VEHICLE CHARGING SYSTEM
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- YAZAKI CORP
- Filing Date
- 2021-01-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-30
AI Technical Summary
Conventional vehicle charging systems face issues with maintaining stable electrical contact between couplers due to changes in ground clearance caused by variations in vehicle weight, leading to potential misalignment and increased component costs for adjustment.
A vehicle charging system with a first fitting body and a second fitting body, supported by a support unit and a lift unit, uses an elastic and/or damping mechanism to adjust for changes in ground clearance, ensuring stable electrical contact through a projection-side electrode holding unit and recess-side electrode holder, allowing for elastic deformation and damping to maintain alignment.
The system maintains stable electrical contact between the fitting bodies despite changes in ground clearance, preventing damage and ensuring smooth charging operations with a simpler design that avoids the need for additional sensors, thus reducing costs.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Area of the invention
[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle charging system. Description of the state of the art
[0002] A conventional vehicle charging system connects a coupler on a power supply side to an inlet on a power receiving side. The inlet is attached to a vehicle, such as an electric vehicle, either unattended or automatically to perform charging. For example, Japanese Patent Application No. H8-17538 discloses an automatic power supply device in which a power-receiving connector of a movable body, which moves freely on a ground surface, automatically checks the position of a power-supplying connector, which is attached, for example, to a building. Japanese Patent Application No.Patent application 2011-50177 discloses a charging device that uses image processing to detect misalignment between the position of a vehicle's power input coupler and the charging device's power input coupler, and moves the charging device's power input coupler to align with the position of the power input coupler, thereby reducing the misalignment between the power input and power input couplers in the XY direction. Japanese patent application disclosure no. S62-245603 discloses an automatic charging device with a guide body located near a charging-side connector and an insertion body mounted on a power supply body. The guide body includes a guide opening formed in a conical shape with an opening area that gradually decreases from an opening end face to a deeper side.The insertion body comes into contact with the guide opening and moves along the tapered surface.
[0003] Incidentally, if a coupler on the power supply side is automatically raised by a lift and attached to an input on the power receiving side, it is necessary to raise the coupler until an electrode of the input and an electrode of the coupler are in contact. For example, a reference height is set to a connection position in which the coupler, raised from a standby position below ground level, is connected to the input and the electrodes are in contact in a state that ensures sufficient minimum ground clearance for the vehicle.
[0004] However, if, for example, the minimum ground clearance is reduced due to a change in vehicle weight, the vertical positional relationship between the standby position and the connection position changes. Therefore, if the contact between the electrodes cannot be maintained, stable charging of the vehicle may not be possible. One approach to consider is to measure the vehicle's minimum ground clearance, for example, using a distance sensor, and adjust the lift height accordingly. However, this approach increases costs due to the increased number of components and additional assembly steps. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention was made in consideration of the above problems, and one objective of it is to provide a vehicle loading system that is able to reduce noise or damage that occurs when correcting a misalignment between a first pass body and a second pass body, and to carry out a smooth fitting between the first pass body and the second pass body.
[0006] A vehicle charging system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a first fitting body comprising a first electrode element; a second fitting body comprising a second electrode element that is connectable to the first electrode element in a state in which the second fitting body is fitted to the first fitting body; a support unit configured to support the second fitting body movably in a plane direction within a predetermined range from a reference position in response to the application of an external force to the second fitting body and to return the second fitting body to the reference position in response to the removal of the external force; and a lifting unit configured to move the second fitting body from a ready position to a connecting position.in a state in which the first fitting body and the second fitting body are facing each other, in a facing direction perpendicular to the plane direction, in order to fit the second fitting body to the first fitting body, wherein one of the first fitting body and the second fitting body is mounted on a vehicle, another of the first fitting body and the second fitting body is arranged in a position facing the first fitting body in the facing direction when the vehicle is stopped, the other fitting body includes a projection-side electrode holding unit which includes a projection, the projection holds one of the first electrode element and the second electrode element within the projection and springs forward in the facing direction facing the first fitting body, and an elastic body,which supports the protruding side electrode holding unit in the application direction and is elastically deformable in a compression direction, the compression direction being a direction of the application direction, the fitting body has a recessed side electrode holding unit with a recess, the recess extruded in a direction opposite to the compression direction, includes the other of the first electrode element and the second electrode element arranged within the recess, and is configured to receive the protrusion of the protruding side electrode holding unit, and the elastic body moves the protruding side electrode holding unit in the compression direction from an initial position by being compressed by a load in the compression direction applied to the protruding side electrode holding unit, and moves the protruding side electrode holding unit to the initial position by restoring it.when the load is removed.
[0007] According to a further aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle charging system it is preferred that the other pass body includes a damping body, the damping body supports the protrusion-side electrode holding unit in the application direction and is configured to dampen compression of the elastic body in the pressure direction and elongation of the elastic body in the direction opposite to the pressure direction.
[0008] According to a further aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle charging system it is preferred that the other pass body includes a housing which contains a housing space, the housing space communicates with the outside through an opening which is open in the turning direction which faces the one pass body, and receives the protrusion-side electrode holding unit in an inserted state in which a tip of the protrusion is inserted through the opening, and the housing allows the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit in the turning direction and restricts the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit in the plane direction.
