Docking charging station

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a docking charging station and docking charging system. The docking charging station reduces the inconvenience of waiting to charge by determining charging station usage authorization through a pre-authentication process prior to charging an electric mobile vehicle, allows easy access to a charging location, automatically aligns to a charging location, thereby eliminating the need to manually position a mobile vehicle, and ensures charging convenience by automating both power charging and fluid supply.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a docking charging station that improves the charging convenience of electric vehicles by automatically aligning with the charging location of electric mobile vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Electric mobility vehicle charging infrastructure technologies address the technical challenges involved in building and operating charging systems to meet the growing demand for electric mobility vehicles.

[0003] Key areas requiring continuous improvement in infrastructure development include reducing charging time and increasing convenience.

[0004] However, charging electric mobility vehicles typically requires the user to leave the vehicle and manually connect the charger to the electric mobility vehicle.

[0005] Furthermore, even after moving the vehicle to a charging station, users must precisely align it, as charging can only begin when the vehicle is close to the charger at the designated parking spot.

[0006] Therefore, users need to repeatedly move the vehicle in and out and carefully position it at the charging point, which reduces the convenience of charging electric mobile vehicles.

[0007] The aforementioned related technologies are intended only to help understand the background of this disclosure and should not be construed as an endorsement of prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems. The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a docking charging station that allows electric mobile vehicles to easily enter the charging position, automatically align with the vehicle for charging, and automatically perform both power charging and fluid supply, thereby improving the convenience of charging electric mobile vehicles.

[0009] The technical objectives of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other objectives not described herein.

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, a docking charging station disclosed herein includes: a detector configured to detect a mobile vehicle entering a charging area; a fixing device disposed in the charging area and configured to adjust the position of the mobile vehicle to a charging position when the detector detects that the mobile vehicle has entered the charging area; and a charger configured to be movable within the charging area and configured to dock with the mobile vehicle whose position has been adjusted by the fixing device when it is moved to the charging position, to provide at least one of electricity and fluid to the mobile vehicle, or to exchange at least one of electricity and fluid with the mobile vehicle.

[0011] The detector is configured to collect at least one of the following: authentication status information, battery information, and status information of the mobile vehicle.

[0012] The fixing device includes a support plate that is rotatably mounted on the floor of the charging area and configured to accommodate mobile vehicles.

[0013] The support plate includes a contact portion disposed at the center of the support plate, and the moving vehicle includes a connecting portion disposed at the lower part of the moving vehicle and configured to contact the contact portion. When the moving vehicle enters the support plate, the connecting portion is guided by contacting the contact portion to align the moving vehicle with the center of the support plate.

[0014] The connecting part extends from the edge to the center at the bottom of the moving vehicle, gradually narrowing in width. When the moving vehicle enters the support plate, the connecting part contacts the contact part, thereby guiding the moving vehicle to the center of the support plate.

[0015] The mobile vehicle includes a door located at the entrance of the connection, the door being configured to open when the mobile vehicle enters the stationary fixture.

[0016] The moving vehicle detects the position of the contact part using sensors and moves into the fixing device with the connecting part facing the contact part.

[0017] The charging area includes a structure provided with a supply module configured to provide or exchange at least one of electricity and fluid, and a charger is movably disposed on the structure.

[0018] The charger includes: a movable component; and a docking component, the movable component having a variable length through sliding movement within the structure, and the docking component being connected to and moving together with the movable component, the docking component being provided with a connector configured to dock with a mobile vehicle when moved to a charging position.

[0019] The charging area includes a guide rail set on the floor of the charging area, and the docking component is placed on the guide rail and moves along the guide rail.

[0020] Multiple movable components are configured to move within the structure. The spacing between the movable components is adjustable, and docking components are connected to the multiple movable components. Each movable component has a variable length in the direction of movement.

[0021] The connector's position on the mating member is adjustable in multiple directions.

[0022] The docking component includes a clamping part configured to contact and support the exterior of the moving vehicle as it moves to the charging position.

[0023] The charger is connected to the supply module to deliver at least one of electricity and fluid, and further includes a supply line extending along the movable member and the docking member to connect with a connector.

[0024] The power supply line includes a fixed line and a movable line. The fixed line is configured to extend from the structure to the movable member, and the movable line is configured to move together with the docking member. The fixed line and the movable line are grounded at the movable member to transmit power via wireless power transmission or sliding contact.

[0025] The movable component includes a fixed part disposed on the structure and a sliding part slidably connected to the fixed part, a mating member connected to the sliding part, and the fixed part includes a driving part connected to the sliding part to move the sliding part.

[0026] The docking member includes a sensor configured to detect the distance between the docking member and a moving vehicle entering the charging area, and the drive unit adjusts the movement distance of the sliding unit based on the distance between the docking member and the moving vehicle input by the sensor.

[0027] The docking charging station further includes: a controller configured to control the fixed device and the charger, wherein the controller communicates with the mobile vehicle to provide the detector with authenticated mobile vehicle information, and the detector verifies the authenticated mobile vehicle based on the provided information.

[0028] The controller is configured to control the stationary device to adjust the position of the mobile vehicle to the charging position when the mobile vehicle enters the stationary device, and to communicate with the mobile vehicle to control the mobile vehicle to remain stationary.

[0029] The controller is configured to move the charger out of the charging position when a passenger enters or leaves the moving vehicle.

