Charging cable

Abstract

The present invention relates to a charging cable (10) for electrically connecting an energy storage device (11) of a vehicle (12) to an energy supply device (16), the charging cable (10) comprising: a charging conductor (13) having a coupler (6) and a plurality of electrical conductors electrically connected to the coupler (6); a first connection device (14) having an energy transmission device (8) for electrically connecting to the energy storage device (11); and a second connection device (15A) having a first interface (1A) for electrically connecting to the energy supply device (16) and a second interface (2) for detachably electrically connecting to the coupler (6), wherein at least one of the energy transmission devices (8) of the first connection device (14) Each part is equipped with an electrical conductor with a charging wire (13). The first connection device (14) has a control unit (17). The first connection device (14) or the charging wire (13) has a bypass switch (4). The bypass switch (4) can switch between a first switch state and a second switch state according to the type of the second connection device (15A). In the first switch state, the bypass switch (4) bypasses the control unit (17) to establish an electrical connection between at least one of the energy transmission devices (8) and the provided electrical conductor. In the second switch state, the control unit (17) is intermediately electrically connected between at least one energy transmission device (8) and the provided electrical conductor to control the charging process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a charging cable for charging a vehicle battery. Background Technology

[0002] Electric vehicles typically have an energy storage device, such as a traction battery, which provides electrical power for propulsion. If the energy storage device is fully or partially discharged, the electric vehicle's energy storage device must be connected to the power grid at a charging point and recharged.

[0003] There are currently different possibilities in the market for charging electric vehicles. For example, electric vehicles can be charged at publicly accessible charging stations or at standard outlets in private areas. There are two basic principles in this regard.

[0004] On the one hand, charging can be done at fixed charging stations (charging poles or so-called wall boxes). For this, either the charging cable is inserted into the charging station, or the charging cable is already fixedly connected to the charging station. This type of charging cable is also called a passive charging cable. It is only used to conduct current from the charging station to the energy storage device located in the vehicle. If a user wants to charge their energy storage device at such a charging station, they must first be identified and authenticated. Identification is done, for example, via RFID card, credit card reading, or via a connection to an application installed on the requester's mobile phone. Authentication is also done via an application or via payment information stored on an RFID card. Finally, after identification and authentication, the charging station takes over the connection of the charging current. The charging current in this case has only one function: to establish an electrical connection with the electric vehicle, hence the name "passive charging cable." The disadvantage in this case is the complex process of identification, authentication, and connecting or disconnecting the charging current via the charging pole. These processes must be triggered by the user or requester.

[0005] On the other hand, charging can be done at a so-called continuous current outlet. This requires a charging cable with an integrated control (ICCB: In-Cable-Control-Box). The ICCB's function is to verify the vehicle's charging readiness via communication with the electric vehicle, connect the current when requested, continuously monitor the safe electrical connection with the electric vehicle, and disconnect the current in case of a fault. The disadvantage in this case is that the control is integrated into the charging cable, resulting in complex operation (a box on the cable, colloquially: a charging brick) and increased strain on the charging cable plug.

[0006] Regardless of the charging method—whether at a charging station or on a continuous current outlet—drivers expect a fast and uncomplicated, simple charging process.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to simplify the charging of electric vehicle drivers or users. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The charging cable according to the invention is particularly capable of using different energy supply devices. Thus, it is advantageous to use common household outlets, such as those connected via fuse socket connectors, or country-specific household connectors, which provide a constant or continuous voltage at all times. Furthermore, it is preferable to use dedicated charging poles or so-called wall boxes, i.e., dedicated charging infrastructure specifically designed for charging the energy storage devices of hybrid or electric vehicles. The term "vehicle" can be understood as land vehicles, water vehicles, and aircraft. Therefore, the charging cable can be used modularly on the one hand, and constructed simply and compactly on the other. In particular, it avoids the need for additional technical modules, which in charging cables known in the prior art are, for example, constructed as control boxes (so-called ICCBs), and which are placed on the ground during the charging process and thus potentially damaged, making the charging cable inconvenient to use, difficult to store, and heavy.

[0009] Charging cables are suitable for electrically connecting an energy storage device in a hybrid or electric vehicle to an energy supply device that provides electrical power. Charging cables are particularly constructed or configured for connecting the energy storage device and the energy supply device. Charging cables are also particularly constructed or configured for establishing, monitoring, and controlling the connection between the energy storage device and the energy supply device. For this purpose, the charging cable has charging leads, a first connection device, and a second connection device. The charging leads have couplers and multiple electrical conductors electrically connected to the couplers for power transmission and / or signal transmission. The first connection device is used for electrical connection to the energy storage device and has an energy transmission device for this purpose. The energy transmission device has, advantageously, for example, electrical contacts or induction coils. The energy transmission device is used for an indirect or direct, detachable electrical connection to the energy storage device, wherein the electrical connection can be wireless (e.g., inductively grounded) or wired (e.g., via a wire). The second connection device has a first interface and a second interface, wherein the first interface is suitable for, or is constructed or configured for, an indirect or direct, detachable wireless or wired electrical connection to the energy supply device. The second interface is used for a detachable electrical connection to the coupler. It is also configured here that the electrical connection is constructed in an indirect or direct manner that can be disconnected. The electrical connection is also advantageously constructed, for example, wirelessly and / or, for example, wiredly.

[0010] The second connection device and the charging cable—in other words, they can be detachably coupled to each other without damage. Therefore, the second connection device can be replaced to connect to different types of power supply devices and / or power supply interfaces (such as Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, CEE, CCS, CHAdeMo, Tesla interface, Type B, Type D, Type E, Type G, Type H, Type I, Type J, Type L, fuse sockets, or the like). As previously stated, permanent voltage sources, such as household outlets, and dedicated charging infrastructure, such as charging poles or wall boxes, can therefore be used in the same way as the charging cable.

[0011] At least a portion of the energy transmission apparatus of the first connection device is respectively provided with an electrical conductor of the charging wire. Particularly preferably, each of the energy transmission apparatuses is respectively provided with an electrical conductor of the charging wire. The first connection device also has a control unit. In a first variant, the control unit has a bypass switch. In an alternative design, the bypass switch is disposed in the charging wire, wherein only one bypass switch exists. This means that the bypass switch is disposed either in the first connection device or in the charging wire. The bypass switch can switch between a first switch state and a second switch state depending on the type of the second connection device. This specifically means that the change of the switching state of the bypass switch can only be achieved by changing the type of the second connection device. Particularly advantageously, the switching of the bypass switch is achieved by replacing the second connection device with one constructed for a constant voltage supply or continuous voltage, such as 230V or 110V (especially uncontrolled, such as a household socket) and one configured for an energy supply device with its own control (such as a wall box or charging post). In other words, depending on the type of second connection device connected to the charging cable, the bypass switch is switched (via a coupler) to either the first or second switching state. In the first switching state, an electrical connection is established between at least one of the energy transmission devices and the corresponding electrical conductors via the bypass switch, bypassing the control unit. In the second switching state, the control unit is intermediately electrically connected between at least one energy transmission device (which is connected to the corresponding electrical conductors via the bypass switch in the first switching state) and the respective corresponding electrical conductors. In this way, the control unit can (in the second switching state) control the current between the vehicle and the energy supply device, particularly controlling the charging process.

[0012] Therefore, the control unit is only used when actually needed. If the control unit is not needed, the bypass switch is switched to the first switching state because a corresponding energy supply device that does not require any control unit is used. This switching process is performed by using the corresponding second connection device for the corresponding energy supply device. Conversely, if an energy supply device that requires a control unit is used (e.g., because it cannot perform its own control or communication with the vehicle being charged, such as when using a household outlet), the bypass switch is switched to the second switching state, which again occurs by using the corresponding second connection device matched to the specific energy supply device. No user intervention is necessary. Instead, the user can comfortably use the charging cable for different situations, without worrying about whether the charging cable is configured correctly. Instead, a complete design based on the "plug & play" principle is provided, requiring no user intervention. The user only needs to select the matching second connection device for the given energy supply device and connect it to the charging cable via a coupler.