[0009] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it is preferred in the vehicle charging system that a free space is left between the protruding side electrode holding unit and the housing in the plane direction to allow the protruding side electrode holding unit to tilt with respect to the direction of application.
[0010] According to a further aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle loading system it is preferred that one of the pass bodies includes a guide surface, the guide surface is coupled to the recess, is inclined to a side opposite the recess in the plane direction when extending in the pressure direction, and is configured to guide the projection to the recess. List of characters Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation illustrating the schematic structure of a vehicle charging system according to a first embodiment; Fig. Figure 2 is a top view illustrating the schematic configuration of a second pass body in the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the schematic configuration of the second pass body in the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic representation illustrating an example of a state before the joining of a first pass body and the second pass body in the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body in the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body when elastic bodies are compressed in the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic representation illustrating a mating state of the first mating body and the second mating body when a protrusion-side electrode holding unit tilts in the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic representation illustrating the schematic configuration of a vehicle charging system according to a second embodiment; Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of a first fitting body and a second fitting body in the second embodiment; Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body when the elastic bodies are compressed in the second embodiment; and Fig. Figure 11 is a schematic representation illustrating a matching state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body when a protrusion-side electrode holding unit tilts in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION EXAMPLES
[0011] Exemplary embodiments of a vehicle charging system according to the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described below. Elements in the following exemplary embodiments include elements that are readily conceivable to a person skilled in the art or are essentially identical. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications of the elements in the following exemplary embodiments can be carried out without departing from the core of the invention. First embodiment
[0012] A vehicle charging system according to a first embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 1 to Fig. 7 described. Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation illustrating the schematic structure of the vehicle charging system according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a top view illustrating the schematic configuration of a second pass body according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the schematic configuration of the second pass body in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic representation illustrating an example of a state before the joining of a first pass body and the second pass body in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic representation illustrating the interlocking state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body when the elastic bodies are compressed in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic representation illustrating the mating state of the first mating body and the second mating body when a protrusion-side electrode holding unit tilts in the first embodiment. It should be noted that a Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 side panels shown 43 in Fig. 3 to Fig. 7 (also in Fig. 8 to Fig. 11) is not shown.
[0013] In the following description, an X-direction is shown in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 7 (also in the Fig. 8 to Fig. 11) A lateral direction of a vehicle in the present embodiment, unless expressly stated otherwise. A Y-direction is a front-to-back direction of the vehicle in the present embodiment and is perpendicular to the lateral direction. A Z-direction is an up-to-down direction of the vehicle in the present embodiment and is perpendicular to both the lateral direction and the front-to-back direction. The X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction are perpendicular to each other. For the sake of simplicity, a Z1-direction is defined as an upward direction and a Z2-direction as a downward direction within the Z-direction. The Z-direction corresponds, for example, to a vertical direction of the vehicle.
[0014] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle charging system fits 1 a second passing body 20 from a charging device 5to a first passing body 10 a vehicle 2 , by lifting the second passing body 20 from a standby position to a connecting position, by using a hub unit 7 in a stop state, in which the vehicle 2 is stopped at a stop position. The vehicle charging system 1 In the present embodiment, the vehicle 2 and the charger 5 attached. The vehicle charging system 1 The hub unit includes 7 , the first passing body 10 , the second passing body 20 and a support unit 33 The first passing body 10 is on the vehicle 2 Assembled. The lifting unit 7 , the second passing body 20 and the support unit 33 are connected to the charger 5 assembled.
[0015] The vehicle 2operates a motor (not shown) by using electric current supplied by a battery 3 , which is a rechargeable storage battery, and drives, by using the engine as part or all of a power source. The vehicle 2 Examples include electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). In a state of fit, where the first body... 10 and the second passing body 20 are connected to each other, the battery 3 electrically with the charging device 5 connected and charged with electrical energy supplied by the charging device 5 will be delivered. The vehicle 2 has a so-called minimum ground clearance H between a floor 2a the same and a basic area 8 in the up-down direction. The ground 2a is the lowest part of the vehicle2 For example, the minimum ground clearance H in the safety standards for motor vehicles, including normal passenger cars, is defined as 9 cm or greater.
[0016] The charging device 5 is, for example, in a parking space for a user who is parking the vehicle 2 used, installed, and charges the vehicle 2 , which is stopped at the stop position in the parking lot, automatically. The stop position is, for example, a position in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 are facing each other in a direction of approach when the vehicle 2 The vehicle is stopped. The direction of travel is the up-down direction of the vehicle. 2 The charger 5 is below the base surface 8 installed. The charging device 5 includes a charging unit 6 , which with the second passing body 20electrically connected. The charging unit 6 is connected to an external power source (not shown), including a standard power source. The charging unit 6 converts the alternating current (AC) supplied by the external power source into a direct current (DC) which is used to charge the battery. 3 in the vehicle 2 is suitable, and controls the charging of the battery. 3 in the state of matchup in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 have complemented each other.
