Charging arrangement and charging procedure

Abstract

The present invention relates to a charging arrangement (100) for charging electric two-wheelers (150) on a vehicle (170), comprising a digital key (110) configured to electronically pair the electric two-wheeler (150) with the vehicle (170); a charging socket device (130) configured for charging the electric two-wheeler (150); and a control device (140) configured to charge the electric two-wheeler (150) only when it has been detected that the electric two-wheeler (150) has been electronically paired with the vehicle (170) by means of the digital key (110). The present invention further relates to a charging method.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a charging arrangement and a charging method.

[0002] In an era of rapid mobility evolution and increasing reliance on electric propulsion, the integration and management of electric vehicle charging infrastructure is at the heart of both technological innovation and challenges. The ability to transfer energy efficiently and safely between vehicles is crucial for facilitating the transition to electromobility. Despite advances in battery technology and the increasing number of publicly accessible charging stations, significant technical issues persist in the existing charging infrastructure, particularly when it comes to charging smaller electric vehicles such as motorcycles and bicycles.

[0003] In light of these challenges, it becomes clear that an innovative technical solution is needed that overcomes these shortcomings and provides a safe, efficient and user-friendly method for charging electric vehicles.

[0004] One object of the present invention can be seen as providing an improved charging arrangement and an improved charging method.

[0005] This problem is solved by a charging arrangement with the features of claim 1, and by a charging method with the features of claim 10. According to the invention, the following is provided:

[0006] A charging arrangement for charging electric two-wheelers on a vehicle, comprising a digital key configured to electronically pair the electric two-wheeler with the vehicle; a charging socket device configured to charge the electric two-wheeler; a control device configured to charge the electric two-wheeler only when it has been detected that the electric two-wheeler has been electronically paired with the vehicle by means of the digital key.

[0007] Furthermore, a charging method for charging an electric two-wheeler on a vehicle using a charging arrangement is provided, comprising the following steps: pairing the electric two-wheeler with the vehicle by using a digital key designed for electronic pairing; recognizing the successful pairing by the control unit using the digital key; activating the charging process by the control unit, wherein the charging socket arrangement enables the charging of the electric two-wheeler.

[0008] The invention relates to a charging arrangement for charging electric two-wheelers on a vehicle. This charging arrangement comprises three main components: a digital key, a charging socket device, and a control device.

[0009] The digital key is specifically designed to establish an electronic pairing between the electric two-wheeler and the vehicle. For the purposes of the invention, "electronic pairing" refers to the process by which an electric two-wheeler and a vehicle are coupled using a digital key. This process ensures that both vehicles are securely identified and authenticated before charging can take place. The digital key serves as a kind of electronic authorization, allowing only authorized vehicles access to certain functions, thereby enabling secure and specific communication and energy transfer between the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler. The digital key enables the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler to recognize and authorize each other, which forms the basis for the charging process.This electronic pairing ensures a secure and specific connection, guaranteeing that only authorized vehicles and electric two-wheelers can communicate and exchange energy with each other. The digital key, for example, conforms to the specifications of the CCC (Car Connectivity Consortium) Release 3.0 and can be generated, stored, and / or managed on a mobile device.

[0010] The charging socket is designed to charge the electric two-wheeler via the vehicle. In one configuration, energy is only transferred from the vehicle to the electric two-wheeler. Preferably, the charging socket is designed for bidirectional charging, meaning it can not only charge the electric two-wheeler but also transfer energy from the electric two-wheeler to the vehicle. This flexibility in energy transfer allows the vehicle to be used as a temporary energy storage device or to feed excess energy back into the vehicle, which can be particularly useful when the vehicle serves as a mobile energy hub.

[0011] The control unit monitors and regulates the entire charging process. It is responsible for activating the charging process only after successful electronic pairing between the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler has been confirmed by the digital key. This control unit contributes significantly to the safety and efficiency of the charging system by preventing unauthorized charging and ensuring that energy transfer takes place under optimal conditions.

[0012] The control unit could, for example, be designed as an application on the user's mobile device, similar to the "My BMW App." This app would allow the user to control and monitor various aspects of the charging process directly from their smartphone or tablet. The app could offer functions that allow users to check the charging status, start or stop the charging process, and set charging schedules. Furthermore, the app could send notifications about the current pairing and / or authentication status and provide the user with advanced control and personalized settings to improve the user experience and optimize charging efficiency.