[0030] The advantage of the included charging stations is that by requiring users to go through a pre-authorization process before entering the charging station, the inconvenience of waiting to charge is eliminated.

[0031] In addition, the advantage of docking with charging stations is that electric mobile vehicles can easily enter the charging location and automatically align with it, eliminating the inconvenience of having to precisely move the electric mobile vehicle to the charging point.

[0032] Furthermore, the advantage of docking with charging stations lies in the convenience of charging electric mobile vehicles through the automation of both electrical charging and fluid supply.

[0033] The advantages of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other advantages not described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a docking charging station according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 2 It is shown that upon entering Figure 1 A diagram showing a moving vehicle in front of the fixed device at the docking charging station.

[0036] Figure 3 It is shown that upon entering Figure 1 A diagram showing a moving vehicle behind the fixed device of the docking charging station.

[0037] Figure 4 It shows through Figure 1 A diagram showing the fixed device in the docking charging station aligned with the moving vehicle.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a mobile vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a mobile vehicle connected to the charger of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a charger according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a charger according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a docking charging station according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the control sequence of the docking charging station according to this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a moving vehicle before entering a docking charging station according to this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing a mobile vehicle aligned with a fixed device at a docking charging station according to this disclosure; and

[0046] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing a mobile vehicle connected to a charger docked with a docking charging station according to this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To avoid obscuring the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of known technologies may be omitted. Furthermore, accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; however, the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited to the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives within the scope of the ideas and techniques disclosed herein.

[0048] As used herein, terms including ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” can be used to describe various components without limiting them. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0049] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well.

[0050] In the specification, terms such as “comprising” or “having” indicate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components or parts listed in the specification, but do not exclude the presence or possibility of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components or parts or combinations thereof.

[0051] As used in the following description, the suffixes “module” and “unit” are assigned or used interchangeably for the sake of convenience of description, but do not have different meanings or functions in themselves.

[0052] What will be understood is that when a component is referred to as "connected to" or "linked to" another component, the component can be directly connected to or linked to the other component, or there may be an intermediate component. Conversely, when a component is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly linked to" another component, there is no intermediate component.

[0053] In addition, it should be noted that the terms “unit” or “control unit” used in the names of components usually refer to a controller responsible for a specific vehicle function, rather than a general-purpose functional unit.

[0054] For example, each controller may include a communication device that communicates with another controller or sensor to control the function it is responsible for, a memory that stores operating system or logic instructions and input / output information, and one or more processors for determining, operating, and making decisions required for the function it is responsible for.

[0055] Any of the configurations described herein may include any number or type of components within the scope of this disclosure. Components may include any combination of the features described herein and may be arranged in any of the various configurations described herein. The concepts regarding the structure and arrangement of the components of this disclosure, as well as their use and operation, are applicable not only to the specific embodiments discussed herein but also to any number of embodiments having various combinations. Hereinafter, embodiments including various features with different arrangements are described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] The following detailed description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals are used to avoid redundancy.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a docking charging station according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a mobile vehicle 500 entering a stationary device 200 and a charger 300.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the docking charging station according to this disclosure includes: a detector 100 for detecting a mobile vehicle 500 entering a charging area 400; a fixing device 200 disposed in the charging area 400 to adjust the position of the mobile vehicle 500 to a charging position when the detector 100 detects that the mobile vehicle 500 has entered the charging area 400; and a charger 300 movably disposed in the charging area 400, which, when moved to the charging position, docks with the mobile vehicle 500 whose position has been adjusted by the fixing device 200 to provide at least one of electricity and fluid to the mobile vehicle 500, or to exchange at least one of electricity and fluid with the mobile vehicle 500.

[0059] The charging area 400 is a space where mobile vehicles 500 can be parked, and includes a fixture 200 and a charger 300. The charging area 400 can be configured to accommodate mobile vehicles 500 of various sizes and can be set to provide parking spaces or connect to a road.

[0060] Detector 100 detects a mobile vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400. The detector 100 may include at least one of a camera, laser, infrared device, and communication device, and may be various devices configured to verify information related to the mobile vehicle 500, such as its license plate or devices carried by a user inside the mobile vehicle 500. Information obtained by detector 100 is sent to a server or controller in a building where the fixture 200 and charger 300 are located to determine whether entry of the mobile vehicle 500 is permitted.

[0061] The detector 100 detects the mobile vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400 and allows entry when the mobile vehicle 500 is authenticated. Authentication of the mobile vehicle 500 can be performed through a device carried by the user on the mobile vehicle 500 or by verifying the authentication status of the mobile vehicle 500 itself.

[0062] On the other hand, the fixing device 200 provided in the charging area 400 is configured to adjust the position of the mobile vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400 to a charging position. The charging position is the position in the charging area 400 where the mobile vehicle 500 can dock with the charger 300.

[0063] The fixing device 200 can be installed on the floor of the charging area 400, and the mobile vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400 is placed on the fixing device 200. The fixing device 200 can adjust the position of the mobile vehicle 500 to a charging position by rotating or lifting. Therefore, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the fixing device 200 automatically aligns the mobile vehicle 500 to a suitable charging position, thereby eliminating the need for manual position adjustment.