[0017] The hub unit 7 moves the second passing body 20 from the ready position to the linking position in a state where the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 are facing each other in the direction of approach, in order to form the second passport body 20 to the first passing body10 to fit. As in Fig. Figure 1 shows the ready position of the second passing body. 20 for example, a position in which the upper end of the second passing body 20 not across the ground area 8 protrudes. The connecting position between the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 is, for example, a position in which a first electrode element is located. 32 inside the first passing body 10 and a second electrode element 42 inside the second passing body 20 are physically and electrically connected in a synchronized state, in which the lifting unit 7 is raised to a previously set height, and the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20The components are fitted together. The connection position is adjusted, for example, depending on the minimum ground clearance H of the vehicle. The minimum ground clearance H can vary depending on the vehicle type. Thus, in the present embodiment, the connection position is based on the minimum ground clearance H, which is specific to the vehicle. 2 is set. The hub unit 7 The lifting unit is electrically connected to a control unit (not shown) and is controlled, for example, depending on a control signal received from the control unit. 7 It includes a lifting mechanism containing an actuator and a sensor (both not shown), and raises and lowers the second pass body. 20using the lifting mechanism in accordance with a control signal from the control unit. For example, in a case where the lifting mechanism of the lifting unit 7 A pantograph is the second passport body. 20 arranged on one end side in an extension and retraction direction of the pantograph.
[0018] The first passing body 10 For example, there is an entrance and with the second passport body 20 Stackable. The first pass body. 10 is on the ground 2a of the vehicle 2 It is mounted and, in its resting state, is located above the second pass body. 20 The first passing body 10 It consists, for example, of an insulating synthetic resin material. The first body part 10 includes a recessed side electrode holding unit 11 , a guiding surface 12 and the first electrode element 32 .
[0019] The recessed side electrode holding unit 11 includes a recess 31 The exclusion 31 is recessed in a direction opposite to a pressure direction, which is a direction of the application direction, and the first electrode element 32 is within the recess 31 arranged. The recess 31 is in one towards the inside of the first passing body 10 formed in a deeper shape. A protrusion 41 a protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 , which are in the second passing body 20 is contained in the matching state, in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 are fitted into one another, into the recess 31 used. The recess 31 is in a position deep inside the vehicle 2 relative to the ground 2a trained. The excerpt 31It has an elliptical (or oval) shape, the diameter of which is longer in the front-back direction than in the width direction when viewed from below.
[0020] The leadership area 12 includes an upper end that is connected to the recess 31 is coupled, and that to the side opposite the recess. 31 in a plane direction, is inclined when it extends in the direction of pressure. The guide surface 12 leads the lead 41 for the extraction 31 The plane direction is perpendicular to the feed direction. The guide surface 12 includes a lower end that has an opening 13 with the ground 2a of the vehicle 2 is connected. The guide surface 12 In a three-dimensional view, it represents a so-called truncated ellipse cone (or frustum of a cone).
[0021] The first electrode element 32For example, a pair of plug-in electrode connections, each column-shaped (or cylindrical), is used. The first electrode element 32 It extends in the direction of application and, with the exception of one end, is essentially completely open to the outside. One end of the first electrode element 32 is electrically powered by the battery 3 inside the vehicle 2 , for example, connected via a cable. The first electrode element 32 It includes, for example, a conductive metal material (for example, copper or a copper alloy). For example, part of the first electrode element has 32 , which is exposed outwards in the direction of application, a length which is essentially equal to or shorter than the depth of the recess 31 in the direction of the grant.
[0022] The second passing body 20For example, it is a coupler and with the first passport body 10 pluggable. The second pass body 20 is positioned in a way that corresponds to the first passing body 10 is facing in the direction of the approach, if the vehicle 2 has stopped. The second pass body 20 is relatively movable in the direction of application due to the lifting unit 7 In a stopped state. The second passing body 20 It includes, for example, an insulating synthetic resin material. The second body part 20 includes the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 , a case 22 , an elastic body 23 , the support unit 33 and the second electrode element 42 .
[0023] The protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 includes the advantage 41 , which is the second electrode element 42inside it and in the direction of approach, which corresponds to the first passing body 10 is facing forward, protrudes. The protrusion 41 is formed in a shape that extends outwards from the second passing body 20 protrudes, and into the recess 31 the recess-side electrode holding unit 11 is deployed in the matching state, in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 are fitted together. The advantage 41 is below the base area 8 arranged. As in Fig. As shown in 2, the advantage 41 An elliptical (or oval) shape whose diameter is longer in the front-to-back direction than in the width direction when viewed from above. The projection 41 is smaller than the recess 31 in diameter in the width direction and in diameter in the front-back direction. The projection 41includes the side panel 43 , which has an opening 22b of the case 22 covers. The side panel 43 is positioned, the case 22 facing vertically, outside the housing 22 , in a deployed state in which the advantage 41 into the opening 22b of the case 22 is installed. The side panel 43 extends in a radial direction from an outer circumferential surface of the projection 41 The side panel 43 covers the opening 22b viewed in the direction of the allocation, regardless of where the advantage lies. 41 within a movement range in which the protrusion 41 through the support unit 33 is movable. The range of motion of the protrusion 41 is determined by the size of the opening 22b defined in the deployed state described above.
