Connection method, vehicle, power connector and device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for connecting an electrical power connector (20) to an electrical socket (1) of a vehicle comprising a rechargeable battery, the electrical power connector (20) comprising a body (22) and at least one first magnetized surface (34a) movable with respect to the body (22), the method comprising at least the following steps: - bringing into magnetic contact at least one first movable magnetized surface (34a) of the connector (20) with at least one first complementary magnetized surface of the electrical socket (1) by moving the at least one first movable magnetized surface (34a) with respect to the body (22); - engaging the connector (20) in the electrical socket (1) by moving the body (22) with respect to the first movable magnetized surface (34a) so that the connector (20) is in electrical contact with the electrical socket (1).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical socket of a rechargeable vehicle, to an electrical power connector and to a connection method for connecting said electrical socket to said connector. BACKGROUND

[0002] Thermal energy vehicles are gradually being replaced by more environmentally friendly electric or hybrid vehicles. In order to improve the charging efficiency of the batteries of electric or hybrid vehicles, automatic charging systems have been developed, which can operate with or without contact with the vehicle to be charged.

[0003] In the case of automatic charging of a vehicle with contact, a robot positioned close to the vehicle comprises a movable arm equipped at its end with an electrical power connector. When the vehicle needs to be charged, the robot brings the electrical power connector to the electrical socket of this vehicle by means of the movable arm, then the movable arm exerts a force so that the electrical connector enters or is inserted into the electrical socket. With this system, the force is exerted along the longitudinal axis of the movable arm, i.e. the force is essentially through the end of said arm.

[0004] However, in order to adapt this automatic charging mode to be able to charge several vehicles placed side by side, it is preferable to use a portal placed above the vehicles. In such a system, the movable arm, which is 1.5 to 2 meters long and comprises an electrical power connector at its end, is placed in a substantially vertical position. In order to insert the electrical power connector into the electrical socket of the vehicle, the arm must then exert a force in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis.

[0005] However, it is difficult to engage the electrical power connector in the electrical socket of the vehicle with sufficient force and precision to achieve an optimal connection, especially considering the length of the arm. If the connector is not fully and precisely engaged in the electrical socket of the vehicle, the vehicle battery can not be charged. In addition, if the connection is not made along the connection axis, the electrical socket and / or the electrical power connector can be damaged. SUMMARY

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to develop a connection method for connecting an electrical power connector to an electrical socket, which is able to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0007] The first subject of the invention is a connection method for connecting an electrical power connector to an electrical socket of a vehicle comprising a rechargeable battery, said electrical power connector comprising a body and at least one first movable magnetized surface movable with respect to said body, the method comprising at least the following steps:

[0008] - by moving said at least one first movable magnetized surface of the connector with respect to said body, to make said at least one movable magnetized surface magnetically contact at least one first complementary magnetized surface of the electrical socket,

[0009] - by moving the body with respect to the first movable surface to make electrical contact between the connector and the electrical socket, to engage the connector in the electrical socket.

[0010] This method allows to connect the power connector to the electrical socket of the vehicle without any specific force. Thus, the connection between the connector and the socket can be easily and precisely achieved, without the user, the movable arm or any other means for holding the connector having to exert any specific force.

[0011] In particular, according to this method, the connector is brought to the electrical socket of the vehicle by the holding means, then the connector is positioned in contact with the electrical socket by the movement of said movable magnetized surface towards the first complementary magnetized surface. The connector is thereby pre-engaged in the socket and the contact between the connector and the socket is maintained until a force greater than the magnetic force separates the two surfaces. Once this pre-engagement is achieved, the holding means do not have to exert any force and substantially maintain the connector in the pre-engaged position.

[0012] Then, the connector is engaged in the electrical socket by moving the body with respect to the first movable magnetized surface, the magnetic contact between the first movable magnetized surface and the first complementary magnetized surface being maintained during the engagement phase. Once the connector has been engaged in the socket, the vehicle battery can be charged.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the power connector can comprise a plug or a "male socket" having several pins, and the electrical socket can be a "female socket" and can comprise a set of receptacles in which the pins can be inserted during the engagement phase. According to another possible embodiment, the power connector can comprise a "female socket" and the electrical socket can be a "male socket".

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the movable magnetized surface is moved with respect to the body by means of a first drive system for this surface. The first movable magnetized surface can for example be placed at the end of a first movable element, for example a movable rod, and the first drive system can allow this first movable element to be moved with respect to the body of the connector. According to one possible embodiment, the first drive system can be a motor. According to another possible embodiment, the first movable element can comprise a rack and the first drive system can be a pinion that is rotatable with respect to the body and drives this rack.

[0015] According to another preferred embodiment, the body can be moved with respect to the first movable magnetized surface so that the electrical contact between the connector and the electrical socket is made by means of the first driving system or the auxiliary driving system, preferably by means of the first driving system.

[0016] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the contact between the power connector and the electrical socket can be made by moving the first movable magnetized surface, and the second movable magnetized surface, with respect to the body of the connector. In this way, the first movable magnetized surface and the second movable magnetized surface make contact with the first complementary magnetized surface and the second complementary magnetized surface, respectively, of the electrical socket. The magnetic contact between the connector and the socket is thereby optimized, and this magnetic contact allows the correct alignment of the connector and the socket during the pre-engagement, which facilitates the subsequent engagement phase of the connector.

