Charging system and method for charging electric vehicles

Abstract

Charging system (100) for charging at least one electric vehicle (110), wherein the electric vehicle (110) has an energy storage device (112), comprising:at least one power source (120) to which the energy storage device (112) can be connected and charged, wherein the power source (120) is a household socket or a household wall charging station of a household not belonging to the electric vehicle (110);a charging module (130) for determining an electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112), wherein the charging module (130) is designed as an application program and is loaded and executed on a mobile terminal device coupled to the electric vehicle (110) via a communication interface, e.g. a Bluetooth interface, wherein the charging module (130) is designed to determine a current charging state of the energy storage device (112) and a maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device (112) by connecting to an application program already present on the mobile terminal device, which application program is made available to a user of the electric vehicle (110) as a service, for example, by the electric vehicle manufacturer, via a suitable data exchange;and at least one timer module (114) which automatically determines a charging start time for charging the energy storage device (112) by the power source (120) via a further communication interface (150) to a first server (140), taking into account the electrical charging quantity, and which automatically activates a charging process at the determined charging start time, wherein the timer module (114) is loaded and executed as part of the application program on the mobile terminal device coupled to the electric vehicle (110), wherein the charging system (100) further comprises: a billing module (212) for determining costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112), wherein the determination of costs for the electrical charging quantity comprises: - detecting (310) GPS, Global Positioning System, data by means of a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle (110);- Sending (320) a request to a second server (240), wherein the request contains the acquired GPS data; - Receiving (330) a response from the second server (240), wherein the response contains data regarding a price per charging unit, taking into account the acquired GPS data and a current time; - Calculating (340) the cost of the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112) from the price per charging unit contained in the response, taking into account the corresponding current time; and a payment module (214) for automatically performing (350) an electronic payment process for the calculated cost of the electrical charging quantity, wherein the billing module (212) and the payment module (214) are designed with the application program of the charging module (130) and the timer module (114) as a common app, which is loaded and executed as a unit in the mobile terminal device.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a charging system and a method for charging electric vehicles.

[0002] Electric vehicles, such as electrically powered two-wheelers and scooters, but especially electric cars with at least a supporting electric drive, are well known. Micro-mild and full hybrid vehicles are known, which implement parallel, power-split, serial hybrid drive concepts. Plug-in hybrids are particularly well known, in which the electrical energy storage units can be charged via the power grid—as in purely electric drive concepts.

[0003] The increasing electrification of mobility with regard to electric vehicles, whose energy storage devices can be charged via the power grid, as well as the fact that a satisfactory infrastructure of charging stations is no longer available, means that users of electric vehicles, especially purely electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, have to take care of separate charging processes in their personal, private environment. This is particularly difficult when the user is confronted with journeys that exceed the range of the electric vehicles. For example, a user may plan an excursion, but there is no public or publicly accessible charging station within a reasonable distance from the destination. The user is therefore forced to use a private power source - e.g.a household socket in the home of friends and family or at a tourist destination - to charge the electric vehicle. However, an electric vehicle - for example an electric motor vehicle or electric two-wheelers or scooters - may already be connected to the private power source, making immediate charging impossible due to a lack of connection options or for safety reasons. Overheating must be avoided, especially in older installations. This can lead to the electric vehicle being forgotten to be charged. This is cumbersome and uncomfortable to use. In particular, the user can easily forget to charge their electric vehicle. Due to the long charging times for electric vehicles from household sockets, the user is therefore unable to start a trip or return home.

[0004] US 5,467,006 A describes a method for providing energy from a stationary energy source to an electric vehicle, comprising the following steps: determining an energy demand of the electric vehicle; deriving an energy transfer rate; and transferring energy from the source to the electric vehicle at this rate. An energy transfer device for implementing this method comprises: a stationary energy source; a device for determining an energy demand of the electric vehicle; means for deriving an energy transfer rate based on the demand; and a device for transferring energy at this rate from the source to the electric vehicle.

[0005] WO 2013 / 057 587 A2 describes a method for managing the charging process of an electric vehicle. The method includes receiving a charge transfer request for an electric vehicle via a network connection between an electric vehicle charging station and a cloud server. The network connection includes a mobile device located between the electric vehicle charging station and the cloud server to facilitate communication between the charging station and the cloud server.

[0006] US 2013 / 0 057 209 A1 describes a battery charging station comprising: a plurality of charging ports; a plurality of power stages, each power stage comprising an AC-to-DC converter, each power stage providing a portion of the maximum available charging power of the charging station; a switching system used to couple the output of the power stages to the charging ports; a system monitor that determines the current state of the charging station and the vehicle; and a controller that controls the operation of the switching system according to a predefined set of power distribution rules based on the current conditions of the charging station and the vehicle. The current conditions of the charging station and the vehicle may include the vehicle arrival time, usage charges, vehicle and / or customer priority information, the battery charge level, and / or the scheduled departure time.

[0007] DE 10 2013 200 064 A1 describes a charging system and method that can be used to automatically apply customized charging settings to a plug-in electric vehicle, wherein the application of the settings is based on the location of the vehicle. According to an exemplary embodiment, a user can define and save separate charging profiles with specific customized charging settings for each geographical location where they plan to charge their plug-in electric vehicle. Whenever the plug-in electric vehicle enters a new geographical area, the charging method can automatically apply the charging profile corresponding to that area. Thus, the user does not have to manually change or manipulate the charging settings each time they charge the plug-in electric vehicle in a new location.

[0008] The document DE 10 2010 018 451 A1 describes a method for electrically charging a high-voltage battery of a respective vehicle, comprising determining a geographical location of the respective vehicle at a remote charging point, electrically charging the high-voltage battery via a connection of the respective vehicle to an electrical socket at the remote charging point, monitoring a cumulative flow of electrical power to the high-voltage battery of the respective vehicle, transmitting the cumulative flow of electrical power to a central server, and settling an invoice for the cumulative flow of electrical power between an owner of the respective vehicle and an owner of the remote charging point.

