Method and system for establishing automatic electrical connection between two connectors

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for automatic electrical connection between a plug (1) connected to a power supply unit of an electric vehicle and a socket (2) connected to a power supply grid to which the power supply unit of the electric vehicle must be connected for charging, for wired charging of a chargeable electric or hybrid vehicle. The plug (1) is initially accommodated in a housing of a first connection unit (VU), which is located on the vehicle side and comprises a first control unit (UC1), and the socket (2) is located on a second connection unit (GU), which is located on the grid side and comprises a second control unit (UC2). The plug (1) comprises a first magnetic architecture (AM1) and the socket (2) comprises a second magnetic architecture (AM2), the plug and the socket being mechanically coupleable by magnetic attraction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and a system for establishing an electrical connection between two connectors. Background Art

[0002] Patent application WO2017 / 216458A1 discloses an electrical connection device in the form of a base of an electrical socket integrated with magnetic attraction. The electrical socket is located in the center, and the surface of the base surrounds the positive connection surface of the electrical socket. The electrical socket is equipped with a magnetic device that allows it to attract an electrical plug equipped with a corresponding magnetic device by magnetic effect. When the socket and the plug are connected by magnetic effect, an electrical connection is established between the two elements. The plug is connected to an electrical device, such as a power supply system of an electric vehicle. In a specific embodiment, the electrical connection device includes a plurality of annular coils that are integrated into the base and concentrically positioned around the electrical socket. In operation, the base of the integrated electrical socket is placed on the ground, for example, and connected to a power source by a cable. The plug is released from a device near the base. The coil is controlled by a control sequence designed to guide the plug toward the center of the base and thus to the electrical socket. The connection is achieved by the magnetic attraction between the corresponding magnetic device of the socket and the corresponding magnetic device of the plug.

[0003] This prior art solution only deals with the principle of connection between plug and socket, in particular by means of a coil integrated into a base placed on the ground. This prior art document does not deal with the steps before the connection between plug and socket is established, in particular with regard to the activation of each connection unit on the vehicle side and on the grid side.

[0004] Patent application US2020 / 269714A1 describes a solution for charging electric vehicles.

[0005] Patent US10090885B2 describes a solution for inductive charging of electric vehicles, which in particular provides a method for aligning two antennas using a magnetic field.

[0006] Patent US9446675B2 describes a solution for inductive charging of electric vehicles using an alignment device with a receiving antenna.

[0007] Patent application JP2013225969 describes an identification method implemented in a solution for inductive charging of a vehicle.

[0008] Patent application WO 2019 / 204377 A1 describes an alignment system and method in a solution for inductive charging of electric vehicles.

[0009] The invention aims to propose an automatic electrical connection method capable of integrating all the steps required to ensure a wired connection between a plug on the vehicle side and a socket on the grid side. Summary of the invention

[0010] The object is to provide a method for wired charging of a rechargeable electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle by means of an automatic electrical connection between a plug connected to a power supply component of an electric vehicle and a socket connected to an electric power supply network, wherein the power supply component of the electric vehicle must be connected to the electric power supply network for charging, the plug being initially accommodated in a housing of a first connection unit, the first connection unit being located on the vehicle side and comprising a first control unit, the socket being carried by a second connection unit, the second connection unit being located on the grid side and comprising a second control unit, the plug comprising a first magnetic architecture, the socket comprising a second magnetic architecture, the plug and the socket being mechanically coupleable by magnetic effect, the method comprising: - a step of generating a magnetic field by the second connection unit using an electromagnetic coil, - a step in which the first connection unit detects a magnetic field generated by the second connection unit, - a step of automatically releasing the plug from the housing of the first connection unit after detecting the presence of the magnetic field in order to connect the plug to the socket, - a step of initiating an electrical connection sequence comprising: The magnetic effect attracts the plug towards the socket, so that the plug is connected to the socket.

[0011] According to the invention, the electromagnetic coil is therefore used to detect the presence of the second connection unit via the first connection unit and to guide the plug towards the socket in the sequence of connecting the plug to the socket.

[0012] According to a particular feature, the method comprises a previous step of detecting the position of the vehicle relative to the second connection unit and a step of activating the second control unit of the second connection unit when the vehicle is in a determined stationary position.

