Controlled provision and storage of charging cables

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (100) for providing a charging cable (101) for a vehicle (150). The device comprises a support structure (103) arranged at a charging zone (104) for charging a vehicle (150), and a charging cable (101) which can be connected to a power source and has a charging plug (102) for connecting to a vehicle (150) to be charged, the charging cable (101) being attached to the support structure (103). The device (100) further comprises a cable control device (110) with a cable control element (111) which is coupled to the charging cable (101) such that the charging cable (101) is movable relative to the support structure (103) in order to position the charging plug (102) in the charging zone (104).Furthermore, the device (100) has a sensor device (106) for detecting a charging situation in the charging zone (104) for charging a vehicle (150), wherein the sensor device (106) is coupled to the cable control device (110) in such a way that the cable control element (111) can be controlled to position the charging plug (102) in the charging zone (104) based on the detected charging situation in the charging zone (104).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a method for providing a charging cable based on an occupancy state of a charging zone with a vehicle. Background of the invention

[0002] In addition to the electrification of smaller vehicles, such as cars, the electrification of commercial vehicles, such as trucks, is also being pursued. Operating commercial vehicles is highly cost-driven, which is why electrification aims to avoid additional downtime due to breaks in charging the high-voltage battery. For this reason, it is advantageous to establish a charging infrastructure, for example, at truck loading and unloading points.

[0003] Charging devices that can be part of such charging infrastructures are generally known from the prior art. In the international application WO 2021 / 170369 A1, the charging plug is guided to the charging socket by a charging arm with linear drives. The focus is on the precision and flexibility of the charging arm's movements, which are enabled by the mechanical drives. Control is achieved via predefined movement patterns that allow the charging arm to position the charging plug autonomously. Other automatic charging systems for electric vehicles are known from the publications DE 10 2022 205 303 A1 and US 2014 / 0 067 660 A1.

[0004] A method for the automated positioning of a charging plug relative to a charging socket is known from the document DE 102020000794 A1.

[0005] The invention underlying European patent EP 3 551 496 B1 relates to a vehicle charging system and a vehicle charging method for electrically powered vehicles, in particular for buses, as well as to a vehicle charging station and a current collector device for charging electrically powered vehicles by means of such a vehicle charging system, wherein an articulated arm is used to extend the charging plug.

[0006] Since there is often little space for maneuvering in truck or bus depots, there is a risk of damage to charging stations or charge distributors (dispensers) due to maneuvering maneuvers and thus of the failure of the charging points.

[0007] One way to reduce the risk of damage is to install the dispenser or charging station at a sufficient distance above the roadway. However, cable management presents a particular challenge in this case, as the charging cable must reach into the truck's maneuvering area, and the charging plug or charging cable must also be protected from the risk of damage.

[0008] It often happens that after a truck has been charged, the cable management system is not activated correctly, leaving the charging cable in the danger zone or in the loading zone. If the charged truck leaves the loading zone or a new truck enters, this can result in damage to the charging plug, the charging cable, or the truck itself. Description of the invention

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to introduce techniques for an improved provision of a charging cable.

[0010] The object is achieved by a device and a method for providing a charging cable for a vehicle according to the independent claims.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a device for providing a charging cable for a vehicle is described. The device comprises a support structure which is designed to be arranged in a charging zone for charging a vehicle. Furthermore, the device comprises a charging cable which is connected or connectable to an electricity source and has a charging plug for plugging into a vehicle to be charged, wherein the charging cable is fastened to the support structure. The device further comprises a cable control device with a cable control element which is coupled to the charging cable such that the charging cable is movable relative to the support structure in order to position the charging plug in the charging zone.

[0012] Furthermore, the device comprises a sensor device for detecting a charging situation in the charging zone for charging a vehicle, wherein the sensor device is coupled to the cable control device such that the cable control element is controllable to position the charging plug in the charging zone based on the detected charging situation in the charging zone.

[0013] Furthermore, the cable control device according to the invention is attached to the support structure. Furthermore, the cable control device comprises a cable pulling device, which has a support cable as the cable control element. The support cable is attached between a suspension point of the charging cable and the support structure, wherein the cable pulling device is designed such that the length of the support cable is adjustable such that a distance of the first suspension point from the ground can be adjusted based on the charging situation.

[0014] According to a further aspect, a method for providing a charging cable for a vehicle with a device described above is presented. The method comprises at least the step of detecting a charging situation in the charging zone for charging a vehicle using the sensor device and positioning the charging plug in the charging zone based on the detected charging situation in the charging zone using the cable control element.

[0015] The vehicle can be an electrically powered vehicle, for example, a purely electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, which has a rechargeable battery. The vehicle has, in particular, a charging socket into which the charging plug of the charging cable can be inserted. The vehicle is, for example, an electrically powered passenger car or a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, a bus, a construction machine, or an agricultural machine.

[0016] The charging zone describes an area of ​​the floor where the charging cable can be moved to connect to the vehicle and charge the vehicle. The charging zone comprises a predetermined area on the floor, and the charging plug can only be connected to the vehicle in the charging zone.