[0009] The document US 2009 / 0 210 357 A1 describes methods and systems for controlling the charging of on-board energy storage systems of multiple (remotely located) plug-in vehicles using a remote command center. The system includes a communication system configured to transmit charging authorizations for charging each of the multiple plug-in vehicles and to receive data related to the power consumption of each of the multiple plug-in vehicles. The system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the communication system and configured to receive the power consumption data and direct the charging authorizations based thereon. A database is also included in the system and communicatively coupled to the controller, the database configured to store the power consumption data.The object of the invention is to avoid the disadvantages mentioned above and to provide a solution which, in particular, enables convenient handling of charging processes for electric vehicles at private household sockets or household wall charging stations.

[0010] This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, a charging system for charging at least one electric vehicle is provided, wherein the electric vehicle has an energy storage device comprising: at least one power source to which the energy storage device can be connected and charged, wherein the power source is a household socket or a household wall charging station of a household not belonging to the electric vehicle; a charging module for determining an electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device; and at least one timer module which automatically sets a charging start time for charging the energy storage device by the power source via a communication interface, taking into account the electrical charging quantity, and which automatically activates a charging process at the specified charging start time.

[0012] The electric vehicle can in particular be an electric car or a plug-in hybrid, but also any other at least partially electrically powered electric vehicle, such as an at least partially electrically powered truck or bus, an electrically powered two-wheeler or an electrically powered scooter.

[0013] The energy storage device can be electrically connected to the power source via a charging cable. Alternatively, the energy storage device can be electromagnetically connected to the power source for inductive charging, as explained below.

[0014] One advantage of the charging system is that the timer module can take the determined electrical charge value into account to determine when charging the energy storage device should begin. According to the invention, the timer module is loaded and executed as an application program, in particular as an application or app, on a mobile device, and data can be exchanged with one or more servers, as well as with the electric vehicle itself and / or a charging cable used for the electrical connection to the power source. Thus, the charging system can automatically control the charging of at least one, but also several, electric vehicles with regard to an optimal charging time, taking into account a multitude of parameters.

[0015] Preferably, the charging module determines the current charge level of the energy storage device and the storage capacity of the energy storage device, thus determining the electrical charge quantity as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device and the current charge level of the energy storage device. The energy storage device can be a vehicle battery.

[0016] According to the invention, the charging module is also designed as an application program, which can in particular be a so-called application or app that has a meaningful name. For example, the app can be loaded and executed in the electric vehicle itself. The app can also be loaded and executed on a mobile device that is linked to the electric vehicle via a suitable communication interface, e.g. a Bluetooth interface. All common and future authentication methods such as knowledge (e.g. user name and password, PIN, security question, etc.), possession (e.g. SIM card, certificate, smart card), biometrics (e.g. fingerprint, facial recognition) and any combination of the individual authentication methods can be considered for authentication.

[0017] A mobile device is a device that is able to communicate wirelessly in a mobile network via local areas networks (LANs), such as wireless fidelity (WiFi), or via wide areas networks (WANs) such as global system for mobile communication (GSM), general package radio service (GPRS), enhanced data rates for global evolution (EDGE), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), high speed downlink / uplink packet access (HSDPA, HSUPA), long-term evolution (LTE), or world wide interoperability for microwave access (WIMAX). Communication via other current or future communication technologies is possible. The term mobile device includes in particular smartphones, but also other mobile telephones.Mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet PCs and all current and future electronic devices equipped with technology for loading and running apps.

[0018] The charging module can determine the current charge level of the energy storage device and the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device by reading the corresponding vehicle-specific parameters, for example, by providing these vehicle-specific parameters from a control unit located in the electric vehicle. Appropriate security mechanisms can be integrated. For example, rights regarding data exchange between the control unit and the charging module can be assigned. In particular, these rights can include read and write permissions for the data stored in a storage medium of the corresponding control unit. For example, the charging module can only be assigned read permission for the corresponding vehicle-specific parameters of the current charge level of the energy storage device and the maximum charge capacity of the energy storage device.

[0019] In another example, the charging module can determine the current charge level of the energy storage device and the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device by connecting to an app loaded and executed on a mobile device, which provides the user of an electric vehicle with a service or service from the electric vehicle manufacturer.

[0020] Determining the electric charge quantity as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device and the current state of charge of the energy storage device has the advantage that the electric charge quantity can be precisely determined before the charging process begins. This enables the provision of new and improved services for charging electric vehicles at a household socket or a household wall-mounted charging station, offering electric vehicle users a significant advantage in terms of electromobility.

[0021] Preferably, the charging start time of the energy storage device is also taken into account: a charging power of the at least one power source; and / or a desired departure time specified by at least one user of the electric vehicle; and / or a desired route specified by the user of the electric vehicle; and / or a type of charging cable used for electrical connection to the power source.

[0022] The timer module can determine, for example via the charging module, whether a connection to a standard household socket or a Schuko socket is present, depending on the type of charging cable used to electrically connect to the power source. Charging at standard household sockets is available to every electric vehicle, in particular to every plug-in hybrid and electric car. Optionally, the charging module can prompt the electric vehicle user via a corresponding graphical user interface or GUI - either via the mobile device or the electric vehicle, depending on the design - to indicate whether the household socket is fused for a charging power of up to 3.7 kW (230 V, 16 A). In the event that no fused protection is available, orIn the event that no corresponding input is made by the user of the electric vehicle, a maximum charging power of 2.3 kW (230 V, 10 A) is assumed, which for safety reasons is considered the standard charging power when connected to household sockets.