[0013] According to another particular feature, the method comprises a previous step of detecting the presence of a vehicle close to the second connection unit, and a step of initiating a sequence for guiding the vehicle so as to bring said vehicle into a determined position relative to the second connection unit.

[0014] According to another particular feature, the method comprises a step of monitoring the speed of the vehicle and a step of activating the detection means of the first connection unit taking into account the monitored speed.

[0015] According to another particular feature, the method comprises, before implementing the step of initiating said electrical connection sequence, performing a pre-authentication step between said first connection unit and said second connection unit by exchanging data between the two connection units via a wireless link.

[0016] According to another particular feature, the method comprises a step of authentication by exchanging data between the first connection unit and the second connection unit via a wired link when the plug is connected to the socket.

[0017] The invention also relates to an automatic electrical connection system for wired charging of an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, the system comprising a plug connected to a power supply component of the electric vehicle, and a socket connected to an electric power supply network, to which the power supply component of the electric vehicle must be connected for charging, the system comprising a first connection unit and a second connection unit carrying the socket, the first connection unit comprising a housing in which the plug is initially accommodated, the first connection unit being located on the vehicle side and comprising a first control unit, the second connection unit carrying the socket being located on the grid side and comprising a second control unit, the plug and the socket being mechanically coupleable by magnetic effect, the system being characterized in that: - the second connection unit comprises means for generating a magnetic field by means of an electromagnetic coil, said means being activatable by the second control unit, - the first connection unit comprises first detection means for detecting the magnetic field generated by the second connection unit, - the first connection unit comprises release means for automatically releasing the plug from the housing of the first connection unit, said means being activated upon detecting the presence of said magnetic field in order to connect the plug to the socket, - The second control unit is configured to activate an electrical connection sequence comprising steps performed by activating the electromagnetic coil to attract the plug towards the socket via a magnetic effect in order to connect the plug to the socket.

[0018] According to a particular feature, the system comprises detection means for detecting the presence of a vehicle close to the second attachment unit, and execution means for executing a sequence for guiding the vehicle so as to bring said vehicle into a determined position relative to the second attachment unit.

[0019] According to another particular feature, the system comprises monitoring means for monitoring the speed of the vehicle, and the first control unit is configured to activate the first detection means taking into account the monitored speed.

[0020] According to another particular feature, the first control unit and the second control unit are configured to perform a pre-authentication sequence of the two connection units by exchanging identification data between the first connection unit and the second connection unit via a wireless link before establishing an electrical connection between the plug and the socket.

[0021] According to another particular feature, the first control unit and the second control unit are configured to perform an authentication sequence between the first connection unit and the second connection unit, once the plug is connected to the socket, by exchanging identification data between the two connection units via a wired link.

[0022] According to another particular feature, the electrical connection sequence is configured to activate electromagnetic means of the second connection unit, said electromagnetic means being designed to attract the plug towards the socket by magnetic effect.

[0023] According to another particular feature, the second control unit is configured to activate the electromagnetic means of the second connection unit as means for generating a magnetic field.

[0024] According to another particular feature, first detection means are arranged in the first connection means to detect the presence of said magnetic field generated by the second connection unit and to distinguish the presence of said magnetic field from the presence of a second magnetic field generated by the first magnetic architecture.

[0025] According to another particular feature, the system comprises second detection means for detecting the position of the vehicle relative to the second connection unit, and activation means for activating the second connection unit when the vehicle is in a determined stationary position.

[0026] According to another particular feature, the second connection unit is integrated into the mat, into which the second detection unit is also integrated.

[0027] According to another particular feature, the system comprises at least one block fixed to said mat, said block integrating at least one position sensor of said second detection means.

[0028] According to another particular feature, the system comprises at least one stop device fixed to said mat, at least one position sensor of said second detection means being integrated in said mat, close to said stop device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description given with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - Figure 1 A connection system according to the invention is schematically shown; - Figure 2 shows the functional architecture of the connection system according to the present invention; - FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D Various variant embodiments of the second part of the connection system of the present invention are shown; - Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the various steps performed during the method for establishing a connection between a plug and a socket according to the present invention; - FIG. 5A to FIG. 5L Schematically illustrates the individual steps carried out during the method according to the invention for establishing a connection between a plug and a socket; - Figure 6A particular feature of the connection system of the present invention is shown; - Figure 7 In a non-limiting manner, one exemplary embodiment of two magnetic architectures distributed in a plug and a socket of the connection system of the invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The present invention is generally applicable to an electrical connection system, and in particular, the electrical connection system may be employed in an electrical installation for charging an electric vehicle.

