Method for outputting feedback information relating to a charging process and control device for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for outputting feedback information (FB) to a user (28) of a motor vehicle (10) relating to a charging process for electrically charging an energy storage device (14) of the motor vehicle (10) at an external charging device (19), wherein a target state of charge (ZL) which can be set by the user (28) by means of a predetermined operating action (E) is preset.In this process, a control unit (12) detects a trigger event (A; A1, A2) which occurs after the predetermined operating action (E) by which the target charge state (ZL) was preset and before the target charge state (ZL) is reached by electrically charging the energy storage device (14) during the charging process, and the output of the feedback information (FB) about the preset target charge state (ZL) to the user by at least one output device (32, 34, 40, 42, 44) is triggered by the control unit (12) depending on the detection of the trigger event (A; A1, A2) before the target charge state (ZL) is reached by electrically charging the energy storage device (14) during the charging process.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for outputting feedback information to a user of a motor vehicle regarding a charging process for electrically charging an energy storage device of a motor vehicle at an external charging device. A target charge level, which can be set by the user through a predetermined operating action, is preset and specifies the maximum charge level of the energy storage device to which the energy storage device should be charged during the charging process. Furthermore, the invention also relates to a control device, in particular for a motor vehicle.

[0002] It is known from the prior art that a target state of charge can be defined for a charging process for the energy storage device of a motor vehicle. This target state of charge differs from a full charge of the energy storage device, which corresponds to a state of charge of 100%. This primarily serves to protect the energy storage device, such as a battery, since charging up to approximately 80% SOC (state of charge), i.e. up to a state of charge of approximately 80%, can significantly improve the service life of the battery. Likewise, it may be the case that for the immediately upcoming trip or journey with the motor vehicle only a certain state of charge is required, which is lower than a full charge, and a driver or user of the motor vehicle wants to set off as soon as possible.

[0003] DE 10 2012 209 645 A1 describes a method for controlling the charging operation of a battery assigned to an electric motor in an electric motor vehicle. A target charge level below a maximum charge level of the battery is determined based on operating forecast information of the motor vehicle that is at least partially related to an immediately imminent operating segment, and battery charging is limited to the target charge level. The operating forecast information can be determined by an operator entering a predetermined operating scenario or from a route to be traveled specified by a user. Automatic evaluation of past operating data is also possible in order to determine a current operating forecast and, from this, the current target charge level.This can also be communicated to the user via a human-machine interface, allowing the user to intervene manually and make appropriate adjustments.

[0004] However, this requires the user to manually enter the imminent operating scenario before each charging process, or at least check the automatically calculated prediction or correct it if necessary. This involves enormous effort for the user.

[0005] DE 10 2017 209 134 A1 describes a method for planning a charging process for charging an energy storage device of a motor vehicle, wherein a user can specify a target charge level, i.e., a desired charge level as it should be after the charging process of the energy storage device. Based on this specification, a property of the energy storage device can be specified, for example, its service life, the range achievable with this target charge level, the charging time to reach the target charge level, or similar. The predicted property can be output to the user via an output device. This allows the user to better assess the consequences of the specified target charge level and, if necessary, reconsider their decision or change the target charge level.

[0006] In this case, too, specifying such a target charge level before each charging process would be very time-consuming for a user.

[0007] However, it is also possible for a target state of charge set by a user to remain valid for all future charging processes until the user manually changes the target state of charge again. This means that the user does not have to specify the target state of charge again before each charging process. However, it can then happen that the user forgets this preset charging target, which is referred to here as the target state of charge and which can sometimes be selected well below 80% SOC, especially during the next charging process, which may be a few days later. If the user then connects the vehicle to a charging station for charging and uses the expected charging time for other purposes, such as shopping, wellness, relaxation, etc., the charging process may be interrupted when the preset charging target is reached.Even if the user receives a notification, for example via their smartphone, that the charging process has already ended, charging at an external charging station can usually only be continued if the user re-authorizes themselves on-site at the charging station and starts a new charging process. This is often not possible because the user has moved away from the charging location and it would no longer be worthwhile in terms of time. This leads to frustration for the user, especially if they had "nicely" planned the supposedly annoying charging time, but the plan now doesn't work out because the vehicle "simply" stops charging. The fact that the user themselves forgot the preset charging target is of little help in this case.

[0008] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a method and a control device which make it possible to carry out a charging process using a preset target charge state for the energy storage device in a manner which is as simple and convenient as possible for the user and, as far as possible, to avoid an unintentionally premature termination of the charging process.

[0009] This object is achieved by a method and a control device having the features according to the respective independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent patent claims, the description, and the figures.

[0010] In a method according to the invention for outputting feedback information to a user of a motor vehicle relating to a charging process for electrically charging an energy storage device of the motor vehicle at a charging device external to the vehicle, a target charge level that can be set by the user through a predetermined operating action is preset, which specifies a charge level of the energy storage device up to which the energy storage device should be charged during the charging process. A control device detects a triggering event related to the charging process, which occurs after the predetermined operating action by which the target charge level was preset, and before the target charge level is reached by electrically charging the energy storage device during the charging process.Furthermore, depending on the detection of the triggering event, the control device triggers the output of the feedback information about the preset target charge level to the user by at least one output device before the target charge level is reached by the electrical charging of the energy storage device during the charging process.

[0011] This advantageously allows the user to receive automated feedback about the target charge level before the preset target charge level is reached. At this point, the user still has the option to change the preset target charge level if necessary, thus preventing the charging process from being terminated prematurely.Furthermore, this makes it possible to maintain a target charge level set by the user as the preset target charge level for subsequent charging processes, without the risk of user frustration if the user forgets this preset, as the feedback information can advantageously remind the user of this preset, particularly automatically, without the user having to take any action, for example, remembering to check a charging settings menu to see which target charge level is currently set. This allows the user to simply charge their vehicle repeatedly through corresponding charging processes without having to make new settings regarding the target charge level each time.Nevertheless, the feedback information can remind the user of the preset target charge level in good time before the charging process is completed, giving them the opportunity to change it in time if necessary. This makes charging processes very simple and convenient for a user by specifying the target charge level, which can generally be retained for any number of charging processes, without the risk of an unintentionally prematurely terminated charging process leading to user frustration.