[0023] For household wall-mounted charging stations or wall boxes, the charging power may exceed the maximum charging power of the electric vehicle. For example, depending on the country, maximum charging powers may be prescribed that are lower than the maximum charging power of the wall-mounted charging station. In this case, the maximum charging power can be determined, as described above, by referring to the current state of charge of the energy storage device and the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device by reading this vehicle-specific parameter. Alternatively, the maximum charging power can also be entered via the GUI. Determining the charging start time of the energy storage device while taking the charging power of the power source into account has the advantage that the charging start time can be determined precisely based on the current charging power.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the user of the electric vehicle can specify a desired departure time, for example the next morning at 7:00 a.m., via a corresponding GUI. For example, the GUI provides the user with a date and time field where they can enter the desired departure time, which can include a desired departure date and time, using a calendar and time function. Alternatively, any other input method for the desired departure time at the desired departure date and time is possible using a corresponding GUI that provides the required functionality - in the electric vehicle itself or via the mobile device. The desired departure time must be taken into account when determining the charging start time of the energy storage device.

[0025] Determining the charging start time of the energy storage device taking into account the desired departure time specified by a user, which includes the desired departure date and the desired departure time, has the advantage that the charging start time can be selected such that the energy storage device is fully charged at the desired departure time.

[0026] If the energy storage device cannot be fully charged at the desired departure time, possibly taking into account the charging power of the power source, a corresponding alarm can be displayed to the user via the GUI. The alarm can include a visual or audio-visual notification that the energy storage device will not be full at the desired departure time. The alarm can also include an approximation of the expected charge level at the desired departure time, which is calculated from the current charge level of the energy storage device and the storage capacity of the energy storage device, as well as - if applicable - the charging power of the power source.

[0027] Additionally, or alternatively, the charging start time of the energy storage device can be determined based on a desired route. For example, the user can enter a desired route via the charging module using a GUI that provides the corresponding functionality via a mapping service such as Google Maps™ or any other mapping service.

[0028] Taking the desired travel distance into account when determining the charging start time has the advantage that the charging start time of the energy storage device is determined in such a way that it is ensured that the charge state of the energy storage device has at least a range corresponding to at least the specified desired travel distance.

[0029] In the event that the energy storage device's charge level does not meet the required level - if applicable, taking into account the charging power of the power source and / or the desired departure time - or if the desired route exceeds the storage capacity of the energy storage device, a corresponding alarm can be displayed to the user via the GUI. The alarm can include a visual or audio-visual notification that the energy storage device does not have a sufficient charge level for the desired route at the desired departure time. The alarm can also - if applicable - include a warning that the desired route exceeds the storage capacity of the energy storage device. In this case, the alarm can further include a display of publicly accessible charging stations along the desired route via the mapping service.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the charging start time of the energy storage device can be determined by taking into account the type of charging cable used for the electrical connection to the power source. For example, it is possible to determine which type of charging cable is used according to IEC 62196 or DIN standard DIN EN 62196. In particular, it is possible to determine whether it is a Mode 1 charging cable, which is suitable for household sockets, i.e. for 230 V / 16 A household networks. It is also possible to determine whether it is a Mode 2 charging cable. Mode 2 charging cables can be used for device currents of up to 32 amperes, with connection adapters available for currents of 16 A or 32 A, for example. Depending on the adapter, it is therefore possible to connect to a household socket with 230 V / 16 A or to a household wall charging station. Household wall charging stations can be connected to 400 V / 16 A three-phase current. Other power connections, e.g. 400 V 32 A, are possible.

[0031] Taking the type of charging cable into account when determining the charging start time of the energy storage device has the advantage that a more precise calculation of the charging start time is possible.

[0032] According to the invention, the charging system further comprises A billing module for calculating the costs for the electrical charge used to charge the energy storage device. Calculating the costs for the electrical charge includes: - Collecting GPS, Global Positioning System, data using a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle; - Sending a request to a server, the request containing the collected GPS data; - Receiving a response from the server, the response containing data regarding a price per charging unit taking into account the recorded GPS data and a current time; - Calculating the cost of the electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device from the price per charging unit contained in the response, taking into account the corresponding current time; and - a payment module for automatically performing an electronic payment transaction for the calculated costs for the electric charging unit.

[0033] According to the invention, the billing module and the payment module are designed as a common application program. As explained above with reference to the charging module, the application program can in particular be a so-called application or app that is loaded and executed on the mobile device. The mobile device can be coupled or linked to the electric vehicle, as described above with reference to the charging module. According to the invention, all individual modules are combined in a common app that is loaded and executed as a single unit on the mobile device.

[0034] For example, the billing module can collect the GPS data from the GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle by reading from a control unit located in the electric vehicle, which contains the corresponding software for collecting, outputting, and storing the GPS data determined by the GPS sensor. Appropriate security mechanisms can be integrated. For example, rights can be assigned regarding data exchange between the control unit and the billing module. In particular, these rights can include read and write permissions for the data stored in a storage medium of the corresponding control unit. For example, the charging module can only be assigned read permission for the corresponding, vehicle-specific parameters of the current charge state of the energy storage device and the maximum charging capacity of the energy storage device.

[0035] The billing module can send the acquired GPS data—i.e., the current position data of the electric vehicle—to a server. Communication between the billing module and the server can take place according to the client-server paradigm or client-server model. The billing module—as a client—can send a request to the server containing the acquired GPS data. The request can represent a request to the server for a price per charging unit based on the acquired GPS data and a current time.

[0036] After receiving the request, the server can determine a price per charging unit, taking into account the GPS data contained in the request as well as the current time. The charging unit can be a kilowatt hour (kWh). For example, the server can manage data in a database that assigns various energy providers on the market to their respective geographical availability areas. The server can then send a database query to the database that contains the determined GPS data as well as the current time. In response, the server can determine the electricity provider that is available in the geographical area of ​​the determined GPS data as well as a price per charging unit, e.g. kWh, according to the current time.The server can be an internal server that regularly updates the database internally with data on current tariffs from the respective electricity providers. Alternatively, the server can be an external service provider that provides a service for providing data on current electricity tariffs from individual electricity providers.

