Method for operating charging system comprising inductive charging device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a charging system (1), comprising at least one stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) and at least one mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b), each of which can interact inductively with one another during a charging operation, in this way, energy can be transmitted inductively. An improved user-friendliness while being implemented simply at the same time results in that before a charging mode, one of the inductive charging devices (2) to be interacted during the charging mode transmits its ID to the other inductive charging device (2) by means of a local ID field (6), a data connection separate from the ID field (6) is established between the inductive charging devices (2) by means of the transmitted ID. The invention further relates to a charging system (1) operated in such a way.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for operating a charging system, wherein the charging system comprises at least one stationary inductive charging device and at least one mobile inductive charging device, and wherein the respective stationary inductive charging device can inductively cooperate with one of the at least one mobile inductive charging device during charging operation to inductively transfer energy. The present invention also relates to a charging system operated in this manner. Background Art

[0002] To transfer energy inductively and thus wirelessly, two inductive charging devices can interact inductively. One of the inductive charging devices can be stationary, and the other can be mobile. To transfer energy, the two inductive charging devices must be positioned relative to each other. During operation, the inductive charging devices that inductively transfer energy to each other interact, which is hereinafter referred to as charging operation. A charging system can include multiple such stationary inductive charging devices and / or multiple such mobile inductive charging devices, wherein a respective stationary inductive charging device can inductively transfer energy to a respective mobile inductive charging device. During charging operation, in addition to the inductive energy transfer, communication between the interacting inductive charging devices is necessary or at least advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention is directed to specifying improved or at least alternative embodiments for a method for operating a charging system of the type mentioned in the introduction and for such a charging system. In particular, the present invention is directed to specifying improved or at least alternative embodiments for the method and for the charging system that are characterized by being user-friendly and simultaneously simple to implement.

[0004] According to the invention, this object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0005] The present invention is based on the general concept of establishing a data connection between a stationary inductive charging device and a mobile inductive charging device that are to inductively cooperate for the purpose of inductive energy transfer in a charging system. One of the inductive charging devices transmits its identifier to the other inductive charging device using a local field, wherein the other inductive charging device receives the identifier and establishes a data connection between the inductive charging devices using the received identifier. The transmission of the identifier (hereinafter referred to as the ID) via the local field allows the inductive charging devices to be assigned directly for the purpose of inductive energy transfer when the inductive charging devices approach each other, and a data connection can be established accordingly. This allows the mobile inductive charging device to be positioned relative to the stationary inductive charging device without prior manual selection, and a data connection to be established using the ID due to the local field during positioning. Consequently, the mobile inductive charging device or the associated application does not need to determine in advance which stationary inductive charging device a data connection must be established with. Consequently, the data connection between the inductive charging devices is user-friendly and simple to implement. If the determination / decision is to be made manually, this leads to a further user-friendly implementation, as the concept according to the present invention allows the user of a mobile inductive charging device to approach the inductive charging devices to be interacting with each other without prior manual selection and without establishing a prior connection between the inductive charging devices. If a charging system has two or more stationary inductive charging devices and / or two or more mobile inductive charging devices, these can, as described above, firstly inductively transfer energy to each other in a user-friendly manner. Secondly, the transmission of the ID using the local field means that only the ID of the inductive charging device generating the local field is received. This leads to a further user-friendly implementation of the charging system and a less susceptible to interference and therefore more robust operation.

[0006] In accordance with the present invention, a charging system includes at least one stationary inductive charging device and at least one mobile inductive charging device. The respective stationary inductive charging device is capable of inductively cooperating with the respective at least one mobile inductive charging device for inductive energy transfer. That is, during charging operation, the respective stationary inductive charging device inductively cooperates with a respective one of the at least one mobile inductive charging device for inductive energy transfer. During charging operation, the inductively cooperating inductive charging devices (i.e., the stationary inductive charging device and the mobile inductive charging device) are arranged opposite each other in a direction, hereinafter referred to as a first direction. Prior to the charging operation, when the inductive charging devices to be inductively cooperating approach, one of the inductive charging devices operates as a transmitting inductive charging device, and the other inductive charging device operates as a receiving inductive charging device. The transmitting inductive charging device generates at least one field that transmits the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device, with the main axis of the at least one field extending along the first direction. The receiving inductive charging device receives the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device using the at least one field, wherein a data connection is established between the transmitting inductive charging device and the receiving inductive charging device using the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device received by the receiving inductive charging device.

[0007] A data connection between a transmitting inductive charging device and a receiving inductive charging device can utilize at least one of the fields of the at least one transmission ID.

[0008] Advantageously, the data connection between the transmitting inductive charging device and the receiving inductive charging device is separated from the field of the at least one transmission ID.

[0009] The data connection between the transmitting inductive charging device and the receiving inductive charging device is preferably maintained during a subsequent charging operation. That is, the data connection is preferably retained during a subsequent charging operation.

[0010] The transmitting inductive charging device transmits its ID via at least one field, which is also referred to below as ID field.

[0011] Advantageously, the transmission of the ID from the transmitting inductive charging device to the receiving inductive charging device corresponds to so-called "pairing" or is a component of pairing.

[0012] In principle, the data connection between inductive charging devices to be used together during charging operation (hereinafter also referred to as associated inductive charging devices) can be established in any desired manner, wherein the data connection is preferably established separately from the at least one ID field for ID transmission.

[0013] Advantageously, the data connection of the respective at least one mobile inductive charging device is wireless, advantageously via WiFi, preferably via WLAN. Likewise, the data connection to the stationary inductive charging device can be via WiFi or wired.

[0014] To establish a data connection and to connect inductive charging devices to one another, the charging system advantageously includes a corresponding infrastructure. This infrastructure advantageously includes a data network, hereinafter also referred to as simply a network. The infrastructure may include corresponding access points and / or at least one router.