[0013] Of particular advantage, by placing the control unit in the first connection device, the expensive and bulky charging box (ICCB) in the charging cable can be eliminated, thereby making the charging cable less bulky, better protecting the control unit from damage, and making the charging cable easier to store and handle, while also reducing its weight. This also reduces the tensile stress on the first or second connection device, thereby preventing damage to the first or second connection device and / or the docking connection device. Furthermore, it prevents the second connection device from decoupling from the docking connection device or energy supply device, for example, in the case of a socket installed above 1m or 1.50m, where the second connection device is inserted into the socket and then falls out, because the ICCB exerts excessive tensile force on the connection device. Moreover, in cases where the vehicle and energy supply device are connected via the charging cable, the risk of tripping is significantly reduced because there is no longer an ICCB on the ground. The arrangement of the bypass switch in the first connection device produces the same advantages. If the bypass switch is arranged in the charging cable, it is significantly smaller and lighter than the complete ICCB, thus also producing the aforementioned advantages. Furthermore, the arrangement of the bypass switch within the charging cable allows for a compact shape of the first connected device. Overall, this advantageously provides a lighter, easier-to-handle and retractable, more flexible, more durable, and more secure damage-resistant charging cable, which can also be manufactured at a lower cost because it eliminates the need for special vandal protection of the ICCB placed on the ground.

[0014] Within the scope of this invention, charging leads should be understood in particular as a combination of multiple electrical conductors. The conductors are electrically insulated from each other, for example, by their own insulating sheaths. Furthermore, all conductors are enclosed within a common electrically insulating main sheath. The main sheath preferably serves not only to protect the conductors but also to protect them from external influences, namely environmental impacts and mechanical loads.

[0015] It goes without saying that as long as the bypass switch is located in the first connection device, the bypass switch can be a switch separate from the control unit. Thus, the bypass switch can be constructed as a discrete component or as an integrated component using semiconductor technology. Alternatively, the bypass switch can be integrated into the control unit, particularly integrally connected to the control unit or constructed within the control unit without breaking it. It is also conceivable that the bypass switch, for example, is constructed within the ASIC that forms the control unit. In this integrated case, the first switch state should be functionally understood as follows: the signal or current conducted between at least one energy transmission device and the respective electrical conductors of the first connection device via the bypass switch is conducted through, for example, the signal processing components of the control unit. In other words, the control components (such as the ASIC, electronic components, etc.) of the control unit will not be activated by the current flowing through the bypass switch. This integration of the bypass switch into the control unit allows for a more compact and cost-effective construction of the first connection device.

[0016] The dependent claims illustrate preferred modifications of the invention.

[0017] Preferably, the charging cable has an additional coupler. The additional coupler is used to connect the first connection device to the charging cable. Here, the electrical conductors extend continuously between the coupler and the additional coupler for power transmission and / or signal transmission. In particular, the electrical conductors are uninterrupted. An interruption in this particular case means that there is no intermediate connection of any other electronic component between the coupler and the additional coupler. Instead, the electrical conductors extend directly and uninterruptedly from the coupler to the additional coupler, such that, for example, there is a continuous copper wire for each conductor. Therefore, the charging cable is advantageously a purely connecting element without any active or passive electronic components. Thus, the charging cable is constructed in a particularly simple and inexpensive manner. Furthermore, by using the coupler and the additional coupler, it is possible to replace the charging cable in case of damage, where it is not necessary to replace both the first and / or second connection devices simultaneously. This is advantageous for users of the charging cable, as they can save considerable costs if they only need to replace the inexpensive charging cable when it is damaged or too dirty. Because the first and / or second connection devices have active and / or passive electronic components, the economic cost of replacing the charging cable can be minimized. The first connection device advantageously has an additional interface that can be electrically connected to an additional coupler. In this way, an electrical connection can be established between the energy transfer appliance and / or control unit and / or bypass switch and the electrical conductor of the charging cable. The electrical connection between the additional coupler of the charging cable and the additional interface of the first connection device is particularly wireless or wired and is advantageously constructed to be detachable, either indirectly or directly. The charging cable and the first connection device are thus either permanently and therefore indestructibly connected to each other or alternatively detachably coupled to each other.

[0018] The first connection device preferably has a first housing. The first housing houses not only the energy transmission appliance but also the charging cable. Alternatively, the first housing houses not only the energy transmission appliance but also an additional interface. Thus, as previously described, the first connection device can either be directly and inseparably connected to the charging cable without damage, or alternatively, can be detachably connected to the charging cable via an additional coupler and an additional interface. Alternatively or additionally, the second connection device has a second housing. The second housing houses not only the first interface but also the second interface. Thus, the second connection device is particularly a one-piece body with a common housing for all existing components. The same applies to the first connection device, in which the charging cable is either permanently or detachably mounted. In particular, it can be configured such that mating coupling devices matching the coupler are directly connected to the housing or disposed or arranged within or on the housing.

[0019] Furthermore, advantageously, the bypass switch is switched to a second switching state when a supply voltage is applied and switched to a first switching state when no supply voltage is available. Alternatively or additionally, the bypass switch can be switched between the first and second switching states by a control unit. Therefore, the operation of the bypass switch depends either on the presence of a supply voltage or on a signal from the control unit, wherein a combination thereof is also possible. The supply voltage may be present or provided, for example, depending on the type of the second connected device, or it may be absent or not provided. Therefore, the switching state of the bypass switch depends on the type of the second connected device disposed on the charging cable.

[0020] Particularly advantageously, the second connection device has a voltage supply device. This voltage supply device is electrically coupled to the first interface and provides a supply voltage to the first interface when a voltage is applied. This supply voltage is particularly a DC voltage, although AC voltage is also feasible. The DC voltage is particularly advantageously converted from the AC voltage provided by the energy supply device. It is also preferably configured that the supply voltage is set for switching a bypass switch and / or supplying power to the control unit. Particularly preferably, the supply voltage can be applied to the bypass switch via the second interface and a charging wire to switch the bypass switch to a second switching state. Thus, the switching of the bypass switch is performed according to the type of the second connection device, such that the second connection device generates or does not generate the supply voltage. In other words, the type of the second connection device is further distinguished by the presence of a voltage supply device. If a voltage supply device is present, it is preferable that the bypass switch is switched to the second switching state due to the supply voltage. In this case, it is particularly advantageous to charge the energy storage device based on a constant or continuous voltage source, such as a household socket, without the need for control or communication wires. Here, the household socket is merely an exemplary example. In the second switching state, the control unit in the first connection device is activated. The control unit can now take over communication with the vehicle or its energy storage device and actively control the power supply from the energy supply unit based on charging demand. If the energy supply unit itself is not controllable or does not have signal wires, then communication between the vehicle and the charging cable via the control unit becomes important. In this case, power supply must be controlled via the charging cable or the control unit.

[0021] Conversely, if no voltage supply device exists in the second connection device, the second connection device is preferably and only exemplaryly used to connect a dedicated charging infrastructure as an energy supply device. This charging infrastructure typically has at least one communication wire by which the charging current is actively controlled, for example, according to the needs of the energy storage device to be charged and / or the power capacity of the energy supply device. In this case, the bypass switch is switched to the first switching state, thereby eliminating the need for a control unit in the first connection device. The control unit is therefore neither supplied with electrical power nor intermediately connected in the electrical path between the energy supply device and the energy storage device.

[0022] It goes without saying that if it is a second connection device, such as for a wall box or (public) charging station or the like, in principle the second connection device can also provide the supply voltage and thus activate the control unit. This can be advantageous if the control unit of the charging cable can more flexibly regulate the current flowing through the charging cable (which always flows in either direction), or better coordinate with the user's needs than through direct communication between the vehicle and the energy supply unit.

[0023] The second connection device preferably has a switching unit. The switching unit can connect and disconnect the electrical connection between the energy supply device and the second interface. The switching unit can be controlled by the control unit, especially for controlling the charging process or current. Therefore, it is advantageous to disconnect the cable directly from the energy supply device. The switching unit in the second connection device is particularly capable of electrically isolating the first connection device and the charging wire from the energy supply device until the control unit turns on the current. Thus, the charging process can be controlled by the control unit, while the electrical connection can be separated as close as possible to the energy supply device by the switching unit. This also advantageously improves operational safety. For example, if the second connection device is plugged into a household outlet, but the first connection device is not yet plugged into the vehicle's docking plug, there is always a risk that voltage has been applied to the first connection device. This can be prevented by the switching unit. Therefore, it can be configured, for example, that the control unit is activated only after a supply voltage has been applied. This also checks whether the control unit can establish a communication connection with the (hybrid or electric) vehicle or its energy storage device, thereby ensuring that no live contacts are exposed. Only then can the control unit release the current from the switching unit.