[0017] According to this embodiment, the connector can be a cylindrical body, and the second movable magnetized surface can be diametrically opposite the first movable magnetized surface with respect to the cylindrical body. According to this embodiment, the description of the first magnetized surface applies to the second movable magnetized surface, in particular the movement of the movable surface and the driving system that implements this movement.

[0018] According to a possible embodiment, the connection method can further comprise a phase of disconnecting the power connector from the electrical socket once the battery has been charged, said phase of disconnecting comprising the steps of:

[0019] - moving the first movable magnetized surface away from the first complementary magnetized surface to eliminate the magnetic attraction between the two surfaces, and

[0020] - exerting pressure on the first bearing surface of the electrical socket by means of the first pushing surface of the connector so as to separate the connector from the electrical socket.

[0021] Advantageously, the disconnection between the power connector and the electrical socket is made by the connector and it is not necessary to exert an external force on the connector. In particular, the user, the movable arm or any other device for holding the connector does not have to exert a force to disconnect or disengage the connector from the electrical socket.

[0022] According to a possible embodiment, the first movable magnetized surface moves away from the first complementary magnetized surface by the movement of the first movable magnetized surface with respect to the body of the power connector. This movement can be implemented by means of the driving system, preferably by means of the first driving system.

[0023] In case the first movable magnetized surface is placed at the end of a first movable element, such as a movable rod, the first movable magnetized surface can be moved relative to the body by moving the first movable rod relative to the body, as described above, by means of the first drive system.

[0024] According to the specific embodiment described above, the contact between the power connector and the electrical socket can be achieved by moving the first and second movable magnetized surfaces of the connector relative to the body so that the first and second movable magnetized surfaces come into contact with the first and second complementary magnetized surfaces of the electrical socket. According to this embodiment, the step of moving away during the disconnection phase comprises moving the first and second movable magnetized surfaces away from the first and second complementary magnetized surfaces, respectively, preferably simultaneously, to eliminate the attraction between these two surfaces.

[0025] According to one possible embodiment, the first pushing surface can be placed at the end of a first movable pushing element, such as a first push rod. Thereby, the connector can be separated from the electrical socket by moving the first pushing element of the connector relative to the body so that the first pushing surface exerts a pressure on the first bearing surface to disengage the connector from the socket. The first pushing element can be moved relative to the body by means of a first pushback system.

[0026] According to one possible embodiment, the first pushback system can for example be a motor for moving the first pushing element of the connector relative to the body. According to another possible embodiment, the first pushing element can be a rod comprising a rack, and the first pushback system can be a pinion gear that is rotatable relative to the body and drives the rack. According to yet another possible embodiment, the first pushback system can be a spring that can be compressed during the engagement phase, and once the magnetized surfaces have been separated, the spring can spontaneously decompress to separate the connector from the electrical socket.

[0027] According to one preferred embodiment, the connector can comprise a second pushing element. Thereby, the disconnection is optimized and the connector can be disengaged from the socket while being held on the connection axis so that the connector and / or the electrical socket are not damaged. According to this embodiment, the connector can be a cylindrical body and the second pushing element can be placed diametrically opposite the first pushing element relative to the cylindrical body. The description of the first pushing element also applies to the second pushing element.

[0028] A second subject of the application is a vehicle comprising a rechargeable battery and having an electrical socket for charging said battery when connected with an electrical power connector, for example according to the method described above, said electrical socket comprising at least one first complementary magnetized surface configured to interact with a first movable magnetized surface of the electrical connector and at least one first bearing surface configured to interact with a first pushing surface of the electrical connector.

[0029] The electrical socket of the vehicle allows an easy connection with the electrical power connector. In particular, the interaction between the first complementary magnetized surface of the socket and the first movable magnetized surface of the connector allows the pre-engagement of the connector in the electrical socket. Thus, the user, the movable arm or any other means for holding the connector only needs to bring the connector to the socket without having to exert a force to achieve this pre-engagement.

[0030] Moreover, the pre-engagement ensures that the connector is correctly positioned with respect to the socket, thus enabling a subsequent optimal connection between the connector and the socket, in particular along the connection axis. The pre-engagement and the subsequent engagement of the electrical power connector in the socket can be carried out according to the method described above.

[0031] When the vehicle battery has been charged, the presence of the first bearing surface of the electrical socket allows the first pushing surface of the connector to exert a pressure on this surface to separate the connector from the electrical socket (disconnection phase). Thereby, once the vehicle battery has been charged, the user, the movable arm or any other means for holding the connector does not have to exert any force to separate the connector from the electrical socket. The disconnection can be carried out according to the method described above.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrical socket can be a "female socket" and can comprise a set of receptacles, which can be connected with a connector comprising a "male socket". According to another possible embodiment, the electrical socket can be a "male socket" comprising a set of pins and can be connected to an electrical power connector comprising a "female socket".

[0033] According to one possible embodiment, the first movable magnetized surface and the first complementary magnetized surface can each comprise a permanent magnet, the two permanent magnets attracting each other. According to another possible embodiment, one of the first movable magnetized surface and the first complementary magnetized surface can comprise a permanent magnet and the other magnetized surface can be made of a metal attracting the permanent magnet, preferably soft iron.