[0064] The charger 300 docks with a mobile vehicle 500 aligned with a charging position in the charging area 400, and provides at least one of electricity and fluid. The charger 300 can be designed to be movable within the charging area 400, and since the mobile vehicle 500 is aligned with the charging position via the fixing device 200, the range of movement required for the charger 300 to dock with the mobile vehicle 500 can be minimized. In other words, since the mobile vehicle 500 is aligned with the charging position via the fixing device 200, the charger 300 can dock with the mobile vehicle 500 simply by moving in a straight line towards the mobile vehicle 500.

[0065] On the other hand, the charger 300 can provide at least one of electricity and fluid to the mobile vehicle 500 or exchange at least one of electricity and fluid with the mobile vehicle 500 during docking. For example, when providing electricity, the charger 300 can charge the battery of the mobile vehicle 500, or when supplying fluid, the fluid can be coolant or drinking water. Here, the charger 300 can supply drinking water to be used inside the mobile vehicle 500, or receive and treat wastewater already used in the mobile vehicle 500.

[0066] In this manner, the present disclosure allows detector 100 to detect a mobile vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400, and when the detected mobile vehicle 500 enters, the fixing device 200 automatically aligns the mobile vehicle with the charging position, thereby enabling charger 300 to dock with the mobile vehicle 500 and perform an exchange of electricity or fluid.

[0067] Therefore, this disclosure automates the alignment of the mobile vehicle 500 with the charging location and the supply of electricity or fluid to the mobile vehicle 500, thereby ensuring the convenience of charging the mobile vehicle 500 and improving user satisfaction with the charging station.

[0068] The following provides a detailed description of the above embodiments of this disclosure.

[0069] The detector 100 can collect at least one of the following data related to the authentication status, battery information, and mobile vehicle status information of the mobile vehicle 500.

[0070] The detector 100 may include at least one of a camera, a laser, an infrared device, and a communication device, and may include various devices for detecting or communicating with the moving vehicle 500.

[0071] For example, detector 100 can communicate with mobile vehicle 500 entering charging area 400 to verify whether mobile vehicle 500 has paid the charging service fee before entering charging area 400, and can allow mobile vehicle 500 to enter designated charging area 400.

[0072] In addition, the detector 100 can verify the license plate of the mobile vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400 for authentication, or communicate with the device carried by the user inside the mobile vehicle 500 to perform the authentication procedure.

[0073] In this manner, detector 100 can perform an authentication procedure to determine whether mobile vehicle 500 is allowed to enter charging area 400, and can enable various services, including charging, based on the battery information and status information of mobile vehicle 500.

[0074] Figures 2 to 4 The mobile vehicle 500 is positioned for charging via a fixing device 200.

[0075] The fixing device 200 includes a support plate 210, which is rotatably mounted on the floor of the charging area 400 and is configured to support the mobile vehicle 500.

[0076] The support plate 210 may be circular in shape and formed to be larger than the mobile vehicle 500 to ensure that the mobile vehicle 500 can be placed on it. For example, a circular groove or hole is formed in the floor of the charging area 400, and the support plate 210 is configured to cover the groove or hole, with the outer edge of the support plate 210 slidably mounted on the floor around the groove or hole, thereby allowing adjustment of the rotational position by a motor or actuator. Here, the motor or actuator includes a rotating shaft connected to the center of the support plate 210, thereby allowing the support plate 210 to rotate. The motor or actuator for rotating the support plate 210 is one example of transmitting rotational force and is not limited to this configuration.

[0077] Therefore, when the moving vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400 and stops on the support plate 210, the parking position can be changed due to the rotation of the support plate 210.

[0078] In addition, the support plate 210 may include a support shoulder 212, on which the wheels of the mobile vehicle 500 may rest upon entry, thereby allowing the wheels of the mobile vehicle 500 to be firmly positioned on the support shoulder 212 and stabilizing the position of the mobile vehicle 500.

[0079] On the other hand, a contact portion 211 is provided at the center of the support plate 210, and a connecting portion 510 that contacts the contact portion 211 is provided on the lower side of the mobile vehicle 500, so that when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the support plate 210, the connecting portion 510 contacts the contact portion 211 and is guided, thereby aligning the mobile vehicle 500 with the center of the support plate 210.

[0080] The contact portion 211 may be formed to project upward from the surface of the support plate 210, or in another embodiment, the contact portion 211 may be configured to selectively extend or retract. For example, the contact portion 211 may be configured to selectively protrude from the support plate 210 via an actuator unit. This allows the contact portion 211 to normally retract into the support plate 210 without being exposed, but when the moving vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the contact portion 211 protrudes from the support plate 210 and contacts the connection portion 510 of the moving vehicle 500.

[0081] By positioning the contact portion 211 at the center of the support plate 210, the connecting portion 510 of the moving vehicle 500 can be guided to move toward the center of the support plate 210 in alignment with the position of the contact portion 211.

[0082] A connecting portion 510 is formed on the bottom of the mobile vehicle 500, and when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the connecting portion 510 contacts the contact portion 211, thereby guiding the movement of the mobile vehicle 500. The connecting portion 510 may be formed in the form of a slit extending in the driving direction on the bottom of the mobile vehicle 500, and when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the contact portion 211 is inserted into the interior of the connecting portion 510, thereby guiding the movement of the connecting portion 510, allowing the mobile vehicle 500 to move to the center of the support plate 210 where the contact portion 211 is formed and fix in position.

