Connector, device connected to a connector, method for operating a device with an energy storage device and method for establishing a connection between a connector and a device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a plug connector (1) for connecting to a terminal (2) connected to the energy storage device (3), the plug connector (1) comprising a first control line (PP) and a second control line (CP), wherein the first and second control lines (PP, CP) are electrically conductively connected to one another. It also relates to a device (7) connectable to a plug connector (1), wherein the device (7) has a terminal (2) connected to an energy storage device (3). It also relates to a method for operating a device (7), the device (7) comprising a terminal (2) to which a plug connector (1) can be connected, wherein the terminal (2) has a first control line (PP) and a second control line (CP), the method comprising the following steps: -- detecting (200) a second voltage (U2) between the first and second control lines (PP, CP); -- Initiating (400) a measure depending on the second voltage (U2). It also relates to a method for establishing a connection between a connector (1) and a device (7) comprising the steps of: -- Electrical connection of the first and second control lines (PP, CP); -- detecting (200) a second voltage (U2) between the first and the second control line (PP, CP); -- initiating (400) a measure as a function of the second voltage (U2) and in particular of the first voltage (U1).

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a connector, a device connected to a connector, a method for operating a device with an energy storage device and a method for establishing a connection between a connector and a device. State of the art

[0002] The present invention relates to a connector, in particular a connector designed as a "Vehicle-To-Load" (V2L) connector. It also relates to a method for operating a device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device, in particular a vehicle with an electrical energy storage device, wherein the method is designed in particular to ensure that an energy flow is released from the energy source and / or from the energy storage device to a connector connected to the device, provided that the connector is suitable for drawing energy. The method is used in particular for detecting or monitoring or checking a connector, in particular a connector connected to a device with an energy storage device.Another method is used to establish a connection, in particular a signaling, energy and / or mechanical connection, between a connector and a device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device.

[0003] Connectors designed as V2L connectors or V2L connector adapters are known from the prior art. In the course of electrification, for example in vehicles, the option is sometimes provided not only to charge an energy storage device (e.g. a battery) of the vehicle with energy (e.g. electrical energy), but also to draw energy from this energy storage device (e.g. up to 400V and / or up to 30A, usually from around 100V to 240V and / or up to 10A), in particular via the so-called charging socket or charging connection of the vehicle. In other words: the energy can not only be used internally in the vehicle (e.g. to supply an on-board network or to drive the vehicle), but it can also be provided that external (in particular electrical) consumers can be operated using the energy storage device (“Vehicle-to-Load”, V2L).that this energy is transferred to another vehicle (“Vehicle-to-Vehicle”, V2V) or that this energy is fed into the power grid (“Vehicle-to-Grid”, V2G) or that this energy is fed into a residential unit or a home network (“Vehicle-to-Home”, V2H). In the following, all these and other energy extraction options will be referred to as “Vehicle-to-Load” (V2L) to improve readability; the other options are intended to be included. It is understood that standard cigarette lighter sockets (in the interior of the vehicle) are not to be understood under the term V2L, nor are the (permanently installed) sockets inside the vehicle that are available as accessories or special equipment in some vehicles and into which, for example, a EURO plug or a USB plug can be inserted.

[0004] In many cases, energy is extracted from the energy storage device within the framework of a V2L application by inserting a connector into the so-called charging socket or charging port or charging socket, or generally into a port or charging interface of the vehicle (usually located on the outside of the vehicle). However, the mechanical connection of this vehicle-side charging port (e.g., TYPE 2 port) is often not compatible with standard ports (e.g., Schuko plug® or EURO plug) of electrical consumers (e.g., a lamp, a lawnmower, a grill, etc.). In order to utilize the V2L capability of a vehicle, connectors designed as a type of adapter (V2L adapter or V2L connector adapter) are known. They have a first port that can be connected to the vehicle and, in particular, its charging port.They also have a second connection for connection to a consumer connector of a consumer. Connector devices are also known. These have a connector, a connecting line connected to the connector, and at least one consumer connection. The connector can be coupled to the connection or charging socket of the vehicle, and the consumer connection is configured to allow an electrical device, e.g., a hairdryer, to be coupled to it via its consumer connector.

[0005] From US 2023 / 0137396 A1, a V2L cable system is known which has a first connector for coupling to a vehicle and a second connector connected to it via a longer cable or a multiple connector for connecting one or more consumers, so that overall an adapter system for V2L applications is realized.

[0006] From CN 109177778 A, a V2L connector adapter with two connections (vehicle-side first connection and consumer-side second connection) in a single connector housing is known.

[0007] As already described above, power or (electrical) energy can be drawn via the charging interface or connection (e.g. CCS standard) of an electrically powered vehicle or, in general, a device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device using a suitable connector. For this purpose, the connector is plugged into the charging interface or connection of the vehicle (or, in general, the device) and an electrical device (e.g. hedge trimmer, coffee machine, etc.) or, in general, a consumer (e.g. another vehicle that requires power (V2V), a power grid (V2G), a household power grid (V2H)) can be supplied with power via a country-specific standard socket (e.g. on a different section of the connector or on a different end of a connecting cable connected to the connector). The usual procedure is for the vehicle (in general, the device) or an energy control system ora charging control or an energy management system of the vehicle (generally: the device) recognizes the difference between a connector of a charging station or a charging cable designed as a charging plug (for charging the energy storage device of the vehicle (or the device) with energy) on the one hand and a connector designed as a discharging plug on the other hand via a resistance coding on a first signal line or control line of the connector (e.g. PP line). In other words: a defined first resistor is connected between the first signal line or control line and a protective conductor or a ground conductor or an earth conductor of the connector (PE line). The connector designed as a discharging plug can be a passive component that does not have a power supply for control electronics and can only be identified as a discharging plug by the vehicle on the basis of the resistance.One possible method for identifying the type of connector provides that the device, vehicle, or charging controller has a voltage source with a defined voltage (e.g., 5V). In this exemplary embodiment, the voltage source is connected to the first signal line or control line, e.g., via an energy control resistor. A first voltage between the first signal line or control line and the protective conductor is monitored or detected by the device, vehicle, or charging controller. If a connector as described above is connected to the connection of the device, e.g., the vehicle, a current can flow through the electrical connection provided in the connector between the first signal line or control line (e.g., PP line) and the protective conductor or protective conductor line (PE line). This results in a voltage change in the first voltage.This drops from the defined voltage to a value whose magnitude depends on the first resistor (voltage division due to the energy control resistor and the first resistor). Depending on the detected first voltage, a subsequent action can be initiated, e.g., enabling charging of the energy storage device if a charging plug is plugged in, or enabling energy delivery if a discharging plug is plugged in. The charging plug and discharging plug have different (electrical) resistances.

[0008] A charging cable configured for a V2V application is known from CN 111231699 A. It is proposed to provide a charging resistor in the charging plug (for the energy-receiving vehicle) between its first signal line or control line and the protective conductor, and to provide a discharging resistor in the discharging plug (for the energy-receiving vehicle) between its first signal line or control line and the protective conductor, whereby the charging resistor and the discharging resistor are different. Disclosure of the invention

[0009] The invention is based on the realization that a connector designed as a discharge plug can be a purely passive component, in particular without its own energy source. The detection of the connector or the type of connector (charging plug or discharge plug) by a device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device, in particular by a vehicle, only takes place via the resistor coding described above on the first signal line or control line of the connector. The invention is further based on the realization that there is a risk that the connector or plug will not be reliably detected (e.g. due to corroded contacts, aging processes of the first resistor, temperature fluctuations, exposure to moisture, etc.) and that dangerous actions, e.g. driving away with the cable plugged in or enabling an energy transfer (release of energy by the vehicle orgenerally a device with an energy storage device) to connectors that are not suitable for this purpose or to users who are not prepared for it. In the same way, the invention is based on the finding that a method for operating a device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device, in particular a vehicle with an energy storage device, or that a method for detecting a connector or the type of connector, in particular a connector connected to a device or its type, or that a method for setting up a connection, in particular a signaling, energy-related and / or mechanical connection, between a connector and a device with an energy source and / or with an energy storage device, is based only on the detection of a voltage value of a signal line orcontrol line and depends on a correct voltage measurement on the one hand and on the (over time and under all conceivable environmental conditions) always correct size of the first resistor in the plug connector coupled to the device, which over the service life of a plug connector and a voltage measurement entails the risk of incorrect detection or (in particular energy-related and / or signal-related) connection or initiation of a measure by the method. There may therefore be a need to provide a plug connector - in particular configured as a discharge plug for drawing energy from the energy storage device of the vehicle or the device and in particular configured to be recognized by the vehicle or the device as a discharge plug - which is reliably recognized as a discharge plug even after a long period of use and under adverse external conditions or which in particular enables a discharge process orEnergy release process of the device or the vehicle or measures associated with such a process (e.g. activation of an immobilizer) is only triggered if it is clearly established that it is a connector designed as a discharge plug. In the same way, there may be a need to provide a safely operable device that is connectable or connected to a connector. In the same way, there may be a need to provide a method for operating a device with an energy source and / or an energy store or a method for detecting a connector or the type of connector or a method for monitoring or checking a connector connected to a device or the type of connector connected to a device.to provide a method for establishing a connection, in particular a signaling, energy-related and / or mechanical connection, between a connector and a device with an energy source and / or with an energy storage device, which method places the initiation of a measure on a secure basis and avoids false detections. Advantages of the invention