[0024] The case 22 includes a housing space 22a , which through the opening 22b connected to the outside, which is open in the direction of the approach, which is the first passing body 10 is facing, and the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the deployed state, in which the tip of the protrusion 41 through the opening 22b is used. As in Fig. As shown in 2, the opening 22b An elliptical (or oval) shape whose diameter is longer in the front-to-back direction than in the width direction when viewed from above. The projection 41 is in the opening 22b inserted in the direction of application in a recorded state in which the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the housing space 22a is housed. The opening 22b enables the movement of the lead 41in the plane direction and also restricts the movement of the projection 41 in the plane direction. For example, the opening allows 22b a movement of the lead 41 in the plane direction within a predetermined range from a reference position. The reference position is, for example, a position in which the second passing body is located. 20 the first passing body 10 facing in the direction of travel in a parked state, in which one wheel of the vehicle 2 , which is a specific vehicle, against a vehicle stop in the parking lot where the charging device is located 5 is installed. The predetermined area is an area that allows the protrusion to 41 when lifting the second passing body 20 towards the first passing body 10 definitely use the leading surface 12comes into contact, taking into account a case in which the first passing body 10 in the vehicle's parked state 2 It is shifted in the plane direction from the reference position. Therefore, the shape and size of the opening are affected. 22b in the plane direction so that even if the projection moves 41 the lead in the plane direction 41 definitely use the leading surface 12 comes into contact with the housing. 22 allows movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the direction of application and restricts the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the plane direction.
[0025] The case 22 includes a wall 22c , which extends in the direction of application and the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 surrounds and a movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21in the direction of approach through the wall 22c through it. Furthermore, the wall limits 22c of the case 22 the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the plane direction. A free space S is located between the projection-side-electrode-holding unit. 21 and the case 22 left in the plane direction, so that the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 can tip over with regard to the direction of the grant ( Fig. 1) If the vehicle 2 If the first passing body tilts in the forward-backward direction or in the width direction, it will tilt. 10 together with the vehicle 2 also in the front-back direction or in the width direction. Thus, when the first passing body 10 in the state of matchup, in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20When the parts fit together, the protrusion-side electrode holding unit tilts. 21 with the lead 41 depending on the inclination of the first passing body 10 , since the lead 41 into the recess 31 is used. This leaves, for example, the free space S, which allows the protrusion-side electrode holding unit. 21 to tilt a certain amount in the front-back direction or in the width direction between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 in the plane direction. If the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 If it tilts by more than the specified amount, the protruding side electrode holding unit comes into play. 21 in contact with the wall 22c of the case 22 , which suppresses the tilting.
[0026] The elastic body 23 is in the housing space 22ahoused, supports the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the direction of application and is elastically deformable in the direction of compression, which is a direction of the application direction. For example, a plurality of elastic bodies 23 between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 in the direction of application within the housing space 22a arranged. For example, the elastic bodies are 23 on diagonal lines on an inner base surface of the case 22 arranged. The elastic body 23 It is, for example, a metal coil spring. One end, in the compression direction, of the elastic body 23 is on the inner bottom surface of the case 22 attached, and one end, in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure, of the elastic body 23 is located on an outer base surface of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21attached. The elastic body 23 moves the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 in the pressure direction from a starting position by passing through a load that is applied to the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 is exerted, is compressed in the direction of pressure, and moves the protrusion-side electrode holding unit. 21 to its starting position by being restored when the load is removed. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the starting position is the position of the protruding side electrode holding unit. 21 in a state in which the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 on an inner upper surface of the housing 22 in the direction of the grant.
[0027] The support unit 33 supports the second passing body 20movable in the plane direction within the predetermined range from the reference position in response to the application of an external force to the second passing body 20 and brings the second passing body 20 The support unit returns to the reference position in response to the removal of the external force. 33 is located in a housing space within the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 housed. The support unit 33 moves the lead 41 in the plane direction relative to the first passing body 10 The support unit 33 includes, for example, metal coil springs that are attached to the projection at both ends in the width direction (X-direction) and at both ends in the forward-backward direction (Y-direction). 41 are arranged.
[0028] The second electrode element 42is, for example, a pair of receiving electrode terminals, each formed in a cylindrical shape. The second electrode element 42 extends in the direction of application, and one end of the second electrode element 42 is electrically connected to the charging unit 6 , for example, connected via a cable. The second electrode element 42 includes, for example, a conductive metal material (for example, copper or a copper alloy) such as the first electrode element. 32 The second electrode element 42 is inside the projection 41 together with the cable through an opening 41a housed at one upper end of the ledge 41 is trained.
[0029] Next, the assembly of the first passing body will be carried out. 10 and the second passing body 20and a state of fit of the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 , when the elastic bodies are in the vehicle charging system 1 in the first embodiment are compressed, with reference to the Fig. 4 to Fig. 7 described.