[0017] The support structure serves to attach the device components to a building or to a floor. The support structure, in particular, supports the charging cable. Furthermore, the cable control device with the corresponding cable control element can be provided on the support structure. Furthermore, sensor elements of the sensor device for detecting the charging situation can be arranged. In another exemplary embodiment, an electricity source and / or a charging distributor (dispenser) to which the charging cable is coupled is arranged on the support structure. The support structure is designed, for example, as a floor support and / or as a crossbeam.

[0018] The cable control device has one or more cable control elements. The cable control element is coupled to the charging cable and can move the charging cable relative to the support structure. The cable control element is designed such that sections of the charging cable, in particular the charging plug, can be transported from outside into the charging zone itself and, in addition, the charging cable and, accordingly, the charging plug can be transported and positioned to a desired position within the charging zone. The cable control element can, as described below, represent a control rod which is pivotally attached, for example, to the support structure. Furthermore, the control rod can be adjustable in length. In a further exemplary embodiment described below, the cable control device can be a cable pulling device and the cable control element can be a support cable, for example.

[0019] The sensor device is designed to detect a charging situation in the charging zone for charging a vehicle. In a first aspect, the charging situation describes, for example, whether a vehicle is positioned in the charging zone or whether no vehicle is located in the charging zone. Furthermore, according to a further aspect, the charging situation defines, for example, the orientation and position of the vehicle within the charging zone. Furthermore, according to a further aspect, the charging situation can describe a charging state in the charging zone, for example whether a current is currently flowing between the charging plug and the vehicle or whether there is generally a mechanical coupling between the charging plug and a charging socket of the vehicle. Preferably, the charging situation describes the position and orientation of a vehicle, such that the sensor device is designed to detect this position and orientation of the vehicle.

[0020] The sensor device can accordingly detect one, several, or all of the charging situations described above. For this purpose, the sensor device comprises, for example, suitable sensors, which are described below as examples.

[0021] In particular, the sensor device is coupled to the cable control device in such a way that the charging cable or the charging plug can be positioned in the charging zone based on the detected charging situation (and according to the current actual position of the charging cable).

[0022] For example, if the sensor device detects that a vehicle is positioned in the charging zone and is ready to be charged, the sensor device can transmit the corresponding sensor data to the cable control device so that the cable control device can move the charging cable or charging plug from outside into the charging zone. In the specifically described example, it can be ensured that while the vehicle is entering and maneuvering within the charging zone, the charging plug and charging cable can be placed outside the charging zone, thus reducing the risk of damage to the charging cable due to the maneuvering vehicle. Only when the sensor device detects that the vehicle is stationary in the charging zone does the cable control device move the charging cable or charging plug into the charging zone.

[0023] For this purpose, the cable control device itself can be coupled to the sensor device and process the sensor data. Furthermore, a common control unit can be arranged, to which the cable control device and the sensor device are coupled. The control unit can receive and process corresponding sensor signals from the sensor device. Based on this, the control unit can be coupled to the cable control device to transmit control signals to the cable control elements in order to control and adjust them accordingly. The control unit can be arranged centrally, for example, on the support structure.

[0024] By controlling the cable control device based on the sensor device that detects a charging situation, the risk of damage to the charging cable when maneuvering or positioning the vehicle can be significantly reduced. In dangerous situations, such as when maneuvering the vehicle, the cable control device can position the charging cable in a safe location within or outside the charging zone. At the same time, the availability of the charging plug can be ensured if, when a safe charging situation is detected, the charging plug is placed in the charging zone using the cable control device. Human interaction and the risk of user error can be reduced because the cable control device can be controlled independently or automatically based solely on the sensor data.

[0025] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the charging situation describes an occupancy state, whether a vehicle is located in the charging zone or whether the charging zone is free of a vehicle. The sensor device is configured to determine the occupancy of the charging zone by the vehicle and controls the cable control device based on the occupancy state. Thus, if no vehicle is located in the charging zone, the charging cable and charging plug are extended out of the charging zone and parked accordingly in an inactive state. Only when a vehicle is positioned inside the charging zone does the cable control device guide the charging cable into the charging zone. During maneuvering of a vehicle in the charging zone, the risk of damage is thus reduced because the charging cable is parked outside the charging zone in an inactive position.

[0026] According to another exemplary embodiment, the sensor device is configured to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle, in particular a charging socket of the vehicle, in the charging zone and, based on the position and orientation of the vehicle, controls the cable control device such that the position of the charging plug is adjustable relative to the position of the vehicle. For example, based on the determined orientation position of the vehicle in the charging zone, the charging plug can be moved by the cable control device into the vicinity of the charging socket of the vehicle, so that the user can quickly and easily grasp the charging plug and insert it into the charging socket.