[0024] In an alternative design, the second connection device is configured to have a continuous, particularly constant, direct, and uninterrupted electrical connection between the first and second interfaces. It is therefore particularly advantageous to arrange multiple mutually insulated electrical conductors extending between the first and second interfaces, wherein these conductors extend uninterruptedly or continuously. The electrical connection between the first and second interfaces is specifically designed so that no supply voltage is provided for the bypass switch. It is also preferred that no passive or active electrical components are provided between the first and second interfaces. In this case, in particular, as previously stated, no supply voltage can be provided, thereby the control unit in the first connection device can be deactivated. This is partly because the control unit is not supplied with electrical power, and partly because the bypass switch is switched to the first switching state. In this case, the second connection device is particularly suitable for connection to a charging infrastructure that itself has a control unit for controlling the charging process of the energy storage device and / or for communicating with hybrid or electric vehicles. Logic components in the second connection device are unnecessary in this case.

[0025] The first connection device preferably has a communication unit. The communication unit is preferably a radio communication interface. The radio communication interface is particularly preferably capable of communicating with user-end devices (such as mobile phones, vehicles, etc.) and / or with the Internet. Alternatively or additionally, the first connection device is preferably configured to have a display and / or input module, which is preferably configured, for example, to display the current or to input the desired charging current intensity or current. Alternatively or additionally, the first connection device preferably has an energy measurement module configured to know the electrical energy flowing through the charging cable. Particularly advantageously, the energy measurement module measures the current flowing through the charging cable to know the charging power along with the applied voltage and further, taking into account the duration of the current, to know the flowing energy. Therefore, it is possible to quantify the electrical energy flowing between the energy supply unit and the vehicle (also depending on the direction), especially to simplify the billing process and / or to provide the user (in Saldo, in balance) with an overview of, for example, the energy delivered to the vehicle. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the first connection device is advantageously configured to have an authentication module. The authentication module is specifically used for authentication at the energy supply device, thereby demonstrating authorization, for example, for energy extraction. Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that billing can be performed via the authentication module, so the user only needs to prepare their personal charging cable or their personal primary connection device, which is stored in the billing system, for example, via a database. For billing the energy flow, such as the energy extracted from the energy supply device, autonomous communication is advantageously established between the authentication module and the energy supply device. This simplifies the billing process between the user of the current interface and the owner of the current interface (such as a municipal utility or energy provider). This simplifies the payment process for charging, for example, for the user. It eliminates the need for time-consuming authentication via different applications on mobile phones or through dedicated charging cards for each energy provider.

[0026] In a preferred design, the second connection device includes a temperature monitoring module. The temperature monitoring module is configured to output a temperature information signal to a control unit based on the temperature detected in the second connection device. Alternatively or additionally, the temperature monitoring module is configured to regulate and / or interrupt the current flowing through the second connection device. In this way, the temperature monitoring module is particularly able to maintain a predefined temperature range. Therefore, on one hand, the temperature monitoring module is configured to output temperature information to the control unit, whereby the control unit can consider the information regarding the temperature in the second connection device during the charging process. This temperature information can be, for example, a temperature information signal. It can also be, for example, a value, which may have only two or three levels, and more levels are also possible. Here, the first level may, for example, correspond to a state where "the temperature is within the normal range," the second level may, for example, correspond to a state where "the temperature has increased but is still non-critical," and the third level may, for example, correspond to a state where "the temperature is critical." Therefore, it does not necessarily have to be the known temperature itself. On the other hand, the temperature monitoring module can also autonomously limit or interrupt the charging current. In this case, it is configured such that the two possibilities—the transmission of temperature information and the autonomous reduction or interruption of the charging current—can be alternately or cumulatively configured.

[0027] In a particularly advantageous design, the temperature monitoring module is configured with an evaluation circuit connected to at least one temperature sensor arranged in the second connection device. The evaluation circuit preferably provides a temperature signal, temperature information signal, or status signal based on the known temperature, which is transmitted, in particular, to a control unit in the first connection device via at least one electrical conductor, specifically via a charging lead. This is for example, via an electrical conductor configured as a signal lead. The control unit can reduce and / or interrupt power reception from the energy supply device based on the status signal. Therefore, the evaluation circuit is not positioned to have a direct influence on the charging current, but rather is specifically configured to notify the control unit via the status signal regarding the current temperature state. The status signal may, for example, have multiple levels, each corresponding to a predetermined temperature range. Thus, a first status signal can be output, particularly if the temperature of the second connection device is within the normal range. A second status signal can be displayed if the temperature of the second connection device is within the alarm range, where further temperature increases should be avoided. A third status signal can be output, particularly if the temperature in the second connection device has exceeded a predetermined maximum threshold. Alternatively or additionally, the evaluation circuitry is configured to autonomously interrupt the current, such as the charging current, when the maximum threshold is exceeded, thereby advantageously providing redundancy in terms of temperature safety. In this case, a control unit is not required to interrupt the current, but it can redundantly continue to operate.

[0028] The bypass switch is advantageously arranged in the first connection device, in the coupler of the charging cable, or in an additional coupler of the charging cable, wherein the additional coupler is configured for coupling with an additional interface of the first connection device. This allows for particularly flexible arrangement of the bypass switch. If the bypass switch is not arranged in the first connection device, an additional electrical connection can be provided between the bypass switch and the first connection device, wherein this additional electrical connection extends, particularly via a combination of the additional coupler and the additional interface and / or through the charging cable. The location of the bypass switch can therefore be provided at different locations depending on the available positions, thereby advantageously improving the operation and retractability of the various components of the charging cable, as well as the weight distribution.

[0029] The charging cable is particularly advantageous in that it extends continuously between the first connecting device and the coupler. This specifically means that there are no electronic components in the individual cables. The charging cable is therefore a purely connecting element without active or passive electrical components (if one does not consider the cable itself). The charging cable is particularly non-detachable from the first connecting device, wherein the charging cable is specifically introduced into the housing of the first connecting device. Here, non-detachable means that it cannot be disconnected without setting the charging cable and the first connecting device apart and / or without damage. By introducing the charging cable into the housing of the first connecting device, it is possible to make the first connecting device unnecessary to have cable heads, additional couplers, or similar electrical wiring. Instead, it is a one-piece, especially fixed object with a fixed housing. This allows for, for example, a particularly weather-resistant charging cable, since the vehicle, along with the first connecting device, can also be exposed to adverse, humid, and dirty weather conditions or outdoor environments.

[0030] Furthermore, the present invention preferably relates to a connection device configured as a first connection device in a charging cable according to any one of the preceding claims. The connection device has an energy transmission apparatus, particularly a contact or induction coil. The energy transmission apparatus is used for a wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the energy storage device of a hybrid or electric vehicle, either indirectly or directly. The connection device also has a charging lead or an additional interface for electrical connection to the charging lead. The connection device also has a control unit and preferably a bypass switch. The bypass switch can switch between a first switching state and a second switching state depending on the type of the second connection device of the charging cable. Furthermore, it is preferred that at least a portion of the energy transmission apparatus, particularly each energy transmission apparatus, is provided with an electrical conductor of the charging lead. This arrangement is either made via the additional interface or via fixed wiring of the corresponding electrical conductor and the energy transmission apparatus. In the first switching state of the bypass switch, an electrical connection is established between at least one energy transmission apparatus and the provided electrical conductor by bypassing the control unit. In the second switching state of the bypass switch, the control unit is electrically connected between at least one energy transfer device (which is connected to the provided electrical conductor via the bypass switch in the first switching state) and the separately provided electrical conductor. In this way, the control unit can control the current between the vehicle and the energy supply device, especially controlling the charging process. The bypass switch thus enables the use of the control unit to control the current (e.g., the charging process), allowing different energy supply devices to be used depending on whether the first or second switching state is present. For example, by using the control unit, a constant or continuous voltage source, such as a household outlet, especially one without its own communication cable, can be used as the energy supply device, because the current is controlled (e.g., during charging) via a charging cable or by the vehicle through communication via the control unit. Conversely, the energy supply device is a dedicated charging infrastructure, such as a charging station or wall box, which can communicate autonomously with the vehicle, making the control unit less essential and thus bypassable by the bypass switch.