[0012] The energy storage device of the motor vehicle can in particular be a battery, for example a high-voltage battery of the motor vehicle. The battery can also be designed as the traction battery of the motor vehicle. The state of charge of the energy storage device, also referred to as SOC (State of Charge), can be expressed as a percentage value that relates, for example, to the total capacity of the energy storage device. If the energy storage device is fully charged, it has a state of charge of 100%. The target state of charge can accordingly specify a corresponding value for the state of charge of the energy storage device. It can be provided that the feedback information is only output or its output is only triggered by the control device if the preset target state of charge is less than 100%.

[0013] Optionally, the output can also be triggered only when the preset target state of charge is less than a predetermined threshold or equal to a predetermined threshold that is less than 100% SOC. This threshold can, for example, be in the range between 75% SOC and 95% SOC, e.g., approximately 80% SOC. Such a high target state of charge generally does not frustrate the user, even if they have forgotten to preset this target state of charge. On the other hand, the feedback information can also be output or triggered for each preset target state of charge, even if the target state of charge is 100%.This can, for example, prevent the energy storage device from being accidentally overcharged and thus placing excessive strain on the energy storage device without this being necessary and the user simply forgetting to lower the preset target charge level again after he, or even another user of the vehicle, had increased it before a previous charging process.

[0014] The charging process can refer to a future or next charging process or to a charging process that has already started or is in progress. If the preset target charge level remains unchanged at the start of the charging process and during the charging process, i.e., it is not actively changed by the user through a predetermined operating action, the energy storage device will be charged during the charging process until the charge level of the energy storage device reaches the preset target charge level. Subsequently, electrical charging of the energy storage device will be automatically terminated when the target charge level is reached.

[0015] A preset target charge level is understood to mean, in particular, a target charge level that has already been set by the user at the time the feedback information is output. The output of feedback information should therefore not be understood to mean the display or other output of the target charge level while the user is currently setting or changing this target charge level. The fact that the target charge level can be set by the user through a predetermined operating action should generally also include the fact that the target charge level can be changed through the predetermined operating action.

[0016] The fact that the feedback information relates to the preset target state of charge can include the feedback information containing information about the target state of charge. For example, the feedback information can specify the preset target state of charge. When outputting the feedback information, the target state of charge can therefore be output numerically and / or graphically as a numerical value or percentage value. Additionally or alternatively, the output of the feedback information can also include the output of information about the fact that a target state of charge, for example a target state of charge different from 100%, is preset or a target state of charge is preset that falls below a predetermined state of charge value, without the value of the target state of charge itself necessarily having to be explicitly specified.The feedback information can also be output, for example, simply in the form of a warning signal, for example a warning tone or a light signal, for example in the form of a lit LED, when a target charge level is preset and the corresponding trigger event occurs.

[0017] The vehicle-external charging device can be a public charging device, e.g. a charging station, or a private charging device, e.g. a wallbox.

[0018] The control device triggering the output of the feedback information by at least one output device includes, for example, the control device sending a control signal to output the information to the output device. The signal can also include or specify the feedback information.

[0019] The preset target charge level can be stored in a memory, for example, a memory of the motor vehicle and / or the control device. If the trigger event is detected by the control device, it can read the preset target charge level from the memory and, based on this, provide the feedback information to the output device.

[0020] The fact that the control device triggers the output of the feedback information depending on the detection of the triggering event can, in particular, include the detection of the triggering event triggering the output of the feedback information. Thus, as soon as the control device detects the occurrence of the triggering event, it can immediately trigger the output of the feedback information.

[0021] In general, the feedback information can be output by the output device in visual and / or acoustic form and / or haptically. For example, the feedback information can be output on a display device, e.g., a screen, and / or in acoustic, particularly spoken, form via a voice output device.

[0022] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control device triggers the output of the feedback information not just once, but multiple times at different times in the period after the predetermined operating action for presetting the target charge level has been performed and the target charge level has been reached by electrical charging during the charging process, in particular triggered by different triggering events that can occur at different times during this period. Furthermore, the feedback information can be output not only on a single output device, but optionally also by several different output devices, in particular simultaneously and / or at different times, e.g., each triggered by the same triggering event or different triggering events.

[0023] The control device can be designed as a control device of the motor vehicle. In other words, the control device is then part of the motor vehicle. However, the control device can also be a control device external to the vehicle. In this case, the control device is at least temporarily in communication with the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the control device does not have to be a structural unit; it can also comprise multiple control units, e.g. spatially distributed control units that can communicate with one another. These control units can all be control units external to the vehicle or all be part of the motor vehicle, or the control device can comprise at least one control unit internal to the vehicle and / or at least one control unit external to the vehicle.

[0024] A trigger event related to the charging process can be an event that occurs before the charging process, during the charging process, or at the start of the charging process. It can also be an event that must occur in order to complete the charging process, for example, establishing an electrical connection between the charging device and the motor vehicle, or it can be an event that merely indicates a likely imminent charging process, for example, when the motor vehicle, with a low state of charge of the energy storage device, approaches a charging device, such as a charging column or charging station, and is parked there.

[0025] Furthermore, it is preferred that the preset target charge level remains valid until the target charge level is changed to a new target charge level by the user or another authorized user. Therefore, if the preset target charge level is not changed by the user or another authorized user, it will be used as the target charge level even across multiple charging processes, and there will be no automatic reset after the completion of each charging process, i.e., no automatic resetting of the target charge level to a predetermined default value.