[0034] According to the particular embodiments considered alone or in combination:

[0035] - the first complementary magnetized surface and the first bearing surface can be arranged on the annular outer edge of the electrical socket; therefore, the first complementary magnetized surface and the first bearing surface do not form part of the functional part of the electrical socket, which can be a plug comprising pins (or "male socket") or a set of receptacles (or "female socket"); therefore, the functional part of the electrical socket does not need to be modified or adapted for the presence of the first complementary magnetized surface and the first bearing surface; and

[0036] - the electrical socket can comprise a second complementary magnetized surface, preferably positioned on the annular outer edge of the socket diametrically opposite the first complementary magnetized surface, and a second bearing surface, preferably positioned on the annular outer edge of the socket diametrically opposite the first bearing surface; the second complementary magnetized surface allows the pre-engagement of the connector in the socket to be optimized, since the contact between the connector and the socket is made (preferably simultaneously) with two magnetized surfaces; the second complementary magnetized surface allows, among other things, a stronger contact and also a pre-engagement along the connection axis, so that an optimized engagement is subsequently achieved; according to this embodiment, the electrical socket can have a substantially circular shape and the first complementary magnetized surface and the second complementary magnetized surface can be aligned along a first line passing through the center of the socket; still according to this embodiment, the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface can be aligned on a second line passing through the center of the socket; according to a preferred embodiment, the first line and the second line can be perpendicular to each other; according to another possible embodiment, the electrical socket can comprise more than two complementary magnetized surfaces and / or more than two bearing surfaces.

[0037] According to one possible embodiment, the first complementary magnetized surface of the socket can have a surface area similar to the first movable magnetized surface of the connector that the socket is intended to be connected to. The first complementary magnetized surface can in particular have the same shape as the first movable magnetized surface, for example square, oval, etc. Furthermore, the first complementary magnetized surface can have equal dimensions to the first movable magnetized surface, meaning that the difference between the two surfaces can be at most 40%, preferably at most 25%, of the surface area of the smaller of the two magnetized surfaces.

[0038] According to one possible embodiment, the first bearing surface of the socket can have a surface area equal to the first push surface of the connector that the socket is intended to be connected to. The first bearing surface can in particular have the same shape as the first push surface, for example square, oval, etc. Furthermore, the first bearing surface can have equal dimensions to the first push surface, meaning that the difference between the two surfaces can be at most 40%, preferably at most 25%, of the surface area of the smaller of the two surfaces.

[0039] A third subject of the application is an electrical power connector intended to be connected to an electrical socket of a vehicle such as the one described above, said electrical power connector comprising:

[0040] - at least one body,

[0041] - at least one first movable magnetized surface movable with respect to said body, intended to make magnetic contact with a first complementary magnetized surface of the electrical socket, and

[0042] - at least one first movable pushing surface movable with respect to said body, intended to bear on a first bearing surface of the electrical socket.

[0043] This electrical power connector allows an optimized connection and disconnection with the electrical socket of a motor vehicle, for example as described above. Thus, the connection between the connector and the socket can be easily and precisely achieved, without the user, the movable arm or any other means for holding the connector having to exert any particular force. The connector is brought to the electrical socket by the user, the movable arm or any other holding means for holding, for example, the body of the connector. The first movable magnetized surface makes magnetic contact with the first complementary magnetized surface of the electrical socket by virtue of its movement with respect to the body, without the user, the movable arm or any other holding means having to exert any particular force.

[0044] When the connector has been engaged in the electrical socket and the vehicle battery has been charged, the connector allows the disconnection with the electrical socket without having to exert any external force. In particular, the first movable pushing surface exerts a pressure on the first bearing surface of the electrical socket by virtue of its movement with respect to the body and makes it possible to separate the connector from the electrical socket. Thus, for both connection and disconnection, it is the connector that exerts the force and the user, the movable arm or any other holding means only have to exert a minimum force to hold the connector in the vicinity of the socket or against the socket.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the first movable magnetized surface and the first pushing surface are placed outside the body and are movably attached to said body.

[0046] According to another preferred embodiment, the body can preferably be cylindrical in shape, the longitudinal axis of which is preferably aligned with the connection and disconnection axis.

[0047] According to one possible embodiment, the first movable magnetized surface and the first complementary magnetized surface can each comprise a permanent magnet, the two permanent magnets attracting each other. According to another possible embodiment, one of the first movable magnetized surface and the first complementary magnetized surface can comprise a permanent magnet and the other magnetized surface can be made of a metal that attracts this magnet, preferably soft iron.

[0048] According to a possible embodiment, the first movable magnetized surface can have an equal surface area to the first complementary magnetized surface of the socket it is intended to be connected to. The first movable magnetized surface can in particular have the same shape as the first complementary magnetized surface, for example a square, an oval, etc. Moreover, the first movable magnetized surface can have equal dimensions to the first complementary magnetized surface, meaning that the difference between the two surfaces can be at most 40%, preferably at most 25% of the surface area of the smaller of the two magnetized surfaces.

[0049] According to a possible embodiment, the first pushing surface can have an equal surface area to the first bearing surface it is intended to be supported on. The first pushing surface can in particular have the same shape as the first bearing surface, for example a square, an oval, etc. Moreover, the first pushing surface can have equal dimensions to the first bearing surface, meaning that the difference between the two surfaces can be at most 40%, preferably at most 25% of the surface area of the smaller of the two surfaces.

