longer period, i.e., more than three hours. Furthermore, it is possible for the regulation time window 15 to shift with time t while maintaining the time duration T15 and to continuously specify the setpoint specification R. The setpoint specification R may theoretically be continued, or even duplicated, for example, following the end 15b of the illustrated regulation time window 15, if this is necessary for the connected load 1 or another load 1. For example, this may be used to initiate a new charging process. Fig. 4B shows the same situation as Fig. 4A, but in this case the end 16b of the observation time window 16 again coincides with the end 15 of the regulation time window 15. Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B also show that the setpoint specification R is not set in such a way that the maximum permissible energy Emax is transmitted, but rather that the setpoint specification R is adjusted to at least one parameter P (see Fig. 1) of the load 1. The energy E2 to be transmitted is in this case below Emax. In the representation shown, the at least one parameter P defines a charging curve L to which the setpoint specification R is adjusted. Although it is possible with the method according to the invention, it is not absolutely necessary for energy or power maximization to take place. The at least one parameter P can be transmitted from the energy storage device 5 to the charger 4 by means of data communication.
Claims
Patent claims:
1. A method for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a load (1) via an electrical plug connection (2), wherein the load (1) isan energy storage device (5), in particular a lithium-ion accumulator (5a), and the method comprises the following steps:i) transmitting the electrical energy (E) to the load (1) via the plug connection (2);ii) capturing the electrical energy (E) transmitted to theload (1) via the plug connection (2) during a capturing timewindow (14) progressing over time; andiii) adjusting, in particular controlling in an open loopand / or a closed loop, an electrical quantity, for example anelectrical current (I) flowing via the plug connection (2), according to a setpoint specification (R) during a regulation time window (15), the regulation time window (15) preferably adjoining the capturing time window (14), wherein, in the regulationtime window (15) the setpoint specification (R) is set in such away that the electrical energy (E) transmitted during an observation time window (16), in particular an observation time window progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy (Emax),wherein the steps of the method are carried out by a device (51) for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a load (1), the device(51) being connectable via the plug connection (2) to a superordinate energy supply network (3), and the setpoint specification(R), in particular a setpoint curve (K), is set in such a way that it approaches a predetermined charging curve (L) for charging the energy storage device (5).
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein a duration (T16) ofthe observation time window (16) is between 2 hours and 4 hours,in particular substantially 3 hours.
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the observationtime window (16) coincides with the capturing time window (14),in particular corresponds to the capturing time window (14).minutes, preferably at least 120 minutes, or at least 180 minutes.
5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a duration (T15) of the regulation time window (15) is settable ina variable manner.
6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein aduration (T15) of the regulation time window (15) is between 0minutes and 180 minutes, preferably between 30 minutes and 90minutes or between 45 minutes and 75 minutes, in particular substantially 60 minutes.
7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the setpoint specification (R) is a temporal setpoint curve (K), the setpoint curve (K) preferably being predetermined by at least one electrical parameter (P), the parameter (P) being predetermined, in particular, by the load (1).
8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined maximum total electrical energy (Emax) is between 6,000 Wh and 9,000 Wh, preferably between 6,500 Wh and 8,000 Whor between 7,200 Wh and 7,500 Wh, in particular substantially7,360 Wh.
9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein thesetpoint specification (R) assumes at most a predetermined maximum value (M), preferably wherein the electrical quantity is an electrical current (I) flowing through the plug connection (2) and the predetermined maximum value (M) is, in particular, substantially between 10 amperes and 16 amperes.
10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, whereinthe electrical energy (E) and / or an electrical power (P) transmitted to the load (1) during the regulation time window (15) ismaximized.predetermined charging curve (L) for charging the energy storage device (5).
12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, whereinthe load (1) is an energy storage device (5), in particular a lithium-ion accumulator (5a), and a charging plan for chargingthe energy storage device (5) is created, the setpoint specification (R) being set according to the charging plan.
13. A method for charging an energy storage device (5), in particular an energy storage device (5) of a vehicle, in which the energy storage device (5) is charged with electrical energy (E) via a plug connection (2), wherein the method for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a load (1) via a plug connection (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is used.
14. A device (51) for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a load (1), specifically an energy storage device (5), wherein thedevice (51) is connectable via a plug connection (2) to a superordinate energy supply network (3) and comprises the following:a capturing unit (12), configured to capture the electrical energy (E) transmitted to the plug connection (2) during a capturing time window (14) progressing over time;a regulating unit (52), in particular an open-loop and / or closed-loop control unit, configured to adjust, in particular tocontrol in an open loop and / or closed loop, an electrical quantity, for example an electrical current (I) flowing via the plugconnection (2), according to a setpoint specification (R) duringa regulation time window (15) adjoining the capturing time window (14), wherein, in the regulation time window (15), the openloop and / or closed-loop control unit (52) is further configuredto set the setpoint specification (R) in such a way that theelectrical energy (E) transmitted during an observation timewindow (16), in particular an observation time window progressing over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximumtotal electrical energy (Emax), wherein the device (51) is configured to set the setpoint specification (R), in particular a setpoint curve (K), in such a way that it approaches a predetermined charging curve (L) for charging the energy storage device (5).
15. The device (8) according to claim 13, wherein the device (51) is configured as a charger (4) for charging an energy storage device (5), in particular an energy storage device in a vehicle.