[0030] If the vehicle 2 When the unit is stopped at the stop position, it moves. 7 the second passing body 20 Upwards. The lifting unit 7 For example, it begins to move in accordance with a control signal received from the control unit to approach the second passing body. 20 to lift ( Fig. 4) In a case where the second passing body 20 in relation to the first passing body 10 If it is offset in the plane direction, the lead comes 41 with the guide surface 12 in contact when the second passing body 20is lifted. When the second passing body 20 As the lead continues to rise, it moves 41 towards the recess 31 along the guide surface 12 At this point, the lead is moving 41 in the plane direction by a force component in the plane direction under the forces in the upward direction acting on the second passing body 20 have an effect. One result is the advantage. 41 along the guide surface 12 for the extraction 31 guided.
[0031] If the second passing body fits together 20 on the first passing body 10 A device-side load begins. Fi upwards towards the second passing body 20 A spring-like restoring force Fb in the upward direction is generated at each of the elastic bodies. 23 of the second passing body 20generated, in a state in which the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 on the inner top of the case 22 is attached. If the second passing body 20 with the first passing body 10 When the components are fitted together, a fitting force Fs in the downward direction (pressure direction) against the device-side load is present. Fi generated. At this point, the condition Fs < Fb between the synchronization force Fs and the spring restoring force Fb is met. Thus, the protrusion-side electrode holding unit moves. 21 not in the direction of pressure, and the second passing body 20 will be attached to the first passing body 10 It fit.
[0032] In response to the introduction of the head start 41 into the recess 31 begin the first electrode element 32 and the second electrode element 42 to make contact with each other. If the second passing body 20The lifting is complete, the insertion of the lead is complete. 41 into the recess 31 This completes the second passing body. 20 into the first passing body 10 fitted, and the connection between the first electrode element 32 and the second electrode element 42 is completed ( Fig. 5) If the control unit of the charging device 5 the electrical connection between the first electrode element 32 and the second electrode element 42 detects and turns off the vehicle's ignition 2 Once it detects this, the control unit begins charging the battery. 3 of the vehicle 2 .
[0033] For example, if the weight of the vehicle 2 is increased by loading a weighted load onto the vehicle 2 , while the vehicle is charging 2 , increases the load Fc from the vehicle 2, which formed the first passing body 10 lowers in the direction of pressure ( Fig. 6) The device-side load Fi and the spring restoring force Fb remains unchanged before and after the increase in vehicle weight. Thus, each of the elastic bodies 23 compressed by the load Fc, which forms the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 moved from the starting position in the direction of pressure. In this way, even if the increase in vehicle weight exceeds the minimum ground clearance H of the vehicle. 2 reduced, and the connection position between the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 shifting in the downward direction (pressure direction) of the upward-downward direction (advancement direction), it is possible to change the contact state between the electrode element of the first fitting body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20to maintain by the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 moved from the starting position in the direction of pressure. Furthermore, since only the protruding side electrode holding unit... 21 in the direction of pressure into the second passing body 20 If the body moves, it is possible for a bruise to occur between the first passing body. 10 and the second passing body 20 to prevent breakage or damage by applying a load in the pressure direction to the lifting unit 7 is exercised, is suppressed.
[0034] If the vehicle 2 tilts in the front-back direction or in the width direction, in the matching state in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 Once they have fit together, the first passing body also topples over. 10 together with the vehicle 2in the front-back direction or in the width direction. For example, when the first passing body 10 When tilting in a front-backward direction, loads in different directions are transferred to the protrusion-side electrode holding unit. 21 including the lead 41 applied to its front and back, in response to the tilting, since the projection 41 into the recess 31 is used. In this case, it is attached to the front end of the protruding side electrode holding unit. 21 a load in the direction of pressure is generated, and on the other hand, at the rear end of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 A load is generated in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure. As a result, the four elastic bodies 23 , which are located between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22are arranged, the two elastic bodies located at the front. 23 compressed by the load in the compression direction, and on the other hand, the two elastic bodies arranged at the rear are 23 The load stretches in the direction opposite to the direction of compression. Accordingly, when the vehicle 2 In its state of alignment, it tips over, from the multiple elastic bodies. 23 the elastic bodies arranged on one side in the tilting direction 23 compressed and the elastic bodies arranged on the other side 23 stretched. Thus, only the protruding side electrode holding unit tilts. 21 in reaction to the tilting of the first passing body 10 Therefore, it is possible to determine the contact state between the electrode element of the first fitting body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20 to maintain.
[0035] The vehicle charging system 1 According to the first embodiment described above, the second fitting body includes 20 , which is the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 contains the advantage 41 includes the second electrode element 42 holds and protrudes in the direction of application, the housing 22 , which the housing space 22a includes the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 absorbs, and the elastic body 23 , which is in the housing space 22a is housed the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 It provides support in the direction of force application and is elastically deformable in the direction of compression, which is a direction of the force application. The elastic body 23 moves the protruding side electrode holding unit 21in the pressure direction from the starting position, by applying the load in the pressure direction to the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 is exerted, is compressed, and moves the protrusion-side electrode holding unit. 21 to its starting position by being restored when the load is removed.
[0036] With the above configuration, for example, even if the positional relationship in the approach direction is between the ready position and the connection position of the second pass body 20 due to a reduction in the minimum ground clearance H of the vehicle 2 changes the elastic body 23 due to the load in the pressure direction during the fitting of the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 compressed, thereby the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21in the direction of pressure from the starting position. This makes it possible to determine the contact state between the electrode element of the first fitting body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20 to maintain. As a result, the vehicle can 2 They can be charged stably. Furthermore, it is possible to adjust the loads attached to the respective pass bodies ( 10 , 20 ) to relieve pressure, thereby preventing damage to the passport bodies ( 10 , 20 ) is prevented. Furthermore, due to the simple design, the effort required can be reduced compared to a case where an additional distance sensor or similar device is used.