[0050] According to the particular embodiments considered alone or in combination:

[0051] - the first movable magnetized surface can be placed at the end of a first movable element, for example a first movable rod; the first movable element can allow the first movable magnetized surface to be easily moved so that it comes into contact with the first complementary magnetized surface of the socket; the movable rod can have any type of shape and have a length adapted to the connector and the socket, for example between 15 and 20 cm;

[0052] - the first movable element can be moved by means of a first drive system; the first drive system can make it possible to move the movable rod towards the first complementary magnetized surface to perform the step of pre-engaging the connector in the socket; the first drive system can also make it possible to move the first movable magnetized surface away from the first complementary magnetized surface during the disconnection phase; according to a preferred embodiment, the first drive system can also make it possible to engage the connector in the socket by movement of the body relative to the first movable magnetized surface when the two magnetized surfaces are in contact; the first drive system thus avoids the user, the movable arm or any other type of device for holding the connector having to exert a force to pre-engage, engage and / or disconnect the connector; according to a possible embodiment, the first drive system can be a motor; according to another possible embodiment, the first movable rod can comprise a rack and the first drive system can be a pinion that is rotatable relative to the body and drives the rack;

[0053] - the connector can comprise a second movable magnetized surface; the second movable magnetized surface can allow the pre-engagement of the connector in the socket to be optimized, since the contact between the connector and the socket is made with two magnetized surfaces, preferably simultaneously; the second movable magnetized surface allows, among other things, a stronger contact and also allows the pre-engagement with the electrical socket along the connection axis, so that an optimized engagement is subsequently achieved; according to a preferred embodiment, the shape of the body can be cylindrical and the first and second movable magnetized surfaces can be diametrically opposite around the body; according to another preferred embodiment, the second movable magnetized surface can be placed at the end of a second movable rod, preferably identical to the first movable rod; in general, the description of the first movable magnetized surface applies to the second movable magnetized surface;

[0054] - the first push surface can be placed at the end of a first movable push element, such as a push rod; the connector can be separated from the electrical socket by moving the first push element of the connector with respect to the body, the first push element being thereby supported on the first support surface to disengage the connector from the socket;

[0055] - the first push element can be moved with respect to the body by means of a first pushback system; according to a first embodiment, the first pushback system can be a motor for moving the first push element of the connector with respect to the body; according to a second possible embodiment, the first push element can be a rod comprising a rack, and the first pushback system can be a pinion that is rotatable with respect to the body and drives the rack; according to a third possible embodiment, the first pushback system can be a spring that can be compressed during the engagement phase and, once the magnetized surfaces have been separated, the spring can spontaneously decompress to separate the connector from the electrical socket; and

[0056] - the connector can comprise a second push surface; the disconnection is thereby optimized and the connector can be disengaged from the socket while being held on the connection axis, so that the connector and / or the electrical socket are not damaged; according to this embodiment, the connector can be a cylindrical body and the second push element can be diametrically opposite with respect to the cylindrical body to the first push element; in general, the description of the first push element also applies to the second push element.

[0057] The vehicle according to the second subject of the present invention can be charged by means of the connector according to the third subject of the present invention using the method according to the first subject of the present invention.

[0058] A fourth subject of the present invention is a device for charging the batteries of at least two vehicles according to the second subject of the present invention, the device comprising a movable arm ending with a power connector according to the third subject of the present invention, said movable arm being configured to move to connect the connector successively with the electrical sockets of said vehicles to charge the batteries of said vehicles, the connection being made by means of the method according to the first subject. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0059] The drawings illustrate the invention:

[0060] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 is a schematic end view of a vehicle electrical socket according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] [ Figure 2a ] Figure 2a is a schematic perspective view of a power connector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] [ Figure 2b ] Figure 2b is a schematic perspective view of the power connector of Figure 2a when connected to the electrical socket of Figure 1 .

[0063] [ Figure 3a ] Figure 3a is schematically depicted the connection method according to a first embodiment.

[0064] [ Figure 3b ] Figure 3b is schematically depicted the connection method according to a second embodiment.

[0065] [ Figure 3c ] Figure 3c is schematically depicted the connection method according to a third embodiment.

[0066] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 is schematically depicted a vehicle automatic charging device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] For the sake of clarity, the same elements are denoted by the same reference signs. Moreover, the elements necessary for the understanding of the invention are depicted only schematically and not to scale.

[0068] As shown in Figure 1 , the electrical socket 1 according to one embodiment comprises a functional portion 2 surrounded by an annular outer rim 4. The annular outer rim 4 is flat and the functional portion 2 is convex with respect to the plane of the annular outer rim 4.

[0069] The functional portion 2 of the socket 1 is the portion that allows the passage of the current used to charge the battery of the vehicle equipped with the socket 1 when the socket 1 is connected to a power connector (for example described hereinafter with reference to Figure 2a and Figure 2b .

[0070] In this embodiment, the functional portion 2 comprises a perimetric edge 6 and a set of seven receptacles 8 positioned inside this perimetric edge 6. The functional portion 2 is therefore a “female” electrical socket intended to be connected to a “male” connector. According to another possible embodiment, the functional portion can be a “male” socket comprising pins, which can be connected to a “female” connector. The functional portion 2 is substantially circular and has a flat area 6’ on its upper part.