[0083] Specifically, the connecting portion 510 extends from the edge of the bottom of the mobile vehicle 500 toward the center, and its width gradually narrows, so that when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the support plate 210, the contact portion 211 contacts the connecting portion 510 and guides the mobile vehicle 500 to the center of the support plate 210.

[0084] A connecting portion 510 is formed at the bottom of the mobile vehicle 500 and extends from the edge towards the center. For example, the connecting portion 510 can extend from the front, i.e., in the direction of travel of the mobile vehicle 500, towards the center, and can be formed in the shape of a slit to allow the contact portion 211 to be inserted. The connecting portion 510 is formed wider than the contact portion 211 at the entrance, so that when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the contact portion 211 can be inserted into the interior of the connecting portion 510. The connecting portion 510 gradually narrows towards the center of the mobile vehicle 500, so that when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the contact portion 211 contacts the interior of the connecting portion 510, thereby guiding the movement of the mobile vehicle 500, and finally, the contact portion 211 is inserted into the end of the connecting portion 510, thereby restricting the movement of the mobile vehicle 500.

[0085] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the support plate 210, the movement of the connecting portion 510 is guided by the contact portion 211, and as the contact portion 211 moves toward the end of the connecting portion 510, the mobile vehicle 500 moves to the center of the support plate 210, which serves as the charging position. In this way, the mobile vehicle 500 can be aligned with the center of the support plate 210, which serves as the charging position, simply by entering the charging area 400, and can stop on the support plate 210.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, when the mobile vehicle 500 is located on the support plate 210, the support plate 210 can be rotated to align the position of the mobile vehicle 500 and dock the mobile vehicle 500 with the charger 300. That is, when the mobile vehicle 500 is located at the center of the support plate 210, the rotation of the support plate 210 can align the charging terminal (A) on the mobile vehicle 500 with the charger 300, thereby ensuring that they are opposite to each other.

[0087] Therefore, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the connecting part 510 of the mobile vehicle 500 contacts the contact part 211, thereby moving the mobile vehicle 500 and aligning it with the center of the support plate 210. Once positioned in the center, the rotation of the support plate 210 aligns the mobile vehicle 500 with the charger 300 for docking. In this way, the alignment of the mobile vehicle 500 for charging is automated, thereby ensuring convenient charging.

[0088] On the other hand, the mobile vehicle 500 includes a door 520 at the entrance of the connecting part 510, and the door 520 can be opened when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the fixed device 200.

[0089] Reference Figure 2A door 520 is provided at the entrance of the connecting part 510 on the mobile vehicle 500 and is operated to open or close. The door 520 can be configured to open or close at the entrance of the connecting part 510 by rotation or sliding, and the open and closed positions are controlled by a motor or actuator.

[0090] Under normal circumstances, the door 520 remains closed to prevent any obstruction other than the contact portion 211 from entering the connection portion 510 of the mobile vehicle 500. When the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the door 520 opens to allow the contact portion 211 to enter.

[0091] Door 520 can be selectively opened or closed based on user consent, or it can be configured to open or close automatically via communication when a moving vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400.

[0092] like Figure 2 As shown, the mobile vehicle 500 may be equipped with a sensor 530. This sensor 530 may include at least one of a camera, an infrared device, a laser, and a LiDAR, and may be any device configured to detect objects in the direction of travel of the mobile vehicle 500, without being limited to the specific embodiment.

[0093] Thus, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the fixed device 200, the sensor 530 can be configured to determine the position of the contact portion 211, and the mobile vehicle 500 can be configured to control its driving direction to align the connecting portion 510 with the contact portion 211.

[0094] In other words, when the mobile vehicle 500 moves toward the charging area 400, the sensor 530 checks the support plate 210 of the fixing device 200, identifies the position of the contact portion 211 formed on the support plate 210, and adjusts the movement of the mobile vehicle 500 so that the connecting portion 510 faces the contact portion 211. When the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the connecting portion 510 can be automatically driven to face the contact portion 211.

[0095] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the support plate 210 may further include a guide line 213 for guiding the entry direction of the mobile vehicle 500, such that the sensor 530 of the mobile vehicle 500 detects the guide line 213 and the mobile vehicle 500 moves along the guide line 213, thereby being guided to a position on the support plate 210 where the mobile vehicle 500 can be charged.

[0096] Therefore, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the mobile vehicle 500 automatically ensures that the connecting part 510 contacts the contact part 211 without the user directly controlling the mobile vehicle 500, and the position of the mobile vehicle 500 entering the support plate 210 is automatically aligned with the charging position, thereby ensuring the convenience of charging the mobile vehicle 500.

[0097] On the other hand, the charging area 400 includes a structure 410 provided with a supply module 420 for supplying or exchanging at least one of electricity and fluid, and the charger 300 can be movably disposed in the structure 410.

[0098] Structure 410 may be a building, and structure 410 includes a supply module 420 for supplying electricity or fluids. Supply module 420 can provide electricity to charge the battery of mobile vehicle 500, supply coolant, drinking water, etc., or receive and treat wastewater from mobile vehicle 500. This supply module 420 may include a battery system for electricity storage and supply, and a pump system for exchanging coolant, drinking water, and wastewater. Therefore, supply module 420 may include a high-capacity charging facility or power generation facility for electricity storage and supply, a cooling water supply facility for coolant, a water purification facility for drinking water, and a wastewater treatment facility for treating wastewater.