[0015] Advantageously, the charging system comprises a server as part of the infrastructure, on which the ID of at least the at least one transmitting inductive charging device is stored.

[0016] As explained above, the ID corresponds to an identifier or identifier information. The ID advantageously allows the transmission of an unambiguous identification of the inductive charging device.

[0017] In principle, the ID can contain any information. It is conceivable that the ID contains or consists of the MAC address of the transmitting inductive charging device. Alternatively or additionally, the ID can contain or consist of the IP address and / or identifier of the charging system infrastructure, particularly the network in which the transmitting inductive charging device is integrated. The identifier can, in particular, function as an SSID. If the same IP address is assigned to two transmitting inductive charging devices in different infrastructures, particularly networks, the identifier can prevent or at least reduce incorrect pairing.

[0018] Preferably, the pairing and / or data connection is performed taking into account a standard, for example "ISO 15118-20".

[0019] The data connection between the associated inductive charging devices enables communication between them. For example, the operating point and / or operating parameters of the associated inductive charging device can be adjusted via the data connection in order to improve the charging operation.

[0020] For inductive energy transfer, corresponding inductive charging devices have coils, also referred to below as power coils. During charging, one of the power coils functions as a primary coil, and the other as a secondary coil. This allows bidirectional inductive energy transfer.

[0021] In this case, the power coils are expediently arranged opposite each other in a first direction of the associated inductive charging device during charging operation.

[0022] Here, “opposite” does not necessarily mean a directly opposite arrangement. Rather, the inductive charging devices or the power coils are spaced apart from one another in a first direction, preferably such that they overlap transversely to the first direction.

[0023] The course of the main axis of the field along the first direction means, in particular, that the field is generated such that the field propagates at least predominantly in or along the first direction.

[0024] Preferably, the corresponding mobile inductive charging device is installed on the associated mobile application, in particular on a motor vehicle. Preferably, energy is inductively transferred to the application by means of the mobile inductive charging device, for example to charge the battery of the application, in particular the motor vehicle.

[0025] Preferably, the first direction corresponds to the height direction of the application and in particular the Z direction of the motor vehicle.

[0026] In principle, the respective at least one ID field for wirelessly transmitting the ID can be any desired field.

[0027] In particular, it is conceivable that, for transmitting the ID, a separate ID field provided exclusively for this purpose is generated.

[0028] In some preferred embodiments, at least one of the at least one fields used for transmitting the ID is also used for a further function.

[0029] An embodiment is considered advantageous in which, during a positioning operation initiated prior to a charging operation, the transmitting inductive charging device generates at least one of the at least one ID fields as a field for positioning the inductive charging devices relative to each other, also referred to below as a positioning field, in order to locate the inductive charging devices inductively cooperating for inductive energy transfer. That is, at least one of the at least one ID field that transmits an ID is such a positioning field. Preferably, the at least one ID field is such a positioning field. The receiving inductive charging device receives the at least one positioning field, wherein the relative position of the transmitting inductive charging device relative to the receiving inductive charging device is determined using the at least one received positioning field. In other words, at least one of the at least one ID field generated as a positioning field also transmits the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device. In other words, at least one of the at least one fields is used not only to transmit the ID but also to determine the relative position of the transmitting inductive charging device relative to the receiving inductive charging device.

[0030] Because the main axis of the ID field extends along the first direction, the relative position of the transmitting inductive charging device relative to the receiving inductive charging device is determined locally and therefore in the vicinity of the transmitting inductive charging device (i.e., when the mobile inductive charging device is already close to the stationary inductive charging device) via the at least one positioning field.

[0031] Preferably, the ID is transmitted by modifying the positioning field. That is, the transmitting inductive charging device transmits the ID by modifying at least one of the at least one positioning field. Thus, the positioning and ID can be transmitted without time delay or at least with low time delay (that is, without latency or with at least reduced latency).

[0032] In this case, “modification” is to be understood in particular as meaning such a change to at least one localization field that is not required for determining the relative position.

[0033] The modification can be in any manner.

[0034] In particular, the modification may involve a modulation, for example of frequency and / or of a "duty cycle".

[0035] Preferably, the modification is a temporary, preferably repeated change, that is, preferably, the modification is a change within a specific duration, which is advantageously repeated at some time intervals, preferably at predefined time intervals.

[0036] An embodiment in which at least one positioning field is modified by means of a change at predetermined time intervals is considered advantageous. This means that the time intervals at which the positioning field is modified in order to transmit the ID are predetermined. This results in a simplified transmission of the ID, while at the same time, the relative position of the transmitting inductive charging device relative to the receiving inductive charging device can be determined in a similarly simplified manner using the at least one positioning field.

[0037] The predetermined time intervals can be arbitrarily long, as long as they continue to allow the relative position of the transmitting inductive charging device relative to the receiving inductive charging device to be determined. In particular, the time intervals can be different. Advantageously, the time intervals are of equal length.

[0038] A variant has proven advantageous in which the time interval is a few milliseconds. In particular, time intervals of 50 ms, 100 ms, and so on are conceivable. Such time intervals result not only in particularly reliable transmission of the ID but also in minimizing time delays in determining the relative position due to modifications of the localization field.

[0039] It goes without saying that due to any inertia of the transmitting inductive charging device, in particular due to so-called "downtimes," the corresponding modified time intervals and / or durations may arrive / be received in a distorted manner, in particular extended or shortened, at the receiving inductive charging device. It goes without saying that such distortions must be taken into account.

[0040] It is conceivable that the modification of at least one of the at least one localization field is carried out by changing the frequency of the localization field, for example by frequency modulation, in particular at predefined time intervals.