[0031] The present invention also relates to a connection device configured as a second connection device in or on a charging cable as described above. The connection device has a first interface and a second interface. The first interface is used for a wireless and / or wired electrical connection to an energy supply device, which can be indirectly or directly disconnected. The energy supply device can be, in particular, a household outlet and therefore a constant or continuous voltage source, but in principle, it can also be a dedicated charging infrastructure (also having its own charging controller). The second interface is used for a wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the charging leads of the charging cable, which can be indirectly or directly disconnected. Therefore, the connection device is particularly capable of interchangeably connecting to the charging cable. The connection device can also be connected to different charging leads. A voltage supply device is provided, which is electrically coupled to the first interface and provides a supply voltage to the first interface when a voltage is applied. The supply voltage can be output to the charging leads via the second interface. Finally, a switching unit is provided, through which the output of the voltage provided by the energy supply device to the second interface can be turned on and off. The switching unit can be controlled via the second interface. Therefore, it is particularly configured such that no energy is initially transmitted when the second connection device is connected to the energy supply device. Instead, it first outputs only the supply voltage, which then transmits a signal to the rest of the charging cable indicating a connection to the energy supply device. The control unit in the remaining parts of the charging cable, especially the first connection device, can therefore autonomously start, stop, and control the charging process, or in other words, control the current flowing through the vehicle or its battery or energy storage. This requires corresponding manipulation of the switching unit via a second interface. Thus, on the one hand, the charging process can be controlled, at least started and stopped, and on the other hand, the charging current is interrupted near the energy supply device when the switching unit is disconnected. This minimizes the area where the charging cable and the second connection device are continuously exposed to voltage. The switching unit can also be controlled, for example, by a temperature monitoring module, especially by disconnection.

[0032] In this context, the term "charging" should be understood as an example of energy transfer between a vehicle and an energy supply device.

[0033] Charging cables also have the advantages of being able to charge regardless of whether it is a charging station, a continuous current socket or a switchable socket, and the charging process is fast and uncomplicated.

[0034] Therefore, a preferred embodiment is a charging cable for charging the energy storage device of a hybrid or electric vehicle. The charging cable includes charging leads, each including a first connecting device that can be electrically connected to the energy storage device of the hybrid or electric vehicle independently of ground. The charging leads also include a second connecting device that can be electrically connected to an energy supply device indirectly or directly independently of ground. The charging cable includes at least one control unit and / or at least one switching unit and / or at least one communication unit. The advantages of this charging cable are that it provides a compact, universally replaceable mobile charging solution for drivers or chargers, and offers charging point providers a simple, low-cost, and installable charging infrastructure. Advantageously, the charging process can begin without prior identification and authentication of the charging current requester via RFID cards, mobile phone connections, or credit cards. Therefore, no additional operations directly related to the charging process are required for the charging current requester. Simply inserting the cable is sufficient, as the system performs autonomous authentication. The advantageous improvements to the device described in the independent claim are achieved through the measures listed in the dependent claims.

[0035] Advantageously, at least one control unit and / or at least one switching unit and / or at least one communication unit are positioned along the charging cable. This results in a compact and portable charging solution for the user. Furthermore, the connecting device / plug can be implemented in a small size, leading to reduced tensile stress on the connecting device.

[0036] Advantageously, at least one control unit and / or at least one switch unit and / or at least one communication unit is disposed in the first connection device or along the charging cable. By separating the control unit, switch unit, and communication unit between the connection device and the charging cable, a compact structure is advantageously achieved by transferring some of the functions to the charging cable.

[0037] Furthermore, at least one control unit and / or at least one switch unit and / or at least one communication unit is housed in the first connection device. By arranging these units in the connection device, the main functions concerning charging control, authentication, and identification are compactly housed within the connection device and thus within the plug of the charging cable.

[0038] Furthermore, at least one communication unit communicates wired and / or wirelessly. The communication unit can advantageously communicate wiredly with the vehicle or also with the switchable socket, for example, by implementing identification and, after testing, opening the switchable socket for use. Wireless communication is advantageously used to communicate with the charging controller, user interface, or energy meter.

[0039] Advantageously, the switching unit activates or deactivates the current flowing through the charging cable. If the charging cable is connected to a continuous current socket, advantageously, current will only flow through the charging cable when the switching unit activates the charging current.

[0040] Furthermore, at least one switching unit is adapted to cut off the current through the charging cable based on fault current monitoring and temperature monitoring, thereby improving the safety of the charging process and enabling safe charging in older buildings without FI protection switches.

[0041] The control unit is advantageously suited to adjust the maximum extractable current intensity used to charge the energy storage device. Depending on the conditions under which the charging cable is used (wall box, charging station, switchable socket, continuous current socket, etc.), the control unit adjusts the current intensity to suit the specific situation.

[0042] The communication unit is advantageously suited for connection to a switchable socket of an energy supply device while the charging cable is plugged in, in such a way that the charging cable identifies and authenticates the socket by means of the communication device, and current is supplied to the socket for the charging cable. Therefore, a switchable socket, for example, that is fixedly installed or permanently positioned, cannot be arbitrarily used to charge the energy storage device with an uncertified charging cable, but can only be activated using that specific charging cable. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0044] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle is shown, which is connected to an energy supply device via a charging cable according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0045] Figure 2 A first schematic illustration shows the construction of a charging cable according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 A second schematic illustration shows the construction of a charging cable according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 A third schematic illustration shows the construction of a charging cable according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the charging cable and continuous current socket is shown.

[0049] Figure 6 Another schematic diagram shows the charging cable and the switchable socket, as well as

[0050] Figure 7 Another schematic diagram shows a charging cable and a charging station or wall box. Detailed Implementation

[0051] All accompanying drawings are merely schematic diagrams of the device or components thereof according to embodiments of the invention. In particular, distances and dimensional relationships are not reproduced to scale in the drawings. Corresponding elements are given the same reference numerals in different drawings.

[0052] Figure 1 A hybrid or electric vehicle 12 with an energy storage device 11 is schematically shown. The energy storage device 11 is to be charged via an energy supply device 16, wherein the energy supply device 16 is... Figure 1 The example shown is a charging station capable of charging using three-phase AC voltage. A charging cable 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided for connecting the energy supply device 16 and the energy storage device 11, or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12.

[0053] The charging cable 10 has a first connecting device 14 and a second connecting device 15, wherein a charging wire 13 is located between the first connecting device 14 and the second connecting device 15. The first connecting device 14 is used for electrical connection with the hybrid or electric vehicle 12, and particularly with the energy storage device 11. The second connecting device 15 is used for connection with the energy supply device 16.

[0054] The first connection device 14 has an energy transmission device 8 configured for wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the energy storage device 11, which can be directly or indirectly disconnected. A contact, such as a plug contact or an induction coil, is particularly preferred for establishing the electrical connection. The electrical connection can be established either wired or wirelessly, for example, inductively or capacitively. In the electrically connected state, (electrical) energy can be transferred between the first connection device and the mating interface connected thereto.

[0055] Furthermore, in the illustrated design, the first connection device 14 has an additional interface 9, through which a wireless and / or wired electrical connection can be established directly or indirectly with the additional coupler 5 of the charging cable 13. In an alternative design, the additional interface 9 and the additional coupler 5 can be omitted, allowing the charging cable 13 to be directly mounted on the first connection device 14 and to be inseparable from it without damage.

[0056] The second connecting devices 15, 15A, and 15B are used to electrically connect the charging cable 10 to the energy supply device 16, wherein... Figure 1The diagram illustrates a second connection device 15A of the first type. In this design, the second connection device 15A is configured for connection to a charging infrastructure, which serves as an energy supply device 16, and is capable of, for example, three-phase charging. The charging infrastructure, as the energy supply device 16, already has charging control logic circuitry and can therefore communicate directly with the energy storage device 11 and / or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12. The second connection device 15A has a first interface 1A and a second interface 2, wherein the first interface 1A is configured for electrical connection with the energy supply device 16. The second interface 2 is used for connection with a charging cable 13. The charging cable 13 has a coupler 6 for this purpose, wherein the coupler 6 and the second interface 2 can be electrically connected separately. Thus, the second connection device 15A can be replaced simply and at low cost by disconnecting only the connection between the connector 6 and the second interface 2.

[0057] The first interface 1A is used for an indirect or direct, wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the power supply device 16. This electrical connection can be made, for example, via contacts, such as plug contacts, or capacitive or inductive ground (e.g., via a coil). The same applies to the electrical connection between the second interface 2 and the coupler 6, which is also preferably an indirect or direct, wired electrical connection.