[0037] Calculating the price per loading unit taking the current time into account has the advantage that different pricing models, such as day and night rates, can be taken into account.

[0038] In response to the request, the billing module receives a response according to the client-server model, which contains data regarding a price per charging unit, taking into account the GPS data and the current time.

[0039] If the server determines a large amount of data regarding the price per charging unit based on the GPS data – possibly from a large number of electricity providers – the server can transmit or send the determined data regarding the price per charging unit, in each case in connection with the respective electricity provider, to the billing module with the response. In this case, the determined data regarding the price per charging unit can be presented to the user of the electric vehicle via the GUI. The presentation can be done, for example, via a drop-down list. In this case, the user of the electric vehicle can use the drop-down list to select the appropriate electricity provider and thus the appropriate price per charging unit.

[0040] The billing module calculates the cost of the electrical charge to charge the energy storage device based on the price per charging unit contained in the response or the price per charging unit selected by the user of the electric vehicle.

[0041] The payment module then automatically carries out an electronic payment transaction for the calculated costs for the electric charging volume. Any current or future mobile payment method via a payment service provider, e.g. Apple Pay™, can be used. The owner of the power source and thus the payment recipient can be determined, for example, based on the determined GPS data. If multiple payment recipients are possible based on the determined GPS data, several payment recipients can be displayed to the electric vehicle user via a drop-down menu in the GUI on the mobile device or in the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle user can then select the correct payment recipient before the payment transaction is initiated via the payment service provider.

[0042] Alternatively, an online transfer form from the electric vehicle user's bank can be automatically opened in the GUI of the mobile device or electric vehicle. In this case, the electric vehicle user can enter the relevant data required for the payment process into the online transfer form via the GUI and then initiate the transfer in accordance with the terms and conditions applicable to the electric vehicle user's bank.

[0043] The automatic initiation of payment for the determined electric charging volume has the advantage that power sources from other private households or tourist destinations can also be used to charge electric vehicles and be correctly billed. This significantly expands and improves the charging infrastructure for electric vehicle users – and thus also their mobility and flexibility.

[0044] Preferably, the charging start time is also determined taking into account the current time. For example, the user of the electric vehicle can indicate that they prefer to use off-peak electricity tariffs – if offered by the respective electricity provider – for each charging process of the energy storage system. This way, the charging start time can be selected so that it falls within a period in which the off-peak electricity tariff applies. Determining the charging start time taking into account the current time has the advantage of reducing the costs of maintaining the electric vehicle for its user.

[0045] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the underlying object is achieved by a method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle via a charging system, wherein the electric vehicle has an energy storage device, the method comprising: Determining an electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device via a charging module; Setting a charging start time for charging the energy storage device via a power source to which the energy storage device is connected, taking into account the determined electrical charging quantity, wherein the power source is a household socket or a household wall charging station; and Automatic activation of the charging process at the specified charging start time. According to the invention, determining the electrical charge quantity comprises: Determine the current charge level and storage capacity of the energy storage device. Preferably, determining the electrical charge quantity comprises: Determine the electrical charge quantity as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device and the current charge state of the energy storage device. According to the invention, the method for controlling a charging process for the electric vehicle via the charging system also has the following functions: Determining costs for the electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device, comprising: Collecting GPS, Global Positioning System, data using a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle; Sending a request to a server, the request containing the collected GPS data; Receiving a response from the server, wherein the response includes data regarding a price per charging unit taking into account the recorded GPS data and at least one current time; Calculating the cost of the electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device from the price per charging unit contained in the response, taking into account the corresponding current time; and automatically carry out an electronic payment transaction for the charged costs.

[0046] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the underlying object is achieved by a mobile terminal on which an application or app is loaded and executed, which carries out the method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle via a charging system according to one of claims 5 or 6.

[0047] In particular, according to the invention - the charging module for determining the electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device, - the timer module for setting the charging start time for charging the energy storage device and for activating the charging process at the specified charging start time, - the billing module for determining costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device and / - The payment module for automatically carrying out an electronic payment transaction for the calculated costs for the electric charging unit is designed as an application program. According to the invention, the application programs are an application or app that is loaded and executed on the mobile device itself.

[0048] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a study of the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. It will be appreciated that, although embodiments are described separately, individual features thereof may be combined to form additional embodiments. Fig. 1 shows a charging system for charging at least one electric vehicle; Fig. 2 shows a billing module and a payment module communicating with a server; Fig. 3 shows processes carried out in the billing module and the payment module; Fig. 4A shows a method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle via the charging system; Fig. 4B shows variables that can be used to determine a charging start time; Fig. 5 shows two variants of a signal exchange during an automatic activation of a charging process at the specified charging start time; Fig. Figure 6A shows an alternative method for determining the required load size; Fig. Figure 6B shows another alternative for determining the required load size; Fig. Figure 6C shows an electromagnetic connection of the energy storage device to the power source and a corresponding determination of the required charge size; Fig. Figure 7 shows an example GUI for collecting relevant data to carry out an electronic payment transaction.

[0049] Fig. 1 shows a charging system 100 for charging at least one electric vehicle 110, wherein the electric vehicle 110 has an energy storage device 112. The charging system 100 comprises at least one power source 120, to which the energy storage device can be connected and charged. The energy storage device can be electrically connected to the power source via a charging cable. Alternatively, the energy storage device can be electromagnetically connected to the power source for inductive charging, as described below with reference to Fig. 6C. The power source 120 is a household socket or Schuko socket or a household wall charging station of a household not belonging to the electric vehicle 110. The charging system 100 further comprises a charging module 130 for determining an electrical charge quantity for charging the energy storage device 112.