[0031] Reference Figure 1 The system consists of two parts, one of which is used to connect to the power supply network R and the other is used to connect to the power supply components of a rechargeable electric or hybrid vehicle V.

[0032] Any solution allowing an electrical connection to the power supply components of the vehicle V or to the power supply network R may be envisaged, such as cables, conductor bars or other equivalent solutions or the like.

[0033] The first part of the system comprises a first connection unit VU on the vehicle V side and carrying an electrical plug 1 , and the second part comprises a second connection unit GU on the power supply network R side and carrying an electrical socket 2 to which the plug 1 is to be connected.

[0034] The system advantageously allows the plug 1 to be automatically mechanically connected to the socket 2 using only magnetic and gravity means, without the need for operator or robotic intervention.

[0035] Of course, the terms "plug" and "socket" should be understood in a non-limiting manner, without any assumptions about their respective structures, and should be understood as precise terms used to define a first connector and a second connector, which are used to mechanically and electrically connect to each other.

[0036] The assembly direction corresponding to the main axis (A) is defined here, and it will also be mentioned in the rest of the description that the plug 1 is mechanically pressed against the socket 2 along the main axis (A).

[0037] In the remainder of the description, the terms "front", "rear", "high", "low", "higher" and "lower" are to be considered with reference to the longitudinal position along the main axis (A).

[0038] In the remainder of the description, the terms "inner" and "outer" are to be considered with reference to coaxial positions relative to the main axis (A).

[0039] When the plug 1 is connected to the socket 2, the front of the plug 1 is mechanically pressed against the front of the socket 2, and then an electrical connection is formed.

[0040] The connection between the plug and the socket is understood to mean that the plug is in mechanical contact with the socket and then one or more electrical connection members of the plug are electrically connected to one or more electrical connection members of the socket.

[0041] Reference Figure 1 , plug 1 and socket 2 will connect through magnetic effect.

[0042] The socket 2 is equipped with a magnetic structure AM_2 arranged transversely to the main axis (A), allowing the socket 2 to attract the plug 1 equipped with a corresponding magnetic structure AM_1. When the plug 1 is coupled to the socket 2 by magnetic effect, an electrical connection is also established between the first electrical connection member of the socket 2 and the second electrical connection member of the plug 1.

[0043] The two magnetic structures used can ensure that the plug 1 is combined with the socket 2 by magnetic effect. Patent EP3317926B1 and patent application WO2020 / 229321A1 specifically describe various magnetic structures that allow the plug 1 to be combined with the socket 2. These magnetic structures are applicable to the present invention, but should be regarded as non-restrictive. The two magnetic structures advantageously include multiple permanent magnets. According to a specific feature, when the plug is in a suitable angular position relative to the socket, the two magnetic structures attract each other to establish a connection, or when the plug must be pulled out of the socket when disconnecting, the two magnetic structures repel each other.

[0044] For example, Figure 7 Shown is a magnetic architecture AM_2 present on the side of the socket 2 and a magnetic architecture AM_1 present on the side of the plug 1. The two magnetic architectures shown comprise a ferromagnetic yoke 110, 210 and one or more permanent magnet parts fixed to the ferromagnetic yoke.

[0045] In the second magnetic architecture, for example, the three permanent magnets 211 of the first group each extend over their annular portion, for example, over an angular range AP1 of 55°, and for example, the three permanent magnets 212 of the second group extend over an angular range AP2 of 55°, for example.

[0046] Each of the three permanent magnets of the second group is located between two permanent magnets of the first group, leaving a regular non-zero angular spacing between the two magnets of the first group. The regular angular spacing I1 between two adjacent magnets is about 5°.

[0047] The permanent magnets of the first set and the permanent magnets of the second set are magnetically oriented along the main axis (A) and in opposite directions to each other.

[0048] The first magnetic structure AM_1 only has a first group of three permanent magnets 111 that are identical to the permanent magnets of the first magnetic structure.