[0026] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control device causes the feedback information about the preset target charge level to be output to a mobile communications device by means of a specific application program executable on the mobile communications device as the at least one output device. Accordingly, the feedback information can be output via an output device that is not part of the motor vehicle and can also be located outside the motor vehicle and at any distance from the motor vehicle. The mobile communications terminal can be a mobile communications device assigned to the user, for example, a smartphone of the user. This has the great advantage that the user does not have to be near the motor vehicle to be able to output the feedback information to it.The user can therefore, for example, be informed about the preset target charge level, even if the user is not in the vicinity of the vehicle and, for example, the charging process has already started.

[0027] The application program that can be run on the mobile communications device can also be referred to as an app. The user can, for example, be assigned a user account or user profile that can be accessed via the app. This can, for example, be stored on a backend server, which can be an internet server. Data and information about a vehicle assigned to the user, such as the motor vehicle in this case, can be stored or saved in such a user account or user profile. The motor vehicle, for example at the instigation of the control device, can transmit information, such as the feedback information or the trigger signal for triggering the feedback information, directly or indirectly via the backend server and by means of the app to the mobile communications device.Triggering the feedback information may, for example, include outputting an alert tone or signal, an alert message or the like via the app using the mobile communication device.

[0028] Such an app can advantageously also provide the user with the option of changing the preset target charge level. This can then also advantageously be done remotely, meaning the user does not have to go near the vehicle. For example, if the user is informed of the preset target charge level via the app using feedback information and wishes to change this before the charging process is complete, they can make this change via the app, for example using their mobile communications device, using the predetermined operating action for setting and / or changing the target charge level. Thus, it is sufficient, for example, if the user is informed via feedback information before the target charge level is reached, for example after the charging process has already started.If the charging process is not yet complete, it is advantageous to still be able to change the settings for this charging process, in particular the target charge level, and apply these changes to the ongoing charging process without the user having to go to the charging facility or restart the charging process. This provides the user with particularly simple and convenient adjustment options, even remotely.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the triggering event represents at least one of the following events: an opening of a charging flap of the motor vehicle covering a charging connection for coupling to the charging device before the charging process, an electrical coupling of the motor vehicle to the charging device and / or an electrical coupling of a charging cable to the motor vehicle and / or to the charging device before the charging process, in particular a plugging in of a charging plug on the motor vehicle, an establishment of a communication connection between the motor vehicle and the charging device before the charging process, a start of the charging process, a reaching and / or falling below a predetermined time interval to the predicted end of the charging process during the charging process, which defines the time,at which the preset target charge level is reached and a reaching and / or exceeding of a predetermined first charge level during the charging process, which is smaller than the preset target charge level by a predetermined difference value.

[0030] In principle, it is therefore possible for the trigger event to occur before the start of the charging process, during the charging process, or even to represent the start of the charging process itself. If the trigger event occurs before the start of the charging process, for example, if the charging plug is inserted into the vehicle's charging port, or if it represents the start of the charging process itself, the feedback information can be provided to the user particularly early. Furthermore, these events can potentially be recorded anyway during a charging process, so no special or specifically designed additional sensors are required to detect these events.Since the user is already in the vicinity of the motor vehicle at the time these events occur, these trigger events can advantageously also be used to trigger the output of the feedback information on a display device or output device that is located near the motor vehicle or is part of the motor vehicle itself. Nevertheless, even in these cases, i.e. for these trigger events, the feedback information can be output via the app described above on the mobile communications device. Outputting the feedback information via the mobile communications device or app also makes it possible to use trigger events that only occur later, i.e., after the charging process has already started, to trigger the output of the feedback information.

[0031] Such a triggering event can therefore, for example, be the reaching and / or falling below a predetermined time interval from the predicted end of the charging process. This time interval is preferably at least in the single-digit minute range and is, for example, at least one minute, preferably at least five minutes, for example at least ten minutes. The predicted end of the charging process can also be predicted based on charging parameters, such as the initial state of charge of the energy storage device and the charging power used for charging. If such a time interval is reached, the user is still given sufficient time to change the preset target state of charge if necessary. As already described above, the user does not necessarily have to be at the vehicle to do this.Additionally or alternatively, the triggering event can also be the reaching and / or exceeding of a predetermined first state of charge, which is lower than the target state of charge by a predetermined difference value. For example, if the predetermined difference value is 10% SOC and the preset target state of charge is 80% SOC, the feedback information is triggered when the energy storage device's state of charge reaches and / or exceeds 70% SOC. This also allows the user to change the target state of charge in a timely manner if necessary.

[0032] Other trigger events can also be considered, as will be explained in more detail later. The trigger events mentioned above are particularly advantageous when combined with the output of feedback information via the app.

[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control device triggers the output of the feedback information about the preset target charge level via an output device of the motor vehicle, which is arranged in the interior of the motor vehicle. This is particularly advantageous, especially if the user is still inside the motor vehicle at the time the feedback information is output. Information output via output devices in the interior of the motor vehicle is generally particularly prominent for a user still inside the vehicle and is perceived by them particularly easily and with a high probability.

[0034] This applies in particular regardless of whether the output device is that of the motor vehicle or an output device of the mobile communication device.

[0035] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the triggering event represents at least one of the following events: switching off the motor vehicle before the charging process and / or opening a door of the motor vehicle and / or leaving the motor vehicle by the user, determining by the control device before the charging process that the motor vehicle is in a predetermined proximity to the charging device and / or reaching and / or falling below a predetermined spatial distance from the charging device before the charging process, reaching and / or falling below a predetermined second charge level before the charging process, which is lower than the preset target charge level.