[0013] The control unit can be designed, for example, to generate, store, and manage the digital key, which is essential for secure authentication and pairing between the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler. The transmission of this digital key to the vehicle and the two-wheeler can be carried out efficiently and securely using technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and / or Ultra-Wideband (UWB). These technologies offer the advantages of fast and energy-efficient communication as well as precise localization, which is particularly useful in densely populated urban environments. By using BLE and / or UWB, the control unit can ensure seamless and secure transmission of the digital key, thereby increasing the integrity of the charging process and the safety of the vehicles involved.

[0014] The charging system's operation begins with electronic pairing via the digital key, after which the control unit receives a signal indicating that a secure connection has been established. The charging process is then activated by the charging socket, which preferably operates bidirectionally. The control unit continuously monitors the connection and charging status to make adjustments or terminate the process as needed.

[0015] The current state of the art reveals significant shortcomings in the seamless integration of charging processes for electric two-wheelers into the overall electric vehicle system. Many existing systems, in particular, lack solutions for bidirectional charging, which includes the ability to exchange energy not only from the infrastructure to the vehicle, but also between vehicles. This bidirectional functionality is especially valuable because it allows for efficient energy distribution and, for example, the use of an electric car as a temporary energy storage device for an electric bicycle or motorcycle.

[0016] Furthermore, many current chargers lack features for verifying the authenticity of connected vehicles, nor do they offer sufficient security measures to prevent unauthorized charging. This leads to an increased risk of energy loss and potential damage to vehicle electronics due to incompatible charging processes. User interaction with the charging systems is also often cumbersome and unintuitive, limiting usability and increasing the potential for human error.

[0017] The technical advantages of this charging setup and charging method are numerous. First, the charging setup offers a high level of security, as the electronic pairing via the digital key ensures that only authorized vehicles and electric two-wheelers can communicate with each other. This minimizes the risk of security breaches and / or malfunctions that could result from unauthorized access. Furthermore, the bidirectional charging capacity allows for flexible use of the stored energy. Finally, the precise control and monitoring of the charging process by the control unit can lead to an optimal energy management solution that maximizes battery life while ensuring efficient use of available resources.

[0018] Electric two-wheelers within the meaning of the invention comprise a variety of vehicles primarily used for individual mobility and at least partially electrically powered. Examples of electric two-wheelers include electric scooters (e-scooters), electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric motorcycles, electric mopeds, and Segways.

[0019] According to another preferred embodiment, the charging socket device can have a data interface for data transmission between the electric two-wheeler and the vehicle.

[0020] This data interface serves to exchange important information such as the battery charge level, remaining charging time, current energy consumption, and any error messages between the electric two-wheeler and the vehicle. The interface's functionality is based, for example, on the use of secure communication protocols that ensure reliable and secure data transmission. The technical advantages of this design lie in improved monitoring of the charging process, precise control and optimization of energy distribution, and the ability to react to potential problems early on, ultimately extending battery life and increasing the efficiency of the entire charging system.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment, the charging socket device may additionally include an authentication device designed to verify the identity of the connected electric two-wheeler.

[0022] In the preferred embodiment, the charging socket device can include an authentication device specifically designed to verify the identity of the connected electric two-wheeler. This authentication device utilizes various security technologies to ensure that only authorized vehicles are granted access to the charging process. The device operates by recognizing and verifying unique identifying features of the two-wheeler, such as serial numbers, RFID chips, or additional digital certificates transmitted by the two-wheeler. The technical advantages of this embodiment lie in the increased security of the charging setup, as unauthorized access and potential malfunctions or damage caused by incompatible vehicles can be effectively prevented.This leads to a more reliable and safer infrastructure for charging electric two-wheelers, which is of great importance, especially in public or semi-public charging environments.

[0023] According to another preferred embodiment, the charging arrangement can include a wireless communication device designed to communicate with a user's mobile terminal, the control unit, the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler.