[0041] An embodiment is considered preferred in which the transmitting inductive charging device transmits the ID at predetermined time intervals by means of a change, preferably a temporary change, in the amplitude of at least one of the at least one locating field. Modification by means of a change in amplitude allows for simple identification of the ID transmission at the receiving inductive charging device, i.e., a defined and simple separation between the ID transmission and the actual locating field, particularly compared to a modification by means of frequency. This results in improved reliability while simplifying the implementation.

[0042] The change in amplitude can be achieved in particular by increasing the amplitude.

[0043] The change in amplitude is preferably accomplished by reducing the amplitude, preferably temporarily, preferably by interrupting the amplitude and thus the localization field. This ensures that the transmission of the ID is clearly identified and furthermore clearly separated from the localization field. This means that a simple and reliable transmission of the ID is achieved while simultaneously achieving a simple and reliable separation between the transmission of the ID and the actual localization field.

[0044] The transmission of the ID advantageously takes place by transmitting a code containing the ID via at least one ID field.

[0045] The code can be of any type.

[0046] In some preferred embodiments, the code is a binary code. That is, the transmitting inductive charging device transmits the ID using a binary code. The binary code consists of a first symbol and a second symbol. Using a binary code to transmit the ID results in less susceptibility to interference and, therefore, more reliable transmission of the ID, resulting in more robust transmission of the ID.

[0047] The first symbol and the second symbol may be of any type.

[0048] For example, the first symbol may be a logical zero or "false" and the second symbol may be a logical one or "true," or vice versa.

[0049] In some advantageous embodiments, the first symbol is transmitted by temporarily changing at least one of the at least one positioning fields, and the second symbol is transmitted without temporarily changing. Preferably, the symbols are transmitted at the aforementioned time intervals.

[0050] In some preferred embodiments, the first symbol is transmitted by temporarily interrupting at least one of the at least one positioning fields, and the second symbol is transmitted without interruption. Preferably, the symbols are transmitted at the aforementioned time intervals. Thus, an ID can consist of a sequence of first and second symbols of essentially any length and can be transmitted simply, robustly, and reliably.

[0051] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the ID is transmitted by means of at least one of the at least one positioning fields and by means of a binary code, wherein, preferably, at the aforementioned time intervals, a first symbol is transmitted by temporarily interrupting the amplitude and a second symbol is transmitted without interruption, or vice versa.

[0052] Likewise, preferred are embodiments in which the symbols are transmitted using different durations of a change in at least one of the at least one positioning field, that is, a change in at least one positioning field for a first duration transmits a first symbol, and a change in at least one positioning field for a second duration, in particular the same change, transmits a second symbol.

[0053] The first duration and the second duration are expediently different. Advantageously, the second duration is an integer multiple of the first duration or vice versa. For example, the first duration is 1 ms and the second duration is 2 ms or 3 ms.

[0054] Preferably, the change involves interrupting the amplitude of at least one positioning field. That is, in some preferred embodiments, a first symbol is transmitted by interrupting the amplitude of at least one of the at least one positioning field for a first duration, and a second symbol is transmitted by interrupting the amplitude of the at least one positioning field for a second duration. This results in a particularly reliable and robust transmission of the symbols.

[0055] The time interval preferably specifies at what intervals the location field contains binary code symbols. For example, if the time interval is 50 ms, a symbol is transmitted every 50 ms.

[0056] The same applies to temporary changes and, therefore, durations. For example, if the duration is 1 ms, then the symbol is transmitted at this time interval with a 1 ms change in the positioning field. For example, a logical zero or "false" is transmitted by interrupting the amplitude by 1 ms within a 50 ms interval. If no such interruption occurs within the 50 ms interval, a logical one or "true" is transmitted.

[0057] Advantageously, the transmitting inductive charging device transmits the start and / or end of the transmission of the ID.

[0058] The start and / or end of the transmission of an ID specifically allows for the transmission of an ID with a variable length. For example, it may be necessary to select a longer ID due to the increased number of adjacent stationary inductive charging devices acting as transmitting inductive charging devices, compared to a smaller number of adjacent stationary inductive charging devices acting as transmitting inductive charging devices. The start and / or end of the transmission informs the receiving inductive charging device of the corresponding variable length, so that the receiving inductive charging device can recognize the ID in each case.

[0059] It is conceivable that other modifications to the localization field are carried out for the start of the transmission of the ID. For example, an interruption of a different duration can be carried out, for example an interruption of 2 ms.

[0060] The termination of the ID transmission can be similar to the start of the transmission, but with other modifications. For example, the duration of the ID transmission can be modified. In particular, the duration of the ID transmission can be changed to 3 ms.

[0061] The ID can also be transmitted cyclically, ie the binary code is sent cyclically and repeatedly.

[0062] In particular in the case of periodic transmissions, the start of a transmission may correspond to a termination.

[0063] Here, the corresponding field refers to a physical field, that is, a generated signal that is received by another party. In this case, the transmitting inductive charging device generates the corresponding field, which is the signal received by the receiving inductive charging device. In other words, the ID field is an ID signal generated by the transmitting inductive charging device, which transmits the ID and is received by the receiving inductive charging device. Furthermore, the corresponding positioning field is a positioning signal generated by the transmitting inductive charging device and received by the receiving inductive charging device. Therefore, in order to transmit the ID, the positioning signal is modified by modifying the positioning field.

[0064] The respective at least one ID field, in particular a positioning field, can be a field of any desired type.

[0065] In some preferred embodiments, the transmitting inductive charging device generates at least one ID field, in particular at least one of the positioning fields, preferably a corresponding ID field, in particular a corresponding positioning field, as a magnetic field. That is, at least one of the at least one ID field, preferably a corresponding ID field, is a magnetic field. This allows for simplified generation of the ID field and simplified local propagation, in particular, minimal propagation, transverse to the first direction.

