System for testing and regulating the operating fluids of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (10) for testing and regulating operating fluids of a motor vehicle (100), comprising an operating fluid station (20) that can be arranged outside the motor vehicle (100) with at least one fluid tank (21, 22, 23) for receiving at least one operating fluid (I, II, III), a flexible connecting line (30) wherein a fluidic connection between the operating fluid station (20), in particular the fluid tank (21, 22, 23), and the motor vehicle (100) can be established by means of the connecting line (30), and a control unit (40) wherein at least status information of the operating fluid (I, II, III) of the motor vehicle (100) can be retrieved by means of the control unit (40) and a transfer of the at least one operating fluid (I, II, III) can be controlled.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a system for testing and regulating operating fluids of a motor vehicle, a corresponding method and a motor vehicle.

[0002] To ensure the roadworthiness and safety of motor vehicles, regular monitoring and regulation of operating fluids is of paramount importance. These fluids include, for example, windshield washer fluid, coolant, and lubricants, which are essential for the smooth operation and prevention of damage to vehicle systems. To monitor the condition of these fluids, the reservoirs in modern vehicles are typically equipped with level sensors that continuously measure the fluid level.

[0003] If the level of a vehicle fluid drops below a predefined critical value, the driver is alerted by a warning – for example, an audible signal or a display in the cockpit. This warning prompts the driver to take action by either topping up or replacing the affected fluid. Otherwise, there is a risk of reduced comfort, such as impaired visibility due to insufficient windshield washer fluid, or serious damage, such as engine overheating due to insufficient coolant.

[0004] A significant disadvantage of existing systems is that the driver is usually forced to visit a gas station, garage, or other specialized service point to adjust the vehicle's fluid levels. This can be time-consuming and involve additional effort. Furthermore, there are costs associated with topping up or replacing the fluids, and depending on the type of fluid—for example, special lubricants or coolants—it may be necessary to use the services of a professional workshop.

[0005] Patent US 11022012 B2 describes a system for filling and / or emptying vehicles or engines using an interchangeable fluid reservoir. The reservoir has multiple ports and can be connected to a corresponding docking station in the vehicle, thus integrating it into the vehicle's fluid circuit. A special interface allows the ports to be adjusted to facilitate filling or emptying. A particular disadvantage of the system is its handling, as the entire reservoir must be replaced.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a system and method for testing and regulating operating fluids that is easy to use.

[0007] The foregoing problem is solved by a system according to a first aspect of the present invention, by a method according to a second aspect of the present invention, and by a motor vehicle according to a third aspect of the present invention. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the system according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the method according to the invention and / or in connection with the motor vehicle according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure relating to the individual aspects of the invention always includes, or allows for, reciprocal reference.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a system for testing and regulating the operating fluids of a motor vehicle, comprising an operating fluid station that can be arranged outside the motor vehicle and has at least one fluid tank for receiving at least one operating fluid, a flexible connecting line, wherein a fluidic connection between the operating fluid station, in particular the fluid tank, and the motor vehicle can be established by means of the connecting line, and a control unit, wherein at least status information of the operating fluid of the motor vehicle can be retrieved by means of the control unit and a transfer of the at least one operating fluid can be controlled.

[0009] The system according to the invention for testing and regulating operating fluids of a motor vehicle provides a solution to make the handling of fluids such as coolant, windshield washer fluid or engine oil more efficient and convenient.

[0010] The operating fluid station is located outside the vehicle and serves as a unit for storing and supplying the necessary operating fluids. It has at least one fluid tank designed to hold one or more types of operating fluids. Depending on requirements, the fluid tank can be configured for specific fluids, such as coolants with special chemical compositions or for used fluids that must be collected and disposed of separately. The station can be mobile, for example, on wheels, or permanently installed, allowing for flexible use. Particularly in a garage, a stationary installation offers advantages by providing a fixed access point to the vehicle.

[0011] The flexible connecting line establishes the fluidic connection between the operating fluid station, particularly the fluid tank, and the vehicle. This line, preferably designed as a fluid hose, enables the transport of operating fluids in both directions. That is, the connecting line facilitates both the filling of the vehicle's reservoirs with fresh operating fluids and the emptying of used fluids from the reservoirs back to the operating fluid station. The connecting line, especially the hose, can be made of a robust, chemically resistant material such as reinforced rubber or a multi-layered plastic to withstand both mechanical stresses and the chemical properties of the transported fluids.Optionally, quick coupling systems can be integrated to create an efficient and leak-free connection between the vehicle and the hose.