[0010] This need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector is proposed. This connector is configured for connection to a terminal connected to an energy source and / or an energy storage device, wherein the energy source and / or the energy storage device is, in particular, an energy source and / or an energy storage device of a device. The device can be configured, for example, as a vehicle, an energy storage system, a power storage system, an energy supply system, a wall box, etc.

[0012] In other words, a connector is proposed, configured for connection to a terminal connected to an energy source and / or an energy storage device, in particular a device, in particular a vehicle, an energy storage system, a power storage system, an energy supply system or a wall box.

[0013] The energy source may be different from an energy storage device (no storage function); it may be, for example, a power grid, a power generator, a solar array, a wind turbine, or the like. The energy source may, for example, be part of the device, but it may also be external to or separate from the device.

[0014] The connector has a first signal line or first control line, a second signal line or second control line, and in particular a protective conductor. According to the invention, the first signal line or first control line and the second signal line or second control line are electrically connected to one another.

[0015] This advantageously ensures that the connector or the type of connector, in particular as a discharge connector or discharge plug, can be identified very safely and reliably, and that a connection, in particular a signaling, energy-related and / or mechanical connection, between the connector and the device, or that the initiation of a measure such as the release of a flow of energy in the direction of the connector, is placed on a very secure basis and that the risk is reduced or minimized that the connection is incorrectly established or that the measure is initiated incorrectly (e.g. with an incorrect connector or without a plugged-in connector). The operational reliability of the connector and the operation of the device are thereby advantageously increased. This is particularly advantageous because it is achieved cost-effectively and with simple, robust and less susceptible to failure means.no electronic circuit (in the connector) is necessary (e.g. no ASIC, no transmitter, etc.), purely passive means (such as a cable) are generally sufficient.

[0016] It may simply be further provided, for example, that the first signal line or first control line and the protective conductor are electrically connected to one another via a defined first resistance.

[0017] The plug connector is preferably configured to be coupled to a connection that is a so-called charging connection, e.g. a connection of a charging socket of an electric vehicle, a power storage system, etc. Thus, to stay with the example of an electric vehicle, it can be, for example, a vehicle-side plug connector, not a charging station-side plug connector. In general, it is therefore preferably a device-side plug connector and not a plug connector that can be connected to an energy source external to the device (charging station, charging column, wall box) or to an energy source connection of such an energy source. Nevertheless, it can also be such a plug connector that can be connected to a charging station, charging column, wall box, etc.

[0018] For example, a device into which the connector can be plugged, e.g. a vehicle, provides a voltage source with a defined voltage (e.g. 5V), whereby the voltage source can be (electrically) connected to the first signal line or control line directly or via an energy control resistor. It is now not only possible - as is currently common practice - to determine, record or ascertain a first voltage between the first signal line or control line and the protective conductor, whereby the level of the first voltage provides an indication of the type of connector (e.g. charging plug or discharging plug). Rather, a voltage measurement of a second voltage between the first signal line or the first control line and the second signal line or the second control line advantageously offers a way of determining or identifying the connector or the type of connector.When the connector according to the invention is plugged in, the determined second voltage changes due to the electrical connection between the first and second signal lines or control lines (in the device or vehicle, the first signal line or control line and the second signal line or control line are not connected to each other, for example, or are connected via a defined resistor, so that a (different) voltage division is caused by the plugged-in connector). This enables detection of the connector according to the invention using simple means, or even plausibility checks, redundancy, or verification (with the optional presence of the first resistor). If, in the optional case of a first resistor in the connector, the usual first resistor of a charging plug changes in an undesirable manner such that, for example,the first resistance of a connector designed as a discharge plug, then the initiation of a measure that is intended for a discharge plug can be prevented. This is because the charging plug, for example, does not have the connection between the first and second signal line or control line. For example, it can be provided that only a certain type of connector, e.g. discharge plug, has such a connection between the first and second signal line or control line. Particularly advantageously, only on the basis of the detection of the second voltage, at least a rough decision is made possible as to whether a conventional charging plug is present (no connection between the two signal lines or control lines) or a connector according to the invention, which can only be a discharge plug by way of example.This rough detection alone, based only on the second voltage, can lead to the initiation of specific measures that are different for the connector according to the invention than, for example, for a (conventional) charging plug.

[0019] The device, in particular the vehicle, enables plug detection of a connector, in particular a discharge plug, in particular via two sources using the first signal line or control line and the second signal line or control line (e.g., a PP line and a CP line; depending on the connection type or connector type, these can also be other signal lines or control lines, e.g., CC1 line and CC2 line, etc.). Verification and monitoring of the plug detection of a connector, in particular a discharge plug, is advantageously enabled. Only when the connector, in particular a discharge plug, is detected, preferably via two sources, is a measure initiated by the device, e.g., a vehicle, e.g., a discharge process is enabled, an immobilizer is activated, or status information is sent, etc.This advantageously allows for increased safety and prevents dangerous situations, such as driving away with the cable plugged in or releasing the high voltage without the plug. Advantageously, a very safe and reliable method for operating a device, in particular a vehicle, can be implemented, or a very safe and reliable method for detecting a connector or a connector connected to the device, or a very safe and reliable method for establishing a connection, in particular a signaling, power, and / or mechanical connection, between a connector and a device can be implemented.

[0020] For example, after plugging in the plug connector, it can be detected via a resistance coding whether it is a connector according to the invention (e.g. a discharge connector) or a charging connector (e.g. by means of an optional detection of the first voltage between the first signal line or control line and the protective conductor). If no first resistor and no connection between the first signal line or control line and the protective conductor is provided in the connector according to the invention, this also represents information. Via the second signal line or control line (e.g. CP line), for example, the connector and / or the type of connector can be detected or the detection of the presence of a connector or the type or type of connector (e.g. as a discharge connector) can be verified. If, for example,If a discharge plug is detected depending on a second voltage between the second control line and the first control line, the device can initiate a measure, e.g., release the high voltage for the discharge process. Additionally, the plug status can be monitored and / or diagnosed via a closed circuit during operation.

[0021] The (electrical) connection of the first control line to the protective conductor can be realized, for example, in the connector, in a housing of the connector, or in a connector face of the connector. The first resistor can be arranged, for example, in the connector, in a housing of the connector, or in a connector face of the connector.

[0022] The electrical connection between the first control line and the second control line can be implemented, for example, in the connector or in the connector housing or in the connector face. A simple, particularly electrically conductive connection (e.g., low-resistance, e.g., less than 1 ohm or even less than 0.1 ohm) can be provided, in particular without the integration of additional electrical or electronic components (possibly with the exception of a diode or a switch).

[0023] The first signal line or control line and the second signal line or control line can be designed to conduct signals, e.g. pulse-width modulated signals or voltages of different levels. They can be set up, for example, for voltages of less than 30V and / or currents of less than 1A. The first signal line or control line can, for example, when connected to a device, be supplied with a defined voltage, in particular a direct voltage, from a voltage source, wherein this voltage source can, for example, be arranged in a device connected to the connector or can be connected to this device. This defined voltage can, for example, be approximately 5V or approximately 12V.

[0024] The protective conductor can be designed, for example, as an earth conductor or ground wire or as an equipotential wire, which represents a common electrical potential for various components connected to it.