[0099] The charger 300 is configured to be movable within the structure 410 and to dock with a mobile vehicle 500 that has entered the charging area 400.

[0100] Therefore, as Figure 5 As shown, the mobile vehicle 500 may be equipped with a charging terminal A for receiving power and a port B for fluid exchange.

[0101] In addition, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the charger 300 may include a supply line 330 for transmitting power or fluid from the supply module 420, and a connector 321 connected to the supply line 330 for power transmission or fluid exchange.

[0102] This setup allows the charger 300's connector 321 to connect to the charging terminals A and B of the mobile vehicle 500 when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400 and the charger 300 docks with the mobile vehicle 500, thereby enabling the supply of power from the supply module 420 to the mobile vehicle 500 or the exchange of fluid between the supply module 420 and the mobile vehicle 500.

[0103] In addition, the charger 300 may include a display D that displays various information, such as battery charging level, coolant supply level, drinking water supply level, and wastewater treatment rate.

[0104] The charging terminals A and B of the mobile vehicle 500, and the connector 321 of the charger 300 connected thereto, are merely exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and can be applied to various embodiments depending on the services configured for the mobile vehicle 500 through the supply module 420.

[0105] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the charger 300 may include a movable member 310 and a docking member 320.

[0106] Figure 7 A charger 300 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 8 A charger 300 according to another embodiment is shown.

[0107] The movable member 310 can have a variable length through sliding movement within the structure 410, thereby allowing the docking member 320 to adjust its movement to or away from the charging position depending on the length of the movable member 310. The movable member 310 can be operated to change its length in the direction toward the structure 410, such that when the length of the movable member 310 decreases, the docking member 320 moves to the charging position and docks with the mobile vehicle 500, or when the length of the movable member 310 increases, the docking member 320 moves away from the charging position and disconnects from the mobile vehicle 500.

[0108] The docking member 320 is connected to a movable member 310 that moves together with the docking member 320, and includes a connector 321 that docks with the mobile vehicle 500 when the vehicle is moved to the charging position.

[0109] Connector 321 is configured to connect to charging terminal A or port B of mobile vehicle 500, thereby allowing power or fluid supplied by supply module 420 to be delivered to mobile vehicle 500 via supply line 330 when connector 321 is connected to mobile vehicle 500. Depending on the number or type of charging terminal A or port B on mobile vehicle 500, multiple connectors 321 may be provided.

[0110] In addition, connector 321 can be designed to allow for multi-directional positional adjustment on mating member 320.

[0111] For example, connector 321 can be connected to a robotic arm or its vertical and horizontal positions can be changed via actuator control. This ability of connector 321 to adjust its position on docking member 320 allows connector 321 to track and connect to charging terminal A or port B of the moving vehicle 500, which has been aligned to the charging position via fixing device 200.

[0112] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, a guide rail 430 is provided on the floor of the charging area 400, and the docking member 320 is placed on the guide rail 430, thereby allowing the docking member 320 to move stably along the guide rail 430 while being supported during the length adjustment operation of the movable member 310.

[0113] To achieve this, the docking member 320 may include a roller for rolling along the guide rail 430 or a low-friction structure for sliding at its bottom.

[0114] The guide rail 430 extends from the charging area to the support plate 210. Therefore, the docking member 320, while positioned on the guide rail 430, moves stably toward the support plate 210, and as it enters the support plate 210, the docking member 320 slides or rolls on the support plate 210 to connect with the moving vehicle 500. A portion of the support plate 210 may be configured with a low-friction structure to allow the docking member 320 to roll or slide.

[0115] In this manner, the docking member 320 is mounted on the guide rail 430 on the outside of the support plate 210, thereby ensuring linear movement and structural stability. When the docking member 320 moves along the guide rail 430 and enters the support plate 210, the connector 321 is connected to the moving vehicle 500 to perform power charging or fluid exchange.

[0116] In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the docking member 320 is configured to move in a direction away from or toward the structure 410 by means of a variable length operation of the movable member 310, thereby allowing it to be selectively connected to the mobile vehicle 500, and thus the guide rail 430 can be formed to extend in a direction toward the structure 410.

[0117] On the other hand, multiple movable members 310 are provided and are configured to be movable within the structure 410. The spacing between each movable member 310 is adjustable, and a mating member 320 is connected to the multiple movable members 310. Each movable member 310 is configured to have a variable length in the direction of movement.

[0118] like Figure 9 As shown, movable members 310 can be configured as a pair on the structure 410, each movable member 310 being configured to move toward or away from the structure 410. Meanwhile, depending on the moving position of each movable member 310, the docking member 320 can have a variable length in the moving direction of the movable members 310.

[0119] For example, the mating member 320 may consist of multiple parts P1, P2, and P3 connected to each movable member 310. Each part is slidably connected by an insertion structure, allowing these parts to move based on the position of the movable member 310 and to change length by shortening or extending. (See reference...) Figure 6 The first part P1 is connected to and moves with one of the movable members 310, the second part P2 is connected to and moves with the other movable member 310, and the third part P3 is disposed between the first part P1 and the second part P2, thereby allowing the first part P1 and the second part P2 to slide relative to the third part P3. Thus, the docking member 320 can perform a variable length operation in the direction of movement of each movable member 310.