[0071] The annular outer edge 4 comprises a first complementary magnetized surface 10a and a second complementary magnetized surface 10b. These two complementary magnetized surfaces 10a and 10b are intended to make magnetic contact with movable magnetized surfaces of a connector (for example described hereinafter with reference to Figure 2a and Figure 2b .

[0072] The first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b are diametrically opposite each other. In particular, the shape of the socket 1 is substantially circular and the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b are aligned on a first line 14 that preferably passes through the center of the socket 1. This positioning of the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b allows a power connector 20 (shown in Figure 2a and Figure 2b ) having two movable magnetized surfaces to make stable contact, in particular along the axis, with the socket 1, thus allowing an optimized connection to be obtained.

[0073] According to this embodiment, the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b are made of soft iron and can make magnetic contact with movable magnetized surfaces comprising permanent magnets. According to other possible embodiments, the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b can comprise permanent magnets and can then be connected to movable magnetized surfaces comprising permanent magnets attracted to the permanent magnets of said complementary surfaces, or to movable magnetized surfaces made of a metal that attracts said magnets, for example made of soft iron.

[0074] The shape of the first 10a and second 10b complementary magnetized surfaces is circular, but can have any other shape, for example square, oval, etc. The shape is similar to the shape of the movable magnetized surface with which the first 10a and second 10b complementary magnetized surfaces will come into contact. Moreover, the first 10a and second 10b complementary magnetized surfaces can have dimensions equal to the movable magnetized surface of the connector, so as to achieve a stable contact.

[0075] The annular outer edge 4 further comprises a first 12a and a second 12b bearing surface. These two bearing surfaces are intended to act as a support for the pushing surfaces of the power connector 20 as will be described with reference to Figure 2a and Figure 2b The first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces are not positioned on the functional part 2 of the socket 1, their presence does not affect the passage of current and does not require adaptations to the functional part 2 of the socket 1.

[0076] The first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces are positioned diametrically opposite each other. In particular, the first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces are aligned on a second line 16 which preferably passes through the center of the socket 1. This positioning of the first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces allows the disconnection of a connector having two pushing surfaces along the connection axis from the socket, thus avoiding damaging the socket 1 and / or the connector. According to a preferred embodiment, the first line is perpendicular to the second line, but according to other possible embodiments, they can intersect forming an angle between 10° and 90°.

[0077] The shape of the first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces is circular, but can have any other shape, for example square, oval, etc. The shape is similar to the shape of the pushing surfaces with which the first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces will interact. Moreover, the first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces can have dimensions equal to the pushing surfaces of the connector, so that the pushing surfaces can achieve a stable support.

[0078] The electrical socket 1 can be located on any type of vehicle, in particular motor vehicles. The electrical socket is able to be connected to connectors such as those described below with reference to Figure 2a and Figure 2b However, since the first 10a and second 10b complementary magnetized surfaces and the first 12a and second 12b bearing surfaces are not positioned on the functional part 2 of the socket 1, and it is not necessary to modify this functional part 2, the socket can also be connected to other conventional connectors.

[0079] Figure 2a and Figure 2bA power connector 20 that can be connected with the electrical socket 1 is shown. The power connector 20 comprises a substantially cylindrical shaped body 22 and comprises a flat area 22' that is intended to be aligned with the flat area 6' of the socket 1 when the power connector 20 is engaged in the socket 1.

[0080] The power connector 20 further comprises a functional part 24 that is complementary to the functional part 2 of the socket 1 and that, in this embodiment, is a "male" socket comprising pins (not visible) that can be inserted in the receptacle 8 of the socket 1. The functional part 24 protrudes from the body 22 and has the same shape as this body but is smaller in size. An annular portion 26 of the body 20, preferably flat and extending in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 28 of the body, is free around the functional part 24. When the power connector 20 is connected to the socket 1 as shown, the functional part 24 is inserted in the functional part 2 inside the periphery 6 and then the annular portion 26 is placed against the periphery 6. Figure 2b

[0081] The power connector 20 comprises a first movable rod 30a and a second movable rod 30b (partially visible) comprising a first cylindrical portion 32a and a second cylindrical portion 32b (not visible) respectively. The first cylindrical portion 32a and the second cylindrical portion 32b form at their ends a first movable magnetized surface 34a and a second movable magnetized surface 34b (not visible) respectively. The first movable magnetized surface 34a and the second movable magnetized surface 34b are intended to be in magnetic contact with the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b respectively. According to this embodiment, the first movable magnetized surface 34a and the second movable magnetized surface 34b each comprise a permanent magnet that can be in magnetic contact with the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b made of soft iron.

[0082] The first movable rod 30a passes through a first housing 36a that is fixed to the body 22 and comprises (or is connected to) a first drive system (not visible). The first drive system allows the first movable rod 30a to be moved relatively to the body 22 by a translational movement. The first movable magnetized surface 34a is thus also movable relatively to the body 22 by a translational movement. In the same way, the second movable rod 30a and thus the second movable magnetized surface 34b are movable relatively to the body 22 by a translational movement by means of a second drive system (not visible).