[0037] Furthermore, the vehicle charging system 1 According to the present embodiment, the free space S between the projection-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22leave in the plane direction so that the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 It can tip over with respect to the direction of the approach. Thus, if the vehicle 2 In the synchronized state, the protrusion-side electrode holding unit tilts. 21 including the lead 41 as a reaction to the tilt of the vehicle 2 , because the lead 41 into the recess 31 Once installed, the protruding side electrode holding unit is used. 21 not directly against the wall 22c of the case 22 in contact and can tilt by a certain amount. As a result, the protruding-side electrode holding unit 21 depending on the tilt of the first passing body 10 If it tilts, it is possible to determine the contact state between the electrode element of the first fitting body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20to maintain. Second embodiment
[0038] Next, a vehicle charging system according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to the Fig. 8 to Fig. 11 described. Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic representation illustrating the schematic structure of the vehicle charging system according to the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of a first fitting body and a second fitting body in the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic representation illustrating a fitting state of the first fitting body and the second fitting body when elastic bodies are compressed in the second embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 is a schematic representation illustrating a mating state of the first mating body and the second mating body when a protruding side electrode holding unit is tilted in the second embodiment. The vehicle charging system 1 The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a second fitting body is used. 20 a damping body 24 It should be noted that in the following description of the embodiment, redundant descriptions for configurations, actions, and effects that are common between the second embodiment and the embodiment above are minimized.
[0039] The second passing body 20 includes the damping body 24 , which is located between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 in the direction of application within the housing space22a is arranged, and a compression of the elastic body 23 in the direction of pressure and an elongation of the elastic body 23 It dampens in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure. The damping element 24 In the present embodiment, the housing space 22a housed and supports the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the direction of application. For example, several damping elements. 24 between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 in the direction of application within the housing space 22a arranged. For example, the damping elements are 24 on diagonal lines on the inner bottom surface of the case 22 parallel to the elastic bodies 23 arranged. The damping body 24It includes, for example, a gas damper, an oil damper, or a rubber damper. One end, in the compression direction, of the damping element. 24 is on the inner bottom surface of the case 22 fixed, and one end, in the direction opposite to the pressure direction, of the damping body 24 is located on the outer bottom surface of the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 fixed. The damping body 24 It dampens the compression of the elastic body 23 in the direction of compression and the stretching of the elastic body 23 in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure. The strength of the damping element 24 The strength of the damping element is set by adjusting the damping element. 24 is preferably set appropriately, as an excessively strong damping body 24 a delay when the vehicle changes altitude 2 causes.
[0040] Next, a process of fitting the first passing body together will take place. 10 and the second passing body 20 and a state of fit of the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 described when the elastic bodies in the vehicle charging system 1 from the second embodiment.
[0041] If the vehicle 2 When the unit is stopped at the stop position, it moves. 7 the second passing body 20 Upwards. The lifting unit 7 For example, it begins to move in accordance with a control signal received from the control unit to approach the second pass body. 20 to lift ( Fig. 8).
[0042] When the second passing body matches 20 with the first passing body 10 Once started, a device-side load will be applied. Fi upwards on the second passing body 20 A spring-like restoring force Fb in the upward direction is generated at each of the elastic bodies. 23 of the second passing body 20 generated in a state in which the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 on the inner upper surface of the housing 22 A damper restoring force Fd in the upward direction is applied to each of the damping elements. 24 of the second passing body 20 in the state in which the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 on the inner top of the case 22 is present, generated. Upon contact with the second passing body 20 on the first passing body 10 A matching force Fs is applied in the downward direction (pressure direction) against the load on the device side. Fi generated. At this point, the condition Fs < Fb between the synchronization force Fs and the spring restoring force Fb is met. Thus, the protrusion-side electrode holding unit moves. 21 not in the direction of pressure, and the second passing body 20 will be attached to the first passing body 10 It fit. Furthermore, the effect of the damper restoring force Fd of the damping body is limited. 24 the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 in the direction of pressure.
[0043] In response to the establishment of the lead 41 into the recess 31 begin the first electrode element 32 and the second electrode element 42 to make contact with each other. If the second passing body 20 The lifting is complete, the insertion of the lead is complete. 41 into the recess 31 This completes the second passing body. 20 with the first passing body10 fitted, and the connection between the first electrode element 32 and the second electrode element 42 is complete. When the control unit is disconnected from the charger. 5 the electrical connection between the first electrode element 32 and the second electrode element 42 detects and turns off the vehicle's ignition 2 Once it detects this, the control unit begins charging the battery. 3 of the vehicle 2 .