[0050] The electric vehicle can be, in particular, an electric car or a plug-in hybrid, but also any other at least partially electrically powered electric vehicle, such as an electrically powered two-wheeler or an electrically powered scooter. For the sake of clarity, the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an electric car, but is applicable to any other type of electric vehicle.

[0051] The charging module 130 can determine a current state of charge of the energy storage device 112 and a maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device 112. Thus, the charging module 130 can determine the electrical charge quantity as the difference between the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device 112 and the current state of charge of the energy storage device 112.

[0052] The charging module 130 is designed as an application program. The application program can in particular be a so-called application or app or a part of an app that has a meaningful name. According to the invention, the charging module application program is loaded and executed on a mobile terminal (not shown), which is coupled to the electric vehicle 110 via a corresponding communication interface, e.g., a Bluetooth interface. The authentication method can be carried out, for example, via a server 140, which manages suitable authentication data in a local and / or global database 142. All common and future authentication methods such as knowledge (e.g., user name and password, PIN, security question, etc.), possession (e.g., SIM card, certificate, smart card), biometrics (e.g.,fingerprint, facial recognition) as well as any combination of the individual authentication methods.

[0053] For example, the charging module 130 can determine the current charge level of the energy storage device 112 and the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device 112 by reading these corresponding vehicle-specific parameters, for example, by providing these vehicle-specific parameter data from one or more control units (not shown) located in the electric vehicle 110. Appropriate security mechanisms for reading the control units can be implemented. For example, rights regarding data exchange between the control unit and the charging module 130 can be assigned. In particular, these rights can include read and write permissions for the data stored in a storage medium of the corresponding control unit.For example, the charging module 130 can only be assigned read authorization for the corresponding vehicle-specific parameters regarding the current charge state of the energy storage device 112 and the maximum charge capacity of the energy storage device 112.

[0054] According to the invention, the charging module 130 determines the current state of charge of the energy storage device 112 as well as the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device 112 by connecting to an application program already present on the mobile terminal device, which is made available, for example, by the electric vehicle manufacturer to the user of an electric vehicle 110 as a service, via a suitable data exchange.

[0055] Determining the electrical charge quantity as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device 112 and the current state of charge of the energy storage device 112 has the advantage that the electrical charge quantity can be precisely determined before the charging process begins. This enables the provision of new and improved services for charging the electric vehicle 110 at a household socket 120 or a household wall charging station 120, which offers a user of the electric vehicle 110 a significant advantage in terms of electromobility.

[0056] Alternatively, the charging module 130 can determine the electrical charging quantity via an electricity meter (630a, 630b) located in a charging cable used for electrical connection to the power source or in the electric vehicle 110, as described below with reference to Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B. Determining the electrical charge quantity via the electricity meter (630a, 630b) has the advantage that an electrical charge quantity can be determined in the event that the energy storage device 112 is not fully charged or cannot be fully charged for whatever reason.

[0057] The charging start time of the energy storage device 112 can additionally be determined taking into account one or more of the following variables.

[0058] In particular, the charging power of the at least one power source 120 can be determined and taken into account when determining the charging start time.

[0059] Depending on the type of charging cable used, the timer module 114 can determine whether a connection to a standard household socket or Schuko socket 120 is present. Charging at standard household sockets 120 is available to every electric vehicle 110. Optionally, the charging module 130 can request input from the user of the electric vehicle 110 via a corresponding GUI on the mobile device or via the electric vehicle as to whether the household socket 120 is fused for a charging power of up to 3.7 kW (230 V, 16 A). If no fused protection is present or if no corresponding input is provided by the user of the electric vehicle 110, a maximum charging power of 2.3 kW (230 V, 10 A) can be assumed, which, for safety reasons, is considered the standard charging power when connected to household sockets 120.

[0060] For household wall-mounted charging stations or wall boxes 120, the charging power may exceed the maximum charging power of the electric vehicle 110. For example, depending on the country, maximum charging powers may be prescribed that are lower than the maximum charging power of the wall-mounted charging station 120. In this case, the maximum charging power can be determined, as described above, with reference to the current state of charge of the energy storage device 112 and the maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device 112 by reading this vehicle-specific parameter. Alternatively, the maximum charging power can also be requested or selected by the user of the electric vehicle 110 via the GUI, as described above with reference to the protection of the household socket 120.Determining the charging start time of the energy storage device 112 taking into account the charging power of the power source 120 has the advantage that the charging start time can be determined exactly according to the actual charging power.

[0061] Alternatively, the user of the electric vehicle 110 can throttle and thus determine the charging power of the at least one power source 120.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, the user of the electric vehicle 110 can specify a desired departure time using a suitable input option in the GUI. For example, the user of the electric vehicle 110 is provided with a date and time field via the GUI, where they can enter the desired departure time, which can include a desired departure date and a desired departure time, using a calendar and time function. Alternatively, any other input method for the desired departure time at the desired departure date and time is possible using a corresponding GUI that provides the required functionality. The desired departure time can be taken into account when determining the charging start time of the energy storage device 112.Determining the charging start time of the energy storage device 112 taking into account the desired departure time specified by the user of the electric vehicle 110, which includes the desired departure date and the desired departure time, has the advantage that the charging start time can be selected such that the energy storage device 112 is fully charged at the desired departure time.