[0083] ​The first and second driving systems are identical and comprise a motor that can be operated in two directions, in a first direction in which the first and second movable rods 30a, 30b move towards the socket 1 in the direction D1, and in a second direction in which the first and second movable rods 30a, 30b move in the direction D2 opposite to the direction D1. The first and second driving systems are preferably operated synchronously. According to one possible embodiment, a single driving system can allow the first and second movable rods 30a, 30b to move simultaneously.

[0084] The power connector 20 comprises a first and a second push rod 40a, 40b ending with a first and a second push surface 44a, 44b, respectively. The first and second push surfaces 44a, 44b are intended to bear on the first and second bearing surfaces 12a, 12b, respectively.

[0085] The first push rod 40a passes through a first retaining element 46a fixed to the body 22. The first push rod 40a comprises a portion forming a spring 45a which forms a first push-back system, the mode of operation of which will be described below with reference to the description. Figure 3a The first push rod 40a is thus movable with respect to the body by compression or elongation of the spring 45a. In the same way, the second push rod 40b is fixed to the body 22 by a second retaining element 46b and comprises a portion forming a spring 45b which forms a second push-back system.

[0086] The first and second push-back systems 45a, 45b are compressed when the connector is connected to the socket 1 and return to their initial length by exerting a pressure on the socket 1 when the connector is disconnected from the socket. According to another possible embodiment, the first and second push-back systems 45a, 45b can comprise a motor allowing a translational movement of the push rod, as described for the movable rods 30a, 30b.

[0087] The power connector 20 can be fixed to one end of a movable arm 49 by a flat area 22'. A camera 47 for viewing the socket 1 can be fixed to this same flat area 22'. The camera 47 is connected to a processing device (not visible) for guiding the movable arm 49 to bring the power connector 20 to the socket 1 or conversely to move away from the socket.

[0088] Figure 3a A first embodiment of the connection method for connecting the power connector 20 to the electrical socket 1 is shown. In this figure, only the first movable rod 30a and the first push rod 40a of the power connector 20 are depicted. Moreover, only the first complementary magnetized surface 10a and the first bearing surface 12a of the socket 1 are shown.

[0089] In a first step I, the power connector 20 is brought to the socket 1 by the movable arm 49 to place the functional part 24 of the power connector 20 in opposition to the functional part 2 of the socket. Then, the first pushing surface 44a and the second pushing surface 44b (not shown) are placed in contact with the first bearing surface 12a and the second bearing surface 12b (not shown) respectively, the springs 45a and 45b being in idle state. In this first step, the movable arm 49 only exerts a minimum force to hold the power connector 20 in place.

[0090] In a second step II, the first drive system (or motor) 36'a is operated in a first direction so that the first movable rod 30a performs a translational movement in the direction Dl, approaching the socket 1. By this movement, the first movable magnetized surface 34a approaches the first complementary magnetized surface 10a of the socket 1 and comes into contact with this first complementary magnetized surface 10a under the effect of the attraction between the permanent magnets of the first movable magnetized surface 34a and the first complementary magnetized surface 10a made of soft iron. The magnetic attraction force between these two surfaces is for example between 100 and 300 Newton (N). At the end of this second step, the power connector 20 is pre-engaged in the socket 1. Simultaneously and according to the same mechanism (not shown), the second drive system allows the magnetic contact between the second movable magnetized surface 34b and the second complementary magnetized surface 10b.

[0091] In a third step III, the first drive system 36'a and the second drive system (not shown) are operated in a second direction. Since the attraction force between the magnetized surface 34a and the magnetized surface 10a on the one hand and the attraction force between the magnetized surface 34b and the magnetized surface 10b on the other hand are greater than the force exerted by the first drive system 36'a and the second drive system, the first and second drive systems cannot move the magnetized surfaces away from each other. Thus, the body 22 of the power connector 20 approaches the socket 1. Then, the springs 45a and 45b (not shown) are compressed and thus shortened and exert a pressure on the first bearing surface 12a and the second bearing surface 12b.

[0092] In a fourth step IV, the functional part 24 of the power connector 20 is engaged in the functional part 2 of the socket 1 until the annular part 26 of the connector abuts against the periphery 6 of the socket 1, as shown in Figure 2b In this fourth step IV, once the power connector 20 is engaged in the socket 1, the electric current flows and the battery of the vehicle comprising the socket 1 is charged.

[0093] During the second step II of pre-engagement of the connector in the socket 1, as during steps III and IV of engagement of the power connector 20 in the socket 1, the movable arm 49 does not necessarily exert any particular force, but simply allows the power connector 20 to remain in the position opposite the socket 1. In particular, during steps II, III and IV, the forces are exerted by the power connector 20 and notably by the first and second drive systems 36'a and 36'b.

[0094] The magnetic contact between the movable magnetized surfaces 34a and 34b of the connector and the complementary magnetized surfaces 10a and 10b of the socket 1 occurs at two diametrically opposite positions around the socket 1. This positioning makes it possible to achieve a stable contact and also allows the power connector 20 to be placed on the connection axis in order to be engaged in the socket 1. In particular, the connector is placed so that its longitudinal central axis 28 is substantially aligned with the central axis of the socket 1 (the central axis of the socket being the axis passing through the center of the socket 1 and perpendicular to the plane of the socket 1 ).