[0044] For example, if the weight of the vehicle 2 is increased by placing a load with a weight on the vehicle 2 during the vehicle charging 2 As the vehicle is charged, the load Fc increases. 2 , which formed the first passing body 10 lowers in the direction of pressure ( Fig. 9) The device-side load Fiand the spring restoring force Fb remains unchanged before and after the increase in vehicle weight. Thus, each of the elastic bodies 23 and each of the damping bodies 24 compressed by the load Fc, causing the protruding side electrode holding unit 21 from its starting position in the direction of pressure. In this way, even if the increase in vehicle weight exceeds the minimum ground clearance H of the vehicle, it remains within the specified range. 2 reduced and the connection position between the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 shifts in the pressure direction of the application direction, it is possible to change the contact state between the electrode element of the first fitting body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20 to maintain by the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21moved from the starting position in the direction of pressure. Furthermore, since only the protruding side electrode holding unit... 21 in the second passing body 20 When moved in the direction of pressure, it is possible for a crush to occur between the first passing body. 10 and the second passing body 20 to prevent and avoid failure or damage by applying a load in the direction of pressure to the lifting unit 7 is exerted, is suppressed. In the present embodiment, for example, even if each of the elastic bodies 23 due to inertia, it oscillates in the direction of application according to the load Fc, which corresponds to the elastic body 23 arranged damping elements 24 Suppress the vibration. As a result, it is possible to establish the contact state between the electrode element of the first mating body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20to maintain stability.
[0045] If the vehicle 2 in the state of matchup, in which the first passing body 10 and the second passing body 20 If the two bodies are connected and tilt forward-backward or in the width direction, the first passing body also tilts. 10 together with the vehicle 2 in the front-back direction or in the width direction. If the first passing body 10 For example, if it tilts in a front-backward direction, loads in different directions are applied to the protrusion-side electrode holding unit in response to the tilting. 21 including the lead 41 applied to its front and back, since the projection 41 into the recess 31 is used. In this case, it is attached to the front end of the protruding side electrode holding unit. 21a load in the direction of pressure is generated, and on the other hand, at the rear end of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 A load is generated in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure. As a result, the four elastic bodies 23 , which are located between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 are arranged, the two elastic bodies located at the front. 23 compressed by the load in the direction of pressure, and on the other hand, the two elastic bodies arranged at the rear are compressed. 23 The load stretches the components in the direction opposite to the direction of compression. Furthermore, the four damping elements... 24 , which are located between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 are arranged, the two damping bodies located at the front 24compressed by the load in the direction of pressure, and on the other hand, the two damping bodies arranged at the rear are compressed. 24 The load stretches the vehicle in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure. Accordingly, when the vehicle... 2 in a state of fit, it tips over, from the majority of elastic bodies. 23 the elastic bodies arranged on one side in the tilting direction 23 compressed and the elastic bodies arranged on the other side 23 Stretched. Thus, only the protruding side electrode holding unit tilts. 21 in reaction to the tilting of the first passing body 10 Therefore, it is possible to determine the contact state between the electrode element of the first fitting body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20 to maintain. In addition, the damping elements can 24 , which the compressed elastic bodies 23On the one hand, they correspond to inertia-induced oscillations of the elastic bodies. 23 suppress.
[0046] The vehicle charging system 1 According to the second embodiment described above, the second fitting body is included. 20 with the damping body 24 , which is located between the protrusion-side electrode holding unit 21 and the case 22 in the direction of application within the housing space 22a is arranged and the compression of the elastic body 23 in the direction of compression and the stretching of the elastic body 23 It dampens in the direction opposite to the direction of pressure. In this configuration, the damping element provides damping. 24 for example, also in the event of a sudden change in the minimum ground clearance H of the vehicle. 2 the compression and stretching of the elastic body 23In response to the change in the minimum ground clearance H, it is possible to determine the contact state between the electrode element of the first pass body. 10 and the electrode element of the second passport body 20 to maintain and perform a stable charge.
[0047] It should be noted that, although in the first and second embodiments above the first pass body 10 on the vehicle 2 is mounted and the second pass body 20 on the side of the base 8 is arranged and is located in the position that corresponds to the first passing body 10 is facing in the direction of the approach, if the vehicle 2 The present invention is not limited to this. For example, the second passport body can 20 on the vehicle 2 be mounted, and the first pass body 10 can be attached to the side of the base surface 8be arranged and positioned in the location corresponding to the second passing body 20 is facing in the direction of the approach, if the vehicle 2 has been stopped.
[0048] Although in the first and second embodiments above, the connection position between the first pass body 10 and the second passing body 20 The present invention is not limited to the fact that the ground clearance H is set based on the vehicle-specific minimum ground clearance. For example, to determine the connection position between the first pass body 10 and the second passing body 20 To adapt to a plurality of vehicle types with different minimum ground clearances H, the connection position can be set according to the highest minimum ground clearance H among the plurality of vehicle types.
[0049] Although in the first and second embodiments above the recess 31and the lead 41 The present invention is not limited to the fact that the recess has an elliptical (or oval) shape when viewed in the direction of application. 31 and the lead 41 can have a circular shape.
[0050] Although in the first and second embodiments above the opening 22b the movement of the lead 41 in the plane direction and also allows the movement of the projection 41 While the present invention is not limited to the plane direction, it can also be opened. For example, the opening can be 22b the tilting of the lead 41 allow and also the tilting of the lead 41 restrict.