[0025] In addition to the first signal line or control line, the second signal line or control line, the plug connector can in particular also have the protective conductor or the protective line. Furthermore, it can also have, purely by way of example, at least one phase line and at least one neutral conductor. The at least one phase line and the at least one neutral conductor can, for example, be designed to conduct high voltages (e.g. at least 40V, preferably at least 100V, particularly preferably at least 200V) and / or high currents (e.g. at least 1A, preferably at least 5A and particularly preferably at least 10A). The protective conductor can also be designed for such high voltages and / or currents.

[0026] The term "have" is used synonymously with the term "comprise," unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the terms "signal line" and "control line" are used synonymously unless otherwise specified.

[0027] In a further development, it is provided that the first control line and the second control line are electrically connected to one another via a defined second resistor. This advantageously results in particularly reliable detection, checking or monitoring of the connector or its type or the signaling and / or power connection of the connector to the device. Furthermore advantageously, further information can be encoded using the level of the second resistor, e.g. a maximum output current that may be output via the connector. Furthermore advantageously, the defined second resistor can be used to clearly differentiate between a situation in which the connector is functioning and a situation in which the connector has an unwanted short circuit between the first and second signal lines. This advantageously enables the diagnosis of a defective connector and increases operational reliability.

[0028] For example, this makes it easy to detect a case where a charging plug has a short circuit between the first and second signal lines. Without the second resistor, there would be a risk that this defective charging plug would be identified as a discharge plug if, for example, the first resistor also unexpectedly had a value corresponding to a discharge plug. Another advantage is that this functional improvement can be achieved with a simple, robust, low-interference, and cost-effective component.

[0029] The second resistor may, for example, be at least 100 ohms or at least 200 ohms or at least 500 ohms or at least 1000 ohms.

[0030] In a further development, an electrical switch is provided between the first control line and the second control line. This advantageously ensures that the detection of the connector or the type of connector and the initiation of a measure or a signaling and / or energy connection of the connector to the device can be made dependent on a switching operation. This can be useful, for example, if an operator wishes to block the extraction of current or energy from the device. In this case, the operator can interrupt the connection between the first signal line and the second signal line using the switch. This means that the connector is no longer recognized as a connector of a certain type, e.g. as a discharge plug, and the device can, for example, initiate a measure, e.g. stopping the energy output. In this way, the user can, for example,even if the connector is plugged in, the device (e.g., the vehicle or a battery storage device, etc.) can be removed without having to worry about unauthorized third parties drawing energy from the device. Security can also be advantageously increased if the user or operator has to actively operate the switch to initiate a measure (e.g., the release of energy), thus being aware that the measure is now being initiated (e.g., voltage is applied to the connector).

[0031] The switch can be actuated, for example, by means of an actuating means on or in the connector or by means of an electrical or electronic signal. For example, a button or an operating switch can be provided on or in the connector to actuate the switch. It can also be provided that the switch can be actuated electronically, for example, by means of an operator's electronic control unit (e.g., a mobile phone, etc.). In this case, the connector and / or the device can be provided with a communication device.

[0032] In a further development, the switch is connected in series with the second resistor. This enables a direct, switchable connection of the second resistor to the first and second signal lines.

[0033] In a further development, a defined third resistor electrically connects an input of the switch and an output of the switch. This advantageously enables a switchable voltage division between the first and second control lines or signal lines. At least one further piece of information can advantageously be encoded, which triggers the initiation of a (further) measure.

[0034] A (second) voltage detected between the first and the second signal line can now (e.g. detected in the device) have a first voltage value when the plug is not plugged in, a second voltage value when the plug is plugged in and the switch is in a first position (e.g. switch open) and a third voltage value when the plug is plugged in and the switch is in a second position (e.g. switch closed).

[0035] In a further development, the switch is connected in parallel with the second resistor. This advantageously enables (partial) bridging of the second resistor. This makes it easy to encode additional information. Furthermore, redundancy is advantageously improved. If, for example, the second resistor fails, an additional circuit (the switch circuit) is available, which (switchably) connects the first control line or signal line and the second control line or signal line.

[0036] In a further development, a defined fourth resistor electrically connects an input of the switch (connected in parallel to the second resistor) and an output of the switch. This means that, regardless of the switching state of the switch, there is always a voltage division between the second resistor and the parallel circuit (switch circuit and / or fourth resistor circuit), which improves reliability - because even if the switch fails in the open state, the switch circuit is closed via the fourth resistor. This also advantageously makes it possible to encode further information. Without the fifth resistor described below, the fourth resistor establishes, for example, a third current path parallel between the first and second control lines. The first current path runs via the second resistor, the second current path runs via the switch, and the third via the fourth resistor.This improves the reliability, since if the second or fourth resistor fails, the other resistor still provides a conductive connection between the two control lines, regardless of the switch position.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, a defined fifth resistor is provided in series with the switch between the first control line and the second control line. This advantageously prevents a short circuit between the first and second signal lines when the switch is closed. A voltage division with the circuit of the second resistor then takes place. The fifth resistor can advantageously cause a defined voltage level of the second voltage that differs significantly from a zero-volt level, regardless of the switch position. This also advantageously enables fault diagnosis, since it is possible to distinguish between a situation with a closed switch and a situation with an (undesired) short circuit between the first control line or signal line and the second control line or signal line.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the invention, a device is proposed. The device is connectable or couplable, in particular coupled or connected, to a plug connector, in particular to a plug connector as described above. The device has a terminal. The terminal is connected to an energy source and / or an energy storage device, in particular to an energy source and / or an energy storage device of the device. For example, the plug connector can be connectable or couplable to the terminal or can be connected or coupled to the terminal.

[0039] This advantageously provides a device that can be operated particularly safely.

[0040] The device can be designed, for example, as a vehicle or as a power storage system or as an energy storage system or as an energy supply system (e.g. as a charging station with a connection to a power grid, in particular a bidirectionally operable charging station) or as a wallbox, in particular as a bidirectionally operable wallbox, or as another type of device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device and a connection, in particular for energy output.

[0041] For example, the use of a connector as described above with a device or on a device may also be provided. In particular, the use of a connector as described above as a discharge plug with a device or on a device may be provided.

[0042] The device and the connector can form a device system or be referred to as a device system. A device system comprises the device and the connector.

[0043] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for operating a device with an energy storage device, in particular a vehicle or a power storage system or an energy storage system or an energy supply system or a wall box, with an energy source and / or an energy storage device is proposed.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, it may be, for example, a method for detecting and / or checking and / or monitoring a connector or the type or nature of a connector, in particular a connector that can be connected or coupled to a device, in particular a connected or coupled connector.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be a method for operating a device which comprises or has a connector as described above.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, it may be a method for operating a device that can be connected or coupled, in particular connected or coupled, to a connector as described above.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, it may be a method for detecting and / or checking and / or monitoring a connector that can be connected or coupled to a device, in particular a connected or coupled connector, and / or the type of connector.

[0048] The device has a terminal to which a connector, in particular a connector as described above, can be (e.g., electrically) coupled or connected. The terminal comprises or has a first control line and a second control line. The terminal can, for example, further comprise a protective conductor. The method comprises the following steps, in particular performed by the device: -- Detecting a second voltage between the first control line and the second control line, -- Initiate an action depending on the second voltage.

[0049] This advantageously provides a method that enables particularly safe operation of the vehicle or of a connector connected to the vehicle. It can advantageously be ensured that the initiation of a measure depends on the second voltage. This advantageously prevents, for example, confusion between different connector types (e.g. a discharge connector and a charging connector). Common charging connectors have no electrical connection between the first and the second signal line. This makes it possible, for example, to clearly identify whether a discharge connector or a different connector type is present based on the second voltage or its level.

[0050] In the case of a vehicle, an energy storage device, a power storage device, etc., the connection can be configured, for example, as a charging socket configured for connection to the connector. In the case of a charging station (particularly one that can be operated bidirectionally) or a wallbox (particularly one that can be operated bidirectionally), the connection can be configured to be connected to a connector of a charging cable.

[0051] For example, it may be provided that the method optionally comprises the steps: -- Detecting a first voltage between the first control line and the protective conductor, -- Initiating an action depending on the second voltage and the first voltage.