[0024] The communication device uses, for example, modern wireless technologies to establish a seamless and secure connection. It can utilize technologies such as Bluetooth, especially Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, NFC, and / or Ultra-Wideband (UWB) to offer efficient and energy-saving communication options.

[0025] The functionality of this wireless communication device allows the user to interact directly with the charging station via their smartphone or tablet. For example, the user can start or stop the charging process, check the charging status, schedule charging times, or adjust the charging settings. The communication device ensures that all commands and information are securely transmitted between the mobile device and the charging station, as well as between the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler.

[0026] The technical advantages of this design are numerous. First, the wireless communication system significantly improves the user-friendliness of the charging setup, as users can conveniently and intuitively control all necessary actions via their personal device. This not only increases convenience but also the efficiency of the charging process, since users can easily react to changes in their schedule and adjust the charging process accordingly. Furthermore, the secure data transmission contributes to the security of the entire charging setup. Sensitive information such as the pairing status or charge level can be transmitted in encrypted form, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and data leaks. These aspects are particularly important in an environment where electric vehicles and their components are increasingly networked and cybersecurity plays a crucial role.

[0027] According to a further preferred embodiment, the charging socket device can include a mechanical locking device designed to secure the connection of the electric two-wheeler to the charging socket device.

[0028] This mechanical locking device functions, for example, through a lock and key system, a click or snap mechanism, or other physical locking mechanisms that ensure the electric two-wheeler remains firmly and securely connected to the charging station during the charging process. The operation of this locking device not only prevents the two-wheeler from being unintentionally disconnected during charging but also provides additional protection against theft or vandalism by making it more difficult to remove the connection. The technical advantage of this design lies in the increased safety and stability during charging, which is particularly important in public or unsecured charging environments where the risk of theft or damage is higher.

[0029] According to another preferred embodiment, the charging socket device can include an encryption device for secure communication with the electric two-wheeler.

[0030] This encryption device uses advanced cryptographic technologies to encrypt the data transmitted between the vehicle and the electric two-wheeler. The device operates, for example, through the exchange of security tokens, which ensure secure data transmission and guarantee that only authorized devices have access to the communicated information. The technical advantages of this design lie in the improved security of data transmission, which is particularly important for protecting the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information such as charge level, battery status, and user data. This reduces the risk of cyberattacks and unauthorized access, which is of considerable importance in increasingly networked and digitized charging infrastructures.

[0031] According to another preferred embodiment, the charging socket device may include an overload protection function configured to prevent damage from excessive current flow.

[0032] This overload protection function works, for example, by monitoring the current flowing during the charging process and intervening to regulate it if the current exceeds certain predefined limits. The functionality of this charging socket design includes, for example, the use of protective circuits such as fuses, automatic circuit breakers, and / or more advanced electronic protection mechanisms capable of quickly interrupting the circuit upon detection of anomalies. The technical advantages of this design lie in the increased safety for the electric two-wheeler and the vehicle by effectively minimizing potential risks such as overheating, electrical fires, or permanent battery damage. This not only ensures a longer service life for the hardware involved but also increases user confidence in the safety of the charging process.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment, the control unit can additionally contribute to the energy management of the vehicle by controlling the power supply between the vehicle and the connected electric two-wheeler.

[0034] This function of the control unit enables efficient distribution and use of electrical energy by determining, for example, when and how much power is transferred from the vehicle to the two-wheeler or vice versa. The operation of this control unit is based, for example, on algorithms that use data such as the current battery charge level, the energy requirements of the vehicle and the two-wheeler, as well as other environmental factors such as temperature, to optimally regulate energy transfer. The technical advantages of this design are that it not only improves the efficiency and lifespan of the batteries but also enables flexible and environmentally friendly energy use.

[0035] According to another preferred embodiment, a human-machine interface may be provided which includes a graphical user interface on a user's mobile device, configured to display the charging status, pairing status and / or authentication status, and enables control of the charging processes.

[0036] The user interface allows users to control charging processes directly via their mobile device. The human-machine interface operates through communication between the mobile device and the charging station, enabling real-time data transmission and the sending of corresponding commands to control the charging process. The technical advantages of this design lie in its increased user-friendliness and accessibility. The interface provides users with detailed control and feedback on the charging process, enhancing its efficiency and safety and empowering them to actively manage the energy supply of their vehicle or electric two-wheeler.