[0063] In the event that the energy storage device 112 cannot be fully charged at the desired departure time, possibly taking into account the charging power of the power source 120, a corresponding alarm can be displayed to the user of the electric vehicle 110 via the GUI. The alarm can include a visual or audiovisual notification that the energy storage device 112 will not be full at the desired departure time. The alarm can also include an approximation of the expected state of charge at the desired start time, which is calculated from the current state of charge of the energy storage device 112 and the storage capacity of the energy storage device 112, as well as - if applicable - the charging power of the power source 120. In this case, the charging module 130 determines the electrical charging quantity via an electricity meter 630a, 630b located in the charging cable or in the electric vehicle 110, as described below with reference to Fig. 6 described.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively, the charging start time of the energy storage device 112 can be determined taking into account a desired route. For example, the user can enter a desired route or a desired destination via the GUI using a mapping service, such as Google Maps™. The desired route can then be determined from the entered desired destination using the mapping service. Taking the desired route into account when determining the charging start time has the advantage that the charging start time of the energy storage device 112 is determined in such a way that it is ensured that the charge level of the energy storage device 112 is sufficient to cover the specified desired distance.

[0065] If the charge level of energy storage device 112—if applicable, taking into account the charging power of power source 120 and / or the desired departure time—does not have the required charge level, or if the desired route exceeds the maximum energy storage capacity of energy storage device 112, a corresponding alarm can be displayed to the user via the GUI. The alarm can include a visual or audio-visual notification that the desired route exceeds the storage capacity of energy storage device 112. In this case, the alarm can further include a display of publicly accessible charging stations along the desired route on the mapping service.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, the charging start time of the energy storage device 112 can be determined taking into account the type of charging cable used for the electrical connection to the power source. For example, it is possible to determine which type of charging cable is used according to IEC 62196 or DIN standard DIN EN 62196. In particular, it can be determined whether it is a Mode 1 charging cable (CEE 7 / 4), which is suitable for household sockets, i.e., for 230 V / 16 A household networks. Furthermore, it can be determined whether it is a Mode 2 charging cable. Mode 2 charging cables can be used for device currents up to 32 amperes, with connection adapters available for, for example, 16 A or 32 A currents. Thus, depending on the adapter, connection to a 230 V / 16 A household socket or to a household wall charging station is possible. Household wall-mounted charging stations can be connected to 400V / 16A three-phase current. Other power connections, e.g.400 V 32 A are possible.

[0067] Taking into account the type of charging cable used for the electrical connection to the power source when determining the charging start time of the energy storage device 112 has the advantage that a more precise calculation of the charging start time is possible - if applicable, taking further account of the above-mentioned parameters.

[0068] Preferably, the charging start time is additionally determined taking into account the corresponding current time. For example, the user of the electric vehicle 110 can indicate that they prefer to use off-peak electricity tariffs—if offered by the respective electricity provider—for each charging process of the energy storage device 112. Determining the charging start time taking into account the corresponding current time has the advantage of reducing the costs of maintaining the electric vehicle 110 for its user by selecting the charging start time such that it falls within a off-peak electricity tariff period.

[0069] The charging system 100 further comprises a timer module 114. The timer module 114 automatically sets a charging start time for charging the energy storage device 112 by or via the power source 120 via a communication interface, taking into account the electrical charging quantity. The timer module 114 then automatically activates a charging process at the specified charging start time.

[0070] An advantage of the charging system 100 is that the timer module 114 can take the determined electrical charge quantity into account to determine the charging start time or the start of charging of the energy storage device 112. This ensures that the charging start time can be selected such that the energy storage device 112 can be fully charged.

[0071] According to the invention, the time switch module 114 is loaded and executed as part of the app on the mobile device, as mentioned above.

[0072] An example signal exchange for automatically activating the charging process is described below with reference to Fig. 5 described.

[0073] An advantage of the charging system 100 is that the charging system 100 can automatically initiate and control the charging of at least one, but also several, electric vehicles 110 with regard to an optimal charging time, taking into account a large number of parameters, since further data regarding the large number of parameters can be retrieved via the server 140 via the communication interface 150.

[0074] Fig. 2 shows a billing module 212 and a payment module 214, which are additionally part of the charging system 100 of Fig. 1 can be.

[0075] In particular, the charging system 100 can also include a billing module 212 for determining costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device 112. Determining costs for the electrical charging quantity can include capturing GPS (Global Positioning System) data using a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle 110. For example, the billing module 212 can capture the GPS data from the GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle 110 by reading a control unit located in the electric vehicle 110, which contains the corresponding software for capturing, outputting, and storing the GPS data determined by the GPS sensor. Appropriate security mechanisms can be integrated by assigning rights regarding data exchange between the control unit and the billing module 212.In particular, these rights may include read and write permissions for the data stored on a storage medium of the corresponding control unit. For example, the billing module 212 may only be assigned read permission for the current GPS data.

[0076] To determine the costs for the electrical charging unit, the billing module 212 can also send a request to a server 240, wherein the request contains the determined GPS data. The communication between the billing module 212 and the server 240 can take place according to the client-server model. Thus, the billing module 212 - as a client - can send a request to the server 240, which contains the acquired GPS data. The request can represent a requirement for the server 240 to determine a price per charging unit, taking into account the acquired GPS data and a current time. The server 240 can be the same server 140 or a server different from the server 140 as described with reference to Fig. 1 described.

[0077] In a next step, the billing module 212 can receive a response from the server 240 containing data regarding a price per charging unit, taking into account the determined GPS data and the current time.

[0078] If the server 240 determines a plurality of data regarding the price per charging unit based on the determined GPS data—possibly from a plurality of electricity providers—the server 240 can use the response to send the plurality of data regarding the price per charging unit, each in connection with the respective electricity provider, to the billing module 212. In this case, the determined data regarding the price per charging unit can be displayed or presented to the user of the electric vehicle 110 via the GUI. The display can be done, for example, via a dropdown list. The user of the electric vehicle 110 can use the dropdown list to select the appropriate electricity provider and thus the appropriate price per charging unit.