[0058] In this embodiment, the charging lead 13 consists only of an electrical conductor between the coupler 6 and the additional coupler 5, establishing an electrical connection between them. The conductor is, for example, a copper or aluminum conductor, or may be made of another material with high conductivity and have electrical insulation. All conductors are bundled together and preferably have a common sheath, which serves as both electrical insulation and mechanical protection. Preferably, no active or passive electrical components are present in the charging lead 13. All logic components, and especially active or passive electrical components, are either part of the first connection device 14 or the second connection device 15A. This allows for advantageous and cost-effective manufacturing of the charging lead.

[0059] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating the operation and overview of the construction of the charging cable 10 is shown. Figure 2In the design shown, the additional coupler 5 of the charging cable 13 and the additional interface 9 of the first connection device 14 are omitted. Instead, the charging cable 13 is directly introduced into the first housing 26 of the first connection device 14. There, the charging cable is secured, positioned, or connected, for example, in a way that cannot be detached (i.e., cannot be detached without damage). The charging cable 13 therefore only has a coupler 6, on which either a second connection device 15A of the first type or a second connection device 15B of the second type can be mounted, especially in a way that can be detached without damage. In principle, more than two different types of connection devices can also be mounted on the coupler 6. The different types of second connection devices 15A, 15B can be connected to different energy supply devices 16, especially, for example, to household sockets that continuously provide electrical power but do not have charging control logic circuitry and / or communication lines, and to dedicated charging infrastructure that already includes corresponding charging control logic circuitry and / or communication lines and can realize multiphase charging or energy transfer.

[0060] In this exemplary embodiment only, the first connection device 14 has a bypass switch 4 and a control unit 17. The bypass switch 4 can switch between a first switch state and a second switch state, wherein the control unit 17 is bypassed in the first switch state. Figure 2 In the middle (the solid line path above), while in the second switching state, the control unit 17 is connected in the electrical path of the charging cable 10 (in the middle). Figure 2 (The dashed path below). In this embodiment, the bypass switch 4—also for clarity—is shown constructed separately from the control unit 17. However, the bypass switch 4 can also, in principle, be integrated into the control unit 17. In this case, the first switching state should be understood as follows: the control unit 17, in order to functionally control the required components, has its wiring bypassed in any way, with the bypass switch 4 arranged in that wiring. The following utilizes... Figure 3 The following description illustrates the details of the switching process. Therefore, the bypass switch 4 allows the control unit 17 to be selectively activated or deactivated, wherein the switching between the first and second switching states depends on the type of the second connection devices 15A and 15B. This enables the charging cable 10 to be used selectively as a smart charging cable 10 (second switching state) or as a non-smart charging cable (first switching state), depending on whether charging control logic circuitry is required or desired based on the type of the second connection device 15. For this purpose, the user of the charging cable 10 preferably does not need to manually perform any switching process, but rather switches the bypass switch 4 via the second connection devices 15A and 15B. Thus, the user only needs to place the second connection devices 15A and 15B, matched to the current charging situation, for example, by means of a coupler 6, on the charging wire 13 to match the charging cable 10.

[0061] If the second connection device 15A of the first type is coupled to the coupler 6, it is configured such that the first interface 1A and the coupler 6 are directly connected via the second interface 2. Details regarding this will be discussed later. Figure 3 To illustrate, if the second connection device 15A of the first type is used, the charging cable 10 is specifically configured for connection to the charging infrastructure, which serves as the energy supply device 16. In this case, no logic circuitry of its own is required within the charging cable 10, thus bypassing the control unit 17 via the bypass switch 4. The charging cable 10 thus functions as a non-intelligent charging cable and enables direct communication between the energy storage device 11 or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12 and the energy supply device 16.

[0062] Conversely, if the second type of second connection device 15B is used, the first interface 1B of the second connection device 15B is specifically designed for connection to a household socket, for example via a fuse plug constructed in a country-specific manner. Therefore, in this case, no charging control logic circuitry or communication or signal wires are provided on the energy supply device 16 side; thus, in this embodiment, multiple active components are arranged within the second connection device 15. In this case, the control unit 17 (in the first connection device 14) is also required as a charging controller for the charging process, or rather, the energy transfer process. Therefore, the bypass switch 4 is switched to the second switch state to avoid bypassing the control unit 17 and to ensure that the control unit 17 is connected to the electrical path of the charging cable 10.

[0063] It goes without saying that, in principle, the second type of second connection device 15B can also be used when using other energy supply devices described above that have their own communication or signal wires. This may be desirable, for example, if the user expects to benefit from the fact that energy transfer is not carried out through direct communication between the vehicle or energy storage device and the supply device, but rather intentionally through an intermediate connection control unit 17.

[0064] It should also be understood that the switching of bypass switch 4 can be implemented in different ways. The important point is that the switching is performed according to the type of the second connection devices 15A and 5B. The following describes an embodiment that should be understood only by way of example, illustrating how bypass switch 4 can be switched according to type. Of course, other embodiments are also conceivable in principle (information transmitted wirelessly or conveniently via the type of the second connection device), in which the adjustment of the corresponding switch state is based on the transmitted, received, or read information.

[0065] The second type of second connection device 15B here exemplarily only has a voltage supply device 3 and a switching unit 18. If the first interface 1B of the second connection device 15B is connected to the energy supply device 16, the switching unit 18 is initially kept open, thereby interrupting the voltage supply. The charging wire 13 and the first connection device 14 are therefore not directly electrically coupled to the energy supply device 16. Only the supply voltage is provided through the voltage supply device 3, which in this case is specifically a DC voltage. The voltage supply device 3 provides the supply voltage to the bypass switch 4 and / or the control unit 17 via the coupler 6 and the charging wire 13. Thus, the bypass switch can be switched directly by the presence of the supply voltage, for example, in the manner in which the bypass switch 4 is configured as a relay or MOSFET or the like. Alternatively, the bypass switch 4 can also be switched by the control unit 17, where the control unit 17 is first supplied with electrical energy through the voltage supply device 3 and then switches the bypass switch (to the second switching state). In both exemplary cases, the control unit 17 is thus activated and can subsequently control the charging process of the energy storage device 11. For this purpose, the control unit 17 is preferably configured to output a corresponding signal to the switching unit 18 to establish an electrical connection between the energy supply device 16 and the energy storage device 11. Preferably, after its activation (with the bypass switch 4 in the second switching state), the control unit 17 also communicates with the vehicle 12, or the energy storage device 11 of the vehicle 12, and ensures that the vehicle 12, or the energy storage device 11, does not exceed, for example, a maximum transfer current intensity or a specific charging current intensity during energy transfer. Thus, charging control is performed between the control unit 17 and the vehicle 12, or its energy storage device 11.

[0066] Furthermore, and particularly advantageously, the second connection device 15B has a temperature monitoring module 28. The temperature monitoring module 28 is used to read, or rather, to know or detect the temperature of the second connection device 15B, thereby preventing overload of the second connection device 15B due to excessively high temperatures. The following utilizes... Figure 4 The description will illustrate how the temperature monitoring module 28 functions.

[0067] It goes without saying that the bypass switch 4 can also be placed in the charging cable 13 in principle.

[0068] Figure 3 A schematic construction of the charging cable 10 is also shown, in which a... Figure 2Greater detail is provided. The bypass switch 4 is shown here only illustratively and for clarity, separate from the control unit. Additionally, an additional coupler 5 for the charging cable 13 and an additional interface 9 for the first connection device 14 are shown in this design, allowing the first connection device 14 to be detachably constructed from the charging cable 13. As previously described, multiple electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G extend between the additional coupler 5 and the coupler 6. All electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G are coherently constructed between the coupler 6 and the additional coupler 5 and are not physically interrupted by any other electrical component. Therefore, there are no active or passive electrical components between the coupler 6 and the additional coupler 5.

[0069] As previously described, the first connection device 14 has a plurality of energy transmission devices 8 configured for electrical connection with the energy storage device 11. Each energy transmission device 8 is equipped with an electrical conductor 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G, wherein each group of energy transmission devices 8 and the corresponding electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G are configured either for transmitting signals or for transmitting charging power. It is particularly advantageous to achieve at least one neutral wire, at least one grounding protection, at least one three-phase voltage interface, and two signal conductors in this manner.