[0052] If the initiation of the measure also depends on the first voltage, this advantageously enables a particularly reliable verification of the plug type or connector and / or increases the number of measures that can be reliably distinguished and / or makes the initiation of the measure particularly reliable.

[0053] The device may, for example, merely have a power controller. The method or individual steps thereof may be performed, for example, by the power controller. However, it is also conceivable that a computing unit (e.g., a control unit) or another circuit of the device performs one, several, or all steps of the method.

[0054] The device may, for example, have a voltage source or be connected to a voltage source. The voltage source may, for example, be arranged in the power control or another control device or another circuit or in a computing unit (e.g., a control unit) of the device and / or be connected to one of these elements, in particular for signaling or control purposes. However, it may also be formed separately from the aforementioned elements.

[0055] The voltage source can, for example, provide a defined voltage. It can, for example, be connected only to the first control line of the device's connection.

[0056] The defined voltage can be, for example, a direct current. It can be a low voltage, e.g., no more than 25V or no more than 15V, preferably no more than 12V, and particularly preferably no more than 6V.

[0057] In a further development it is provided that the method, in particular carried out by the device, is further developed by -- Comparing the second voltage with a defined second voltage threshold, -- Initiate the measure only if the comparison result shows that the second voltage is at most as high as the second voltage threshold.

[0058] This advantageously enables particularly reliable detection, testing, monitoring, signaling connection, power connection and / or diagnosis of the connector.

[0059] Alternatively, it is provided that the method, in particular carried out by the device or the energy control, is further developed by -- Comparing the second voltage with a defined second voltage threshold, -- Initiate the measure only if the comparison result shows that the second voltage is at least as high as the second voltage threshold.

[0060] This advantageously enables particularly reliable detection, testing, monitoring, signaling connection, power connection and / or diagnosis of the connector.

[0061] In a further development, it is provided that the device has a voltage source, wherein the voltage source provides a defined voltage and is connected to the first control line, wherein the second voltage threshold value lies in a range from 10% to 90% of the defined voltage or in a range from 18% to 82% of the defined voltage or in a range from 25% to 75% of the defined voltage.

[0062] This advantageously further improves the reliability of detection, testing, monitoring, and / or diagnostics. This is because the secondary voltage thresholds are far enough away from zero voltage (0 volts) or the voltage level of the protective conductor or ground on the one hand, and from the defined voltage of the power supply on the other. This prevents errors, increases fault tolerance, and also enables the use of components with wider tolerances, thus reducing costs.

[0063] The defined voltage can be, for example, a direct current. It can be a low voltage, e.g., no more than 25V or no more than 15V, preferably no more than 12V, and particularly preferably no more than 6V.

[0064] In a further development, it is provided that in the comparison step the first voltage is compared with a first voltage threshold value, whereby the measure is only initiated if -- the first tension ---- is at most as large as the initial voltage threshold or ----- is at least as large as the initial voltage threshold, and -- the second voltage ---- is at most as large as the second voltage threshold or ---- is at least as large as the secondary voltage threshold.

[0065] This advantageously further improves the reliability of detection, testing, monitoring, and / or diagnostics. Another advantage is that multiple functionalities or types of connector can be easily coded in the connector using a few, cost-effective (passive) components. This is because the initiation of at least one measure now only occurs when two independent voltages simultaneously assume certain values ​​or exceed or fall below threshold values. This advantageously enables verification or plausibility checks for the initiation of particularly safety-relevant measures.

[0066] For example, it can be specified that the first voltage threshold is at most 90% of the defined voltage or at most 75% of the defined voltage. This advantageously further improves the reliability of detection, testing, monitoring, and / or diagnostics. This is because the second voltage thresholds are thus far enough away from zero voltage (0 volts) or the voltage level of the protective conductor or earth on the one hand, and from the defined voltage of the power supply on the other. This prevents errors, increases fault tolerance, and also enables the use of components with wider tolerances, which reduces costs.

[0067] In a further development, it is provided that the measure is selected from the group: activating an immobilizer; deactivating an immobilizer; enabling an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector; setting a maximum power for an energy transfer; sending status information, in particular status change information; terminating the enabling of an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector depending on a defined parameter, in particular a plug-in duration, a delivered amount of energy, a temperature in the area of ​​the connection.

[0068] Activating an immobilizer has the advantage that a driver cannot move the vehicle until the connector is disconnected. This prevents dangerous situations, such as driving off with a device connected to the vehicle via the connector, such as a deep fryer with hot oil.

[0069] The advantage of deactivating the immobilizer (especially if it has been detected that the connector is no longer connected) is that the driver can move the vehicle quickly without having to take additional manual steps.

[0070] Enabling energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector advantageously ensures that voltage is only applied to the connection when a suitable connector is connected. Enabling energy transfer can, for example, mean that a voltage is switched between a neutral conductor and at least one power conductor or phase conductor. In particular, an energy transfer is enabled that can be at least 100W, preferably at least 1kW (depending on the connected load).

[0071] Setting a maximum power for an energy transfer has the advantageous effect of preventing a connected line from overheating and / or preventing too much energy from being drawn from the energy source and / or the energy storage device in too short a time.

[0072] Sending status information has the advantage that the device or a user or owner can be informed (e.g., through an acoustic, optical, haptic, or electronically transmitted signal) of a status change even when they are not in the immediate vicinity of the device or are not paying attention to the connector and the device. This also makes it possible to log status information (e.g., plug-in processes, etc.) in order to, for example, identify authorized and unauthorized energy transfers.

[0073] Ending the release of energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector depending on a defined parameter - in particular a plug-in duration, a released energy quantity, a temperature in the area of ​​the connection - can, for example, advantageously ensure that a user does not run the risk of the device releasing more energy or for a longer time than desired. The user can then move away from the device with peace of mind. Another advantageous feature is that it also limits the amount of energy that can be removed without authorization by third parties. Limiting a duration can also prevent overheating of the connector and / or a cable connected to it, e.g. a consumer. Ending the release depending on the temperature in the area of ​​the connection advantageously prevents damage to the connector and / or the device and / or the consumer.This also advantageously enables monitoring of the plugged-in connector as a special (partial) embodiment of the method for operating the device.

[0074] In a further development, it is provided that the maximum power for energy output is set depending on the second voltage.

[0075] Setting a maximum power, e.g. coded via the level of one of the resistors in the connector (e.g. second, third, fourth and / or fifth resistor) and / or by the position of the switch, has the advantageous effect of preventing the connector or a consumer connected to it or a connecting line connected to it from being overloaded.

[0076] In principle, it can be provided that at least one of the aforementioned resistors is configured as a variable, adjustable resistor (like a potentiometer). In this way, for example, the maximum power output (maximum current flow) can be specifically adjusted and thus adapted to the connected connecting cable, the connector, the residual capacity of the device's energy storage, etc. This can be done actively, for example, by a user (e.g., through a mechanical, electronic, or electrical input device on the connector) or, for example, by the device, which can manipulate this resistor when the connector is connected.

[0077] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method is proposed for establishing a connection, in particular a signaling, power, and / or mechanical connection, between a connector, in particular as described above, on the one hand, and a device with an energy source and / or an energy storage device, on the other hand. The method comprises the following steps: -- Electrically connecting a first control line to a second control line; -- in particular detecting a first voltage between the first control line and the protective conductor; -- detecting a second voltage between the first control line and the second control line; -- Initiation of a measure depending on the second voltage and in particular on the first voltage.

[0078] The method advantageously allows such a connection, in particular in terms of signaling and / or energy technology, to be established, verified and monitored in a particularly secure and simple manner.

[0079] Further developments of the method can be provided as for the method of the third aspect of the invention described above.

[0080] The device can, for example, have the first control line or signal line and the second control line or signal line. A first signal line or control line and a second control line or signal line can also be provided in the connector. Within the connector, the first signal line can be connected to the second signal line. Furthermore, the device and / or the connector can, for example, have a protective conductor.

[0081] When the device and connector are (mechanically) connected, the first control line of the device is preferably connected to the first control line of the connector, and the second control line of the device is preferably connected to the second control line of the connector. If protective conductors are present, the protective conductor of the device is preferably connected to the protective conductor of the connector.

[0082] The device can, for example, have a terminal to which the connector, in particular a connector as described above, can be (e.g., electrically) coupled or connected. The terminal can have the first control line and the second control line. The terminal can, for example, further have a protective conductor.