[0079] From the price per charging unit contained in the response or the price per charging unit selected by the user of the electric vehicle 110, the billing module 212 calculates the costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device 112.

[0080] A payment module 214 then automatically performs an electronic payment transaction for the calculated costs for the electric charging quantity. Any current or future mobile payment method via a payment service provider, e.g., Apple Pay™, can be used. The payment recipient of the power source 120 can be determined, for example, based on the determined GPS data. If multiple payment recipients are considered based on the determined GPS data, the user of the electric vehicle 110 can be presented with the possible payment recipients via a dropdown menu in the GUI. The user of the electric vehicle 110 can then select the correct payment recipient before the payment transaction is executed by the payment module.

[0081] Alternatively, an online transfer form from the in-house bank of the user of the electric vehicle 110 can also be automatically opened in the GUI of the mobile device or the electric vehicle 110, as described below with reference to Fig. 7 described.

[0082] The automatic initiation of the payment process for the determined electric charging quantity by the payment module 214 has the advantage that power sources 120 from other private households or tourist destinations can also be used to charge the electric vehicle 110. This significantly expands or improves the charging infrastructure for the user of the electric vehicle 110—and thus also the mobility and flexibility.

[0083] According to the invention, the billing module 212 and the payment module 214 are designed with the application program of the charging module 130 and the time switch module 114 as a common app, which is loaded and executed as a unit in the mobile terminal.

[0084] Fig. 3 shows method steps for controlling a charging and payment process, which are carried out in the billing module 212 and in the payment module 214 as described above with reference to Fig. 2 described.

[0085] In a first step, the billing module 212 determines the costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device 112. The determination of the costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device 112 includes: - capturing (310) GPS, Global Positioning System, data by means of a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle; - sending (320) a request to a server, the request containing the acquired GPS data; - receiving (330) a response from the server, wherein the response includes data regarding a price per charging unit taking into account the acquired GPS data and at least one current time; and - Calculating (340) the cost of the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device from the price per charging unit contained in the response, taking into account the corresponding current time.

[0086] The payment module automatically carries out an electronic payment process (350) for the calculated costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device - also as with reference to Fig. 2 described - out.

[0087] Fig. 4A shows a method for controlling a charging process for at least one electric vehicle 110 having an energy storage device 112 via the charging system 100 as described above with reference to Fig. 1 described.

[0088] In particular, the procedure includes the following steps: - Determining 410 an electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device 112 via the charging module 130, wherein determining 410 the electrical charging quantity comprises: - Determining 412 the current state of charge and the storage capacity of the energy storage device 112; and - Determining 414 the electrical charge quantity as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device 112 and the current charge state of the energy storage device 112; - Determining 420 the charging start time for charging the energy storage device 112 via the power source 120 to which the energy storage device 112 is connected, taking into account the determined electrical charging quantity; and - Activating 430 the charging process at the specified charging start time.

[0089] Preferably, the method step of determining 414 the electrical charge quantity also comprises - as described above with reference to Fig. 1 - taking into account one or more of the following variables: - the charging power 421 of the at least one power source 120; - the desired departure time 422 indicated by the user of the electric vehicle 110; - the desired route 423 specified by the user of the electric vehicle 110; - the type of charging cable 424 used for electrical connection to the power source 120; - the current time 425.

[0090] Fig. 5 shows an exemplary signal exchange that takes place between the timer module 114 and a switch 510a or 510b providing the corresponding functionality in order to automatically activate the charging process at the specified charging start time.

[0091] In particular, when the charging start time is reached, the timer module 114 can send a corresponding charging signal via a suitable communication interface to a switch 510a located in the charging cable used for the electrical connection to the power source 120. The charging signal causes the switch position to be set such that the charging process for charging the energy storage device 112 at the power source 120 is started. Alternatively, the switch 510b can be located in the electric vehicle 110, so that when the charging start time is reached, the timer module 114 receives the charging signal via a suitable communication interface and sets the position of the switch 510b such that the charging process for charging the energy storage device 112 at the power source 120 is started.

[0092] Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B show alternative possibilities for the charging module 130 to determine the required electrical charge quantity. In particular, the charging module 130 can determine the electrical charge quantity via an electricity meter 630a located in the charging cable used for the electrical connection to the power source or via an electricity meter 630b located in the electric vehicle 110b. For example, the electricity meter 630a or 630b positioned in the charging cable or in the electric vehicle 110b can determine the electrical charge quantity for a current charging process during charging and transmit the corresponding data to the charging module 130 via a suitable communication interface.

[0093] Determining the electrical charging quantity via the electricity meter 630a, 630b has the advantage that the electrical charging quantity can be precisely determined and billed via the billing module even if the energy storage device 112 is not fully charged or cannot be fully charged for whatever reason.

[0094] Fig. 6C shows an electromagnetic connection of the energy storage device 112c to the power source 120 and a corresponding determination of the required charging quantity. The energy storage device 112c is electromagnetically connected to the power source 120 for inductive charging. In particular, during inductive charging, the charging current can be electromagnetically transferred from a coil, which can be connected to the power source 120 via a power supply, to another coil, which can be appropriately positioned in the electric vehicle 110c. On the primary side, i.e., the power source side, the electrical charging quantity to be fed in can be made available to the secondary side, i.e., the electric vehicle side, as inductive reactive current.

[0095] In this example, the alternative options for the charging module 130 to determine the required electrical charge size are as described above with reference to Fig. 6B. In particular, the charging module 130 can determine the electrical charging quantity via an electricity meter 630b positioned or located in the electric vehicle 110b. For example, the electricity meter 630b positioned in the electric vehicle 110b can determine the electrical charging quantity for a current charging process during charging and transmit the corresponding data to the charging module 130 via a suitable communication interface.