[0095] In a fifth step V, when the vehicle battery has been charged or when the user wishes to interrupt the charging, the power connector 20 is moved away from the socket 1. To do this, the first drive system 36'a is operated in the second direction. Since the connector is resting against the socket 1, it is not the body 22 that moves relative to the first movable magnetized surface 34a as in the third step III, but the first movable magnetized surface 34b moves relative to the body 22 in the direction D2. The first movable magnetized surface 34a then separates from the first complementary magnetized surface 10a of the socket 1. Moreover, the second movable magnetized surface 34b is driven by the second drive system 36'b and moves away from the second complementary magnetized surface 10b. Once the magnetized surfaces are separated by a few millimeters, they lose their attraction.

[0096] In a sixth step VI, once there is no longer any attraction between the magnetized surfaces, the first and second springs 45a and 45b spontaneously extend back to their rest state. Thus, the first and second push surfaces 44a and 44b push the power connector 20 back from the socket 1 by exerting a pushing force on the first and second bearing surfaces 12a and 12b, respectively. At the end of the sixth step VI, the power connector 20 is thus disconnected or disengaged from the socket 1.

[0097] In the sixth step VI of disconnection, as in the second step II of pre-engagement of the connector in the socket 1 and in steps III and IV of engagement of the connector in the socket, the movable arm does not exert any particular force, but simply allows the power connector 20 to remain in the position opposite the socket. It is the power connector 20 that exerts the force by means of the first and second pushback systems 45a and 45b so that the connector is disengaged.

[0098] Advantageously, the pressure exerted by the pushing surfaces 44a and 44b on the bearing surfaces 12a and 12b is exerted at two diametrically opposite positions around the socket, which makes it possible to disengage the power connector 20 from the socket 1 while leaving the connector still on the connection axis. Disengagement (or disconnection) is thus achieved without risk of damaging the functional part 24 of the connector and / or the functional part 2 of the socket 1.

[0099] According to Figure 3b the second possible embodiment depicted in Figure 1 the socket 1 of Figure 2a is connected with a power connector 50 different from Figure 2b described in

[0100] The power connector 50 comprises a first movable magnetized surface 64a positioned at the end of a first movable rod 60a and comprising a first rack 62a extending over a part of its length. The power connector 50 also comprises a second movable rod identical to the first movable rod (not visible) and the operation of which is identical to that described below for the first movable rod 60a.

[0101] The power connector 50 comprises a first push rod 70a comprising a first pushing surface 74a at its end and also comprising a second rack 72a extending over a part of its length. The power connector 50 also comprises a second push rod identical to the first push rod (not visible) and the operation of which is identical to that described below for the first push rod 70a.

[0102] The first rack 62a and the second rack 72a are driven by a pinion 66 that is rotatable relative to the body 52 of the power connector 50. The other parts of the power connector 50 are identical to those of the power connector 20. In this embodiment, the first rack 62a associated with the pinion 66 constitutes a first drive system and the second rack 72a associated with the pinion 66 constitutes a first push-back system.

[0103] The method according to this embodiment comprises the following steps:

[0104] - a first step I in which the pinion 66 is rotated in a first rotation direction Rl so that the first movable rod 60a is moved in a direction Dl; in this step, the first push rod 70a is moved in a direction D2;

[0105] - a second step II, which is a pre-engagement step, in which the first movable magnetized surface 64a is in magnetic contact with the first complementary magnetized surface 10a;

[0106] - a third step III in which the pinion 66 rotates in the second direction R2 (opposite to the first direction Rl) with a force that is not able to separate the magnetized surfaces 64a and 10a; therefore, the power connector 50 approaches the socket 1 and engages the functional part 24 in the functional part 2 of the socket 1; in this step, the first push rod 70a moves in the direction Dl;

[0107] - a fourth step IV in which the pinion 66 continues to rotate until the power connector 50 abuts against the socket 1; in this step, the first push surface 74a comes into contact with the first bearing surface 12a; the vehicle battery can then be charged;

[0108] - a fifth step V in which the pinion 66 continues to rotate in the second direction; when the power connector 50 abuts against the socket 1, it is the movable rod 60a that moves in the direction D2 so that the magnetized surfaces 64a and 10a move apart;

[0109] - a sixth step VI in which the pinion 66 continues to rotate in the second direction; the first push rod 70a therefore continues to move in the direction Dl, which allows the first push surface 74a to exert a pressure on the first bearing surface 12a to disengage the power connector 50 from the socket 1.

[0110] As in the case of the first embodiment of the method, the various steps are performed without the movable arm having to exert any force.

[0111] According to Figure 3c the third embodiment of the method illustrated, the socket 1 of Figure 1 is connected with a power connector 80 that is different from the power connector 20.

[0112] The power connector 80 differs from the power connector 20 in that it comprises (instead of the first push rod 40a) a first push rod 90a that is movable with respect to the body 82 by means of a second pushback system 96'a that is a motor. The first movable push rod 90a comprises at its end a first push surface 94a that is intended to come into contact with the first bearing surface 12a. The power connector 80 also comprises a second movable push rod 90b (not visible) that is identical to the first push rod and works in the same way.