[0012] A control unit enables the monitoring and control of the entire system. It is equipped with sensors and / or interfaces that allow the retrieval of status information regarding the vehicle's operating fluids. This information includes, for example, the current fill level, temperature, and / or chemical quality of the fluids, such as the level of impurities or the oil's age. The control unit is also capable of regulating fluid transfer by controlling pumps or valves within the operating fluid station. This allows the user to start, stop, or adjust a transfer process to specific requirements, either manually or automatically. Preferably, the control unit is located in or on the operating fluid station.

[0013] The system is designed to ensure that the transfer of operating fluids is both convenient and environmentally friendly. In this context, "transfer" refers to the bidirectional transport of fluids. During filling, fresh operating fluids are pumped from the station into the vehicle's corresponding reservoirs. During emptying, used or contaminated fluids are removed from the vehicle and temporarily stored in a separate section of the operating fluid station's tank until they can be disposed of. This bidirectional transport significantly reduces manual effort and enables precise fluid management.

[0014] This provides the user with a convenient system that can be easily implemented, for example, in a home garage. The flexible connecting line is simply attached to a vehicle-side docking point, which is connected to the vehicle's respective fluid reservoirs. The fluid station itself can be filled or emptied by the user as needed. This ensures that fresh fluids are always available and that used fluids can be collected properly.

[0015] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous for the connecting line to have at least one communication interface, wherein status information, in particular regarding the fill level and / or fluid quality, can be transmitted between the vehicle and the operating fluid station via the communication interface. This communication interface enables bidirectional data exchange between the vehicle and the operating fluid station, thereby significantly increasing the efficiency and accuracy of the system.

[0016] The communication interface is a signal transmission interface that transfers data between two or more system components. In this system, it can be implemented as a wired connection, such as through integrated data lines in the fluid hose, or as a wireless interface, such as Bluetooth or WLAN. This interface ensures that status information about the fluids, such as fill level and quality, can be exchanged in real time between the vehicle and the fluid station. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the communication interface could establish a direct connection to the vehicle's CAN bus to exchange fluid status information and other relevant vehicle data.The CAN bus (Controller Area Network) is a robust serial communication system used in modern motor vehicles to network various electronic control units (ECUs). It enables fast, reliable, and standardized data transmission between the individual components of a vehicle.

[0017] In this system, the communication interface acts as a bidirectional link between the control unit of the fluid station and, for example, the vehicle's CAN bus. This interface enables the acquisition and evaluation of status information such as the current fill level, the quality of the fluids, or the temperature. Through integration into the CAN bus, the data can be processed by other vehicle control units and used for various functions, such as displaying it on a screen or automatically adjusting vehicle parameters.

[0018] One advantage of using the CAN bus is the high data transmission rate and the ability to network multiple devices in parallel. This allows the control unit to obtain comprehensive information about the vehicle's condition and adjust maintenance processes accordingly. For example, the system can automatically detect which fluids need topping up and control a pump to ensure targeted fluid transfer.

[0019] Integrating the communication interface into the CAN bus also offers the advantage that existing vehicle data, such as mileage, maintenance intervals, and error messages, can be incorporated into the maintenance process. This information enables more precise diagnostics and maintenance, further improving the system's efficiency and safety. Furthermore, the CAN bus ensures interference-free and robust communication that functions reliably even in demanding environments.

[0020] The term "status information" encompasses all relevant data describing the condition of the vehicle's operating fluids. This includes, in particular, the fill level, which is measured by sensors in the vehicle's fluid reservoirs. Precise level monitoring allows the fluid station to supply exactly the required amount of fluid without overfilling or unnecessary waste. In addition to level measurement, fluid quality can also be checked. This refers to properties such as the chemical composition, degree of contamination, and viscosity of the fluid. An integrated quality monitor, through data exchange between the vehicle and the station, can ensure that only suitable fluids are used, thus improving the vehicle's functionality and longevity.

[0021] Another advantage of the communication interface is the ability to integrate the system into existing vehicle networks, such as the CAN bus or Ethernet-based architectures. This allows seamless interaction with other vehicle control units, enabling, for example, real-time information about the fluid level to be displayed on the vehicle's on-board display. Furthermore, the communication interface allows the fluid station to be informed about the vehicle's specific requirements, such as the type of fluid needed or the optimal refill rate, thus further customizing and optimizing the process.