[0066] To generate a corresponding magnetic field, the transmitting inductive charging device preferably has at least one coil, also referred to below as a transmitting coil. In particular, the transmitting inductive charging device can have such an associated transmitting coil to generate a corresponding ID field, in particular a corresponding positioning field.

[0067] An embodiment is advantageous in which at least one of the at least one transmitting coil, preferably the respective transmitting coil, is different from the power coil of the transmitting inductive charging device.

[0068] To receive at least one ID field, in particular at least one positioning field, the receiving inductive charging device can have a corresponding receiver. In particular, to receive at least one ID field, the receiver can have at least one coil, which is also referred to below as a receiving coil.

[0069] The receiver, in particular the receiving coil, is expediently operated at a sampling rate, wherein a plurality of values ​​are ascertained within a sampling interval and these values ​​are averaged.

[0070] In this case, the duration, advantageously the duration of the interruption for the modification, particularly preferably corresponds to a sampling interval of the receiver, in particular a receiving coil, thereby avoiding or at least reducing waiting times when locating the inductive charging device.

[0071] In some preferred embodiments, at least one of the at least one localization fields is generated as a magnetic field by means of a signal at an associated transmitting coil, wherein the modification is caused by varying the signal. The signal can, in particular, be pulse-width modulation, or "PWM" for short, preferably with a constant duty cycle. In this case, the modification is caused by temporarily varying the PWM. This makes the transmission of the ID simple.

[0072] In principle, a transmitting inductive charging device can generate a unique localization field of this type.

[0073] Preferred are embodiments in which the transmitting inductive charging device generates at least two spatially offset positioning fields relative to one another. This allows for a simpler and more precise determination of the relative position of the associated inductive charging device.

[0074] Advantageously, the receiving inductive charging device or the associated application can differentiate between the locating fields. For this purpose, for example, corresponding locating fields with associated frequencies can be generated.

[0075] To determine the relative position of the inductive charging devices relative to one another, the relationship between at least two locally received positioning fields can be determined. This allows for a simplified and reliable determination of the relative position, particularly without prior calibration.

[0076] To position the inductive charging devices relative to one another and thereby increase the efficiency of the inductive energy transfer (ie, to optimally position the inductive charging devices during charging operation), navigation instructions are advantageously generated and output based on at least one positioning field, in particular based on at least one relationship.

[0077] The corresponding navigation instructions can be used for the relative movement of a mobile inductive charging device or an associated application, such as an associated motor vehicle, relative to a stationary inductive charging device. It is conceivable that the corresponding navigation instructions be provided to the vehicle driver for use, who can then steer the vehicle, in particular, according to the navigation instructions. Alternatively or additionally, the corresponding navigation instructions can be output to a driver assistance system for at least partially autonomously driving the vehicle, thereby allowing the driver assistance system to at least partially autonomously drive the vehicle using the navigation instructions in order to position the inductive charging devices relative to one another. Advantageously, the ID is transmitted by simultaneously modifying at least two of the at least two positioning fields. This makes the transmission of the ID less susceptible to interference, and the positioning less susceptible to disruption.

[0078] Embodiments are conceivable in which the ID is transmitted using a predetermined modification sequence of at least two of the at least two positioning fields. The transmission of the ID is thus distributed across the positioning fields, requiring each positioning field to be modified for a shorter duration. This results in reduced delays in determining the relative positions of the inductive charging devices relative to one another, and therefore reduced latency in determining the relative positions. This reduces latency in determining the relative positions. The predetermined modification sequence of the at least two positioning fields can be of any type. Preferably, the sequence is periodic. That is, the ID is transmitted using a periodic modification sequence of the at least two positioning fields. This results in reliable and robust transmission of the ID.

[0079] An embodiment is considered preferred in which the transmitting inductive charging device generates at least four, in particular five, such localization fields that are spatially offset relative to one another. This results in a simplified and more reliable transmission of the ID, in addition to an improved determination of the relative positions of the inductive charging devices relative to one another.

[0080] In principle, a charging system can include a single stationary inductive charging device.

[0081] The charging system preferably has two or more stationary inductive charging devices that are adjacent to one another and spaced apart from one another, for example, arranged in a row.

[0082] The corresponding fixed inductive charging device is advantageously assigned to a parking area of ​​the parking lot. That is to say, for at least two parking areas of the parking lot, the charging system respectively includes an associated fixed inductive charging device.

[0083] A charging system can include any number of stationary inductive charging devices, each serving an associated parking area. Tens, hundreds, or even thousands of stationary inductive charging devices, each with an associated ID, are conceivable. As explained above, the length of the ID can increase as the number of stationary inductive charging devices serving as transmitting inductive charging devices increases, so that each can transmit a unique ID.

[0084] Advantageously, the parking lot is provided for motor vehicles which, as mobile applications, are each provided with such an associated mobile inductive charging device.

[0085] The operating method enables a corresponding motor vehicle to drive to any of the available parking areas equipped with such a stationary inductive charging device without prior selection in order to inductively transfer energy via the stationary inductive charging device. This means that it is not necessary to preselect / determine which of the available parking areas or stationary inductive charging devices to drive to or have driven to for inductive energy transfer in order to reliably establish a data connection. This improves user-friendliness for the vehicle driver and / or simplifies the operation of the vehicle.

[0086] In principle, a corresponding mobile inductive charging device and a corresponding stationary inductive charging device can be operated both as a transmitting inductive charging device and as a receiving inductive charging device, provided that one of the inductive charging devices to be interacting is operated as a transmitting inductive charging device and the other is operated as a receiving inductive charging device.