[0049] It should be noted that the two magnetic architectures AM_1, AM_2 are configured to ensure that the plug 1 is coupled to the socket 2 in a given orientation around the main axis by an attractive magnetic effect. The two magnetic architectures AM_1, AM_2 are configured so that when the plug 1 is coupled to the socket 2 by magnetic effect, the plug 1 can assume a plurality of different angular positions.

[0050] For example, Figure 7 In the magnetic architecture shown, the plug 1 can assume three different angular positions offset by 120° from each other. The plug 1 can be in a first angular position called the 0° position, a second angular position called the -120° position or a third angular position called the +120° position.

[0051] Of course, the magnetic arrangement of the magnetic architecture (the angular extent of the magnets and the angular spacing between the magnets) can be adjusted.

[0052] The first connection unit VU comprises a housing 10 in which the plug 1 is accommodated. The housing 10 may be designed to cover and protect the connection members of the plug 1 when the plug is accommodated in the housing 10. The first connection unit VU may comprise an extraction device 11 for extracting the plug from the housing, and a release device for releasing the plug 1 from the housing 10. These release devices for releasing the plug 1 may be composed of an electric motor 120 or other equivalent devices for driving a winding machine 121, so that it can roll up or unroll a cable 122 connected to the end of the plug 1.

[0053] The first connection unit VU further comprises first magnetic field detection means 13 associated with the first connection unit VU. These first detection means 13 may comprise one or more sensors, for example Hall sensors.

[0054] The first connection unit VU may also comprise first communication means 14 for exchanging data, in particular identification data, with the second connection unit GU. These first communication means 14 may comprise a wireless communication interface and a wired communication interface.

[0055] The first connection unit VU further comprises a first control unit UC_1 which is responsible in particular for managing: - monitoring a parameter of the vehicle, such as the speed V_v of the vehicle, in order to activate or deactivate the first detection means 13 and thus wake up the first connection unit VU; - after the first detection device 13 is activated, managing the data received from the first detection device 13 in order to detect the presence of a second connection device GU nearby; - managing the first communication means 14 in order to control the exchange of identification data with the second connection unit GU via the wireless communication interface when the second connection unit GU is detected in the vicinity and a connection between the plug 1 and the socket 2 has not yet been established; - after the first connection unit and the second connection unit are pre-authenticated, the plug 1 is unplugged by controlling the unplugging device 11 for unplugging the plug 1 from the housing 10 and the releasing device for releasing the plug 1; - managing the first communication means 14 in order to control the exchange of data with the second connection unit GU via the wired communication interface once the connection between the plug 1 and the socket 2 has been established.

[0056] According to a particular aspect, for example, the first control unit UC_1 is capable of activating or deactivating the first detection device 13 taking into account a change in at least one parameter. For example, the parameter may be the speed of the vehicle. When the speed of the vehicle is lower than a speed threshold (taking into account the hysteresis), the first control unit UC_1 may activate the first detection device 13 to wake up the first detection device 13 and start the first detection device 13 to monitor whether there is a sufficiently strong magnetic field around.

[0057] The second connection unit GU integrates the socket 2. In a non-limiting manner, this second connection unit GU advantageously has a base 20 to be placed on a support, such as the ground S, with the main axis (A) then being orthogonal to the ground. The base 20 may comprise one or more connectors 30 allowing it to be connected to the electrical network R and possibly to an external communication system. The electrical connections integrated into the base 20 allow the electrical socket 2 to be connected to said connectors 30.

[0058] Refer to the attached Figure 1 The base 20 includes a closed sheath 21 , a portion (eg, a central portion) of the sheath 21 is occupied by the socket 2 .

[0059] The electrical socket 2 comprises a front plate 22, through which the electrical socket 2 is mechanically connected to the plug 1. The front plate 22 is oriented transversely to the main axis (A) and can be of any suitable shape (flat or curved, concave or convex shape). The sheath 21 surrounds the socket 2 and defines a front surface of the front plate 22 surrounding the socket 2. This front surface is located outside the front plate 22 of the socket 2 and is not specifically used for connection. The front surface of the base 20 surrounding the socket 2 can be a flat shape in the same plane as the plane formed by the front plate 22 of the socket 2, or a concave or convex curved shape (as shown in the attached figure). Under this surface, the sheath 21 of the second connection unit GU integrates a magnetic guide device, which is designed to guide the plug 1 to the socket 2 when the plug 1 is close. In a non-limiting manner, patent application No. WO2017 / 216458A1 describes a working principle in which the plug 1 is connected to the socket 2 by executing a control sequence of the magnetic guide device integrated in the sheath.