[0120] In addition, each part of the mating member 320 includes a different connector 321, and the position of each connector 321 can be changed according to the position of the movable member 310.

[0121] For example, the first part P1 may be provided with a connector 321 connected to the charging terminal A of the mobile vehicle 500, and the second part P2 may be provided with a connector 321 connected to the port B of the mobile vehicle 500. This allows the positions of the first part P1 and the second part P2 to change as the movable member 310 moves, thereby changing the position of the connector 321 provided in each part. This allows the connector 321 to be configured to connect to various mobile vehicles 500.

[0122] In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, in order to enable the movable member 310 to move within the structure 410, a hole H extending in a straight line may be formed in the structure 410, thereby allowing each movable member 310 to change its position by means of a motor or actuator disposed in the structure 410.

[0123] The number of movable components 310 can vary beyond the pair described in the above embodiments.

[0124] The movable component 310 may include a fixed part 311 disposed on the structure 410, a sliding part 312 that slides within the fixed part 311, and a driving part 313 disposed on the fixed part 311 and connected to the sliding part 312 to move the sliding part 312.

[0125] Reference Figure 7 The movable component 310 includes a fixed part 311, a sliding part 312, and a driving part 313.

[0126] The fixing part 311 can be movably disposed in the structure 410, and the sliding part 312 can be inserted into the fixing part 311, thereby allowing it to slide within the fixing part 311. The fixing part 311 and the sliding part 312 can be interconnected by a low-friction material or a bearing structure.

[0127] This allows the sliding part 312 to slide within the fixed part 311, and the total length of the movable member 310 changes according to the distance the sliding part 312 extends or retracts, thereby changing the position of the mating member 320 connected to the sliding part 312.

[0128] The drive unit 313 is disposed in the fixed part 311 and connected to the sliding part 312 to control the movement of the sliding part 312. The drive unit 313 may be a linear actuator, a motor with a gear connection structure, a rack and pinion mechanism, or other structure that allows the sliding part 312 to move linearly with the operation of the drive unit 313.

[0129] On the other hand, the docking member 320 may include a clamping part 322, which contacts and supports the outer surface of the mobile vehicle 500 when it is moved to the charging position.

[0130] like Figure 7 As shown, the clamping part 322 is disposed on the docking member 320 along the direction of the moving vehicle 500, and when the docking member 320 moves toward the moving vehicle 500, the clamping part 322 contacts the outer surface of the moving vehicle 500 to form a support structure. The clamping part 322 can be located at the top or the outermost edge to avoid the connection area including the connector 321 or the vulnerable area of ​​the glass of the moving vehicle 500. In addition, the clamping part 322 can be configured to contact the surface of the moving vehicle 500, and shock-absorbing members can be applied to prevent damage to the moving vehicle 500 upon contact.

[0131] The number, shape, and position of the clamping parts 322 can vary according to the design. Furthermore, the clamping parts 322 can be configured to be movable on the mating member 320, thereby allowing them to firmly support the mobile vehicle 500 while preventing damage by contacting the area to be protected and forming a stable support structure.

[0132] On the other hand, the supply line 330 connecting the supply module 420 and the connector 321 can be implemented in various forms.

[0133] like Figure 7As shown in the exemplary embodiment, when the supply line 330 comprises a wire or hose, it can be wound within the structure 410 to allow for variable length movement of the movable member 310. That is, the supply line 330 extends from the supply module 420 and is partially wound on a spool such that even when the docking member 320 moves with the variable length movement of the movable member 310, the supply line 330 moves with the docking member 320, thereby maintaining its connection to the connector 321.

[0134] like Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the power supply line 330a that transmits power within the supply line 330 can be divided into a fixed line 331 and a movable line 332. The fixed line 331 is configured to extend from the structure 410 to the movable member 310, and the movable line 332 is configured to move together with the docking member 320. Here, the fixed line 331 and the movable line 332 can be grounded at the fixing portion 311 of the movable member 310, and power can be transmitted via wireless power transmission or sliding contact.

[0135] In other words, the power supply line 330a for transmitting power includes a fixed line 331 that extends only from the structure 410 to the movable member 310, and a movable line 332 that moves together with the docking member 320. The fixed line 331 and the movable line 332 transmit and receive power within the movable member 310 by a non-contact method or a sliding contact method.

[0136] Wireless power transmission is a contactless method in which one of the fixed line 331 and the movable line 332 includes a generating coil and the other includes a receiving coil, thereby allowing power from the power supply module 420 to be transmitted. In other words, power can be transmitted and received through electromagnetic induction between the generating coil and the receiving coil.

[0137] The sliding contact method involves a fixed contact on a fixed wire 331 and a movable contact on a movable wire 332. As the movable wire 332 moves together with the mating member 320, the movable contact remains in contact with the fixed contact, thus sliding while maintaining contact. This enables power transmission between the fixed wire 331 and the movable wire 332, thereby transferring power from the supply module 420 to the connector 321.

[0138] The aforementioned wireless power transmission and sliding contact method is a commonly used structure in the field of power transmission, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0139] Therefore, the power transceiver structure 333 based on the generating coil / receiving coil or fixed contact / movable contact can transmit power between the fixed line 331 and the movable line 332. The power transceiver structure 333 can be selectively applied according to the design of the charger 300, and the power transceiver structure 333 is not limited to these, but can be implemented in various forms.