[0027] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises a weight sensor that can be installed in a floor area of ​​the loading zone. The weight sensor is configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone with the vehicle by measuring the vehicle's weight, and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle in the loading zone. For example, the weight sensor can be integrated into the floor at a predetermined position in the loading zone. The driver of a vehicle to be loaded can be instructed to transport the vehicle to a precise parking position in the loading zone, ensuring that at least one tire of the vehicle rests on the weight sensor, allowing the weight sensor to determine an occupancy state.

[0028] Furthermore, a plurality of weight sensors can be arranged in the floor of the loading zone, creating a matrix of weight sensors. The sensor device or control unit can determine the precise location of a weight sensor within the matrix. If a vehicle is positioned in any orientation in the loading zone, at least one or more tires of the vehicle can be assigned to a specific weight sensor that measures a corresponding weight. Accordingly, in addition to the pure occupancy status of the loading zone, the orientation and position of the vehicle within the loading zone can also be determined based on the matrix of weight sensors.

[0029] According to another exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises a capacitive sensor that can be installed in a floor area of ​​the loading zone. The capacitive sensor is configured to determine, based on the change in an electrical capacitance (or the electric field), an occupancy status of the loading zone with the vehicle and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle within the loading zone. If a vehicle is located near the capacitive sensor, in particular directly above the capacitive sensor, the electric field changes and the presence of a vehicle changes, as well as the orientation of the vehicle within the loading zone can be determined.

[0030] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises a light source and a light sensor for forming a light barrier, wherein the light source and the light sensor are configured to determine an occupancy status of the loading zone with the vehicle and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle in the loading zone. The light barrier can, for example, be aligned transversely to a direction of entry of the vehicle into the loading zone. If the vehicle passes through the light barrier and, in particular, stops between the light sensor and the light source, an occupancy status of the loading zone can be determined. Furthermore, a plurality of light barriers, in particular a specific pattern of light barriers, can be arranged in order to cover the entire loading zone.In such an embodiment, in addition to the pure occupancy status, the exact position of the vehicle can also be determined based on the cut light barriers within the loading zone.

[0031] According to another exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises a radar sensor, wherein the radar sensor is configured to determine the occupancy status of the loading zone with the vehicle and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle within the loading zone. The radar sensor can determine the occupancy status of the loading zone as well as the positioning of the vehicle within the loading zone based on the time-of-flight measurement of radar waves emitted and reflected by the vehicle. For example, a lidar device can also be deployed to cover the loading zone as a sensor field.

[0032] According to another exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises an optical sensor. The optical sensor is configured to determine the occupancy of the loading zone with the vehicle and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle in the loading zone. The optical sensor can, for example, record the light contrasts and, based thereon, determine the occupancy of the vehicle in the loading zone. In particular, the optical sensor is a camera that records an image of the loading zone or video sequences of the loading zone. The occupancy of the loading zone can be determined based on the image data from the camera.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises an image processing device configured to detect a charging socket of the vehicle based on image analysis and to control the cable control device based thereon. The image processing device can, for example, use contrast value analysis to detect contours indicative of a vehicle and, based thereon, determine an occupancy status of the charging zone. In particular, the image processing device can, for example, use the recorded image data to determine a charging socket or a closure flap of a charging socket of a vehicle, so that the cable control device can position the charging plug in the vicinity of the charging socket based thereon.

[0034] The image processing device can access databases containing vehicle data that, for example, provide optical recognition data or position data for such a cover flap or the charging socket of a specific vehicle. Alternatively, the image processing device can recognize the cover flap or charging socket using artificial intelligence methods.

[0035] According to another exemplary embodiment, the charging situation describes a charging state between the charging plug and the vehicle, wherein the charging state defines a coupling of the charging plug to the vehicle and / or a charge current flow between the charging plug and the vehicle. The sensor device is configured to determine the charging state and to control the cable control device based on the charging state. For example, the sensor device can be configured to detect a mechanical coupling between the charging plug and the charging socket.

[0036] According to another exemplary embodiment, the sensor device for determining the state of charge comprises a current sensor that detects a current flow between the charging plug and the vehicle. For example, if a current flow occurs between the charging plug and the vehicle, it can be assumed that the charging zone is occupied by a vehicle. Furthermore, a safety function can be implemented, according to which movement of the charging cable is prevented by the cable control device while the vehicle is charging.

[0037] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the sensor device comprises a contact sensor for detecting a (mechanical) coupling between the charging plug and the vehicle. A corresponding mechanical contact or mechanical coupling can be detected using the contact sensors on the charging plug and / or the charging socket. Furthermore, the mechanical coupling can be determined using the optical sensors described above. If, for example, a decoupling between the charging plug and the charging socket is detected, the cable control device can automatically move the charging cable or charging plug to a safe position outside the charging zone. This reduces the risk of damage to the charging cable when the vehicle is driven out of the charging zone.

[0038] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the cable control element forms a control rod which is designed to be longitudinally adjustable and / or which is pivotable such that the charging cable can be pivoted into and out of the charging zone. For example, the charging cable can be coupled to the control rod at one or more attachment points. The charging cable can have loops between the individual attachment points. If the control rod is reduced in length, for example, large loops exist between the attachment points. When the control rod is extended to its maximum length, the charging cable can be taut between the attachment points. The control rod can, for example, be designed to be foldable or telescopically retractable.