[0060] The magnetic guidance means advantageously comprise a plurality of electromagnetic coils, called guidance coils 25, housed in a sheath of the base 20 and arranged concentrically around the socket 2. The control sequence may comprise activating one or more of the guidance coils 25 so as to act on the magnetic structure AM_1 of the plug 1 by magnetic effect, so as to bring the plug 1 as close as possible to the socket 2. Once the plug 1 has approached the axis of the socket 2, the two magnetic structures AM_1, AM_2 located on the side of the plug 1 and the side of the socket 2 can complete the connection between the plug 1 and the plug 2.

[0061] The second part of the system also comprises second detection means 23 for detecting the position of the vehicle, said second detection means 23 being associated with the second connection unit GU. These second detection means 23 may comprise at least one presence sensor and / or at least one position sensor. The second connection unit GU uses these second detection means 23 to ensure that the vehicle V is in a determined position in order to determine whether a connection sequence with the plug 1 can be initiated. It will be seen below that these second detection means 23 may be integrated into various architectures associated with the second connection unit GU.

[0062] The second connection unit GU may also comprise second communication means 24 for exchanging data, in particular identification data, with the second connection unit VU. These second communication means 24 may comprise a wireless communication interface and a wired communication interface.

[0063] The second connection unit GU comprises a second control unit UC_2, which is configured as follows: - receiving data from the second detection device 23 and processing these data to determine whether the vehicle V is in a determined position; - activating at least one guidance coil 25 of the magnetic guidance means in order to generate a magnetic field detectable by the first detection means 13 of the first connection unit VU; this action is performed, for example, when the second detection means 23 detect the presence of the vehicle V or the position of the vehicle; - second communication means 24 for managing the second connection unit GU in order to control the exchange of identification data with the first connection unit VU via the wireless communication interface when the first connection unit VU is detected in the vicinity and a connection between the plug 1 and the socket 2 has not yet been established; - when the presence of the plug 1 is detected in the vicinity of the second connection unit GU, a sequence for connecting the plug 1 to the socket 2 is initiated; said connection sequence comprises a sequence for controlling the guide coil 25 for attracting the plug 1 towards the socket 2; - second communication means 24 for managing the second connection unit GU in order to control the exchange of data with the first connection unit GU via the wired communication interface once the connection between the plug 1 and the socket 2 has been established.

[0064] On the side of the second connection unit GU, the second detection device 23 can be implemented according to various solutions defined below and integrated according to various support architectures. For each of these solutions, the second control unit UC_2 is configured to generate a magnetic field that can be detected by the first connection unit VU when the presence and / or position of the vehicle V is detected.

[0065] For these various solutions, it should be noted that the second part of the system integrating the second connection unit GU, the second detection device 23 and the support structure of the second detection device 23 can be implemented in the form of a single-piece assembly that contains the wiring and devices necessary for the operation of the second part of the system. Advantageously, this assembly can take the form of a mat placed on the ground on which the vehicle V can be parked, the mat T being made in one piece. It should be noted that this single-piece assembly, such as a mat, can have visual means, such as colored stripes or the like, capable of assisting the driver in correctly positioning the vehicle so that the connection between the plug 1 and the socket 2 can be correctly established.

[0066] As will be seen below, each stopper or stop means may be incorporated into or integrated into the mat T. Position sensors or presence sensors are integrated into the mat at the stopper, near the stop means, or in the body of the mat T. The mat T thus forms a one-piece assembly that can be simply deployed and that integrates all the necessary elements for the operation of the second part of the connection system of the invention.

[0067] exist Figure 3AIn the first solution shown in , the second detection means 23 can be implemented in the form of one or more position sensors 230, which are integrated into at least one block 40, in which the (front or rear) wheels of the vehicle V are positioned. Two blocks 40, each for the front wheels or the rear wheels of the vehicle, can be positioned on either side of the second connection unit GU. Thus, at least one position sensor 230 is integrated into the blocks to detect the presence of the wheels of the vehicle and thus determine the position of the vehicle relative to the second connection unit GU.