[0140] On the other hand, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the docking member 320 includes a sensor 340 that detects the distance between the docking member 320 and the moving vehicle 500 entering the charging area 400, and the drive unit 313 can adjust the moving distance of the sliding unit 312 based on the distance between the docking member 320 and the moving vehicle 500 input through the sensor 340.

[0141] The sensor 340, as a device for detecting the distance to an object, may include at least one of a laser, LiDAR, infrared device, and camera, and may also selectively employ various other devices.

[0142] Therefore, a sensor 340 disposed on the docking member 320 measures the distance between the docking member 320 and the moving vehicle 500. This allows the distance that the docking member 320 can move toward the moving vehicle 500 to be deduced based on the separation distance between the docking member 320 and the moving vehicle 500, and based on the deduced distance, the drive unit 313 operates to move the sliding part 312 within the fixed part 311, thereby moving the docking member 320 toward the moving vehicle 500 and connecting the connector 321 of the docking member 320 to the moving vehicle 500.

[0143] Multiple sensors 340 may be configured and arranged at the ends, top and bottom of the docking member 320, and each sensor 340 measures the distance between the docking member 320 and the moving vehicle 500, thereby allowing confirmation of the alignment or docking status of the docking member 320.

[0144] The actuator provided for the drive unit 313, the movement of the movable member 310, and the positional change of the connector 321, as described above, can be implemented in various ways, including motor connection structure, gear connection structure, rack and pinion connection structure, and cylinder connection structure. Furthermore, the configuration of the moving components is not limited to any single structure, but can be applied in various forms.

[0145] On the other hand, the docking charging station further includes a controller 600, which is configured to control the fixture 200 and the charger 300.

[0146] Here, the controller 600 communicates with the mobile vehicle 500 to provide the detector 100 with authenticated mobile vehicle information, thereby enabling the detector 100 to verify whether the mobile vehicle 500 is authenticated based on the provided information.

[0147] In other words, the controller 600 can communicate with the mobile vehicle 500 or devices carried by passengers inside the mobile vehicle 500 via a server to verify the eligibility of the mobile vehicle 500 to enter the charging area 400. The controller 600 can verify the eligibility of the mobile vehicle 500 to enter the charging area 400 based on predetermined criteria such as payment status, membership registration, and identity authentication.

[0148] In this manner, the controller 600 communicates with the mobile vehicle 500 to authenticate the mobile vehicle 500 and provides the authenticated mobile vehicle information to the detector 100, thereby allowing the detector 100 to detect the authenticated mobile vehicle 500 and confirm its entry into the charging area 400.

[0149] On the other hand, the controller 600 can be configured to control the fixing device 200 when the mobile vehicle 500 enters, thereby adjusting the position of the mobile vehicle 500 to the charging position, and can communicate with the mobile vehicle 500 to ensure that the mobile vehicle 500 remains stationary.

[0150] In other words, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400 and stops on the fixing device 200, the controller 600 is configured to control the fixing device 200 to align the mobile vehicle 500 with the charging position. Here, the charging position to which the mobile vehicle 500 is aligned is determined based on factors such as the direction of entry, position, type, and state of the mobile vehicle 500, and the fixing device 200 is controlled to align the mobile vehicle 500 with the determined charging position.

[0151] Furthermore, the controller 600 ensures that the mobile vehicle 500 remains stationary when entering the stationary device 200. That is, when entering the charging area 400, the mobile vehicle 500 is controlled by the controller 600, which keeps the mobile vehicle 500 stationary during charging, thereby preventing the mobile vehicle 500 from operating during power or fluid supply and causing damage or accidents to various devices.

[0152] On the other hand, when passengers enter or leave the moving vehicle 500, the controller 600 can move the charger 300 out of the charging position.

[0153] In other words, the charger 300 may obstruct the passenger's path and hinder movement when it is present at the charging position while the passenger is entering or leaving the mobile vehicle 500. When the charger 300 moves while the passenger is in the charging area, the passenger may be trapped between the mobile vehicle 500 and the charger 300, or collide with the charger 300, which may cause injury.

[0154] Therefore, the controller 600 prevents the charger 300 from entering the charging position when passengers are getting on or off the moving vehicle 500, thereby preventing safety accidents, and allows the charger 300 to move to the charging position so that the moving vehicle 500 can be charged when there are no passengers in the charging area 400 including the moving vehicle 500.

[0155] The controller 600 can adjust the charging position and perform control operations on the power and fluid supply for the mobile vehicle 500 as follows: Figure 10 The control operations S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 and S7 shown are performed in sequence.

[0156] In other words, such as Figure 11 As shown, when the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400, the detector 100 verifies the mobile vehicle 500 and authorizes its entry, and as... Figure 12 As shown, once the mobile vehicle 500 enters the charging area 400 and is parked on the support plate 210, the fixing device 200 aligns the mobile vehicle 500 into the charging-ready position.

[0157] Once the moving vehicle 500 is aligned with the charging position, such as Figure 13 As shown, docking member 320 moves to the charging position to dock with mobile vehicle 500, and supply module 420 provides power or fluid, or facilitates fluid exchange.

[0158] Once the charging or swapping process of the mobile vehicle 500 is completed, the docking member 320 separates from the mobile vehicle 500, thereby allowing the mobile vehicle 500 to leave the charging area 400.