[0037] In an extended embodiment, the vehicle could be specially equipped to transport and electrically charge an electric two-wheeler. For this purpose, the vehicle has, for example, a special two-wheeler securing device that holds the electric two-wheeler securely during transport. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a charging system that allows the electric two-wheeler to be charged electrically during transport. This combination of transport and charging capability increases the vehicle's flexibility and efficiency by enabling it to function as a mobile charging station for the electric two-wheeler.

[0038] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawings.

[0039] Brief description of the drawings: Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the charging arrangement according to the invention. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the charging arrangement according to the invention. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a charging method according to the invention. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a further embodiment of a charging method according to the invention.

[0040] Where appropriate, the described designs and further training courses can be combined in any way.

[0041] Further possible embodiments, developments and implementations of the invention could also include combinations of features of the invention described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned.

[0042] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the invention.

[0043] Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned could be seen in the drawings.

[0044] The elements in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Identical reference symbols denote identical or similarly functioning components.

[0045] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the charging arrangement 100 according to the invention, and Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the charging arrangement 100 according to the invention.

[0046] The charging arrangement 100 is designed for the unidirectional or bidirectional charging of electric two-wheelers 150 from a vehicle 170. The charging arrangement 100 includes a digital key 110, which is configured to electronically pair the electric two-wheeler 150 with the vehicle 170. Furthermore, the charging arrangement 100 includes a charging socket 130, which is configured for the unidirectional or bidirectional charging of the electric two-wheeler 150. A control unit 140 is also part of the charging arrangement 100, which is configured to charge the electric two-wheeler 150 only when it has been detected that the electric two-wheeler 150 has been electronically paired with the vehicle 170 by means of the digital key 110.

[0047] Optionally, the charging socket unit 130 can have a data interface 135 for data transmission between the electric two-wheeler 150 and the vehicle 170. The charging socket unit 130 can also additionally include an authentication device 131, which is designed to verify the identity of the connected electric two-wheeler 150.

[0048] The charging arrangement 100 may include a wireless communication device 141, which is configured for communication with a user's mobile terminal 180 190, the control unit 140, the vehicle 150 and / or the electric two-wheeler 150. Furthermore, the charging socket arrangement 130 may include a mechanical locking device 132, which is configured to secure the connection of the electric two-wheeler 150 to the charging socket arrangement 130.

[0049] Furthermore, the charging socket unit 130 can include an encryption unit 133 for secure communication with the electric two-wheeler 150. An overload protection function 134, configured to prevent damage from excessive current flow, could also be part of the charging socket unit 130.

[0050] The control unit 140 can additionally contribute to the energy management of the vehicle 170 by controlling the power supply between the vehicle 170 and the connected electric two-wheeler 150. A human-machine interface (HMI) 175 can be provided, comprising a graphical user interface on a user's mobile device 180 195, which is configured to display the state of charge, the pairing status and / or the authentication status and enables control of the charging processes.

[0051] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a charging method according to the invention. The charging method for unidirectional or bidirectional charging of an electric two-wheeler 150 on a vehicle 170 by means of a charging arrangement 100 comprises the following steps: S100 - pairing the electric two-wheeler 150 with the vehicle 170 by using a digital key 110, which is designed for electronic pairing; S200 - recognition of the successful pairing by means of the digital key 110 by the control unit 140; S300 - activation of the charging process by the control unit 140, wherein the charging socket arrangement 130 enables unidirectional or bidirectional charging of the electric two-wheeler 150.

[0052] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a further embodiment of a charging method according to the invention, which has five process steps S101; S201; S301; S401 and S501.

[0053] S101 - A user 190 approaches a vehicle 170 with their electric two-wheeler 150. Using their mobile device 180, which integrates the control unit 140, the user 190 initiates the pairing of the vehicle 170 with the electric two-wheeler 150 by means of a digital key 110. The mobile device 180 communicates, e.g., wirelessly via BLE and / or UWB, directly with the vehicle 170 and the electric two-wheeler 150 to complete the electronic pairing.