[0039] Furthermore, the control rod can be pivotally attached to the support structure, for example, by means of a hinge, in order to pivot the charging cable into or out of the charging zone. The length change or pivoting of the control rod can be controlled, for example, by an electric actuator from the cable control device.

[0040] The cable pulling device is attached to the support structure, which may comprise, for example, a cross member that runs across the charging zone. The first cable pulling device has the support cable, which attaches the charging cable to the suspension point. In other words, the charging cable hangs from the support structure on the support cable. The support cable can be attached to the charging cable at the first suspension point, for example, detachably or permanently. The suspension points define the section or point at which the support cable(s) are attached to the charging cable.

[0041] The support cables can be made of plastic or natural materials, such as hemp. Furthermore, within the scope of the present invention, a chain, for example made of metal, or a band or strap can also represent a support cable.

[0042] By adjusting the cable lengths of the support cables, the distance between the suspension points and the ground is individually adjusted. Thus, in an inactive state in which the sensor device detects that no vehicle is positioned in the charging zone, the suspension point can be adjusted toward the support structure, so that the charging cable is located close to the support structure, far from the ground. Once the sensor device detects that a vehicle has maneuvered, in particular, beneath the support structure and is positioned at a predetermined position or charging position relative to the support structure, the free cable length of the support cable can be specifically increased so that a user can grasp the charging plug and plug it into the vehicle's charging socket.

[0043] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the cable control device comprises a further cable pulling device which has a further support cable as a cable control element, wherein the further cable pulling device is fastened to the support structure at a distance from the cable pulling device. The further support cable is fastened between a further suspension point of the charging cable, which is formed at a distance from the suspension point, and the support structure, wherein the cable pulling device and the further cable pulling device are each designed such that the lengths of the support cable and the further support cable are adjustable independently of one another such that a distance of the suspension point and the further suspension point from the ground is adjustable based on the charging situation.

[0044] According to the exemplary embodiment, the support cables are attached to the support structure at a distance from one another and hold corresponding sections of the charging cable at spaced-apart suspension points. Each of the support cables can individually adjust the distance between the corresponding suspension point and the support structure. In an arrangement with two cable pulling devices, the charging cable initially runs from a coupling point on the support structure to the first cable pulling device, or to a coupling at the first suspension point. From there, the charging cable runs to the second cable pulling device, or to the second suspension point on the second support cable. From the second suspension point, the charging cable continues to its end, at which the charging plug is arranged. In further exemplary embodiments, further cable pulling devices with further suspension points can be provided after the second suspension point.

[0045] Accordingly, the cable pull device is attached to the charging cable at the additional suspension point, either detachably or permanently, via the additional support cable. The charging cable is suspended from the support structure via the additional support cable. Depending on the position and orientation of the vehicle in the charging zone, the cable control device can adjust the lengths of the support cables, allowing the charging plug to be automatically positioned both vertically and horizontally.

[0046] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the charging cable runs from a coupling point with the support structure to the suspension point and then to the further suspension point, wherein the charging cable is arranged on the support structure, the cable pulling device and the further cable pulling device in such a way that the coupling point between the suspension point and the further suspension point is present along a horizontal directional component.

[0047] In other words, the charging cable initially hangs from the coupling point on the support structure. The charging cable then runs to the first suspension point, forms a loop, and runs in the opposite direction to the second suspension point. The area of ​​the charging cable between the coupling point and the second suspension point thus forms a C-shaped path. The area of ​​the loop at the first suspension point can be flexibly adjusted towards the ground. Accordingly, the area at the charging plug or at the second suspension point can also be variably adjusted relative to the ground. Depending on the length ratios between the first support cable and the second support cable, the shape of the cable path of the charging cable can be adjusted. Since the support cables are non-displaceable, i.e.Since the cables are arranged in a manner that cannot be moved along the charging cable, a different adjustment of the cable lengths of the support cables changes not only the vertical position of the suspension points above the ground, but also the horizontal position of the suspension points and, accordingly, the charging plug. With the described embodiment, both a vertical position and a horizontal position of the selector plug can be adjusted without requiring significant muscle strength from the user and without the vehicle having to be positioned exactly at a predetermined position for charging.

[0048] According to another exemplary embodiment, the cable pulling device comprises an electrically controllable cable winch, which can be controlled based on the detected loading situation. This allows, in particular, the length of the corresponding carrier cable to be adjusted. The cable winch comprises, for example, an electric drive motor that drives the cable winch accordingly. Accordingly, the further cable pulling device can also comprise an electrically controllable cable winch that is controlled by the cable control device.

[0049] Thus, one or more electric sides can be combined with automatic occupancy detection or a sensor device. Occupancy detection can thus ensure that a vehicle is present in the relevant parking space or charging zone. It can also determine that the vehicle has reached its final / parking position. This, in turn, can be used as a trigger to lower the charging cable using the electric winch(s) so that it can be used by the driver or another person.