[0036] These trigger events are particularly suitable in cases where the feedback information is to be provided to the user via an output device on the vehicle, since the user is still in the vicinity of the vehicle, in particular still in the vehicle, when these trigger events occur. The feedback information can therefore be provided to the user, for example, shortly before they leave the vehicle or even when they leave the vehicle. The events described above represent, in particular, indications or clues that the charging process is imminent. Shortly before a charging process, at a time when the user is still in the vehicle, they will first park the vehicle and, in particular, switch it off.Switching off the motor vehicle can in particular be understood to mean switching off a drive unit of the motor vehicle, in particular an engine of the motor vehicle. As a rule, the user must also leave the motor vehicle to carry out the charging process. Thus, switching off the motor vehicle and / or opening a motor vehicle door before the charging process can be used as a triggering event to trigger the output of the feedback information. Especially when detecting these triggering events, it is also possible and advantageous to output the feedback information via a display device in the interior of the motor vehicle. The user leaving the motor vehicle can also be detected as a triggering event. This can be detected, for example, using the motor vehicle's seat occupancy sensor.If exiting the motor vehicle is detected or used as a trigger event, it is advantageous to output the feedback information, for example, via an acoustic output device on the motor vehicle, so that it can be perceived by the user even when they are exiting the vehicle or are already outside the vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, a display device located on the outside or in an external area of ​​the vehicle can also be used to output the feedback information, as explained in more detail below.

[0037] It is particularly advantageous if the triggering event represents a combination of one of the aforementioned events, i.e. switching off the motor vehicle and / or opening a motor vehicle door and / or the user leaving the motor vehicle, with at least one further event, such as the control device determining that the motor vehicle is within a predetermined proximity to the charging device or that a predetermined distance from this charging device is exceeded and / or a certain second charge level is reached and / or undershot. Especially when these events occur in combination, it is very likely that the charging process will be carried out shortly and that the user will not switch off the motor vehicle, open the door or leave the vehicle for any other reason. Unnecessary output of feedback information can thus be avoided in most cases.However, it is also conceivable that the feedback information is output each time the user, for example, leaves the motor vehicle or opens a door of the motor vehicle after driving the motor vehicle.

[0038] These trigger events are particularly suitable when the feedback information is output via an output device in the vehicle. Nevertheless, it is also conceivable to trigger the output of the feedback information via the app described above upon detection of these trigger events, or at least one of these events.

[0039] Furthermore, several different triggering events can be defined which trigger the output of the feedback information. Different output devices can optionally be assigned to the various triggering events, via which the feedback information is then output when the assigned triggering event is detected. The feedback information can accordingly also be output multiple times at different times, depending on the occurrence of the various triggering events. For example, the feedback information can be output to the user via an internal display device in the vehicle as soon as it is determined that the motor vehicle is stopped near a charging station or is switched off and / or the charge level of the energy storage device is also low, i.e. has reached or already fallen below the predetermined second charge level.Once the charging process is started, the user can be provided with feedback information again, for example, via the app on their mobile device, at a certain time interval before the predicted end of charging. This allows the user to be reminded of the preset target charge level several times, particularly without having to take any action themselves. This reduces the likelihood that the user will miss or fail to notice the feedback information.

[0040] Furthermore, it represents a further advantageous embodiment of the invention if the control device triggers the output of the feedback information about the preset target charge level by an output device of the motor vehicle that is arranged in an exterior area of ​​the motor vehicle, in particular in the area of ​​the charging connection of the motor vehicle. Thus, an output device of the motor vehicle that is arranged in the exterior area of ​​the motor vehicle, for example in the area of ​​the charging socket or below the charging flap, can also advantageously be used as the output device. For example, the user can be informed about the charging target, i.e. the target charge level, by means of signals such as light or sound signals using the feedback information.For example, existing diodes or displays in the vehicle's charging socket can be used to transmit or display the charging destination information, i.e., the feedback information. In this case, it is very advantageous if the feedback information is triggered, for example, by opening the charging flap. Plugging in the charging plug can also be used as a trigger event in this case. For these trigger events, it is very likely that the feedback information given to the user in the charging socket's area will also be perceived by the user. Nevertheless, the other trigger events mentioned, such as the output of feedback information via the output device on the outside of the vehicle, can also be used.

[0041] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, after establishing a communication connection between the motor vehicle and the charging device, the control device triggers the output of feedback information about the preset target charge level via an output device of the charging device. In other words, the output device represents an output device of the charging device, which is thus also used to output the feedback information. In this case, it is advantageous, for example, to use the establishment of the electrical and / or communication connection between the charging device and the motor vehicle, the insertion of the charging plug, or the start of the charging process as the triggering event.However, it is also conceivable that an event occurs before the communication connection is established, such as the vehicle being parked near the charging device, in which case the detection of the triggering event on the one hand and the triggering or outputting of the feedback information on the other hand can have a certain time interval, since the trigger signal for triggering the feedback information is only communicated from the control device to the charging device after the communication connection has been established between the motor vehicle and the charging device.

[0042] Establishing the communication connection can be accompanied by establishing the electrical connection between the motor vehicle and the charging device, in particular via the same charging cable. Such a charging cable can comprise a communication line via which the motor vehicle and the charging device can communicate with each other. The preset target charge level can be transmitted from the motor vehicle to the charging device via this communication connection. The charging device can then display or otherwise output the corresponding feedback information about the preset target charge level on its output device, in particular immediately after receiving the information. Information about a charging target can therefore also be provided to a driver or user via the charging station as an example of such a charging device.If the charging station and the vehicle communicate with each other, the vehicle can send information regarding a charging destination to the charging station, which in turn can display the information to the user on a display, for example, or provide feedback information to the user via voice output.

[0043] The output of the feedback information via an output device of the charging device and / or an output device arranged on the outside of the motor vehicle can be combined in any way with the output options already described above.