[0083] The device may, for example, merely have a power controller. The method or individual steps thereof may be performed, for example, by the power controller. However, it is also conceivable that a computing unit (e.g., a control unit) or another circuit of the device performs one, several, or all steps of the method.

[0084] The device may, for example, have a voltage source. The voltage source may, for example, be arranged in the power control or another control device or another circuit or in a computing unit (e.g., a control unit) of the device and / or be connected to one of these elements, in particular for signaling or control purposes. However, it may also be formed separately from the aforementioned elements.

[0085] The voltage source can, for example, provide a defined voltage. It can, for example, only be connected to the first control line.

[0086] The defined voltage can be, for example, a direct current. It can be a low voltage, e.g., no more than 25V or no more than 15V, preferably no more than 12V, and particularly preferably no more than 6V. Drawings

[0087] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which, however, are not to be construed as limiting the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] It shows Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b: schematic representations of connectors with different connector faces or connector connections, Fig. 2: schematic circuit diagrams of a charging socket and an energy control system of a vehicle with an energy storage device and a connector from the prior art that is connected to the charging socket, Fig. 3: schematic circuit diagrams of a charging socket and an energy control system of a vehicle with an energy storage device and a connector connected to the charging socket; Fig. 4: schematic circuit diagrams of a charging socket and an energy control system of a vehicle with an energy storage device and another connector connected to the charging socket; Fig. 5: schematic circuit diagrams of a charging socket and an energy control system of a vehicle with an energy storage device and another connector connected to the charging socket; Fig. 6: schematic circuit diagrams of a charging socket and an energy control system of a vehicle with an energy storage device and a further connector connected to the charging socket; Fig. 7: a block diagram with an exemplary sequence of a method for operating a device with an energy storage device.

[0089] The Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b show, by way of example, a connector device 50 on the left side and a connection 2 on the right side.

[0090] The connection 2 can be, for example, a connection 2 of a device 7, in particular a connection 2 of a vehicle 4, of an electricity storage system, of a (particularly bidirectionally operable) charging device (e.g. a charging station), of a (particularly bidirectionally operable) wall box, etc.

[0091] The connector device 50 has or comprises a connector 1, a connecting line 20, and a consumer connection 21, here merely by way of example in the form of a Schuko® socket (i.e., a Schuko® socket face). The connector 1 has a (connector) housing 5 and a connector connection or an interface or a connector face 6, which, for example, in addition to a number of lines or contact elements, also has a defined geometric shape in order to be coupled or connected to the complementarily designed connector face or socket face of a mating connector or to the connection 2, in particular the device 7 (see Fig. 2 to 6). The two connector devices 50 are, for example, each a discharge cable with which energy can be discharged from an energy source and / or an energy storage device 3, in particular from an energy source and / or an energy storage device 3 of a device 7 (see Fig. 2 to 6), e.g. of a vehicle 4. In this case, the device 7 preferably recognizes and / or checks and / or monitors the plug connector 1 as a plug connector 1 for a discharge process on the basis of specific characteristics or ensures a signaling and / or energy-related and / or mechanical connection between the plug connector 1 and the device 7. Instead of the connecting line 20, it can also be provided that the consumer connection 21 is arranged (in particular directly) on the housing 5, in which case the plug connector device 50 can be designed in the manner of a, in particular compact, adapter.

[0092] The plug or connector 1 from Fig. 1a is embodied, by way of example, as a so-called Type 1 connector. It comprises or has a first signal line PP, a second signal line CP, a protective conductor PE (which can, for example, be a ground line or earth line), a neutral conductor N, and a phase line P. The phase line P, neutral conductor N, and protective conductor PE are designed for the transmission of high power lines (at least 1 kW, preferably at least 3.7 kW).

[0093] The connector 1 from Fig. 1b is designed, by way of example, as a so-called Type 2 connector. It comprises or has a first signal line PP, a second signal line CP, a protective conductor PE (which can, for example, represent a ground line or earth line), a neutral conductor N, and three phase lines L1, L2, and L3. The phase lines L1, L2, and L3, the neutral conductor N, and the protective conductor PE are designed for the transmission of high power lines (at least 1 kW, preferably at least 3.7 kW).

[0094] For reasons of clarity and better readability, the following description does not further address the power lines (neutral conductor N and phase lines P, L1, L2, L3). These power lines are nevertheless provided for the described connectors 1.

[0095] It is understood that the following description is not limited to Type 1 plugs or Type 2 plugs.

[0096] Fig. 2 shows schematic circuit diagrams of a charging socket 10 and an (optional) energy controller 8 of a vehicle 4 with an energy storage device 3 and a plug connector 1 from the prior art, which is connected to the charging socket 10 or its connection 2. Above the circuit diagrams, a plug connector device 50 with connecting line 20, consumer connection 21 and the plug connector 1 are shown schematically, as well as the vehicle 4 with the charging socket 10 and a connection 2 as well as the energy controller 8. The individual components plug connector 1, charging socket 10 and energy controller 8 are schematically assigned to the individual circuit diagrams. In the section above the circuit diagrams, the plug connector 1 is shown in a state not yet plugged into the connection 2 for reasons of clarity.

[0097] The connector 1 from Fig. 2, designed as a discharge plug from the prior art, is designed to connect or couple to the terminal 2, which is connected to the energy storage device 3 of a device 7, in particular a vehicle 4.

[0098] The connector 1 comprises or has a first control line PP, a second control line CP, and a protective conductor PE. The first control line PP and the protective conductor PE are electrically connected to one another via a defined first resistor R1. The first control line PP and the second control line CP are electrically insulated from one another, or no second control line CP is provided in the connector 1 at all.

[0099] In the device 7, here for example a vehicle 4, a voltage source 9 is provided, here for example arranged in the energy control 8. The voltage source 9 is connected to the first signal line PP via an energy control resistor RL (in particular already within the device 7). The energy control resistor RL can be 330 ohms, for example. The voltage source 9 provides a defined voltage U0 with respect to the protective conductor or earth (see the Fig. 2 to 6 (the virtual voltage measurement is indicated by the reference symbol "U0"). The defined voltage U0 can be, for example, a direct voltage. It can be, for example, 5V or 12V. The defined voltage is preferably at most 30V, particularly preferably at most 15V.

[0100] In the charging socket 10, which can also be referred to as the "inlet," a charging socket resistor RI is provided between the first signal line PP and the protective conductor PE. The charging socket resistor RI can be, for example, 2.7 kOhm (Type 1 plug) or 4.7 kOhm (Type 2 plug). However, other values ​​are also possible, as are additional resistors, or even no connection between the first signal line PP and the protective conductor PE in the charging socket 10.

[0101] A method for operating the device 7 (this method can, for example, also serve as a method for detecting a connector 1) here merely detects a first voltage U1 between the first signal line PP and the protective conductor PE, e.g. by means of a voltage detection device in the energy control 8 (this voltage detection is indicated here by the line in which the circle labeled "U1" is arranged). The first voltage U1 differs depending on whether no connector 1 is connected to the terminal 2 or whether a charging plug is connected to the terminal 2 as a connector 1 or is coupled or connected to it. If necessary, a distinction can also be made as to whether a discharging plug is connected to the terminal 2 as a connector 1 (if the first resistor R1 is different for the charging plug type on the one hand and the discharging plug type on the other).

[0102] The reliable and unambiguous detection of a discharge plug is not guaranteed in every situation (e.g. due to environmental conditions, aging, damage, e.g. due to falls and / or a hard impact of the connector 1).

[0103] Fig. 3 corresponds essentially to the representation in Fig. 2, in Fig. However, Figure 3 shows a connector 1 according to the invention. This connector is, by way of example, a discharge connector. It can, for example, be a connector 1 with a connector face 6 selected from the group consisting of CEE, Type 1 connector, Type 2 connector, Type 3A connector, Type 3C connector, CHADEMO connector, CCS-COMBO-TYPE1 connector, CCS-COMBO-TYPE2 connector, GB / T connector, and Supercharger connector, although other connector faces 6 are also conceivable.

[0104] In the Fig. 4 to 6 are further developments of the connector from Fig. 3 shown.

[0105] The connector 1 according to the invention of the Fig. 3 to 6 has - in contrast to the connector 1 Fig. 2 - also shows, merely as an example, a connector operating device 14 (e.g., a button, slider, rotary control, touch display, switch, gesture control sensor, voice control module, etc.). This operating device is provided only optionally. It can be used, for example, to operate a switch S described further below.