[0070] In the first switching state, an electrical connection is established between at least one energy transmission device 8 and the corresponding electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G via bypass switch 4, bypassing control unit 17. In the second switching state, control unit 17 is intermediately electrically connected between the energy transmission device 8 (which in the first switching state is connected to the corresponding electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G via bypass switch 4) and the corresponding electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G to control the energy transmission process, such as a charging process. This is particularly suitable for such energy transmission device 8 and the corresponding electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G forming signal wires. Figure 3The first conductor 13A and the second conductor 13B form a signal wire with the respective energy transmission device 8. The signal wire extending via the second conductor 13B can therefore be switched by the bypass switch 4 to either include or bypass the control unit 17. This means that in the first switching state, a (here: direct) connection is established between the second conductor 13B and the corresponding energy transmission device 8, bypassing the control unit 17. Conversely, in the second switching state, the control unit 17 is connected between the second conductor 13B and the corresponding energy transmission device 8. If a connection is established between the additional coupler 5 and the additional interface 9, the remaining conductors 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G and the corresponding energy transmission device 8 are permanently connected. The bypass switch 4 is conventionally in the first switching state. If the second connection device 15A of the first type is used and electrically coupled to the coupler 6 of the charging wire 13, the result is a (direct) electrical connection between the energy transfer device 8 and the first interface 1A of the second connection device 15A, bypassing the control unit 17. In this case, the signal wire formed by the first conductor 13A is not necessarily required and remains unused. The control unit 17 is not supplied with power and remains inactive. Communication between the energy storage device 11 or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12 and the energy supply device 16 can be achieved via the signal wire formed by the second conductor 13B, because this signal wire is directly connected via the bypass switch 4, bypassing the control unit 17.

[0071] Conversely, if the second type of second connection device 15B is used, the control unit 17 is advantageously used and switched to activation. Here, the second connection device 15B is exemplarily connected to a common household outlet, such as a fuse outlet with a zero conductor, a phase conductor, and a protective conductor.

[0072] Activation of control unit 17 occurs, exemplarily, when the second connection device 15B first provides a supply voltage via voltage supply device 3, which is output to control unit 17 via first conductor 13A. Voltage supply device 3 here converts the alternating current from voltage supply device 16 into a DC voltage, such as between 5V and 50V, preferably between 10V and 25V. Control unit 17 is thus supplied with power and activated. Additionally, switching of bypass switch 4 to a second switching state is performed, such that the signal line established via second conductor 13B can be controlled by control unit 17. Switching of bypass switch 4 can be performed either by the supply voltage of voltage supply device 3 or alternatively by a control signal from control unit 17. Needless to say, alternative embodiments are also possible, whereby if one type of second connection device 15B is connected to charging cable 10, these alternative embodiments cause switching of bypass switch 4, in which control unit 17 should be activated or should not be bypassed.

[0073] If the energy storage device 11 and / or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12 attempts to communicate via the energy transmission device 8 associated with the first conductor 13A and the second conductor 13B, this communication now occurs only with the control unit 17. The control unit 17 can therefore function as a charging control logic circuit relative to the energy storage device 11 and / or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12 and control the charging process. This specifically includes negotiating the charging power desired by the energy storage device 11 and / or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12. Once the charging process is to begin, the switching unit 18 is exemplarily operated via the second conductor 13B, which, since the bypass switch 4 is no longer directly connected to the corresponding energy transmission device 8, cannot receive any communication signals from the energy storage device 11 and / or the hybrid or electric vehicle 12. In other words, the control unit 17 can switch the switching unit 18 via the second conductor 13B. The switching unit 18 is here, for example, conventionally switched to the open position. This results in no energy flow initially, which would otherwise occur between the vehicle 12 and the energy supply device 16. In the case of, for example, a charging process, the energy supplied by the energy supply device 16 is not transferred to the charging cable 13 and the first connection device 14. This only occurs when the charging process should begin. The control unit 17 therefore has complete control over the charging process and can influence the start and stop of the charging process via the switching unit 18. Furthermore, in a particularly advantageous design, the charging current intensity can be adjusted via the switching unit 18.

[0074] The charging cable 10 can therefore be connected to different energy supply devices 16, whereby the charging cable 10 functions as either a smart charging cable or a non-smart charging cable depending on external requirements. This greatly simplifies the charging process for the user, as the user only needs to place the matching second connection devices 15, 15A, 15B onto the charging lead 13. The charging cable 10 is then autonomously configured to achieve the desired energy transfer process, such as the desired charging condition.

[0075] As previously described, the first connecting device 14 has a first housing 26, which may be constructed differently. Figure 2 A variant is shown in which both the energy transmission device 8 and the charging wire 13 are constructed on the first housing 23. Figure 3 In the variant shown, the first connection device 14 has a first housing 26, within which the energy transfer device 8 and an additional interface 9 for connection to the additional coupler 5 are constructed. Thus, in particular, all components of the first connection device 14 are arranged within a common housing, namely the first housing 26. The first connection device 16 therefore does not have any cable heads or the like for connecting the charging lead 13. Alternatively, the charging lead 13 can be directly and non-destructively coupled to the first connection device 14.

[0076] The second connecting devices 15, 15A, and 15B have a second housing 27 on which not only the first interfaces 1A and 1B are constructed, but also the second interface 2. Therefore, this design is similar to that of the first connecting device 14. Also applicable to the second connecting devices 15, 15A, and 15B is that all components are arranged within a common housing, namely the second housing 27. In this way, the provision of cable heads or similar components is particularly avoided.

[0077] If the charging cable is connected to the switchable socket on the power supply device 16 side, the switching unit can be bypassed or omitted in the second connection device 15B, or (e.g., via electronic means) the switching unit can be functionally disabled, or only used as an emergency shutdown or emergency throttling device in case of excessive temperature. The control unit 17 can activate the switching function of the switchable socket in such cases of current shutdown or throttling, or communicate with the switchable socket for this purpose.

[0078] Figure 4 This is another illustration, which schematically shows the construction of the charging cable 10. In particular, the logical construction of the charging cable 10 is shown in this case.

[0079] Advantageously, the first connection device 14, in addition to the components described above, also includes an energy measurement module 7. The energy measurement module 7 is advantageously used to determine the electrical energy flowing through the charging cable 10. For this purpose, the energy measurement module advantageously measures the current and the applied voltage to, for example, first determine the electrical power flowing through the charging cable 10. By detecting the time elapsed for each of the determined powers, the energy can be determined. Furthermore, this enables the determination of the degree of aging of the charging cable 10.

[0080] Furthermore, the first connection device 14 advantageously includes a display and / or input module 29. In this case, it may be a touch screen, a display, or an input device. The desired charging current intensity can be input and / or displayed, in particular, via the display and / or input module 29.

[0081] Preferably, the first connection device 14 is configured to have a communication unit 19. The communication unit 19 is, in particular, a radio communication interface. The communication unit 18 is preferably used for communication with a user terminal device 19A (such as a mobile wireless device, tablet computer, or possibly a vehicle or its communication module) and / or the Internet 19B. In this way, information about the charging process can be easily and reliably output to the user. Simultaneously, the user can input, for example, the desired charging current intensity mentioned earlier.

[0082] Furthermore, the first connection device 14 preferably includes an authentication module 21. The authentication module 21 enables authentication at the energy supply device 16, particularly through communication with the authentication docking module 21A. Once authentication is completed via the authentication module 21 and the authentication docking module 21A, the energy supply device 16 can transfer electrical energy. This ensures that only authorized users can transfer energy between the vehicle and the energy supply device 16, and also enables billing for the energy transfer. Thus, separate login to the energy supply device 16 by the user is unnecessary; authentication and / or billing are performed autonomously by the authentication module 21 and the authentication docking module 21A, and therefore ultimately through the first connection device.

[0083] The aforementioned components—namely, the energy measurement module 7, the display or input module 29, the communication unit 19, and the authentication module 21—simplify the operation of the charging cable 10 for the user. This allows for simple and low-cost implementation of comfort functions, such as the previously described billing. Consequently, the energy transfer process, such as the charging process, is designed to be as simple as possible for the user.

[0084] If the charging cable 10 has a first-type second connection device 15A for connection to the charging infrastructure, no further monitoring measures are required. Conversely, if a second-type second connection device 15B is present, depending on the energy supply device used, such as a household outlet, it may only be capable of single-phase charging. In this case, the previously described temperature monitoring module 28 is advantageously provided. The temperature monitoring module 28 here includes, for example, an evaluation circuit 28A and a temperature sensor 28B. The evaluation circuit 28A is connected to the temperature sensor 28B, through which the temperature of the second connection device 15B can be detected. The temperature monitoring module 28 can fulfill different functions, as described below.

[0085] It goes without saying that the temperature monitoring module 28 itself does not necessarily need to have a temperature sensor. It reads or obtains temperature signals.