[0068] exist Figure 3B In the second solution shown in , the second detection means 23 can be implemented in the form of one or more position sensors 231 associated with at least one stop device 41, against which at least one wheel of the vehicle abuts when the vehicle is parked. Two stop devices 41, one each for the front or rear wheels of the vehicle, can be arranged on a mat T placed on the ground, on either side of the second connection unit. Thus, at least one position sensor 231 is integrated into the mat T in front of the stop device to detect the presence of a wheel of the vehicle and thus determine the position of the vehicle relative to the second connection unit GU.

[0069] exist Figure 3C In a third solution shown in , the second detection means 23 can be implemented in the form of one or more presence sensors 232 for determining the presence of a vehicle close to the second connection unit. In this configuration, two presence sensors 232, one for each front wheel or rear wheel of the vehicle V, are for example integrated into a mat T in which the second connection unit is also integrated.

[0070] exist Figure 3D In the fourth solution shown in , the second detection device 23 is integrated into the entire cushion T, into which the second connection unit is integrated. The second detection device 23 determines whether there is a vehicle close to the second connection unit GU. In this configuration, the position of the vehicle V is unknown. The position of the vehicle is determined, for example, by taking into account the strength of the magnetic field generated by the second connection unit GU and detected by the first detection device 13 of the first connection unit VU located on the vehicle side. Based on these data collected by the first control unit UC_1, the user can be guided to position the vehicle and its first connection unit VU relative to the second connection unit GU in a determined suitable position.

[0071] Combine the following Figure 4 and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5L , the working principle of the system of the present invention is described in more detail. It should be noted that some steps described below are still optional or can be implemented in different ways.

[0072] E1 – Figure 5A: The first control unit UC_1 detects the deceleration of the vehicle V through its monitoring device (for example coupled to the vehicle's speed sensor) and wakes up (signal S1) the first detection device 13 (for example a Hall sensor) of the first connection unit VU when the vehicle's speed V_v is lower than a certain threshold.

[0073] E10 – Figure 5B : A second detection device 23 (position and / or presence sensor) associated with the second connection unit GU detects the presence and / or position of the vehicle V and sends a detection signal S2 to the second control unit UC_2 to wake up the second connection unit GU.

[0074] E20 – Figure 5C : After receiving the detection signal, the second control unit UC_2 activates (control signal S3 ) at least one of the guide coils 25 of the second connection unit GU, for example, to generate a magnetic field B around the second connection unit GU.

[0075] E2 – Figure 5D : The first detection means 13 (for example a Hall sensor) associated with the first connection unit VU detects the presence of the magnetic field B and sends a detection signal S4 to the first control unit UC_1. This step makes it possible to verify the correct positioning of the first connection unit VU relative to the second connection unit GU. In other words, by detecting the presence of the magnetic field generated by the guide coil, the first connection unit VU knows that it is close to the second connection unit GU (in its field).

[0076] E3 – Figure 5E : The first control unit UC_1 performs a pre-authentication procedure. It activates its first communication means 14 (eg a Bluetooth wireless link) (signal S5) to transmit the identification data ID_1 to the second connection unit GU via its wireless communication interface.

[0077] E30 – Fig. 5F : The second control unit UC_2 verifies the identification data ID_1 received via its wireless communication interface and determines whether the connection sequence can be triggered. This occurs, for example, when the second control unit UC_2 verifies the mechanical and electrical compatibility between the socket 2 of the second connection unit GU and the plug 1 of the first connection unit VU.

[0078] It should be noted that the two steps E3 and E30 relating to the pre-authentication procedure can be performed at any time once the first connection unit VU and the second connection unit GU are within range of each other. This is of course due to the fact that the communication is carried out wirelessly.

[0079] E4 – Figure 5G: The connection sequence is triggered by the first control unit UC_1, which sends a message to the second connection unit GU (signal S6). Once both units VU and GU are running, this message can be sent automatically to start the connection sequence, or it can be sent by the driver of the vehicle. The second control unit UC_2 starts the connection sequence by controlling the guide coil 25 according to the pre-established control sequence.