[0159] The docking charging station constructed as described above reduces the inconvenience of waiting for charging by pre-authorizing the use of the station for charging through an authentication process before charging the electric mobile vehicle 500.

[0160] Furthermore, the electric mobile vehicle 500 easily enters the charging position and automatically aligns, eliminating the inconvenience of having to precisely move the electric mobile vehicle 500 to the charging position.

[0161] Furthermore, the automation of both power charging and fluid supply ensures the convenience of charging the electric mobility vehicle 500.

[0162] Although this disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and alterations may be made therein without departing from the spirit of this disclosure or the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A docking charging station, comprising: The detector detects moving vehicles entering the charging area of ​​the docking charging station; A fixing device is provided in the charging area, and adjusts the position of the mobile vehicle to the charging position based on the detector detecting that the mobile vehicle has entered the charging area; as well as The charger is configured to be movable within the charging area and, when moved to the charging position, to dock with the mobile vehicle whose position is adjusted by the fixing device, to provide the mobile vehicle with at least one of electricity and fluid, or to exchange at least one of electricity and fluid with the mobile vehicle.

2. The docking charging station according to claim 1, wherein, The detector collects at least one of the following: authentication status information, battery information, and status information of the mobile vehicle.

3. The docking charging station according to claim 1, wherein, The fixing device includes a support plate that is rotatably mounted on the floor of the charging area and on which the mobile vehicle is placed.

4. The docking charging station according to claim 3, wherein, The support plate includes a contact portion disposed at the center of the support plate, such that when the moving vehicle enters the support plate, a connecting portion of the moving vehicle disposed at the lower part of the moving vehicle contacts the contact portion, and the connecting portion of the moving vehicle is guided by contacting the contact portion to align the moving vehicle with the center of the support plate.

5. The docking charging station according to claim 1, wherein, The charging area includes a structure provided with a supply module that provides or exchanges at least one of electricity and fluid, and the charger is movably disposed on the structure.

6. The docking charging station according to claim 5, wherein, The charger includes: Movable components; and A docking member, wherein the movable member has a variable length through sliding movement within the structure, and the docking member is connected to the movable member and moves together with the movable member. The docking component includes a connector that docks with the mobile vehicle when moved to the charging position.

7. The docking charging station according to claim 6, wherein, The charging area includes a guide rail disposed on the floor of the charging area, and the docking member is placed on the guide rail and moves along the guide rail.

8. The docking charging station according to claim 6, wherein, The movable components are multiple and configured to move within the structure. The spacing between the movable components is adjustable, and the docking member is connected to the multiple movable components. Each movable component has a variable length in each direction of movement of the movable component.

9. The docking charging station according to claim 6, wherein, The connector can be adjusted in position on the mating member in multiple directions.

10. The docking charging station according to claim 6, wherein, The docking member includes a clamping part that contacts and supports the exterior of the mobile vehicle as it moves to the charging position.

11. The docking charging station according to claim 6, wherein, The charger is connected to the supply module to deliver at least one of electricity and fluid, and further includes a supply line extending along the movable member and the docking member to connect with the connector.

12. The docking charging station according to claim 11, wherein, The supply line includes a power supply line comprising a fixed line and a movable line, the fixed line being configured to extend from the structure to the movable member, the movable line being configured to move together with the docking member, and the fixed line and the movable line being grounded at the movable member to transmit power via wireless power transmission or sliding contact.

13. The docking charging station according to claim 6, wherein, The movable component includes a fixed portion disposed on the structure and a sliding portion slidably connected to the fixed portion, the docking component is connected to the sliding portion, and the fixed portion includes a driving portion connected to the sliding portion to move the sliding portion.

14. The docking charging station according to claim 13, wherein, The docking member includes a sensor that detects the distance between the docking member and the moving vehicle entering the charging area. The drive unit adjusts the moving distance of the sliding unit based on the distance between the docking member and the moving vehicle input by the sensor.

15. The docking charging station according to claim 1, further comprising: A controller controls the fixed device and the charger, wherein the controller communicates with the mobile vehicle to provide the detector with authenticated mobile vehicle information, and the detector verifies the authenticated mobile vehicle based on the provided information.

16. The docking charging station according to claim 15, wherein, The controller further controls the fixing device to adjust the position of the mobile vehicle to the charging position when the mobile vehicle enters the fixing device, and communicates with the mobile vehicle to control the mobile vehicle to remain stationary.

17. The docking charging station according to claim 15, wherein, The controller further controls the charger to move out of the charging position when a passenger enters or leaves the mobile vehicle.

18. A docking charging system, comprising: According to claim 1, the docking charging station, wherein the fixing device includes a support plate rotatably mounted on the floor of the charging area and for accommodating mobile vehicles, and the support plate includes a contact portion disposed at the center of the support plate; and The mobile vehicle includes a connecting portion that extends from the edge to the center at the bottom of the mobile vehicle, narrowing in width, and when the mobile vehicle enters the support plate, the connecting portion contacts the contact portion and guides the mobile vehicle to the center of the support plate.

19. The docking charging system according to claim 18, wherein, The mobile vehicle includes a door located at the entrance of the connection, the door opening when the mobile vehicle enters the fixed device.

20. The docking charging system according to claim 18, wherein, The mobile vehicle detects the position of the contact portion using sensors installed in the mobile vehicle, and moves into the fixing device with the connecting portion facing the contact portion.

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