[0086] On one hand, the evaluation circuit 28A is configured to provide a status signal based on the temperature read by the evaluation circuit 28A and detected, for example, by means of the temperature sensor 28B. The status signal can be transmitted, exemplarily, to the first connected device 14 and, in particular, the control unit 17 via electrical conductors 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, and 13G, but in principle, it can also be transmitted wirelessly or via other wires. The control unit 17 can therefore control the energy transfer process, such as the charging process, based on the temperature signal. The status signal can, in particular, display different temperature levels, such that, for example, when the temperature of the second connected device 15B moves into different predefined temperature ranges, different status signals are provided by the evaluation unit 28A. Thus, the first status signal can, in particular, indicate that the temperature is in a non-critical range. The second status signal can indicate that the temperature is in an increasing range, such that the control unit 17, upon receiving the second status signal, can cause current throttling (e.g., by instructing the vehicle 12 or energy storage 11 to reduce current or by influencing the switching unit 18). Conversely, if a third status signal is provided, indicating that the temperature has exceeded a pre-defined maximum, the charging process should be stopped. The charging process can be stopped either by the control unit 17, which disconnects the current via the switching unit 18 and / or informs the vehicle 12 or energy storage 11 to terminate energy transfer. Alternatively, the charging process can be stopped by the evaluation circuit 28A itself, either by the evaluation circuit 28A controlling the switching unit 18, or by the temperature monitoring module 28 having its own interrupt switch that can be controlled by the evaluation circuit 28A. In this way, the charging process can be carried out only within a pre-defined temperature range of the second connected device. This advantageously avoids overheating, and in some cases, fire, particularly of the energy supply device 16 or the infrastructure connected to it.

[0087] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a charging cable 10 and a continuous current socket 23 is shown. The charging cable 10 has a first connection device 14, which can be disconnected from the energy storage device 11 of the hybrid or electric vehicle 12. The connection device 14 is preferably a Type 2 plug. The charging cable 10 also includes a charging lead 13 and a second connection device 15. The connection device 15 can be implemented as a household plug (Type F fuse plug, used in all EU countries, the US, China, etc.) or a CEE plug (blue, red – for industrial sockets) or a Type 2 plug. Alternatively, the second connection device 15 can also be implemented as an adapter, allowing the aforementioned plug types (household plug, CEE plug, Type 2 plug, etc.) to be connected to the adapter. The connection device 14 is configured for the vehicle side, and the connection device 15 is configured for connecting the charging cable 10 to the energy supply device 16, in this case, the continuous current socket 23. The connection device 14 includes a control unit 17, a switching unit 18, and a communication unit 19. Alternatively, the control unit 17, the switching unit 18, and the communication unit 19 may also be entirely arranged within the charging lead 13 of the charging cable 10 or at least partially distributed along the charging lead and the connection device (e.g., the communication unit 19 is in the connection device 14 and the control unit 17 and the switching unit 18 are along the charging lead 13—or otherwise distributed). If the driver inserts the charging cable 10 into the vehicle 12 and connects it to the continuous current socket 23, the charging cable 10 is first de-energized via the switching unit 13. The control unit 17 recognizes the insertion state in the continuous current socket 23. The control unit 17 then takes over charging control, regulates, and activates / deactivates the charging current via the switching unit. Alternatively, it is feasible to intervene in charging control via the communication unit 19 and use the switching unit 18 to turn off or reduce the charging current.

[0088] Figure 6 Another embodiment of the invention is shown. Another schematic diagram shows the charging cable 10 and the switchable socket 20. Figure 5The same components are given the same reference numerals and are not described in detail. In this embodiment, the charging cable 10 is connected to the switchable socket 20. The charging cable 10 and the switchable socket 20 are connected via a communication unit 19. The communication unit 19 is connected to the socket 20 either wirelessly or via a wired connection. Here, the socket 20 is identified (e.g., via MAC address, WIFI password, LoRaWAN, etc.), authenticated, and current for the charging cable 10 is conducted in the socket 20. When the charging cable 10 is connected to the switchable socket 20, the switching unit 18 does not take over other functions, because the switching function is taken over by the socket 20. Optionally, if a fault current or a safety-related excessively high temperature value is detected, the switching unit 18 can safely shut down within the connected device 14. The communication unit 19 has an IoT (Internet of Things) interface and uses WLAN / LoRaWAN, etc., and has a user interface through which the driver or the person charging can influence or view the charging process. The communication unit 19 also includes an energy meter or current meter (for billing the amount of electricity charged) and, in the case of charging multiple vehicles, allows communication between the charging cables 10 via multiple charging cables 10 to ensure effective charging management.

[0089] The communication unit 19 wirelessly or wiredly manages communication between the various charging cables 10 or alternative base stations 24 in the environment (parking lot / parking area / parking space, etc.). In this case, the communication unit 19 transmits information about the maximum available power, which the charging control device adjusts or switches the charging cables on or off via the switching unit 18. The communication unit 19 reads the current charging power from the charging control device (control unit 17) and transmits it wirelessly or wiredly to the various charging cables 10 or alternative base stations 24 in the environment (parking lot / parking area / parking space, etc.). The communication unit 19 can also be used to operate the charging cables 10 as a very compact mobile charging station and dynamically control the charging process (e.g., active load management, time-controlled, personalized, prioritized charging profiles, current metering, billing) via OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) or smart home connectivity (e.g., through a communication interface). Billing data, network data, and service data are generated, stored, and retrieved (according to OCPP). The intermediate storage is performed in a non-volatile memory 25 (not shown here) within the charging cable 10, thus ensuring data verifiability. Users of the switchable Type 2 socket can set / approve access authorizations (so-called whitelists) for selected personnel to the charging cable 10, or pass an access password to them.

[0090] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the invention is shown. Another schematic diagram of the charging cable 10 and the charging station wall box 22 is also shown. Figure 5 or Figure 6 Identical components are given the same reference numerals and are not described in detail. If the charging cable 10 is inserted into the charging post 22 (or charging station) or wall box 22, the control unit 17 identifies the insertion status in the charging station or wall box and its maximum available power. In this case, the control unit 17 transmits charging control to the charging station or wall box 22. Optionally, it is feasible to intervene in the charging control of the charging post 22 via the communication unit 19 and use the switching unit 18 to turn off or reduce the charging current. By encoding the connection device 15 on the grid side, the maximum possible charging power can be automatically identified.

[0091] Furthermore, the present invention is described by the following points:

[0092] (A) A charging cable 10 for charging an energy storage device 11 of a hybrid or electric vehicle 12, comprising a charging wire 13, wherein the charging wire 13 includes a first connection device 14, wherein the first connection device 14 is electrically disconnectable from the energy storage device 11 of the hybrid or electric vehicle 12, wherein the charging wire 13 includes a second connection device 15, wherein the second connection device 15 is electrically disconnectable from the energy supply device 16, either indirectly or directly, wherein the charging cable 10 includes at least one control unit 17 and / or at least one switching unit 18 and / or at least one communication unit 19.

[0093] (B) The charging cable 10 as defined in point (A), wherein the at least one control unit 17 and / or the at least one switch unit 18 and / or the at least one communication unit 19 are disposed along the charging wire 13.

[0094] (C) The charging cable 10 as defined in point (A), wherein the at least one control unit 17 and / or the at least one switch unit 18 and / or the at least one communication unit 19 is disposed in the first connection device 14 or disposed along the charging wire 13.

[0095] (B) The charging cable 10 as defined in point (A), wherein the at least one control unit 17 and / or the at least one switch unit 18 and / or the at least one communication unit 19 are disposed in the first connection device 14.

[0096] (E) The charging cable 10 defined in point (A), or point (B), or point (C) or point (D), wherein the at least one communication unit 19 communicates wiredly and / or wirelessly.

[0097] (F) The charging cable 10 defined in point (A), or point (B), or point (C) or point (D), wherein the at least one switching unit 18 is adapted to activate or deactivate the current through the charging cable 10.

[0098] (G) The charging cable 10 as defined in point (F), wherein the at least one switching unit 18 is adapted to cut off the current through the charging cable 10 based on fault current monitoring or temperature monitoring.

[0099] (H) The charging cable 10 defined in point (F), wherein the at least one control unit 17 is adapted to adjust the maximum extractable current intensity for charging the energy storage 11.