[0080] E5 – Figure 5H : During the connection sequence, the first control unit UC_1 commands the release of the plug 1 from its storage housing 10 using the extraction means 11 and the release means (eg the electric motor 120 , the winding machine 121 ).

[0081] E40 – Fig.5I : The guidance sequence applied to the guidance coil 25 at the second connection unit GU enables the plug 1 to be first attracted towards the socket 2 and then a connection to be established between the plug 1 and the socket 2.

[0082] E6–E50 – Figure 5J : Establish mechanical and electrical connection between plug 1 and socket 2.

[0083] E60–E7 – Figure 5K : The second connection unit GU performs an authentication procedure. Thus, the first connection unit VU and the second connection unit GU exchange identification data ID_2 via their wired communication interface, for example.

[0084] EF – Figure 5L : The first connection unit VU is paired with the second connection unit GU, and the plug 1 is connected to the socket 2: The charging of the vehicle V is controlled by the second control unit UC_2.

[0085] It should be noted that the pre-authentication procedure and the authentication procedure can be of any type and correspond to the exchange of identification data making it possible in particular to ensure the mechanical and electrical compatibility between the two connection units VU, GU. They also make it possible to determine the pricing of the charge and to initiate billing for this charge.

[0086] It should also be noted that in the architecture of the first connection unit VU, the position of the first detection device 13 of the first connection unit VU (for example, a Hall sensor positioned on the housing to surround the plug) is designed so that the first detection device 13 defines a detection area Z1 that is only suitable for sensing the presence of the magnetic field generated by the first connection unit in the above step E3, but not for sensing the presence of the magnetic field generated by its own magnetic architecture, Figure 6 This particular feature of the invention can be illustrated.

[0087] Furthermore, one of the particular features of the invention relates to the fact that, in step E3, the second connection unit GU generates, using at least one of its guide coils 25, a magnetic field B that can be detected by the first connection unit VU. Once the first connection unit VU has detected the presence of this magnetic field B (and confirmed that it is in the field of the second connection unit GU), and after pre-authentication, the second connection unit GU advantageously disconnects this guide coil 25 to deactivate the magnetic field B to avoid magnetic interference and allow it to then be able to start the connection sequence in the above-mentioned step E8. The guide coil 25 will then be reactivated when the connection sequence is implemented.

[0088] It should be noted that the disconnection sequence is simpler since the two connection units already "know" each other. When disconnection is commanded (at the end of charging or on command by the driver), the second connection unit GU can trigger the sequence of disconnecting the plug 1. After disconnecting the electrical connection, the first connection unit VU commands the return of the plug 1 to its storage housing 10. As described above, the second connection unit GU is able to start the billing process for the charging service.

[0089] Therefore, the present invention has many advantages, including: - A complete solution that ensures automatic connection between plug and socket, without the need for operator or robot intervention; - Simple, safe, efficient and particularly compact solution.

Claims

1. A method for automatically making an electrical connection between a plug (1) connected to a power supply component of an electric vehicle and a socket (2) connected to a power supply network for wired charging of a rechargeable electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle, wherein the power supply component of the electric vehicle must be connected to the power supply network for charging, wherein the plug (1) is initially accommodated in a housing of a first connection unit (VU), which is located on the vehicle side and includes a first control unit (UC_1), and the socket (2) is carried by a second connection unit (GU), which is located on the grid side and includes a second control unit (UC_2), wherein the plug (1) includes a first magnetic architecture (AM_1), and the socket (2) includes a second magnetic architecture (AM_2), wherein the plug and the socket can be mechanically coupled by magnetic effect, and wherein the method comprises: - a step in which the second connection unit (GU) generates a magnetic field using an electromagnetic coil, - a step in which said first connection unit (VU) detects said magnetic field generated by said second connection unit, - upon detecting the presence of the magnetic field, a step of automatically releasing the plug (1) from the housing of the first connection unit (VU) in order to connect the plug (1) to the socket (2), - a step of initiating an electrical connection sequence, the electrical connection sequence comprising the steps of attracting the plug (1) towards the socket (2) via a magnetic effect by activating the electromagnetic coil so as to connect the plug (1) to the socket (2).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The method comprises a previous step of detecting the position of the vehicle (V) relative to the second connection unit (GU) and a step of activating a second control unit (UC_2) of the second connection unit (GU) when the vehicle is in a determined stationary position.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The method comprises a previous step of detecting the presence of a vehicle (V) close to the second connection unit (GU), and a step of initiating a sequence for guiding the vehicle so as to bring the vehicle into a determined position relative to the second connection unit.