[0087] Embodiments are advantageous in which the stationary inductive charging device is operated as such a transmitting inductive charging device and the mobile inductive charging device is operated as such a receiving inductive charging device, or vice versa. The inductive charging devices are equipped accordingly.

[0088] In some preferred embodiments, the corresponding stationary inductive charging device operates as such a transmitting inductive charging device, and the corresponding mobile inductive charging device operates as such a receiving inductive charging device.

[0089] It goes without saying that, in addition to the method, a charging system operating in this manner also falls within the scope of the present invention.

[0090] In addition to the inductive charging device, the charging system advantageously also includes an infrastructure.

[0091] The infrastructure is preferably communicatively connected to the corresponding stationary inductive charging device and can be wirelessly communicatively connected to the corresponding mobile inductive charging device. The communicatively connected infrastructure to the corresponding inductive charging device is distinct from at least one ID field, in particular a corresponding location field. As explained above, the communicatively connected infrastructure is advantageously wireless, advantageously via WiFi, preferably WLAN, at least with the at least one mobile inductive charging device.

[0092] The communicative connection to the corresponding stationary inductive charging device can be wireless or wired.

[0093] The charging system can have at least two stationary inductive charging devices spaced apart from one another, each of which is used for an associated parking area of ​​a parking garage.

[0094] The corresponding fixed inductive charging device can be installed arbitrarily on the associated parking area. It is conceivable that at least one of the fixed inductive charging devices is arranged at least partially, preferably completely, below the associated parking area.

[0095] Further important features and advantages of the invention emerge from the dependent claims, from the drawings and from the associated description of the figures based on the drawings.

[0096] It goes without saying that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below can be used not only in the respectively specified combination, but also in other combinations or alone without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0097] Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description, wherein identical reference numerals refer to identical or similar or functionally identical components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0098] The accompanying drawings schematically show:

[0099] Figure 1 A greatly simplified, schematic diagram of a charging system during charging operation of two inductive charging devices is shown.

[0100] Figure 2 A strongly simplified plan view showing the charging system,

[0101] Figure 3 shows a simplified cross section through a stationary inductive charging device of a charging system,

[0102] Figure 4 A diagram showing a transmission coil for controlling a stationary inductive charging system is shown.

[0103] Figure 5 A diagram is shown for controlling a transmitting coil of a stationary inductive charging device in a further exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0104] Charging system 1 (as it is in Figure 1 and Figure 2 For this purpose, the charging system 1 has at least two inductive charging devices 2, namely at least one stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a and at least one mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b. Figure 1 In the charging mode shown in FIG, the respective stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a can inductively cooperate with at least one mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b to carry out an inductive energy transfer. Thus, in the charging mode, the respective stationary inductive charging device 2 is the charging point of charging system 1. For the inductive energy transfer, the respective inductive charging device 2 (e.g., in particular in FIG) can be used to connect the respective stationary inductive charging device 2 to the charging station 1. Figure 1 ) has a coil 3, which is also referred to as the power coil 3 below. Thus, the corresponding stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a has a stationary power coil 3, 3a, and the corresponding mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b has a mobile power coil 3, 3b. One of the power coils 3 is used as a primary coil during charging operation, which generates an alternating magnetic field, which induces a voltage in the other power coil 3, which is used as a secondary coil, for energy transfer. As can be seen from Figure 1As can be seen, during charging operation, charging devices 2, particularly power coils 3 of inductive charging devices 2, which cooperate inductively for energy transfer, are spaced apart and arranged opposite each other in a direction R1, hereinafter also referred to as first direction R1. In the illustrated embodiment, the respective mobile inductive charging devices 2, 2b are located in an associated mobile application 100. In the illustrated embodiment, application 100 is a motor vehicle 101. In the illustrated embodiment, first direction R1 extends along, particularly parallel to, the Z-direction of motor vehicle 101. In other words, first direction R1 corresponds particularly to the height direction. Furthermore, to facilitate charging operation and achieve a high efficiency during charging operation, power coils 3 are positioned opposite each other transversely to first direction R1, namely, in a second direction R2 extending transversely to first direction R1 and in a third direction R3 extending transversely to first direction R1 and transversely to second direction R2. In this positioning, power coils 3 preferably at least partially overlap in second direction R2 and in third direction R3. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second direction R2 relates to the direction of travel of the mobile application 100 or the motor vehicle 101, ie, the X direction of the motor vehicle 101. Figure 1 As shown in FIG, energy can be transferred inductively to mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b in order to charge battery 102 of mobile application 100. For this purpose, a rectifier 14 can be provided between mobile power coil 3, 3b and battery 102. This rectifier converts the voltage induced in mobile power coil 3, 3b into a rectified voltage. In the illustrated embodiment, purely by way of example, rectifier 14 is a component of mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b. Energy can also be transferred from mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b to stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a, i.e., in principle, bidirectionally.