[0054] S201 - The authentication device 131 in the charging socket device 130 of the vehicle 170 verifies the identity of the connected electric two-wheeler 150 using the digital key 110 and / or another characteristic, e.g., the serial number of the electric two-wheeler 150. The mobile device 180 of the user 190 receives confirmation of successful pairing and authentication and informs the user 190 about the status of the pairing and authentication.

[0055] S301 - After successful pairing, the user's mobile device 180 190 activates the charging process. The mobile device 180 sends an activation signal to the charging socket 130 in the vehicle 170, which then begins to electrically charge the electric two-wheeler 150. Unidirectional or bidirectional charging is enabled by the charging socket 130, which can allow electrical energy to flow in one or both directions as needed.

[0056] S401 - During the charging process, the mobile device 180 monitors the charging status of the electric two-wheeler 150 and the vehicle 150, as well as the connection quality. The overload protection function 134 in the charging socket unit 130 is used to regulate the current flow and protect the electric two-wheeler 150 and the vehicle 170 from damage. Additional safety features, such as the mechanical locking device 132, can be activated to secure the electrical connection between the electric two-wheeler 150 and the vehicle 170 during the charging process.

[0057] S501 - Once charging is complete, the mobile device 180 notifies user 190 that charging is finished. User 190 can then disconnect the electric two-wheeler 150 and the vehicle 170 via the mobile device 180, thereby breaking the electronic pairing between the vehicle 170 and the electric two-wheeler 150. The mobile device 180 sends a signal to the vehicle 170 and the electric two-wheeler 150 to initiate the unpairing and disconnect the electric two-wheeler 150 and the vehicle 170. Reference symbol list 100 loading arrangement 110 Digital Key 130 charging socket equipment 131 Authentication device 132 Mechanical locking device 133 Encryption device 134 Overload protection function 135 Data interface 140 Control unit 141 Communication device 150 Electric two-wheeler 170 vehicles 175 Human-Machine Interface (HMI) 180 Mobile Device 190 users S100 process step S200 process step S300 process step S101 Procedure step S201 Procedure step S301 Procedure step S401 Procedure step S501 Procedure step

Claims

[1] Charging arrangement (100) for charging electric two-wheelers (150) on a vehicle (170), comprising: a digital key (110) which is designed to electronically pair the electric two-wheeler (150) with the vehicle (170); a charging socket device (130) designed for charging the electric two-wheeler (150); a control device (140) which is designed to charge the electric two-wheeler (150) only when it has been detected that the electric two-wheeler (150) has been electronically paired with the vehicle (170) by means of the digital key (110). [2] Loading arrangement (100) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the charging socket device (130) has a data interface (135) for data transmission between the electric two-wheeler (150) and the vehicle (170). [3] Loading arrangement (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that the charging socket device (130) additionally includes an authentication device (131) designed to verify the identity of the connected electric two-wheeler (150). [4] Loading arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the charging arrangement (100) includes a wireless communication device (141) designed to communicate with a user's (190) mobile terminal (180), the control unit (140), the vehicle (170) and the electric two-wheeler (150). [5] Loading arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the charging socket device (130) includes a mechanical locking device (132) designed to secure the connection of the electric two-wheeler (150) to the charging socket device (130). [6] Loading arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the charging socket device (130) includes an encryption device (133) for secure communication with the electric two-wheeler (150). [7] Loading arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the charging socket device (130) includes an overload protection function (134) configured to prevent damage from excessive current flow. [8] Loading arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control unit (140) additionally contributes to the energy management of the vehicle (170) by controlling the power supply between the vehicle (170) and the connected electric two-wheeler (150). [9] Loading arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a human-machine interface (HMI) (175) is provided which includes a graphical user interface on a mobile device (180) of a user (190) which is configured to display the charging status, the pairing status and / or the authentication status and enables the control of the charging processes. [10] Charging method for charging an electric two-wheeler (150) on a vehicle (170) using a charging arrangement (100), comprising the following steps: (S100) Pairing the electric two-wheeler (150) with the vehicle (170) by using a digital key (110) designed for electronic pairing; (S200) Detection of successful pairing using the digital key (110) by the control unit (140); (S300) Activation of the charging process by the control unit (140), wherein the charging socket unit (130) enables the charging of the electric two-wheeler (150).

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