[0106] The connector 1 according to the invention of the Fig. 3 to 6 also has, here merely by way of example, a connector communication device 15, e.g., a WLAN module, a mobile radio module (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.), a Bluetooth® module, an NFC module, a PowerLAN module, etc. This connector communication device 15 is provided only optionally. It can, for example, be provided for transmitting and / or receiving signals, e.g., status information of the connector 1 and / or the energy controller 8. In the same way, here by way of example, the vehicle 4 (or generally a device 7) has a communication device 13. This can, for example, be designed as a WLAN module, a mobile radio module (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, etc.), a Bluetooth® module, an NFC module, a PowerLAN module, etc. It can be provided, for example, for sending and / or receiving signals, e.g. status information of the device 7 (e.g. of the vehicle 4), the connector 1 and / or the energy control 8.With the communication devices 13, 15 it is possible, for example, to control elements of the connector 1, e.g. instead of the connector operating means 14. A user can, for example, use a mobile or stationary terminal or by means of a cloud service or an external computing unit to influence the measures that can be initiated in the method described below or to be informed about the status.

[0107] The plug connector 1 is configured for connection to a terminal 2, wherein the terminal 2 can be connected to the energy storage device 3 (alternatively or additionally to an energy source), wherein the terminal 2 is the terminal of a device 7, which can be designed, for example, as a vehicle 4, an energy storage system, a power storage system, a (particularly bidirectionally operable) energy supply system, a (bidirectionally operable) wall box, etc. The plug connector 1 has or comprises a first control line PP, a second control line CP, in particular a protective conductor PE, wherein the first control line PP and the second control line CP are electrically conductively connected to one another, here for example in the plug connector 1 or its housing 5 or alternatively in the plug face 6.

[0108] In Fig. 3 it is merely provided by way of example that, as in Fig. 2, the first control line PP and the protective conductor PE are also electrically connected to one another via a defined first resistor R1, in particular in the connector 1 or in a housing 5 of the connector 1 or in a connector face 6 of the connector 1.

[0109] When connected or coupled to the terminal 2 of the device 7, the first control line PP of the plug connector 1 is connected to a first control line PP of the terminal 2 or the device 7. Furthermore, the second control line CP of the plug connector is connected to a second control line CP of the terminal 2 or the device 7. Preferably, the protective conductor PE of the plug connector 1 is also connected to a protective conductor PE of the terminal 2 or the device 7. This connection(s) is / are established or produced by plugging or mating or coupling or connecting the plug connector 1 into or to the terminal 2.

[0110] It is also conceivable that the connector 1 does not have a first control line PP. In other cases, it is conceivable that the first connector does have a first control line PP, but that this first control line PP is not connected to the protective conductor PE in the connector 1.

[0111] In Fig. 3 it is provided merely by way of example that the first control line PP and the second control line CP are electrically conductively connected to one another via a defined second resistor R2 (shown in dashed lines), wherein in particular the second resistor R2 has at least 100 ohms or at least 200 ohms or at least 500 ohms or at least 1000 ohms.

[0112] It can also be provided that the first signal line PP and second signal line CP are directly short-circuited in connector 1 - in such a case the second resistor R2 is omitted (therefore shown in dashed lines to show that the second resistor is optional) and the resistance of this connection is not directly defined, but experience shows that it is in a range of less than 1 ohm.

[0113] It is possible to determine the second voltage U2 between the two control lines PP, CP, e.g. by means of a voltage measuring device, e.g. within the energy control 8. This second voltage U2 changes due to the connection of the two signal lines PP, CP as soon as a connector 1 according to the invention is connected to the terminal 2. Due to this change, it can be recognized that a connector 1 according to the invention is connected to the device 7. If - as in Fig. 3 - If the first signal line PP is also connected to the protective conductor PE (here via a first resistor R1), the first voltage U1 can also be measured using a (possibly additional) voltage measuring device. The first voltage U1 and the second voltage U2 can be evaluated, and it can then be determined even more reliably (e.g., by means of a plausibility check or verification) whether a specific type of connector 1 (e.g., a discharge plug) is present or connected to terminal 2.

[0114] In Fig. 3, a first, in particular electronic, circuit 11 is provided in the energy controller 8 for the first signal line PP, merely by way of example, and can be connected to the first signal line PP (e.g. electrically). This circuit can, merely by way of example, detect the first voltage U1 and, if necessary, evaluate it or send a voltage value assigned to the first voltage to a control device. A second, in particular electronic circuit 12 is also provided in the energy controller 8, merely by way of example. The second circuit 12 can, for example, serve for the second signal line or be assigned to it. It can, merely by way of example, detect the second voltage U2 and, if necessary, evaluate it or send a voltage value assigned to the second voltage to a control device. The first circuit 11 and the second circuit 12 can, in principle, also be integrated or combined in a single circuit device.It can also be seen that an additional energy control resistor RE is provided in the energy control 8. This resistor connects the second signal line CP to the protective conductor PE, thus causing a voltage divider, which affects the level of the second voltage U2. This additional energy control resistor RE can be, for example, 2.74 kOhm. However, it can have different values ​​in other cases. In principle, this additional energy control resistor RE can also be omitted.

[0115] In Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment, wherein an electrical switch S is provided between the first control line PP and the second control line CP.

[0116] The switch S can be actuated, for example, by means of the actuating means 14 on the connector 1 or by means of an electrical or electronic signal (e.g., by means of the connector communication device 15). The switch S enables a targeted or intentional change in the second voltage U2 or the resistance between the first signal line PP and the second signal line CP. This can, for example, be used to specifically influence the detection of which type of connector 1 is connected to the terminal 2, e.g., to specifically and / or intentionally enable or block a discharge process (e.g., to prevent the extraction of energy by unauthorized third parties). Furthermore, the type of connector 1 can advantageously be easily switched between different types. For example, when switch S is closed, the connector 1 can be designed or function as a discharge plug.Is the switch S in the embodiment of the . Fig. 4 is opened, connector 1 can be recognized as a charging connector or as connector 1 of another type (there is no longer any connection between the two signal lines PP, CP).

[0117] It goes without saying that when the switch S is actuated, other elements of the connector 1 can also be influenced. For example, simply actuating the switch 1 can also change the first resistor R1 or introduce, change or remove a further resistor between the first signal line PP and the protective conductor PE (e.g. a resistor connected in parallel to the first resistor R1). In this way, for example, a characteristic of the connector 1 can be specifically changed in a simple, quick and reliable manner. For example, the type of connector 1 can be switched for use of the connector 1 in bidirectional operation (e.g. from charging plug to discharging plug and vice versa).

[0118] In the embodiment of Fig. 4, for example, it is provided that the switch S is connected in series with the optional second resistor R2 (shown in dashed lines). The second resistor R2 can, for example, be at least 100 ohms - if present. However, it can also be provided that the input of the connector SE is connected directly to the first signal line (without a second resistor R2 connected in series).

[0119] Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment in which a defined third resistor R3 (drawn in solid lines, therefore not optional here), which may, for example, have at least 100 ohms, electrically connects an input SE of the switch S and an output SA of the switch S. Thus, the third resistor R3 is connected in parallel to the switch S. This can have the advantage that a failure of the switch S does not lead to an interruption of the circuit between the first signal line PP and the second signal line CP.

[0120] In one embodiment, switch S and third resistor R3 are connected in series with the second resistor R2 (in Fig. 5: dashed line pointing to the left, ending between switch input SE and second, optional, resistor R2 - the dashed line pointing upwards is not necessary in this alternative).

[0121] There may also be another embodiment in which the third resistor is directly connected to the first signal line PP and to the second signal line CP (in Fig. 5: dashed line pointing upwards and ending at the first signal line PP, the dashed line pointing to the left or the connection to the switch input SE can be omitted here) - in principle, instead of the direct connection to the first signal line PP, a connection to the first signal line PP can also be made via another resistor connected in series (not shown here). In these cases (the dashed line pointing to the left is omitted or is not present), the series connection of the second resistor R2 and switch S is bridged in parallel, e.g. to ensure an electrical connection between the first and second signal lines PP, CP in the event of failure of the switch S and / or the line in which the switch S is arranged and / or the optional second resistor R2.