[0105] In Figure 2, that is, when a mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b approaches a stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a for energy transfer by induction, and before the charging operation, one of the inductive charging devices 2 to be used together in the charging operation is operated as a transmitting inductive charging device 4, and the other inductive charging device 2 is operated as a receiving inductive charging device 5. That is, when the inductive charging devices 2 to be used together in the charging operation approach, and before the charging operation, one of the inductive charging devices 2 to be used together in the charging operation acts as a transmitting inductive charging device 4, and the other inductive charging device 2 acts as a receiving inductive charging device 5 in the subsequent charging operation. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, when mobile application 100 approaches at least one stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a, the stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a acts as a transmitting inductive charging device 4, and the mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b of mobile application 100 acts as a receiving inductive charging device 5, or vice versa. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a is operated as a transmitting inductive charging device 4 and the mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b is operated as a receiving inductive charging device 5. Figure 2Field 6 is depicted in a coil-like pattern and thus generates a signal whose main axis extends along first direction R1 and which transmits the identifier, or "ID," of transmitting inductive charging device 4. Field 6 will hereinafter be referred to as ID field 6. Because the main axis of at least one ID field 6 extends along the first direction, the ID is only transmitted locally. Therefore, at least one ID field 6, and thus the ID, can only be received by receiving inductive charging device 5 when it approaches transmitting inductive charging device 4. Upon approach, receiving inductive charging device 5 receives the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 4 using at least one ID field 6. Subsequently, a data connection is established between transmitting inductive charging device 4 and receiving inductive charging device 5 using the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 4 received by receiving inductive charging device 5. In the illustrated embodiment, this data connection is separate from ID field 6. In other words, a data connection is established between transmitting inductive charging device 4 and receiving inductive charging device 5 using the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 4 received by receiving inductive charging device 5, separate from ID field 6. In other words, at least one ID field 6 and the ID transmitted thereby allow for a local "pairing" between inductive charging devices 2 to be used in a subsequent charging operation, limited to the area of ​​transmitting inductive charging device 4. This means that no prior selection or decision regarding the inductive charging devices 2 to be used in conjunction is necessary. In the illustrated embodiment, this means that in mobile application 100, it is not necessary to determine or select in advance which stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a a mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b associated with application 100 will be used in conjunction with during a charging operation. A data connection is established when the inductive charging devices to be used in conjunction are in close proximity, making the application 100 or the associated mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b more user-friendly. Consequently, charging system 1 is more user-friendly. Furthermore, the only local transmission of the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 5 results in lower susceptibility to interference and, therefore, more robust and improved operation of charging system 1.

[0106] If you can Figure 2As can be seen, in the embodiment shown, charging system 1 includes at least two fixed inductive charging devices 2, 2a spaced apart from each other, each for a corresponding parking area 201 of parking lot 200. That is, for at least two of parking areas 201, a corresponding fixed inductive charging device 2, 2a is provided, which is arranged on the corresponding parking area 201. In the embodiment shown, parking lot 200 purely by way of example comprises two rows of parking areas 201, which are connected to each other along the respective rows and are exemplarily adjacent to each other. In this case, in the embodiment shown, the corresponding parking areas 201 are provided with the corresponding fixed inductive charging devices 2, 2a of charging system 1. As can be seen from Figure 1 As known, the corresponding fixed inductive charging device 2, 2a can be arranged below the associated parking area 201. However, the fixed inductive charging device 2, 2a is Figure 2 The solution according to the invention offers the advantage that in particular Figure 2 While mobile application 100, outlined in dashed lines, is traveling in parking area 200, or previously in application 100 or associated mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b, no preselection or selection of a specific stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a is necessary to use for inductive energy transfer during the subsequent charging operation. In other words, mobile application 100 can approach any available stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a, in the example shown, any available parking area 201. Since the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 4 is only transmitted locally, the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 4 (here, the ID of stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a) is not received by receiving inductive charging device 5 (here, mobile inductive charging device 2, 2a) until the device passes parking area 201 and thus approaches stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a associated with parking area 201. A data connection is then established between transmitting inductive charging device 4 and receiving inductive charging device 5, and thus between inductive charging devices 2 that interact inductively during charging operation.

[0107] As in Figure 2 As outlined in FIG, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the charging system 1 comprises an infrastructure 7 for establishing a data connection. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a data connection different from at least one ID field 6 (e.g. Figure 2 ) by means of WiFi, preferably WLAN, wherein for this purpose the infrastructure 7 has at least one Figure 2 The access point 8 is shown in FIG. Figure 2 For simplicity, it is assumed that the charging system 1 has only one such access point 8. Figure 2Furthermore, infrastructure 7 is shown as being communicatively connected to the respective stationary inductive charging devices 2, 2a. This communicative connection can be wired or wireless. It is also conceivable that at least one of the stationary inductive charging devices 2, 2a has an associated access point 8 (not shown).

[0108] For example, the ID of the respective transmitting inductive charging device 4 may contain a MAC address and / or an IP address and / or an identifier of a network (not shown in further detail) of the infrastructure 7 , in which the transmitting inductive charging device 4 is integrated.

[0109] In the exemplary embodiment shown, transmitting inductive charging device 4 (in the exemplary embodiment shown, therefore corresponding stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a) generates at least one positioning field 9 (see Figure 2 ) and thereby generates a positioning signal for relative positioning of inductive charging devices 2 to be inductively interacting with each other for inductive energy transfer. The positioning operation begins before the charging operation. During the positioning operation, transmitting inductive charging device 4 generates at least one positioning field 9 that is received by receiving inductive charging device 5. The at least one received positioning field 9 is used to determine the relative position of transmitting inductive charging device 4 relative to receiving inductive charging device 5 and, therefore, the relative position of the inductive charging devices 2 interacting with each other during the charging operation. Transmitting inductive charging device 4 generates at least one of at least one ID field 6 as such a positioning field 9. In other words, at least one of the at least one positioning fields 9 is used not only to transmit an ID but also to determine the relative position of transmitting inductive charging device 4 relative to receiving inductive charging device 5. In other words, receiving inductive charging device 5 determines the relative position of transmitting inductive charging device 4 relative to receiving inductive charging device 5 using at least one positioning field 9, wherein at least one of the at least one positioning fields also transmits the ID of transmitting inductive charging device 4 as positioning field 9. Thus, the main axis of the respective at least one localization field 9 , preferably the respective localization field 9 , extends along the first direction R1 , as in the at least one ID field 6 . In the embodiment shown, the respective ID field 6 is such a localization field 9 .