[0044] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control device causes the at least one output device, during or after the output of the feedback information, to output a first request to the user to change the target charge level, which represents a first target charge level, and, depending on the receipt of a first response signal to the first request triggered by the predetermined operating action, to change the first target charge level to a second target charge level determined by the predetermined operating action, in particular before the first target charge level is reached by the electrical charging of the energy storage device during the charging process. In other words, it can be provided that the user is asked for a desired update of the charging target immediately after the output of the feedback information or simultaneously with this output. The feedback information can also include this first request.Such an update of the charging target can usually be performed at any time during an active charging process without having to interrupt the active process. Before such a charging process begins, the charging target can be updated easily anyway. If the user wishes to update the charging target, i.e., the preset target charge level, i.e., define a new, second target charge level, they can communicate this to the control device via the predetermined operator action and the resulting response signal. The control device can change or adjust the target charge level accordingly and execute or control the upcoming or already started charging process accordingly. This is particularly advantageous if the feedback information is provided via an app.This also allows the target charge level to be adjusted remotely, without the user having to be near the vehicle.

[0045] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the control device causes the at least one output device, after the end of the charging process, triggered by detecting that at least one specific triggering condition has been met, to output the feedback information again or updated feedback information relating to the current, preset target charge level to the user and / or to output a second request to the user to change the target charge level and to change the currently preset target charge level depending on the receipt of a second response signal to the second request triggered by the predetermined operating action.

[0046] Thus, for example, the user can always be informed about the current charging target even if a charging process has already been completed, in particular immediately after the charging process has ended. The triggering condition can, for example, be the end of the charging process itself. The detection of the end of the charging process by the control device then triggers the output of the feedback information or the updated feedback information. The triggering condition can, however, also be defined differently and, for example, in addition to the end of the charging process, include the user approaching the motor vehicle and / or unplugging the charging plug and / or closing the charging flap and / or opening the vehicle door and / or starting the vehicle, or similar. In these cases, the feedback information or the updated feedback information is not output immediately after the end of charging, but at a later time, e.g.as soon as the relevant trigger condition is met or has been detected as met by the control device.

[0047] The current target charge level can be the aforementioned first target charge level if, for example, it was not changed by the user in response to the output of the feedback information, or it can also be a new target charge level, namely the aforementioned second target charge level, if the preset first target charge level was changed by the user before the end of the charging process. In this case, appropriately updated feedback information can be output as the feedback information, i.e., feedback information that now relates to the second target charge level and specifically specifies it.

[0048] Information about this current charging target, i.e., the preset target charge level that has now been reached, can also be provided either via an app or on a vehicle display or one of the other output options mentioned above. Here, the driver can also be asked whether the current charging target should be adjusted or maintained. This prevents the user from forgetting to adjust the charging target for the next charging session.

[0049] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, after at least one initiation of an output of a request, in particular the first and / or second request, to change the target charge level and under the condition that after a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the at least one initiation of the output or from the last initiation of the output, no response signal that can be triggered by the user has been received from the control device in response to the request, the control device sets the currently preset target charge level to a predetermined default charge level value, in particular only if the currently preset target charge level is less than the predetermined default charge level value.

[0050] In principle, by issuing the above-mentioned first and / or second request, the user can not only be given the opportunity to express to the control device their desire to change the target charge level by means of the predetermined operating action, but also their desire not to change the preset target charge level but to maintain it. The user can deny the request by means of a corresponding operating action, whereby a corresponding third response signal can be sent to the control device by performing this second operating action. However, if the control device has not yet responded to the first or second request after the predetermined period of time has elapsed, the control device will continue to respond to the request.If neither the second response signal for changing the target state of charge nor the third response signal for maintaining the target state of charge is received, then, optionally under the further condition that the current target state of charge is less than the predetermined default state of charge value, the current target state of charge is set to the predetermined default state of charge value.

[0051] If the control device has not received a response signal after the expiration of the predetermined period of time or a second predetermined period of time since the first or second request was initiated, i.e. if it has not received the first or second or third response signal, it can first initiate the output of the first or second request again. If the control device repeatedly receives no response signal, it can optionally initiate the output of the request a third time, a fourth time, etc., generally a predetermined number of times. If the control device has not received a response signal after the expiration of the predetermined period of time since the last trigger according to the predetermined number of times, it sets the target state of charge to the default state of charge value.

[0052] After this, after an unsuccessful query as to whether the target state of charge should be adjusted, a predetermined default value is set by the control unit, which replaces the current target state of charge. According to one example, the motor vehicle is charging and detects that the preset target state of charge of, for example, 60% SOC will soon be reached. The user is then queried, optionally a second time or several times. However, if there is still no confirmation to maintain the currently set target state of charge or to adjust the currently set target state of charge, i.e. 60% SOC, the control unit adjusts the target state of charge to the predetermined default value of, for example, 80%. This can prevent the energy storage device from being unintentionally undercharged, even if the user does not notice or pay attention to the output of the feedback information.

[0053] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a control device, in particular for a motor vehicle, which is designed to carry out a method according to the invention or one of its embodiments.

[0054] The control device can have a data processing apparatus or a processor device that is configured to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention. The processor device can for this purpose have at least one microprocessor and / or at least one microcontroller and / or at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and / or at least one DSP (Digital Signal Processor). In particular, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit) or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) can be used as the microprocessor. Furthermore, the processor device can have program code that is configured to carry out the embodiment of the method according to the invention when executed by the processor device. The program code can be stored in a data memory of the processor device. The processor device can, for example,based on at least one circuit board and / or on at least one SoC (System on Chip).

[0055] As a further solution, the invention also encompasses a computer-readable storage medium comprising program code which, when executed by a computer or computer network, in particular by the control device, causes the computer to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention. The storage medium can be provided at least partially as a non-volatile data memory (e.g. as a flash memory and / or as an SSD - solid state drive) and / or at least partially as a volatile data memory (e.g. as a RAM - random access memory). The storage medium can be arranged in the computer or computer network. However, the storage medium can also be operated on the Internet, for example, as a so-called app store server and / or cloud server. The computer or computer network can provide a processor circuit with, for example, at least one microprocessor.The program code may be provided as binary code and / or as assembly code and / or as source code of a programming language (e.g. C) and / or as a program script (e.g. Python).