[0122] Fig. Figure 6 shows a further embodiment in which the switch S is connected in parallel with the second resistor R2 (not optional here, therefore drawn in solid lines). This embodiment is conceivable without additional resistors, i.e., the switch S can, for example, short-circuit the two signal lines PP, CP in the closed state (without additional defined resistors).

[0123] In an exemplary development, a defined optional fourth resistor R4 can electrically connect an input SE of the switch S and an output SA of the switch S (shown in dashed lines to the right of the switch S). ​​The optional fourth resistor R4 can, for example, be at least 100 ohms. The fourth resistor R4 is thus connected in parallel to the switch S. The fourth resistor R4 is - like the other resistors (first resistor R1, second resistor R2, third resistor R3, fifth resistor R5 (see immediately below) and like the switch S - preferably arranged in or on the connector 1, e.g. in the connector housing 5 and / or in the connector face 6.

[0124] Alternatively or additionally, an optionally defined fifth resistor R5 may be provided in series with the switch S between the first control line PP and the second control line CP (shown in dashed lines below the switch S). ​​The fifth resistor may, for example, be at least 100 ohms.

[0125] There are therefore Fig. 6 the following constellations are shown: -- Switch S connected in parallel to the second resistor, without fourth resistor R4 and without fifth resistor R5; -- Switch S connected in parallel to the second resistor, with fourth resistor R4 and without fifth resistor R5; -- Switch S connected in parallel to the second resistor, without fourth resistor R4 and with fifth resistor R5; -- Switch S connected in parallel to the second resistor, with fourth resistor R4 and with fifth resistor R5.

[0126] In the Fig. 3 to 6, a device 7 is shown, here merely by way of example in the form of a vehicle 4, which is connectable, in particular connected, to a connector 1 as described above. The device 7 has a connection 2 which is connected to an energy source and / or an energy storage device 3. It also has, here merely by way of example, an energy controller 8. It also has, here merely by way of example, a voltage source 9. The device 7 can be operated with a method or using a method as described by way of example in Fig. 7 described.

[0127] Fig. 7 shows a block diagram with an exemplary sequence of a method for operating a device 7, in particular a vehicle 4 or an energy storage system or a power storage system or an (in particular bidirectionally operable) energy supply system or a (bidirectionally operable) wall box, etc., with an energy storage device 3.

[0128] Alternatively or additionally, it may be a method for operating a device 7 comprising or having a connector 1 as described above.

[0129] Alternatively or additionally, it may be a method for operating a device 7 that can be connected, in particular connected, to a connector 1 as described above.

[0130] Alternatively or additionally, it may be a method for detecting and / or testing and / or checking and / or monitoring a connector 1 that can be connected, in particular connected, to a device 7.

[0131] The device 7 comprises, for example, an energy control 8. It comprises a terminal 2, to which a plug connector 1, in particular a plug connector 1 as described above, is electrically connectable or coupled, in particular connected or coupled (e.g., plugged into the terminal 2 or connected thereto). The terminal 2 comprises a first control line PP and a second control line CP. It may, for example, comprise a protective conductor PE, as shown by way of example in Fig. 3 to 6. The voltage source 9 provides a defined, in particular low, voltage U0 (e.g. 5V or 12V, in particular as a direct voltage) and the voltage source 9 is connected to the first control line PP. The method comprises the steps specified below, which can be carried out in particular by the device 7 or the energy controller 8 or by at least one electrical or electronic circuit not shown here. For example, a separate, in particular electrical or electronic, circuit can be provided for each step, or several steps can be carried out in one, in particular electrical or electronic, circuit and other steps in one or more other, in particular electrical or electronic, circuits; it is also conceivable that individual, several or all steps are carried out by a control unit of the device. -- Detecting 100 a first voltage U1 between the first control line PP and the protective conductor PE; -- detecting 200 a second voltage U2 between the first control line PP and the second control line CP; -- Initiating 400 a measure depending on the second voltage U2 and in particular also on the first voltage U1.

[0132] This can, for example, cause the measure to be selectively initiated or not initiated if different voltage levels of the second voltage U2 are detected. In previous methods, the second voltage U2 is always constant, since the conventional connector 1, which is intended to initiate 400 the measure (e.g. a conventional discharge plug), has no connection between the first signal line (PP) and the second signal line (CP). With the method, a particularly reliable Fig. 3 to 6 described connector 1 can be detected and the device 7 can be operated accordingly (e.g. by enabling the energy output).

[0133] The detection 100 of the first voltage U1 in the process sequence of Fig. Step 7 is an optional step that is not essential to the procedure. It improves the reliability of the procedure. If both voltages U1 and U2 are measured, the presence of a connector 1 that triggers the action can be verified or verified.

[0134] In the Fig. 7, the procedure further comprises the following step: -- comparing 300 the second voltage U2 with a defined second voltage threshold U2T, -- Initiation 400 of the measure only if the comparison result shows that the second voltage U2 is at most as high as the second voltage threshold value U2T.

[0135] If the comparison shows that the second voltage U2 is greater than the second voltage threshold U2T, then in the exemplary representation of the method in Fig. 7 branches back to the step Detecting 100 of the first voltage U1.

[0136] The steps of detecting 100 the first voltage U1 and detecting 200 the second voltage U2 can basically be carried out in any order one after the other or even in parallel.

[0137] In an alternative embodiment, the initiation 400 of the measure only takes place if the comparison result shows that the second voltage U2 is at least as high as the second voltage threshold value U2T.

[0138] The second voltage threshold value U2T can, for example, be in a range from 10% to 90% of the defined voltage U0 or in a range from 18% to 82% of the defined voltage U0 or in a range from 25% to 75% of the defined voltage U0.

[0139] The Fig. The exemplary method sequence shown in Figure 7 shows in the step of comparison 300 as an option (shown in square brackets) that the first voltage U1 is additionally compared with a first voltage threshold value U1T, wherein the initiation 400 of the measure in the Fig. 7 only occurs when the first voltage U1 is at most as high as the first voltage threshold value U1T and the second voltage U2 is at most as high as the second voltage threshold value U2T.

[0140] This enables plausibility checks and verification. This allows a particularly secure connector 1 to be provided and particularly secure operation of the device to be ensured.

[0141] The initial voltage threshold U1T can, for example, be a maximum of 90% of the defined voltage U0 or a maximum of 75% of the defined voltage U0.

[0142] As already described above, the detection 100 of the first voltage U1 is an optional step.

[0143] In principle, alternative embodiments are conceivable as follows: The initiation of measure 400 only occurs if -- the first voltage U1 ---- is at most as large as the initial voltage threshold U1T or ----- is at least as large as the initial voltage threshold U1T, and -- the second voltage U2 ---- is at most as large as the second voltage threshold U2T or ---- is at least as large as the secondary voltage threshold U2T.

[0144] Four cases can therefore be distinguished which lead to the initiation of the measure: Case 1: the first voltage U1 is at most as large as the first voltage threshold U1T and the second voltage U2 is at most as large as the second voltage threshold U2T. Case 2: the first voltage U1 is at most as large as the first voltage threshold U1T and the second voltage U2 is at least as large as the second voltage threshold U2T. Case 3: the first voltage U1 is at least as large as the first voltage threshold U1T and the second voltage U2 is at most as large as the second voltage threshold U2T. Case 4: the first voltage U1 is at least as large as the first voltage threshold U1T and the second voltage U2 is at least as large as the second voltage threshold U2T.

[0145] This provides the possibility of encoding a variety of functionalities or types of connectors 1 using simple means. At the same time, plausibility checks or verification are enabled. This allows for the provision of a particularly secure connector 1.

[0146] The measure can only be selected as an example from the group: Activating an immobilizer; Deactivating an immobilizer; Enabling an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector; Setting a maximum power for an energy transfer; Sending status information, in particular status change information; Terminating the enabling of an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector depending on a defined parameter, in particular a plug-in duration, a delivered amount of energy, a temperature in the area of ​​the connection.

[0147] For example, in the process, the maximum power for energy output or a maximum current (e.g. maximum 1A or maximum 5A or maximum 10A) is set depending on the second voltage U2.