[0113] The method according to this embodiment comprises the following steps:

[0114] - a first step I, identical to the first step I of the first embodiment, that brings the first movable magnetized surface 34a to the first complementary magnetized surface 10a; in this step, the first push rod 90a has not yet moved and is at a distance from the socket 1;

[0115] - a second step II, a third step III and a fourth step IV, during which the power connector 80 is pre-engaged, then engaged in the socket 1, and these steps are identical to the first, second and third steps of the first embodiment; during the first step II and the second step III, the first push rod 90a has not moved and is at a distance from the socket 1; once the fourth step IV has been completed, the first push surface 94a is in contact with the first bearing surface 12a;

[0116] - a fifth step V, in which the first drive system 36'a operates in the second direction and moves the magnetized surfaces away from each other, as in the first embodiment; the first pushback system 96'a, which is a motor, then allows the first push rod 90a to move in the direction Dl; the first push surface 94a then exerts a pressure on the first bearing surface 12a, causing the power connector 80 to disengage from the socket 1;

[0117] - a sixth step VI, in which the first pushback system 96'a continues to move the first push rod 90a, which makes it possible to completely disengage the power connector 80 from the socket 1.

[0118] As in the case of the first and second embodiments of the method, the various steps are carried out without the movable arm having to exert any force.

[0119] As Figure 4 illustrated, the portal 100 for automatic charging of electric or hybrid vehicles comprises two longitudinal support elements 102, which are fixed to or placed on the ground and connected by a crosspiece 104 parallel to the ground. The portal 100 forms an internal space in which several electric or hybrid vehicles 103 to be charged can be parked. The vehicles 103 are equipped with electrical sockets 1.

[0120] The movable unit 110 is movably attached to the crosspiece 104. The movable arm 49 connects the movable unit 110 to the power connector 20 described above, which will be able to charge the vehicles 103 by being connected to the sockets 1 in turn. The way in which the movable unit moves is to bring the power connector 20 to the sockets 1 in turn. Since the force required to connect and disconnect the sockets 1 is exerted by the power connector 20, the movable arm 49 does not have to exert any force and therefore does not have to be rigid. The movable arm 49 is only used to hold the power connector 20 and to position the connector opposite the socket 1 to be connected.

Claims

1. A connection method for connecting a power connector (20, 50, 80) to an electrical socket (1) of a vehicle (103) comprising a rechargeable battery, the power connector (20, 50, 80) comprising a body (22, 52, 82) and at least one first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) movable with respect to the body (22, 52, 82), the connection method comprising at least the steps of: - bringing the at least one movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) into magnetic contact with at least one first complementary magnetized surface (10a) of the electrical socket (1) by moving the at least one first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) of the power connector (20, 50, 80) with respect to the body (22, 52, 82), - engaging the power connector (20, 50, 80) in the electrical socket (1) by moving the body (22, 52, 82) with respect to the first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) so as to bring the power connector (20, 50, 80) into electrical contact with the electrical socket (1), the connection method further comprising a disconnection phase for disconnecting the power connector (20, 50, 80) from the electrical socket (1) once the battery has been charged, said disconnection phase comprising the steps of: - moving the first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) away from the first complementary magnetized surface (10a) so as to eliminate the magnetic attraction between the two surfaces, and - exerting a pressure on a first bearing surface (12a) of the electrical socket (1) by means of a first pushing surface (44a, 74a, 94a) of the power connector (20, 50, 80) so as to separate the power connector (20, 50, 80) from the electrical socket (1).

2. A vehicle comprising a rechargeable battery, characterized in that The vehicle has an electrical socket (1) for charging said battery when the electrical socket is connected to a power connector (20, 50, 80) according to the connection method as claimed in claim 1, the electrical socket (1) comprising at least one first complementary magnetized surface configured to interact with the first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) of the power connector (20, 50, 80) and at least one first bearing surface (12a) configured to interact with the first pushing surface (44a, 74a, 94a) of the power connector (20, 50, 80).

3. The vehicle of claim 2, wherein, The first complementary magnetized surface (10a) and the first bearing surface (12a) are arranged on an annular outer edge (4) of the electrical socket (1).

4. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein, The electrical socket (1) comprises a second complementary magnetized surface (10b) positioned on the annular outer edge (4) diametrically opposite the first complementary magnetized surface (10a) and a second bearing surface (12b) positioned on the annular outer edge (4) diametrically opposite the first bearing surface (12a).

5. A power connector (20, 50, 80) intended to be connected to an electrical socket (1) of a vehicle (103) as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The power connector comprises: - at least one body (22, 52, 82), - at least one first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) movable relative to said body, intended to come into magnetic contact with a first complementary magnetized surface (10a) of the electrical socket (1), and - at least one first movable pushing surface (44a, 74a, 94a) movable relative to said body (22, 52, 82) and intended to bear on a first bearing surface of the electrical socket.

6. The power connector of claim 5, wherein, The first movable magnetized surface (34a, 64a) is placed at the end of a first movable element (30a, 60a).

7. The power connector of claim 6, wherein, The first movable element (30a, 60a) is moved by means of a first drive system (36'a, 66).

8. The power connector of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The first pushing surface (44a, 74a, 94a) is placed at the end of a first movable pushing element (40a, 70a, 90a).

9. An arrangement (100) for charging at least two batteries of a vehicle (103) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The device comprises a movable arm (49) ending with a power connector (20, 50, 80) as claimed in any one of Claims 5 to 8, said movable arm (49) being configured to move to connect the power connector (20, 50, 80) in turn with an electrical socket (1) of said vehicle (103) to charge the battery of said vehicle (103), said connection being made by the connection method as claimed in Claim 1.

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