[0056] Furthermore, the invention relates to a motor vehicle with a control device according to the invention or one of its embodiments.

[0057] The motor vehicle according to the invention is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car or truck, or as a passenger bus or motorcycle.

[0058] Furthermore, the invention relates to a system with a control device according to the invention or one of its embodiments. The system may also include the motor vehicle and / or the charging device and / or a mobile communications device and / or the app executable on the communications device and / or a backend server.

[0059] The invention also includes further developments of the control device according to the invention, the motor vehicle according to the invention, and the system according to the invention that have features already described in connection with the further developments of the method according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding further developments of the control device according to the invention, the motor vehicle according to the invention, and the system according to the invention are not described again here.

[0060] The invention also encompasses combinations of the features of the described embodiments. The invention therefore also encompasses implementations that each comprise a combination of the features of several of the described embodiments, unless the embodiments are described as mutually exclusive.

[0061] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. Shown are: Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a motor vehicle with a control device according to an embodiment of the invention; and Fig. 2 a flowchart illustrating a method for outputting feedback information according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0062] The exemplary embodiments explained below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the described components of the embodiments each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another, each of which also develops the invention independently of one another. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to encompass combinations of the features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0063] In the figures, the same reference symbols designate elements with the same function.

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a motor vehicle 10 with a control device 12 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle 10 also comprises an energy storage device 14, such as a high-voltage battery. A charging device 16 is also shown, such as a charging station 16, via which the energy storage device 14 can be electrically charged. To charge the energy storage device 14, the charging station 16 can be coupled to the motor vehicle 10, in particular via a motor vehicle-side charging port 18. The coupling can be effected by means of a charging cable 20. The motor vehicle-side charging port 18 can also be concealed or closed by a motor vehicle-side charging flap 22. The charging cable 20 can comprise a charging plug 24, which can be plugged into a corresponding socket 26 of the power connection 18 of the motor vehicle 10.The charging cable 20 can also be or be coupled to the charging station 16 in a corresponding manner.

[0065] The motor vehicle 10 is also designed such that a user 28 of the motor vehicle 10 can specify a target charge level ZL for a charging process to be carried out via a user interface. This target charge level ZL can also be referred to as the charging target ZL. The user interface can be designed as a user interface 30 of the motor vehicle 10 and / or provided by a mobile communications device 32 assigned to the user 28 and / or by an app 34 that can be run on the mobile communications device. The target charge level ZL specified by the user 28 can then be stored in a memory 36 of the control device 12.If a charging process is then carried out to charge the energy storage device 14 for which such a target charge level ZL is preset, the energy storage device 14 is charged until this preset target charge level ZL is reached, unless the target charge level ZL is changed in the meantime by the user 28, and then the charging process is terminated.

[0066] The motor vehicle 10 or the control device 12 is also designed such that this preset target charge level ZL remains valid for subsequent charging processes or those yet to be performed until it is changed by the user 28. Thus, the target charge level ZL does not have to be specified, set, or modified again by the user 28 before each charging process.

[0067] However, so that the user 28 does not inadvertently forget that he has made such a presetting with regard to such a target charge level ZL and then the energy storage device 14 is unintentionally charged only up to a reduced charge level according to this target charge level ZL, it is now advantageously provided that the control device 12, upon detection of a defined triggering event A, automatically triggers the output of feedback information FB about this preset target charge level ZL, specifically before the target charge level ZL is reached by the electrical charging of the energy storage device 14 during the charging process.The output is also triggered within a period of time that occurs after the target charge level ZL has been preset by the user 28, for example, via a predetermined operating action E, which can also be referred to as input E, using an operating interface 30, 32, and before the target charge level ZL is reached during the charging process. The feedback information FB can be output immediately after the output is triggered by the control device 12. The feedback information FB does not necessarily have to be output during the charging process, but can also be output before the charging process has even started.

[0068] Several alternative and combinable options are available for outputting the feedback information FB to the user 28. The output can be effected by means of an output device 40 of the motor vehicle 10 arranged in an interior 38 of the motor vehicle 10 and / or via the mobile communication device 32 using the app 34 and / or via a display means 42 of the motor vehicle 10, which is located in an exterior area of ​​the motor vehicle 10, in particular in the area of ​​the charging socket 26, for example, also below the charging flap 22, and / or via an output device 44 of the charging device 16. To trigger the output of the feedback information FB, the control device 12, upon detection of the corresponding trigger event A, can transmit a corresponding trigger signal S to the corresponding output device 32, 40, 42, 44, which then outputs the feedback information FB.To trigger the output on the mobile communication device 32 or via the app 34, the signal S can also be transmitted indirectly via a backend server 46, e.g., an internet server and / or cloud server. The transmission of the signal S to the output device 44 of the charging station 16 can occur via a communication connection between the charging station 16 and the motor vehicle 10, which can also be implemented, for example, via the charging cable 20, in particular via a communication line integrated therein.

[0069] The feedback information (FB) can generally be provided in visual and / or spoken form. It is also conceivable to provide haptic feedback.

[0070] The feedback information FB can relate to the preset target charge level ZL itself. In other words, the preset target charge level ZL can be output as feedback information FB, e.g., as a numerical value, or it can simply be output as an indication that a target charge level ZL is preset.