[0050] Furthermore, occupancy detection can also be used to determine that no vehicle is in the charging zone, which can trigger automatic retraction of the charging cable using the cable control device. In addition to occupancy detection, the (mechanical) unplugging of the charging cable can also be used as a trigger. This can be achieved by monitoring the charging communication. Incorrect pulling or unplugging of the charging cable from the charging zone, even though a mechanical connection between the charging plug and the vehicle's charging socket still exists, can be additionally prevented by torque limitation in the electric cable winches.

[0051] The advantage over manually indicating and thus lowering and raising the charging plug is time savings, convenience, and, above all, safety. Human error ("forgetting to raise the cable") and the resulting potential damage to the cable and the vehicle while maneuvering in tight spaces can be prevented by automatic detection using the sensor device.

[0052] It should be noted that the embodiments described here represent only a limited selection of possible variants of the invention. It is thus possible to combine the features of individual embodiments in a suitable manner, so that a multitude of different embodiments can be considered as obviously disclosed to those skilled in the art with the variants explicitly described here.

[0053] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included. Short description of the drawings

[0054] For further explanation and better understanding of the present invention, embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the attached figures. Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a device according to the invention, in which a vehicle is present in the charging zone and is coupled to the charging plug. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the device from Fig. 1, where there is no vehicle in the loading zone. Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the cable control device comprising two cable pulling devices, wherein a vehicle is positioned in the loading zone, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the device according to the invention from Fig. 3, where there is no vehicle in the loading zone.

[0055] Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0056] Identical or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals in the figures. The representations in the figures are schematic and not to scale.

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a device 100 according to the invention, in which a vehicle 150 is present in the charging zone 104 and is coupled to the charging plug 102. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the device 100 from Fig. 1, whereby there is no vehicle 150 in the loading zone 104.

[0058] The device comprises a support structure 103, which is arranged at a charging zone 104 for charging a vehicle 150, and a charging cable 101, which can be connected to an electricity source and has a charging plug 102 for plugging into a vehicle 150 to be charged. The charging cable 101 is attached to the support structure 103. The device 100 further comprises a cable control device 110 with a cable control element 111, which is coupled to the charging cable 101 such that the charging cable 101 is movable relative to the support structure 103 in order to position the charging plug 102 in the charging zone 104.Furthermore, the device 100 has a sensor device 106 for detecting a charging situation in the charging zone 104 for charging a vehicle 150, wherein the sensor device 106 is coupled to the cable control device 110 such that the cable control element 111 is controllable to position the charging plug 102 in the charging zone 104 based on the detected charging situation in the charging zone 104.

[0059] The support structure 103 is attached to the ground 115, for example, as a support column or floor support 105, and is arranged next to the charging zone 104. The support structure 103 serves to attach the device components to a building or to the ground 115. The support structure 103 carries, in particular, the charging cable 101. Furthermore, the cable control device 110 with the corresponding cable control element 111 is provided on the support structure 103. Furthermore, sensor elements, such as the illustrated radar sensor 109 or the light source 112, can be arranged on the support structure 103 to detect the charging situation. Furthermore, a charging distributor (dispenser) 119, to which the charging cable 101 is coupled, is arranged on the support structure 103.

[0060] The cable control device 110 has a control rod 118 in the illustrated embodiment. The control rod 118 can, for example, be designed to be longitudinally adjustable and / or pivotally mounted on the floor support 105 such that the charging cable 101 can be pivoted in and out of the charging zone 104. For example, the charging cable 101 can be coupled to the control rod 118 at one or more attachment points. Between the individual attachment points, the charging cable 101 can have loops. If the control rod 118 is, for example, reduced in length (see Fig. 2), there are large loops between the attachment points. When the control rod 118 is extended to its maximum length (e.g. Fig. 1), the charging cable 101 can be almost taut between the attachment points. The control rod 118 can, for example, be designed to be foldable or telescopically retractable. Furthermore, the control rod 118 can be pivotally attached, for example, to the push-up bar 105, by means of a hinge, in order to pivot the charging cable 101 into or out of the charging zone 104. The change in length or pivoting of the control rod 118 is controlled by the cable control device 110 by means of an electric actuator.

[0061] The sensor device 106 is configured to detect a charging situation in the charging zone 104 for charging a vehicle 150. In a first aspect, the charging situation describes, for example, whether a vehicle 150 is positioned in the charging zone. Furthermore, according to a further aspect, the charging situation defines, for example, the orientation and position of the vehicle 150 within the charging zone 104.

[0062] In Fig. 1, the sensor device 106 detects that a vehicle 150 is positioned in the charging zone 104 and is accordingly ready for charging. Accordingly, the control rod 118 is pivoted out or into the charging zone 104 so that a charging plug 102 can be coupled to the vehicle 150. In Fig. 2, there is no vehicle 150 in the charging zone 104, so the cable control device 110 has reduced the length of the control rod 118 or has pivoted it out of the charging zone 104. Thus, the charging cable 101 and in particular the charging plug 102 are located outside the charging zone 104, preventing damage due to the positioning of the vehicle 150.