[0096] Fig. Figure 7 shows a GUI for capturing relevant data for performing an electronic payment process via the payment module 214, which is an alternative to the payment process as described with reference to Fig.2. In particular, an online transfer form, for example from the in-house bank of the user of the electric vehicle 110, is automatically opened in a GUI 710 of the mobile device or the electric vehicle 110, which provides the corresponding functionality. Input fields 720 for entering the account data of the owner of the power source 120 and a display of the determined charging costs 730 are displayed to the user of the electric vehicle 110. The display of the determined charging costs 730 can include the charging costs, the determined GPS data, the current date, and the (determined) charging period of the current charging process. The user can make a payment using an integrated payment app or with a separate bank payment app.In a preferred embodiment, an integrated favorites / template function allows bank account details and tariffs of owners of regularly used power sources, such as friends / family members / day trips, to be saved and retrieved in the payment module. A screenshot function can also be provided, enabling photo transfers.

Claims

[1] Charging system (100) for charging at least one electric vehicle (110), wherein the electric vehicle (110) has an energy storage device (112), comprising: at least one power source (120) to which the energy storage device (112) can be connected and charged, wherein the power source (120) is a household socket or a household wall charging station of a household not belonging to the electric vehicle (110); a charging module (130) for determining an electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112), wherein the charging module (130) is designed as an application program and is loaded and executed on a mobile terminal coupled to the electric vehicle (110) via a communication interface, e.g. a Bluetooth interface, wherein the charging module (130) is designed, to determine a current charge state of the energy storage device (112) and a maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device (112) by connecting to an application program already present on the mobile terminal device, which is provided, for example, by the electric vehicle manufacturer to a user of the electric vehicle (110) as a service, via a suitable data exchange; and at least one timer module (114), which automatically determines a charging start time for charging the energy storage device (112) by the power source (120) via a further communication interface (150) to a first server (140), taking into account the electrical charging quantity, and which automatically activates a charging process at the specified charging start time, wherein the timer module (114) is loaded and executed as part of the application program on the mobile terminal device coupled to the electric vehicle (110), wherein the charging system (100) further comprises: a billing module (212) for determining costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112), wherein the determination of costs for the electrical charging quantity comprises: - capturing (310) GPS, Global Positioning System, data by means of a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle (110); - sending (320) a request to a second server (240), the request containing the acquired GPS data; - receiving (330) a response from the second server (240), the response containing data regarding a price per charging unit taking into account the acquired GPS data and a current time; - calculating (340) the costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112) from the price per charging unit contained in the response, taking into account the corresponding current time; and a payment module (214) for automatically carrying out (350) an electronic payment process for the calculated costs for the electrical charging quantity, wherein the billing module (212) and the payment module (214) are designed with the application program of the charging module (130) and the timer module (114) as a common app, which is loaded and executed as a unit in the mobile terminal. [2] Charging system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the charging module (130) determines the electrical charging quantity (414) as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device (112) and the current state of charge of the energy storage device (112). [3] Charging system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging start time of the energy storage device (112) is additionally determined taking into account: - a charging power (421) of the at least one power source (120); and / or - a desired departure time (422) indicated by at least one user of the electric vehicle (110); and / or - a desired route (423) specified by the user of the electric vehicle (110); and / or - a type of charging cable (424) used for electrical connection to the power source (120) is determined. [4] Charging system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging start time is additionally determined taking into account the corresponding current time (425). [5] Method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle (110) via a charging system (100), wherein the electric vehicle (110) has an energy storage device (112) and the method is loaded and executed as part of an application program on a mobile terminal coupled to the electric vehicle (110), the method comprising: Determining (410) an electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device via a charging module (130) by a charging module (130), wherein the charging module (130) is designed as an application program and is loaded and executed on a mobile terminal device coupled to the electric vehicle (110) via a communication interface, e.g. a Bluetooth interface, wherein the charging module (130) determines a current charging state of the energy storage device (112) and a maximum storage capacity of the energy storage device (112) by connecting to an application program already present on the mobile terminal device, which application program is made available to a user of the electric vehicle (110) as a service, for example, by the electric vehicle manufacturer, via a suitable data exchange; Setting (420) a charging start time for charging the energy storage device (112) via a power source (120) to which the energy storage device is connected, taking into account the determined electrical charging quantity via a further communication interface (150) to a first server (140) by at least one timer module (114), wherein the power source (120) is a household socket or a household wall charging station of a household not belonging to the electric vehicle (110); and Automatic activation (430) of the charging process at the specified charging start time by the at least one timer module (114), wherein the timer module (114) is loaded and executed as part of the application program on the mobile terminal coupled to the electric vehicle (110), the method further comprising the steps of: - Determining costs for the electrical charging quantity by a billing module (212) for determining costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112), the determination comprising: - capturing (310) GPS, Global Positioning System, data by means of a GPS sensor integrated in the electric vehicle (110); - sending (320) a request to a second server (240), the request containing the acquired GPS data; - receiving (330) a response from the second server (240), the response containing data regarding a price per charging unit taking into account the acquired GPS data and a current time; - calculating (340) the costs for the electrical charging quantity for charging the energy storage device (112) from the price per charging unit contained in the response, taking into account the corresponding current time; and - automatically carrying out (350) an electronic payment process for the calculated costs for the electrical charging quantity by a payment module (214), wherein the billing module (212) and the payment module (214) are designed with the application program of the charging module (130) and the timer module (114) as a common app, which is loaded and executed as a unit in the mobile terminal. [6] The method of claim 5, wherein determining the electrical charge quantity comprises: Determining (414) the electrical charge quantity as the difference between the storage capacity of the energy storage device and the current charge state of the energy storage device (112). [7] Electric vehicle on which an application program is loaded and executed which carries out a method according to claims 5 to 6. [8] Mobile terminal on which an application program is loaded and executed which carries out a method according to claims 5 to 6.

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