[0110] In the embodiment shown, the transmitting inductive charging device 4 generates a corresponding ID field 6 and thus a corresponding positioning field 9 as a magnetic field. For this purpose, it can be seen from Figure 1 and Figure 3 As known, the transmitting inductive charging device 4 has at least one coil 10, which is also referred to below as the transmitting coil 10. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the corresponding mobile inductive charging device 5 has a receiver 11 for receiving at least one ID field 6 and thus the positioning field 9. Figure 1In the embodiment shown in FIG, the receiver 11 is a coil 12, which is also referred to below as a receiving coil 12. With the aid of at least one received localization field 9, a navigation command is generated, which is used to determine the position of the target object. Figure 1 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, the navigation instructions are generated on the side of mobile inductive charging device 2, 2b and thus in mobile application 100 (i.e., in particular, in motor vehicle 101). Application 100 is driven, in particular steered, using the navigation instructions in order to optimally or at least improve the positioning of inductive charging devices 2 relative to one another for charging operation. The evaluation of at least one received positioning field 9 and the generation and output of the navigation instructions can be performed by control device 103 of application 100.

[0111] In the embodiment shown, the transmission of the ID via the localization fields 9 is carried out by means of a temporary modification of at least one of the localization fields 9, e.g. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , a pulse width modulation or PWM with a constant duty cycle is shown, which is applied to the transmitting coil 10 generating the localization field 9 in order to generate the localization field 9. Here, the time course is plotted along the drawn abscissa axis X, and the intensity of the pulse width modulation is plotted along the drawn ordinate axis Y. That is, as can be seen from FIG. Figure 4 As a result, a substantially constant magnetic field is generated as the localization field 9 and thus as the ID field 6. The modification is carried out by temporarily changing the localization field 9 at predetermined time intervals t and for a specific duration D. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the time intervals t are each of equal length. In addition, in this embodiment, the durations D are each of equal length. That is, in the embodiment shown, the possible modification of the positioning field 9 is performed periodically. In the embodiment shown, the modification is performed by changing the amplitude of the positioning field 9. That is, the ID is transmitted by means of the otherwise substantially constant amplitude of the positioning field 9, changing the duration D at predetermined time intervals t. In the embodiment shown, the ID is further transmitted by means of a binary code consisting of a first symbol (e.g., a logical zero or "false") and a second symbol (e.g., a logical one or "true"). In this case, Figure 4 In the embodiment of , the first symbol is transmitted by a temporary change of the positioning field 9 (ie, in the embodiment shown, a temporary change of the amplitude of the positioning field 9, ie, the amplitude change duration D), and the second symbol is transmitted by the absence of such a change. Figure 4As outlined in FIG, the amplitude change is achieved by temporarily pausing the pulse width modulation for a duration D, and thus by reducing the amplitude of positioning field 9 (i.e., temporarily interrupting the positioning field) for a duration D. In other words, to transmit one of the symbols (e.g., the first symbol), positioning field 9 is paused or interrupted for a duration D at a predetermined time interval t. If this temporary change (i.e., pausing or interrupting positioning field 9 for a duration D at a predetermined time interval t in the illustrated embodiment) is not performed, the second symbol is transmitted. The predetermined time interval t can be, for example, 50 to 100 ms. The temporary change D and the resulting duration of the change can be, for example, a few milliseconds, for example, between 1 ms and 3 ms.

[0112] For example, to transmit a first symbol, the PWM and thus the positioning field 9 can be changed, in particular paused, for 1 ms every 50 ms. To transmit a second symbol, the PWM and thus the positioning field 9 can remain unchanged for 1 ms every 50 ms. Figure 4 For the sake of pure example and for a better understanding, it is assumed that Figure 4 The first symbols are transmitted one after the other in the region visible in FIG.

[0113] exist Figure 5 The embodiment shown in Figure 4 The embodiment shown in FIG differs in that symbols are transmitted by the same change in the positioning field 9, but with different durations D. In the embodiment shown, the first symbol is transmitted by an amplitude interruption of a first duration D, Da, and the second symbol is transmitted by an amplitude interruption of a second duration D, Db. In the embodiment shown, purely by way of example, the second duration D, Db is twice the first duration D, Da. In particular, the first duration D, Da can be 1 ms, and the second duration D, Db can be 2 ms.

[0114] It is therefore possible to transmit a binary code of any length and with the least possible hindrance to the determination of the relative position of transmitting inductive charging device 4 relative to receiving inductive charging device 5 and thus with the shortest possible latency.

[0115] It is also conceivable to transmit the start of the transmission with further modifications (not shown). For this purpose, for example, the PWM and thus the positioning field 9 can be changed, in particular suspended, for 4 ms. It is also conceivable to transmit the ID periodically.

[0116] For simplicity, in Figure 4In particular, the duration D and the time interval t can be distorted on the receiving side (ie, in the receiving inductive charging device 5 ) due to so-called “dead time”.

[0117] As in Figure 1 and Figure 3 As can be seen in the embodiment shown, the transmitting inductive charging device 4 generates at least two such positioning fields 9 that are spatially offset relative to one another, wherein for this purpose the transmitting inductive charging device 4 has an associated transmitting coil 10 for each positioning field 9. The corresponding positioning field 9 can be generated as such an ID field 6. In other words, the transmitting inductive charging device 4 can generate at least two such ID fields 6 in order to transmit an ID. In this case, the ID can be transmitted by modifying at least two of the at least two positioning fields 9 simultaneously. For a better overview, in Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , only such an ID field 6 and thus a positioning field 9 is shown for one of transmitting inductive charging devices 4 (ie, in the exemplary embodiment shown, only one of stationary inductive charging devices 2 , 2 a ).