[0063] A common control unit 116 is provided, to which the cable control device 110 and the sensor device 106 are coupled. The control unit 116 can receive and process corresponding sensor signals from the sensor device 106. Based thereon, the control unit 116 can be coupled to the cable control device 110 to transmit control signals to the cable control elements (i.e., the control rod 118) in order to control and adjust them accordingly.

[0064] The sensor device 106 includes, for example, a weight sensor 107 installed in the floor 115 of the loading zone 104. The weight sensor 107 is configured to determine the occupancy status of the loading zone 104 with the vehicle 150 by measuring the weight of the vehicle 150.

[0065] Furthermore, a plurality of weight sensors 107 can be arranged in the floor 115 of the loading zone 101, forming a matrix of weight sensors 107. In the illustrated example, for example, two front tires are located on corresponding weight sensors 107, so that in addition to the presence, the exact position of the vehicle 150 in the loading zone 104 can also be determined.

[0066] Furthermore, the sensor device 106 can include a capacitive sensor 108 installed in the floor 115 of the loading zone. The capacitive sensor 108 is configured to determine the occupancy status of the loading zone with the vehicle based on the change in electrical capacitance (or the electric field). In the illustrated example, the electric field above the capacitive sensor 108 changes when a vehicle 150 is positioned over it. Based on this, the occupancy status of the loading zone 104 can be determined.

[0067] Furthermore, the sensor device 106 can have a light source 112 and a light sensor 113 for forming a light barrier 114, wherein the light source 112 and the light sensor 113 are configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone 104 with the vehicle 150. The light barrier 114 can, for example, be aligned transversely to a direction of entry of the vehicle 150 into the loading zone 104. If the vehicle passes through the light barrier 114 and stops, in particular, between the light sensor 113 and the light source 112 (see Fig. 1), the occupancy status of loading zone 104 can be determined.

[0068] Furthermore, the sensor device 106 can include a radar sensor 109, wherein the radar sensor 109 is configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone 104 with the vehicle 150. The radar sensor 109 can determine the occupancy state of the loading zone 104 as well as the positioning of the vehicle 150 within the loading zone 104 based on the time-of-flight measurement of radar waves emitted and reflected by the vehicle 150.

[0069] Furthermore, the sensor device 106 can include an optical sensor 117 or a camera. The optical sensor 117 is configured to determine the occupancy status of the loading zone 104 with the vehicle 150 by appropriately processing and analyzing the captured images.

[0070] The sensor device 106 further comprises, for example, a contact sensor to detect a mechanical coupling between the charging plug 102 and the charging socket of the vehicle 150. Furthermore, the sensor device 106 can comprise a current sensor that detects a current flow between the charging plug 102 and the vehicle 150. If, for example, a current flow occurs between the charging plug 102 and the vehicle 150, it can be assumed that the charging zone 104 is occupied by a vehicle 150.

[0071] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the cable control device 110 comprising two cable pulling devices 310, 320, wherein a vehicle 150 is positioned in the loading zone 140. Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the device 100 according to the invention from Fig. 3, whereby there is no vehicle 150 in the loading zone 104.

[0072] The support structure 103 has a crossbeam 303, on which a cable pulling device 310 and a second cable pulling device 320 of the cable control device 110 are arranged. The crossbeam 303 is attached to the floor 115 by means of two floor supports 105, for example, made of a steel structure or concrete, so that a corresponding floor support 105 is provided at both ends of the crossbeam 303.

[0073] The support structure 103 has a boom 304, on which the cable pulling device 310 and the further cable pulling device 320 are arranged. The boom 304 is attached to the crossbeam 303 and protrudes laterally in the direction of extension of the crossbeam 303. For example, loading components, such as a load distributor (dispenser) 119, can be arranged on the crossbeam 303, with the cable pulling devices 310, 320 being attached to the boom 304 at a distance from one another. The boom 106 can, for example, be made of a solid material or represent a truss girder.

[0074] In particular, the boom 304 is formed perpendicular to the extension direction of the crossbeam 104. The vehicle 150 can, for example, enter the device 100 along a predetermined entry direction. The crossbeam 303 extends, for example, transversely to the entry direction, so that the vehicle 150 can be positioned under the crossbeam 303. The boom 304, which extends in particular at right angles from the crossbeam 303, thus runs parallel to the retraction direction and thus along a side surface of the positioned vehicle 150. The cable pulling devices 310, 320 arranged at a distance from one another on the boom 304 thus run along the side surface of the positioned vehicle 150. By adjusting the lengths of the corresponding support cables 311, 312 of the cable pulling devices 310, 320, the position of the charging plug 102 along the side surfaces of the vehicle 150 can thus be adjusted.