[0051] Although in the first and second embodiments above the recess 31 the first electrode element 32 , which is positioned within it, contains, and the lead 41the second electrode element 42 The present invention is not limited to the recess that is positioned therein. For example, the recess can contain... 31 the second electrode element 42 , which is positioned within it, and the lead 41 can the first electrode element 32 , which is positioned within it.
[0052] Although in the first and second embodiments above the support unit 33 for example, the metal coil springs are included, which are attached to the projection at both ends in the width direction (X direction) and at both ends in the forward-backward direction (Y direction). 41 The present invention is not limited to arrangements.
[0053] Although in the first and second embodiments above, the elastic body 23 and the damping body 24 are separated from each other, the elastic body 23and the damping body 24 be integrated with each other.
[0054] Although the first and second embodiments above describe the case in which the vehicle weight changes during the loading of the vehicle 2 The present invention is not limited to cases where the vehicle weight increases. For example, the present invention can be applied to a case in which the vehicle weight changes such that the vehicle 2 , which is a commercial vehicle, leaves the parking space after the charging process is completed and enters the parking space after a load has been loaded onto it, and the charging process is then carried out again.
[0055] Although the present invention is applied to a vehicle in the first and second embodiments above, its application is not limited to vehicles. For example, the present invention can be applied to an electric bicycle (including a bicycle with electric assistance), or it can be applied to an electric vehicle, a vacuum cleaner, or a humanoid or animal walking robot that moves automatically.
[0056] The vehicle charging system according to the present embodiment achieves an effect that is able to maintain the contact state between the electrodes with a simple configuration, even if there is a change in the minimum ground clearance due to a change in the vehicle weight.
[0057] Although the invention has been described with regard to a complete and unambiguous disclosure in respect of certain embodiments, the attached claims are not to be limited in this respect, but are to be interpreted as embodying all modifications and alternative constructions that may occur to a person skilled in the art and which appropriately fall within the basic teaching set forth herein. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION
[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature
[0000] JP H817538
[0002] JP 201150177
[0002] JP S62245603
[0002]
Claims
[1] A vehicle charging system (1) comprising: a first passport body (10) which includes a first electrode element (32); a second fitting body (20) which includes a second electrode element (42) which can be connected to the first electrode element (32) in a state in which the second fitting body (20) is fitted to the first fitting body (10); a support unit (33) configured to support the second pass body (20) movably in a plane direction within a predetermined range from a reference position in response to the application of an external force to the second pass body (20), and to return the second pass body (20) to the reference position in response to the removal of the external force; and a hub unit (7) configured to move the second pass body (20) from a ready position to a connecting position, in a state where the first pass body (10) and the second pass body (20) are facing each other, in a turning direction perpendicular to the plane direction, to fit the second pass body (20) to the first pass body (10), wherein one of the first passport body (10) and the second passport body (20) is mounted on a vehicle (2), another of the first pass body (10) and the second pass body (20) is arranged in a position facing the one pass body in the direction of travel when the vehicle (2) is stopped, the other passport body includes a projection-side electrode holding unit (21) comprising a projection (41), the projection (41) holding one of the first electrode element (32) and the second electrode element (42) within the projection (41) and springs forward in the direction of application facing one of the fitting bodies, and an elastic body (23) that supports the protrusion-side electrode holding unit (21) in the application direction and is elastically deformable in a compression direction, the compression direction being a direction of the application direction, One fitting body has a recess-side electrode holding unit (11) with a recess (31) which is recessed in a direction opposite to the pressure direction, incorporates the other of the first electrode element (32) and the second electrode element (42) which is arranged within the recess (31), and is configured to receive the projection (41) of the projection-side electrode holding unit (21), and The elastic body (23) moves the protruding side electrode holding unit (21) in the pressure direction from an initial position by being compressed by a load in the pressure direction applied to the protruding side electrode holding unit (21), and moves the protruding side electrode holding unit (21) to the initial position by restoring it when the load is removed. [2] The vehicle charging system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the other pass body includes a damping body (24) which supports the protrusion-side electrode holding unit (21) in the approach direction and is configured to dampen compression of the elastic body (23) in the pressure direction and extension of the elastic body (23) in the direction opposite to the pressure direction. [3] The vehicle charging system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the other fitting body includes a housing (22) which contains a housing space (22a), the housing space communicating with the outside through an opening (22b) which is open in the direction of application facing the one fitting body, and which receives the projection-side electrode holding unit (21) in an inserted state in which a tip of the projection (41) is inserted through the opening, and the housing (22) allows the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit (21) in the approach direction and restricts the movement of the protrusion-side electrode holding unit (21) in the plane direction. [4] The vehicle charging system (1) according to claim 3, wherein a free space (S) is left between the protruding side electrode holding unit (21) and the housing (22) in the plane direction to allow the protruding side electrode holding unit (21) to tilt with respect to the turning direction. [5] The vehicle loading system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one pass body includes a guide surface (12), the guide surface (12) is coupled to the recess (31), is inclined to a side opposite the recess (31) in the plane direction when extending in the pressure direction, and is configured to guide the projection (41) to the recess (31).