[0148] Such a maximum power output can be achieved, for example, by means of the Fig. 4 to 6. In principle, it is also conceivable for a variable resistor (in the form of a potentiometer) to be provided in the connector 1, e.g., between the first signal line PP and the second signal line CP and / or between the first signal line PP and the protective conductor PE. Such a variable resistor, in particular a continuously variable resistor or a resistor variable in defined steps, can, for example, be used to initiate various measures or, for example, to set the level of a maximum energy output or current output. It is conceivable for such a variable resistor to be set by a user, e.g., by means of the connector operating means 14 described above and / or the connector communication device 15 described above.

[0149] Fig. 7 can represent an alternative to the method described above, e.g. a method for setting up a connection, in particular a signaling, energy and / or mechanical connection, between a connector 1 and a device 7 with an energy source and / or with an energy storage device 3. The method can comprise the following steps: -- Electrically connecting a first control line PP to a second control line CP; -- (optional) detection 100 of a first voltage U1 between the first control line PP and the protective conductor PE; -- detecting 200 a second voltage U2 between the first control line PP and the second control line CP; -- Initiating 400 a measure depending on the second voltage U2 and in particular on the first voltage U1.

[0150] It can be provided, for example, that the device 7 and / or a connection 2 of the device 7 has a first control line PP and a second control line CP. It can be provided, for example, that the step of connecting the first control line PP and the second control line CP is carried out by connecting a suitable connector 1 to the connection 2 of the device 7, in particular if it is a connector 1, as described above in connection with the Fig. 3 to 7. The device 7 can be, for example, a vehicle 4 or a power storage system or an energy storage system or an energy supply system or a wall box.

[0151] For further branches, please refer to the description above.

[0152] In particular, the method may comprise the following steps: -- comparing 300 the second voltage U2 with a defined second voltage threshold U2T, -- Initiation 400 of the measure only if the comparison result shows that the second voltage U2 is at most as high as the second voltage threshold value U2T.

[0153] If the comparison shows that the second voltage U2 is greater than the second voltage threshold U2T, then in the exemplary representation of the method in Fig. 7 branches back to the step Detecting 100 of the first voltage U1.

[0154] The steps of detecting 100 the first voltage U1 and detecting 200 the second voltage U2 can basically be carried out in any order one after the other or even in parallel.

[0155] The second voltage threshold value U2T can, for example, be in a range from 10% to 90% of the defined voltage U0 or in a range from 18% to 82% of the defined voltage U0 or in a range from 25% to 75% of the defined voltage U0.

[0156] The Fig. The exemplary method sequence shown in Figure 7 shows in the step of comparison 300 as an option (shown in square brackets) that the first voltage U1 is additionally compared with a first voltage threshold value U1T, wherein the initiation 400 of the measure in the Fig. 7 only occurs when the first voltage U1 is at most as high as the first voltage threshold value U1T and the second voltage U2 is at most as high as the second voltage threshold value U2T.

[0157] The measure can only be selected as an example from the group: Activating an immobilizer; Deactivating an immobilizer; Enabling an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector; Setting a maximum power for an energy transfer; Sending status information, in particular status change information; Terminating the enabling of an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector depending on a defined parameter, in particular a plug-in duration, a delivered amount of energy, a temperature in the area of ​​the connection.

[0158] For example, in the process, the maximum power for energy output or a maximum current (e.g. maximum 1A or maximum 5A or maximum 10A) is set depending on the second voltage U2. 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] CN 109177778 A

[0006] CN 111231699 A

[0008]

Claims

[1] Connector (1) designed for connection to a terminal (2) which is connected to an energy source and / or an energy storage device (3), in particular a device (7), which device (7) is in particular a vehicle (4), an energy storage system, a power storage system, an energy supply system or a wall box, the connector (1) comprising: -- a first control line (PP); -- a second control line (CP); -- in particular a protective conductor (PE); wherein the first control line (PP) and the second control line (CP), in particular in the connector (1) or in the housing (5) or in the connector face (6), are electrically conductively connected to one another, wherein in particular the first control line (PP) and the protective conductor (PE), in particular in the plug connector (1) or in a housing (5) of the plug connector (1) or in a plug face (6) of the plug connector (1), are electrically connected to one another via a defined first resistor (R1). [2] Connector according to the preceding claim, wherein the first control line (PP) and the second control line (CP) are electrically connected to one another via a defined second resistor (R2), wherein in particular the second resistor (R2) has at least 100 ohms or at least 200 ohms or at least 500 ohms or at least 1000 ohms. [3] Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an electrical switch (S) is provided between the first control line (PP) and the second control line (CP), wherein the switch (S) can be actuated in particular by means of an actuating means on the connector (1) or by means of an electrical or electronic signal. [4] Connector according to claim 3, wherein the switch (S) is connected in series with the second resistor (R2). [5] Connector according to claim 4, wherein a defined third resistor (R3) electrically connects an input (SE) of the switch (S) and an output (SA) of the switch (S). [6] Connector according to claim 3, wherein the switch (S) is connected in parallel to the second resistor (R2). [7] Connector according to claim 6, wherein a defined fourth resistor (R4) electrically connects an input (SE) of the switch (S) and an output (SA) of the switch (S), and / or wherein a defined fifth resistor (R5) is provided in series with the switch (S) between the first control line (PP) and the second control line (CP). [8] Device (7), in particular vehicle (4) or power storage system or energy storage system or energy supply system or wall box, connectable, in particular connected, to a connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (7) has a connection (2) which is connected to an energy source and / or an energy store (3), in particular to an energy source and / or an energy store of the device (7). [9] Method for operating a device (7), in particular a vehicle (4) or a power storage system or an energy storage system or an energy supply system or a wall box, with an energy source and / or an energy storage device (3), the device (7) comprising: -- a terminal (2) to which a connector (1), in particular a connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, can be connected, in particular is connected; wherein the connection (2) comprises: -- a first control line (PP); -- a second control line (CP); -- in particular a protective conductor (PE); the method comprising the following steps, in particular by the device (7): -- in particular detecting (100) a first voltage (U1) between the first control line (PP) and the protective conductor (PE); -- detecting (200) a second voltage (U2) between the first control line (PP) and the second control line (CP); -- initiating (400) a measure as a function of the second voltage (U2) and in particular of the first voltage (U1). [10] Method according to claim 9, wherein the method, in particular by the device (7), is further developed by -- comparing (300) the second voltage (U2) with a defined second voltage threshold value (U2T); -- Initiating (400) the measure only if the comparison result shows that the second voltage (U2) is at most as high as the second voltage threshold value (U2T) or -- Initiation (400) of the measure only if the comparison result shows that the second voltage (U2) is at least as high as the second voltage threshold value (U2T). [11] Method according to claim 10, wherein the device (7) comprises a voltage source (9); wherein the voltage source (9) provides a defined voltage (U0) and is connected to the first control line (PP), wherein the second voltage threshold value (U2T) is in a range from 10% to 90% of the defined voltage (U0) or in a range from 18% to 82% of the defined voltage (U0) or in a range from 25% to 75% of the defined voltage (U0). [12] Method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein in the step of comparing (300) the first voltage (U1) is compared with a first voltage threshold value (U1T), in particular, the initial voltage threshold value (U1T) is at most 90% of the defined voltage (U0) or at most 75% of the defined voltage (U0), whereby the initiation (400) of the measure only takes place if -- the first voltage (U1) ---- is at most as large as the initial voltage threshold (U1T) or ----- is at least as large as the initial voltage threshold (U1T); and -- the second voltage (U2) ---- is at most as large as the second voltage threshold (U2T) or ---- is at least as large as the secondary voltage threshold (U2T). [13] Method according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the measure is selected from the group: Activating an immobilizer; Deactivating an immobilizer; Enabling an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector; Setting a maximum power for an energy transfer; Sending status information, in particular status change information; Terminating the enabling of an energy transfer from the energy storage device to the connector depending on a defined parameter, in particular a plug-in duration, an amount of energy delivered, a temperature in the area of ​​the connection. [14] Method according to one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the maximum power during energy output is set as a function of the second voltage (U2). [15] Method for establishing a connection, in particular a signaling, energy-related and / or mechanical connection, between a connector (1) and a device (7) with an energy source and / or with an energy storage device (3), the method comprising the following steps: -- Electrically connecting the first control line (PP) to the second control line (CP); -- detecting (200) a second voltage (U2) between the first control line (PP) and the second control line (CP); -- initiating (400) a measure as a function of the second voltage (U2) and in particular of the first voltage (U1).

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