[0071] One or more different trigger events A can also be defined as trigger events A. For example, such a trigger event A can represent the opening of the charging flap 22 and / or the insertion of the charging plug 24 into the charging socket 26 and / or the start of the charging process and / or the reaching of a certain charge state during the charging process, which is, however, lower than the preset charging target ZL, and / or the establishment of the communication connection between the charging station 16 and the motor vehicle 10, for example via the charging cable 20, or the like. An event that occurs during or immediately before the user 28 gets out can also be considered as a trigger event A, for example the parking of the motor vehicle 10 and / or the switching off of the engine of the motor vehicle 10 and / or the opening of a door of the motor vehicle 10 or the like.This event, which takes place at or immediately before the user 28 gets out, can be linked to a further event as an additional condition, such as reaching a certain state of charge of the energy storage device 14 or falling below such a certain state of charge of the energy storage device 14 and / or the further event that the motor vehicle 10 is in the immediate vicinity of a charging station 16 and / or is or is parked at the home wallbox.

[0072] According to a first example, a driver 28, i.e., the user 28, of the motor vehicle 10 is informed via app 34. It can be provided that the driver 28 receives a notification comprising the feedback information FB upon opening the charging flap 22 and / or upon inserting the charging plug 24 and / or upon starting the charging process at the charging station 16. Alternatively, the driver can be informed using the feedback information FB before reaching the charging target ZL, for example, sufficiently before reaching the charging target ZL so that the charging target ZL can be adjusted via app 34.

[0073] According to a further example, the driver 28 can alternatively or additionally be informed of the current charging target ZL by a notification comprising the feedback information FB on a vehicle display 40, as an example of the output device 40 located in the vehicle 10. The driver 28 preferably receives the information FB when or immediately before getting out of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, this information FB is preferably always output when a certain charging state is reached and / or undershot. Furthermore, such information FB can alternatively or additionally be output when the vehicle 10 is parked in the immediate vicinity of a charging station 16 and / or at the home wallbox.This information is available to the vehicle 10, such as the current charge level of the energy storage device 14, the vehicle's own position and the positions of various facilities, such as charging stations, the home address, etc.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, a driver 28 can be informed of a charging target ZL by signals such as light and / or sound signals, as feedback information FB. BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) vehicles, i.e., battery-powered electric vehicles, such as the present motor vehicle 10, typically have diodes or displays on their charging sockets 26, as an example of the display means 42, which can be used to transmit or output the charging target information in the form of feedback information FB.

[0075] Furthermore, information about a charging destination LZ can be provided to a driver 28 via the charging station 16 in the form of feedback information FB. If the charging station 16 and the vehicle 10 communicate with each other, the vehicle 10 can send the information regarding a charging destination LZ to the charging station 16, which in turn can display the information in the form of the feedback information FB on a display 44 or speak it to a driver 28.

[0076] If the driver 28 is informed via app 34 or another output device 40, 42, 44, it can be provided that he is immediately asked to update the charging destination ZL, which can usually be done at any time during an active charging process without interrupting the active charging process. Simultaneously with the output of the feedback information FB or immediately thereafter, a request, in particular a visual and / or acoustic one, can be issued to the driver 28 asking whether he would like to adjust the current charging destination ZL. If this is the case, he can confirm this by means of the aforementioned predetermined operating action E, e.g., manually entering E a new charging destination via the operating interface 30, 32. This is detected by the control device 12, which then adjusts the charging destination ZL and, for example, communicates the adjusted charging destination ZL to the charging station 16.

[0077] In any case, a driver 28 can alternatively or additionally be informed of the current charging target LZ whenever a charging process is completed. This can be done either via an app 34 or on a vehicle display 40. Here, a driver 28 can be asked whether the current charging target LZ should be adjusted or maintained. If this is the case, they can confirm this as described above, and the charging target LZ will be adjusted by the control device 12, and the charging process will be carried out according to the adjusted charging target LZ.

[0078] Fig. 2 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for outputting feedback information FB about a preset charging destination LZ according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0079] In step S10, a predetermined operating action E performed by the user 28 for entering and specifying a target state of charge ZL is detected and stored by the control device 12. The user 28 can generally make the input E at any time, e.g., in the vehicle 10 or outside, e.g., via the app 34. The control device 12 stores the target state of charge ZL specified by the input E. Each time the control device 12 detects a new input E of the target state of charge ZL, it can update the preset target state of charge ZL and save it as an updated preset target state of charge ZL. The target state of charge ZL, which is preset before the control device 12 detects a specific first triggering event A1 and which represents the currently valid target state of charge ZL at the time the specific first triggering event A1 is detected, is intended to represent the preset target state of charge ZL.

[0080] Furthermore, the control device 12 can check whether such a predetermined first triggering event A1 has been detected. In this example, the first triggering event A1 comprises the parking of the vehicle 10 near a charging station 16 and the switching off of the engine of the vehicle 10. To this end, it can first be detected in a step S12 that the vehicle 10 has been parked and the engine has been switched off. In step S14, the control device 12 checks whether the parked vehicle 10 is near a charging station 16. If this is the case, the first triggering event A1 is deemed to have been detected, and the process proceeds to step S16, in which the control device 12 triggers the output of the feedback information FB on the display 40 in the vehicle 10. Otherwise, step S14 is repeated the next time the vehicle 10 is parked and switched off, until it is finally detected in step S14 that the parked vehicle 10 is located near a charging station 16.

[0081] In step S18, the feedback information FB is then output via the display 40. The user 28 is thus reminded that a target charge level ZL has been preset and can adjust it if desired. Optionally, a query can also be issued to the user 28 asking whether they would like to change the preset target charge level ZL, and the user 28 can adjust the preset target charge level, although this is not explicitly illustrated here.

[0082] Subsequently, after connecting the vehicle 10 to the charging station 16 via the charging cable 20, the charging process is started in step S20. This charging process is based on the preset target charge level ZL, which may be further adjusted by the user. Accordingly, the energy storage device 14 is charged until the preset target charge level ZL is reached, provided no further input E from the user 28 to change the target charge level ZL has been detected in the meantime.