[0075] The first cable pulling device 310 has the first support cable 311, which fastens the charging cable 101 to the first suspension point 312. In other words, the charging cable 101 hangs from the boom 304 on the support cable 311. The first support cable 311 can be fastened to the charging cable 101 at the first suspension point 312, for example, detachably or permanently. Accordingly, the further cable pulling device 320 is fastened to the charging cable 101 at the second suspension point 322, detachably or permanently, with the further support cable 321, so that the charging cable 101 is suspended from the boom 304 by the second support cable 321.

[0076] Each of the support cables 311, 321 can individually adjust the distance between the corresponding suspension point 312, 322 and the support structure 103. In an arrangement with two cable pulling devices 310, 320, the charging cable 101 initially runs from a coupling point 301 on the support structure 103, for example, always on the crossbeam 303 or the boom 304, to the first cable pulling device 310, or to a coupling at the first suspension point 312. From there, the charging cable 101 runs to the further cable pulling device 320, or to the further suspension point 322 on the further support cable 321. From the further suspension point 322, the charging cable 101 continues to its end, at which the charging plug 102 is arranged.

[0077] By adjusting the cable lengths of the support cables 311, 321, the ground distance between the suspension points 312, 322 and the ground 115 is individually adjusted. Thus, in an inactive state in which no vehicle 150 is placed on the device 110 (see Fig. 4), the suspension points 312, 322 are adjusted toward the support structure 103, so that the charging cable 101 is located away from the ground near the support structure 103. After a vehicle 150 has maneuvered, in particular, under the crossbeam 303 and is positioned at a predetermined position or charging position relative to the support structure 103, the cable lengths of the support cables 311, 321 can be specifically increased so that a user can grasp the charging plug 102 and plug it into the charging socket of the vehicle 115 ( Fig. 3).

[0078] The charging cable 101 is configured such that the charging cable 101 runs from the coupling point 301 to the first suspension point 312 and then to the second suspension point 322. The charging cable 101 is arranged on the support structure 103, the cable pulling device 310, and the further cable pulling device 320 such that, along a horizontal directional component h, the coupling point 301 is located between the first suspension point 311 and the further suspension point 322. The charging cable 101 initially hangs from the coupling point 101 from the crossbeam 303 of the support structure 103. The charging cable 101 then runs to the first suspension point 312, forms a loop, and runs in the opposite direction to the further suspension point 322. The area of ​​the charging cable 101 between the coupling point 301 and the further suspension point 322 thus forms a C-shaped course.The area of ​​the loop at suspension point 312 can be flexibly adjusted toward the ground 115 based on the detected sensor data of sensor device 106. Accordingly, the area at charging connector 102 or at the additional suspension point 322 can also be flexibly adjusted toward the ground 115. Depending on the length ratios between the support cable 311 and the additional support cable 312, the shape of the cable path of charging cable 101 can be adjusted.

[0079] The boom 304 has a reinforcement beam 305 between two boom ends, which projects vertically upward from the boom 304, opposite the ground 115. A taut reinforcement cable 306 connects the boom ends and the reinforcement beam 305 to stabilize the boom 304.

[0080] The cable pulling device 310 and the second cable pulling device 320 each have an electric cable winch 302. The cable winches 302 can respectively wind up and unwind the support cables 311, 321. The corresponding cable winches 302 can be controlled by the cable control device 110 based on the sensor data from the sensor device 106.

[0081] The sensor device 106 can comprise corresponding sensors as in the embodiment of Fig. 1. In Fig. 3 and Fig.4, in particular, an image area 307 of a camera 117 is shown. The image area 307 defines an image of the charging zone 104 or corresponding video sequences of the charging zone 104. Based on the image data or video sequences of the camera 117, the occupancy status of the charging zone 104 can be determined. The sensor device 106 can further comprise an image processing device configured to detect a charging socket of the vehicle 150 based on an image analysis and to control the cable control device 110 based thereon. The image processing device can, for example, use the recorded image data to determine a charging socket or a closure flap of a charging socket of a vehicle 150, so that based thereon the cable control device 110 can position the charging plug 102 already in the vicinity of the charging socket.

[0082] Additionally, it should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims are not to be considered as limitations.

[0083] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included. List of reference symbols 100 device 101 charging cables 102 charging plugs 103 Support structure 104 Loading zone 105 Floor support 106 Sensor device 107 Weight sensor 108 capacitive sensor 109 Radar sensor 110 Cable control device 111 Cable control element 112 Light source 113 Light sensor 114 Light barrier 115 Floor 116 Control unit 117 optical sensor / camera 118 Control rod 119 charging distributors 150 vehicles 301 coupling point 302 cable winch 303 crossbeams 304 boom 305 reinforcement beams 306 reinforcement rope 307 image area 310 cable pull device 311 carrier rope 312 Suspension point 320 additional cable pull devices 321 additional support rope 322 additional suspension point h horizontal directional component