[0118] If only in Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the transmitting inductive charging device 4 (in the embodiment shown, that is, the corresponding stationary inductive charging device 2, 2a) generates at least four (in the embodiment shown, five) such localization fields 9, which are spatially offset relative to one another. Accordingly, the transmitting inductive charging device 4 has at least four (in the embodiment shown, five) such transmitting coils 10, which are arranged offset relative to one another. Figure 1 Only two of the transmitting coils 10 can be seen in FIG.

[0119] according to Figure 1 and Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the corresponding transmitting coil 10 is different from the energy coil 3 of the associated inductive charging device 2, 4. Figure 1 It is apparent that in the exemplary embodiment shown, receiver 11 and thus receiver coil 12 differ from power coil 3 of associated inductive charging device 2 , 5 .

[0120] If only in Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the respective power coil 3 is designed as a flat coil 13, which is wound about a winding axis A1 running parallel to the first direction R1. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the respective transmitting coil 10 is designed as a flat coil 13, which is wound about an associated winding axis A2 running parallel to the first direction R1.

Claims

1. A method for operating a charging system (1) having at least one stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) and at least one mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b), -in, A corresponding stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) interacts inductively with one of the at least one mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b) during charging operation to inductively transfer energy. wherein, during the charging operation, the stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) and the mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b) are arranged opposite each other in a first direction (R1), wherein, before the charging operation, when the inductive charging devices (2) are brought into proximity with one another, one of the inductive charging devices (2) to be cooperating during the charging operation is operated as a transmitting inductive charging device (4), and the other inductive charging device (2) is operated as a receiving inductive charging device (5), such that: The transmitting inductive charging device (4) generates at least an ID field (6), the ID field having a main axis along the first direction (R1), the ID field transmitting the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device (4), The receiving inductive charging device (5) receives the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device (4) by means of at least one ID field (6), Using the ID of the transmitting inductive charging device (4) received by the receiving inductive charging device (5), a data connection is established between the transmitting inductive charging device (4) and the receiving inductive charging device (5), preferably separate from the at least one ID field (6).

2. The method according to claim 1, It is characterized by: In order to position the inductive charging devices (2) that are to inductively cooperate with each other for inductive energy transfer relative to each other in a positioning operation that begins before the charging operation: - the transmitting inductive charging device (4) generates at least one of the at least one ID field (6) as a positioning field (9), and the receiving inductive charging device (5) receives at least one positioning field (9), - determining the relative position of the transmitting inductive charging device (4) relative to the receiving inductive charging device (5) using at least one localization field (9) received by the receiving inductive charging device (5).

3. The method according to claim 2, It is characterized by: The transmitting inductive charging device (4) transmits the ID by modifying at least one of the at least one positioning fields (9).

4. The method according to claim 3, It is characterized by: The at least one localization field (9) is modified by means of changes carried out at predetermined time intervals.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, It is characterized by: The transmitting inductive charging device (4) transmits the ID by varying the amplitude of at least one of the at least one localization field (9) at predetermined time intervals.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized by: The transmitting induction charging device (9) transmits the ID via a binary code consisting of a first symbol and a second symbol.

7. The method according to claim 6 and any one of claims 2 to 5, It is characterized by: The first symbol is transmitted by temporarily changing at least one of the at least one positioning field (9), and the second symbol is transmitted without making the change.

8. The method according to claim 6 and any one of claims 2 to 5 and 7, It is characterized by: The first symbol is transmitted by interrupting at least one of the at least one positioning field (9), and the second symbol is transmitted by not performing the interruption.

9. The method according to claim 6 and any one of claims 2 to 5, It is characterized by: The first symbol is transmitted by changing, in particular interrupting, at least one first duration (D, Da) of the at least one positioning field (9), and the second symbol is transmitted by changing, in particular interrupting, a second duration (D, Db) of the at least one positioning field (9).

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, It is characterized by: The transmitting inductive charging device (4) generates at least one of the at least one ID field (6), preferably a corresponding ID field (6), as a magnetic field.

11. The method according to claim 10 and any one of claims 3 to 9, It is characterized by: At least one of the at least one localization field (9) is generated as a magnetic field by means of pulse width modulation, and the localization field (9) is modified by means of a change in the pulse width modulation.

12. The method according to any one of claims 3 to 11, It is characterized by: The transmitting inductive charging device (4) generates at least two such localization fields (9) that are spatially offset relative to one another, - The ID is transmitted by means of a simultaneous modification of at least two of the at least two location fields (9).

13. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 12, It is characterized by: The transmitting inductive charging device (4) generates at least four such localization fields (9) that are spatially offset relative to one another.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, It is characterized by: The charging system (1) is provided with at least two fixed inductive charging devices (2, 2a) spaced apart from each other, each for an associated parking area (201) of a parking lot (200).

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14; It is characterized by: The respective stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) is operated as a transmitting inductive charging device (4), and the respective mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b) is operated as a receiving inductive charging device (5).

16. Charging system (1), - having at least one stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) and at least one mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b), in particular at least one mobile inductive charging device in a motor vehicle (101), - having an infrastructure (7) which is communicatively connected to a corresponding stationary inductive charging device (2, 2a) and which can be wirelessly communicatively connected to a corresponding mobile inductive charging device (2, 2b), -in, The charging system (1) is designed such that it is operated according to the method according to any one of claims 1 to 15. wherein the communicative connection of the infrastructure (7) to the inductive charging device (2) is different from the at least one ID field (6).

17. The charging system according to claim 16, It is characterized by: The charging system (1) has an associated fixed inductive charging device (2, 2a) for at least two parking areas (201) of a parking lot (200), wherein the fixed inductive charging devices (2, 2a) are spaced apart from one another.

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