[0100] (J) The charging cable 10 defined in point (A), or point (B), or point (C), or point (D), or point (E), or point (F), or point (G), or point (H), wherein the communication unit 19 is adapted to connect to the switchable socket 20 of the power supply device 16 when the charging cable 10 is inserted, in such a way that the charging cable 10 identifies the socket 20 by means of the communication device 19, authenticates the socket 20, and conducts current 21 for the charging cable 10 in the socket 20.

Claims

1. A charging cable (10) for electrically connecting an energy storage device (11) to be charged in a hybrid or electric vehicle (12) to an energy supply device (16) that provides electrical energy, said charging cable (10) having: The charging cable (13) has a coupler (6) and a plurality of electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) electrically connected to the coupler (6), the electrical conductors being used for power transmission and / or signal transmission. The first connection device (14) has an energy transmission device (8) for wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the energy storage device (11) in a way that can be detached from the energy storage device (11). The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a first interface (1A, 1B) and a second interface (2). The first interface is used for a wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the energy supply device (16) that can be disconnected, and the second interface is used for a disconnected electrical connection to the coupler (6). wherein At least a portion of the energy transmission device (8) of the first connection device (14) is respectively provided with an electrical conductor (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) of the charging wire (13). The first connecting device (14) has a control unit (17). The first connecting device (14) or the charging wire (13) has a bypass switch (4). The bypass switch (4) can switch between a first switch state and a second switch state according to the type of the second connected device (15, 15A, 15B). In the first switching state, an electrical connection is established between at least one energy transmission device in the energy transmission device (8) and the corresponding electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) by bypassing the control unit (17) via the bypass switch (4), and In the second switching state, the control unit (17) is electrically connected between the at least one energy transmission device (8) and the respective electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) to control the charging process. In the first switching state, the at least one energy transmission device is connected to the electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) via the bypass switch (4).

2. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1. wherein, The charging cable (13) has an additional coupler (5). The electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) extend continuously between the coupler (6) and the additional coupler (5) for power transmission and / or signal transmission. The first connection device (14) has an additional interface (9) that can be electrically connected to the additional coupler (5) to establish an electrical connection between the energy transmission device (8) and / or the control unit (17) and / or the bypass switch (4) and the electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) of the charging wire (13).

3. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein The first connecting device (14) has a first housing (26), on which - Not only is the energy transmission device (8) constructed, but the charging wire (13) is also constructed. and / or The second connecting device (15, 15A, 15B) has a second housing (27) on which not only the first interface (1A, 1B) is constructed but also the second interface (2).

4. The charging cable (10) according to claim 2. wherein, The first connecting device (14) has a first housing (26), on which - Not only is the energy transmission device (8) constructed, but the additional interface (9) is also constructed. and / or The second connecting device (15, 15A, 15B) has a second housing (27) on which not only the first interface (1A, 1B) is constructed but also the second interface (2).

5. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein, The bypass switch (4) is switched to the second switch state when a supply voltage is applied and switched to the first switch state when no supply voltage is applied, and / or wherein the bypass switch (4) can be switched between the first switch state and the second switch state by the control unit (17).

6. The charging cable (10) according to claim 5. wherein The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a voltage supply device (3) electrically coupled to the first interface (1A, 1B) and provides a supply voltage on the first interface (1A, 1B) when a voltage is applied.

7. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a switching unit (18) which can connect and disconnect the electrical connection between the energy supply device (16) and the second interface (2), wherein the switching unit (18) can be controlled by the control unit (17).

8. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein, The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a continuous electrical connection between the first interface (1A, 1B) and the second interface (2).

9. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein The first connecting device (14) has: Communication unit (19). and / or Display and / or input module (20). and / or The energy measurement module (7) is used to determine the electrical energy flowing through the charging cable (10). and / or The authentication module (21) is used to authenticate the energy supply device (16).

10. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a temperature monitoring module (28) configured to output a temperature information signal to the control unit (17) based on the temperature detected in the second connection device (15, 15A, 15B), and / or regulate and / or interrupt the current through the second connection device (15, 15A, 15B).

11. The charging cable (10) according to claim 10. wherein The temperature monitoring module (28) has an evaluation circuit (28A) connected to at least one temperature sensor (28B) arranged in the second connection device (15, 15A, 15B), wherein the evaluation circuit (28A) provides a status signal based on the known temperature, the status signal being transmitted to the control unit (17) so that the control unit (17) reduces or interrupts power reception from the energy supply device (16) based on the status signal.

12. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein The bypass switch (4) is arranged in - In the first connecting device (14) or - In the coupler (6) of the charging wire (13) or - In the additional coupler (5) of the charging wire (13), wherein the additional coupler (5) is configured to couple with the additional interface (9) of the first connection device (14).

13. The charging cable (10) according to claim 1 or 2. wherein, The charging wire (13) extends continuously between the first connecting device (14) and the coupler (6).

14. The charging cable of claim 1, wherein, The energy transmission device (8) is a contact or an induction coil.

15. The charging cable according to claim 1, wherein, Each energy transmission device (8) of the first connection device (14) is equipped with an electrical conductor (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) of the charging wire (13).

16. The charging cable according to claim 6, wherein, The supply voltage can be applied to the bypass switch (4) via the second interface (2) and the charging wire (13) to switch the bypass switch (4) to the second switch state.

17. The charging cable according to claim 7, wherein, The switching unit (18) can be controlled by the control unit (17) to control the charging process.

18. The charging cable according to claim 8, wherein, The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a continuous, direct and uninterrupted electrical connection between the first interface (1A, 1B) and the second interface (2).

19. The charging cable according to claim 8, wherein, No supply voltage is required for the bypass switch (4) and / or no passive or active electrical components are required.

20. The charging cable according to claim 9, wherein, The communication unit (19) is a radio communication interface.

21. The charging cable according to claim 9, wherein, The display and / or input module (20) is used to input the desired charging current intensity.

22. The charging cable according to claim 10, wherein, The second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) has a temperature monitoring module (28), which is configured to output a temperature information signal to the control unit (17) based on the temperature detected in the second connection device (15, 15A, 15B), and / or regulate and / or interrupt the current through the second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) to maintain a predetermined temperature range.

23. The charging cable according to claim 11, wherein, The status signal is transmitted to the control unit (17) via electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G).

24. The charging cable according to claim 13, wherein, The charging cable (13) can be detachably mounted on the first connecting device (14).

25. The charging cable according to claim 13, wherein, The charging cable (13) is introduced into the housing (26) of the first connecting device (14).

26. A connection device (14) configured for use as a first connection device (14) in a charging cable (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, said connection device (14) having: Energy transfer device (8) for indirect or direct wireless and / or wired electrical connection to the energy storage device (11) of a hybrid or electric vehicle (12), Charging cable (13) or additional interface (9) for electrical connection with charging cable (13). Control unit (17), and Bypass switch (4). in, Each of the energy transmission devices (8) is equipped with an electrical conductor (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) of the charging wire (13). The bypass switch (4) can switch between a first switch state and a second switch state according to the type of the second connection device (15, 15A, 15B) of the charging cable (10). In the first switching state, an electrical connection is established between at least one energy transmission device in the energy transmission device (8) and the provided electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) by bypassing the control unit (17) via the bypass switch. In the second switching state, the control unit (17) is electrically connected between the at least one energy transmission device (8) and the respective electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) to control the charging process. In the first switching state, the at least one energy transmission device is connected to the electrical conductors (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) via the bypass switch (4).

27. The connection device according to claim 26, wherein, The energy transmission device (8) is a contact or an induction coil.

28. The connection device according to claim 26, wherein, Each of the energy transmission devices (8) is equipped with an electrical conductor (13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G) of the charging wire (13).

29. A connecting device (15, 15A, 15B) configured to be used as a second connecting device (15, 15A, 15B) in a charging cable (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 25, said connecting device (15, 15A, 15B) having: The first interface (1A, 1B) is used for indirect or direct wireless and / or wired electrical connection with the power supply device (16). The second interface (2) is used for indirect or direct wireless and / or wired electrical connection with the charging wire (13) of the charging cable (10). A voltage supply device (3) is electrically coupled to the first interface (1A, 1B) and provides a supply voltage on the first interface (1A, 1B) when a voltage is applied. This supply voltage can be output to the charging wire (13) via the second interface (2). The switching unit (18) enables the connection and disconnection of the voltage supplied by the energy supply device (16) to the output on the second interface (2), wherein, The switching unit (18) can be controlled via the second interface (2).

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