Claims

[1] Device (100) for providing a charging cable (101) for a vehicle (150), comprising the device (100), a support structure (103) which is designed to be arranged at a loading zone (104) for loading a vehicle (150), a charging cable (101) which is connected or connectable to an electricity source and has a charging plug (102) for connecting to a vehicle (150) to be charged, wherein the charging cable (101) is attached to the support structure (103), a cable control device (110) with a cable control element (111) which is coupled to the charging cable (101) such that the charging cable (101) is movable relative to the support structure (103) in order to position the charging plug (102) in the charging zone (104), a sensor device (106) for detecting a charging situation in the charging zone (104) for charging a vehicle (150), wherein the sensor device (106) is coupled to the cable control device (110) such that the cable control element (111) is controllable to position the charging plug (102) in the charging zone (104) based on the detected charging situation in the charging zone (104), characterized by , that the cable control device (110) is attached to the support structure (103) and has a cable pulling device (310) which has a support cable as a cable control element (111), in which the support cable is attached between a suspension point (312) of the charging cable (101) and the support structure (103), and in which the cable pulling device (310) is designed to adjust the length of the support cable (311) such that a distance of the first suspension point (312) to a floor (115) can be adjusted based on the loading situation. [2] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the charging situation describes an occupancy state, whether a vehicle (150) is located in the charging zone (104), and wherein the sensor device (106) is configured to determine the occupancy of the charging zone (104) with the vehicle (150) and to control the cable control device (110) based on the occupancy state. [3] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (106) is configured to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle (150), in particular a charging socket of the vehicle, in the charging zone (104) and, based on the determined position and orientation of the vehicle (150), to control the cable control device (110) such that the position of the charging plug (102) is adjustable relative to the position of the vehicle (150). [4] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (106) comprises a weight sensor (106) which can be installed in a floor area of ​​the loading zone (104), and wherein the weight sensor (107) is configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone (104) with the vehicle (150) by means of weight measurement of the vehicle (150), and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle (150) in the loading zone (104). [5] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (106) comprises a capacitive sensor (108) which can be installed in a floor area of ​​the loading zone (104), and wherein the capacitive sensor (108) is configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone (104) with the vehicle (150) on the basis of the change in an electrical capacitance, and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle (150) in the loading zone (104). [6] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (106) comprises a light source (112) and a light sensor (113) for forming a light barrier (114), and wherein the light source (112) and the light sensor (113) are configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone (104) with the vehicle (150) and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle (150) in the loading zone (104). [7] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (106) comprises a radar sensor (109), and wherein the radar sensor (109) is configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone (104) with the vehicle (150) and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle (150) in the loading zone (104). [8] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (106) comprises an optical sensor (117), and wherein the optical sensor (117) is configured to determine an occupancy state of the loading zone (104) with the vehicle (150), and / or to determine the position and orientation of the vehicle (150) in the loading zone (104). [9] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the sensor device (106) comprises an image processing device which is configured to detect a charging socket of the vehicle (150) based on an image analysis and to control the cable control device (110) based thereon. [10] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the charging situation describes a charging state between the charging plug (102) and the vehicle (150), in which the charging state describes a coupling of the charging plug (102) to the vehicle (150) and / or a charge current flow between the charging plug (102) and the vehicle (150), and in which the sensor device (106) is configured to determine the charging state and to control the cable control device (110) based on the charging state. [11] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, in which the sensor device (106) for determining the state of charge has a current sensor which determines a current flow between the charging plug (102) and the vehicle (150), and / or wherein the sensor device (106) comprises a contact sensor for detecting a coupling between the charging plug (102) and the vehicle (150). [12] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the cable control element (111) forms a control rod (118) which is designed to be longitudinally adjustable and / or which is pivotable such that the charging cable (101) can be pivoted in and out of the charging zone (104). [13] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the cable control device (110) has a further cable pulling device (320) which has a further carrier cable as a cable control element (111), in which the further cable pulling device (320) is attached to the support structure (103) at a distance from the cable pulling device (310), in which the further support cable (321) is fastened between a further suspension point (322) of the charging cable (101), which is formed at a distance from the suspension point (312), and the support structure (103), and in which the cable pulling device (310) and the further cable pulling device (320) are each designed such that the lengths of the support cable (311) and the further support cable (321) can be adjusted independently of one another such that a distance of the suspension point (312) and the further suspension point (322) from the ground (115) can be adjusted based on the loading situation. [14] Device (100) according to the preceding claim, in which the charging cable (101) runs from a coupling point (301) with the support structure (103) to the suspension point (312) and then to the further suspension point (322), and in which the charging cable (101) is arranged on the support structure (103), the cable pulling device (310) and the further cable pulling device (320) in such a way that along a horizontal directional component (h) the coupling point (301) is between the suspension point (312) and the further suspension point (322). [15] Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the cable pulling device (310) has an electrically controllable cable winch (302), and in which the cable winch (302) is controllable based on the detected loading situation. [16] Method for providing a charging cable (101) for a vehicle (150) with a device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, the method comprising at least the following steps, Detecting a charging situation in the charging zone (104) for charging a vehicle (150) by means of the sensor device (106), and Positioning the charging plug (102) in the charging zone (104) based on the charging situation in the charging zone (104) by means of the cable control element (111).

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