[0083] During the charging process, a check is carried out in step S22 to determine whether, as a second triggering event A2, a predicted remaining charging time tR until the preset target charge level ZL is reached is less than a predetermined limit value Δt. This step S22 is repeated until this is the case and the second triggering event A2 is thus deemed to have been detected. Then, in step S24, the output of the feedback information FB is triggered via the app 34 and displayed to the user 28 in step S26 on their mobile communication device 32 via the app 34. At the same time, in this step S26, the user is also issued a request to change the preset target charge level ZL. In step S28, a check is carried out to determine whether a change request from the user in the form of an input E in response to the request, as well as a new target charge level nZL specified by the change request, have been detected.If not, the charging process is terminated when the target charge state ZL is reached in step S30, and otherwise the new target charge state nZL detected by the control device 12 is stored by the control device 12 in step S32 and the charging process is terminated in step S34 when the new target charge state nZL is reached.

[0084] Overall, the examples demonstrate how the invention can provide charging target feedback at the start of charging or at an earlier or later time. This can prevent an unconsidered and potentially unwanted charging target from being activated, resulting in a charging process being terminated earlier than intended by the driver. This avoids a significant loss of comfort and frustration. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2012 209 645 A1

[0003] DE 10 2017 209 134 A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Method for outputting feedback information (FB) to a user (28) of a motor vehicle (10) relating to a charging process for electrically charging an energy storage device (14) of the motor vehicle (10) at a vehicle-external charging device (19), - wherein a target charge level (ZL) which can be set by the user (28) by means of a predetermined operating action (E) is preset, which specifies a charge level of the energy store (14) up to which the energy store (14) is to be charged at most when the charging process is carried out; characterized by , that - a control device (12) detects a trigger event (A; A1, A2) associated with the charging process, which occurs after the predetermined operating action (E) by which the target charge state (ZL) was preset and before the target charge state (ZL) is reached by the electrical charging of the energy storage device (14) during the charging process, and - the control device (12), depending on the detection of the triggering event (A; A1, A2), triggers the output of the feedback information (FB) about the preset target charge state (ZL) to the user (28) by at least one output device (32, 34, 40, 42, 44) before the target charge state (ZL) is reached by the electrical charging of the energy store (14) during the charging process. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by that the control device (12) causes the output of the feedback information (FB) about the preset target charge level (ZL) to a mobile communication device (32) by means of a specific application program (34) executable on the mobile communication device (32) as the at least one output device (32, 34, 40, 42, 44). [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the trigger event (A; A1, A2) represents at least one of the following events: - opening, before the charging process, a loading flap (22) of the motor vehicle (10) covering a charging connection (18) for coupling to the charging device (19); - an electrical coupling of the motor vehicle (10) to the charging device (19) and / or electrical coupling of a charging cable (20) to the motor vehicle (10) and / or to the charging device (19) prior to the charging process, in particular a plugging in of a charging plug (24) on the motor vehicle (10); - establishing a communication connection between the motor vehicle (10) and the charging device (19) before the charging process; - starting the charging process; - reaching and / or falling below a predetermined time interval (Δt) during the charging process to the predicted end of the charging process, which defines the time at which the target state of charge (ZL) is reached; - reaching and / or exceeding a predetermined first state of charge during the charging process, which is smaller than the target state of charge (ZL) by a predetermined difference value; - switching off the motor vehicle (10) and / or opening a motor vehicle door and / or leaving the motor vehicle (10) by the user (28) before the charging process; - a determination by the control device (12) prior to the charging process that the motor vehicle (10) is in a predetermined proximity to the charging device (19) and / or reaching and / or falling below a predetermined spatial distance from the charging device (19); - reaching and / or falling below a predetermined second state of charge before the charging process, which is lower than the target state of charge (ZL). [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control device (12) triggers the output of the feedback information (FB) about the preset target charge state (ZL) by the output device (40), which is an output device (40) arranged in an interior (38) of the motor vehicle (10). [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the control device (12) triggers the output of the feedback information (FB) about the preset target charge state (ZL) by an output device (42) of the motor vehicle (10), which is arranged in an outer region of the motor vehicle (10), in particular in the region of the charging connection (18) of the motor vehicle (10). [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control device (12), after establishing a communication connection between the motor vehicle (10) and the charging device (19), triggers the output of the feedback information (FB) about the preset target charge state (ZL) by an output device (44) of the charging device (19). [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control device (12) causes the at least one output device (32, 34, 40, 42, 44) during or after outputting the feedback information (FB) to output a first request to the user (28) to change the target charge state (ZL), which represents a first target charge state (ZL), and, depending on the receipt of a first response signal to the first request triggered by the predetermined operating action (E), to change the first target charge state (ZL) to a second target charge state (nZL) determined by the predetermined operating action (E), in particular before the first target charge state (ZL) is reached by the electrical charging of the energy store (14) during the charging process. [8] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control device (12) causes the at least one output device (32, 34, 40, 42, 44) to be triggered after the end of the charging process by detecting that at least one specific triggering condition has been met, - to output the feedback information (FB) again or an updated feedback information (FB) concerning the current, preset target charge level (ZL) to the user (28); and / or - to issue a second request to the user (28) to change the target charge level (ZL) and to change the currently preset target charge level (ZL) depending on the receipt of a second response signal to the second request triggered by the predetermined operating action (E). [9] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the control device (12) sets the currently preset target charge level (ZL) to a predetermined default charge level value, in particular only if the currently preset target charge level (ZL) is less than the predetermined default charge level value, after at least one request has been issued, in particular the first and / or second request, to change the target charge level (ZL) and under the condition that after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the at least one request was issued or since the last time the request was issued, no response signal that can be triggered by the user (28) has been received from the control device (12) in response to the request. [10] Control device (12), in particular for a motor vehicle (10), which is designed to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims.

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