4. The method according to claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The method comprises a step of monitoring the speed of the vehicle (V) and a step of activating the detection means (13) of the first connection unit (VU) taking into account the monitored speed.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The method comprises, before carrying out the step of initiating the electrical connection sequence, performing a pre-authentication step between the first connection unit (VU) and the second connection unit (GU) by exchanging data between the two connection units via a wireless link.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The method comprises the step of performing authentication by exchanging data between the first connection unit (VU) and the second connection unit (GU) via a wired link when the plug (1) is connected to the socket (2).

7. An automatic electrical connection system for wired charging of an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, the system comprising a plug (1) connected to a power supply component of the electric vehicle (V) and a socket (2) connected to an electric power supply network (R), the power supply component of the electric vehicle must be connected to the electric power supply network (R) for charging, the system comprising a first connection unit (VU) and a second connection unit (GU), wherein the first connection unit (VU) comprises a housing in which the plug (1) is initially accommodated, the first connection unit (VU) is located on the vehicle side and comprises a first control unit (UC_1), the second connection unit (GU) carries the socket (2), is located on the grid (R) side and comprises a second control unit (UC_2), the plug and the socket can be mechanically coupled by magnetic effect, the system is characterized in that: - the second connection unit (GU) comprises means for generating a magnetic field using an electromagnetic coil, said means being activatable by the second control unit (UC_2), - the first connection unit (VU) comprises first detection means (13) for detecting the magnetic field (B) generated by the second connection unit, - the first connection unit (VU) comprises a release device for automatically releasing the plug (1) from the housing of the first connection unit (VU), the device being activated upon detecting the presence of the magnetic field (B) in order to connect the plug to the socket, - The second control unit (UC_2) is configured to activate an electrical connection sequence, the electrical connection sequence comprising the steps of attracting the plug (1) towards the socket (2) via a magnetic effect by activating the electromagnetic coil so as to connect the plug (1) to the socket (2).

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that The system comprises a detection device (23) for detecting the presence of a vehicle close to the second connection unit, and an execution device for executing a sequence for guiding the vehicle so that the vehicle enters a determined position relative to the second connection unit.

9. The system according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The system comprises monitoring means for monitoring the speed of the vehicle, and the first control unit (UC_1) is configured to activate the first detection means (13) taking into account the monitored speed.

10. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that The first control unit (UC_1) and the second control unit (UC_2) are configured to perform a pre-authentication sequence between the two connection units by exchanging identification data (ID_1) between the first connection unit and the second connection unit via a wireless link before establishing an electrical connection between the plug and the socket.

11. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that The first control unit (UC_1) and the second control unit (UC_2) are configured to perform an authentication sequence between the two connection units by exchanging identification data (ID_2) between the first connection unit and the second connection unit via a wired link once the plug is connected to the socket.

12. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that The electrical connection sequence is configured to activate an electromagnetic device of the second connection unit (GU), the electromagnetic device being designed to attract the plug (1) towards the socket (2) by a magnetic effect.

13. The system according to claim 12, characterized in that The second control unit is configured to activate the electromagnetic means of the second connection unit (GU) as means for generating a magnetic field.

14. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that A first detection device is arranged in the first connection unit to detect the presence of the magnetic field generated by the second connection unit and distinguish the presence of the magnetic field from the presence of a second magnetic field generated by the first magnetic architecture.

15. The system according to any one of claims 7 to 14, characterized in that The system comprises second detection means (23) for detecting the position of the vehicle (V) relative to the second connection unit (GU), and activation means for activating the second connection unit when the vehicle is in a determined stationary position.

16. The system according to claim 15, characterized in that The second connection unit (GU) is integrated into the mat (T), and the second detection device (23) is also integrated into the mat (T).

17. The system according to claim 16, characterized in that The system comprises at least one block fixed to the mat (T), the block integrating at least one position sensor of the second detection device (23).

18. The system according to claim 16, characterized in that The system comprises at least one stop device fixed to the mat (T), at least one position sensor of the second detection device (23) being integrated in the mat, close to the stop device.

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