[0022] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the connecting cable has at least one charging interface by means of which electrical energy, in particular for charging a traction battery of the motor vehicle, can be transmitted. This charging interface enables the transmission of electrical energy, especially for charging a traction battery of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle. This adds an additional function to the system, combining both the maintenance of operating fluids and the energy supply of the vehicle in an integrated process.

[0023] The charging interface is a technical unit that transfers electrical energy between a power source and a consumer. Within this system, it can be integrated into the connecting cable or implemented as a separate charging cable that connects to the connecting cable. One advantage of this configuration is that it combines both fluid-based maintenance processes and the charging process in a single operation, thus saving time and simplifying the maintenance process.

[0024] The term traction battery refers specifically to the high-voltage battery of an electric or hybrid vehicle, which is responsible for powering the vehicle. Charging this battery is of central importance, as it is the primary energy source for propulsion. By integrating the charging interface into the connection cable, the battery can be charged during maintenance, minimizing downtime and increasing the efficiency of the entire system.

[0025] In this embodiment, the connecting line is designed as a multifunctional element that not only establishes the fluidic connection between the operating fluid station and the vehicle, but also transmits electrical energy. This dual functionality offers the advantage that only a single access point on the vehicle is required for both regulating operating fluids and charging the battery. The separate charging cable connected to the connecting line can meet specific requirements such as a higher current-carrying capacity.

[0026] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the operating fluid station includes a wallbox. A further development of the system according to the invention for testing and regulating the operating fluids of a motor vehicle consists of integrating a wallbox into the operating fluid station. A wallbox is a stationary charging device for electric or hybrid vehicles that enables the efficient and safe transfer of electrical energy for charging the vehicle's traction battery. By combining the functions of an operating fluid station with those of a wallbox, a multifunctional solution is created that unites both the maintenance and the energy supply of vehicles in a single unit.

[0027] The wallbox is a permanently installed charging point that provides higher charging power compared to conventional household sockets. In the context of the fluid management station, integrating the wallbox allows for simultaneous maintenance and charging processes, thus making the entire process more efficient. This is particularly advantageous for users of electric or hybrid vehicles who regularly monitor and / or regulate both the battery charge level and the fluid levels.

[0028] It is also conceivable that a multitude of fluid tanks are provided for different operating fluids. A further development of the system for testing and regulating a motor vehicle's operating fluids involves integrating a multitude of fluid tanks within the operating fluid station. These tanks can each be designed for different operating fluids and enable the efficient handling of multiple fluid types, such as coolant, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, or engine oil. This further development allows the system to regulate all of a vehicle's operating fluids in a single process.

[0029] The fluid tanks in the operating fluid station are preferably physically separated from one another and preferably designed specifically for each fluid. This design prevents the fluids from mixing, which is particularly advantageous with chemically incompatible media. Each fluid tank is preferably equipped with its own fluidic line and control unit, enabling the targeted filling or emptying of a specific fluid. The capacity of the fluid tanks can vary according to application requirements, with larger tanks for frequently used fluids such as windshield washer fluid or coolant and smaller tanks for less frequently used fluids such as brake fluid.

[0030] A key technical advantage of multiple liquid tanks lies in automatic liquid identification. This feature allows the operating fluid station to use its control unit, specifically its sensors and databases, to determine which liquid is required and from which tank it should be drawn. This automatic assignment reduces operator effort and minimizes the potential for errors. Furthermore, by integrating level sensors into each liquid tank, the station can monitor the current level and provide timely notification when refilling is necessary.

[0031] It is also conceivable that the connecting line for each fluid tank has a separate hose and / or at least one valve. This further development of the system for testing and regulating a motor vehicle's operating fluids therefore consists of designing the connecting line so that it has a separate hose or fluidic line and / or at least one valve for each fluid tank. This configuration enables precise control of the fluid transfer and contributes to improved efficiency and safety of the system, as each operating fluid is handled independently of the others.

[0032] Providing a separate hose or fluidic line for each fluid tank ensures that the operating fluids remain completely separate. This is particularly important for chemically incompatible or specialized fluids, as even slight mixing could impair their functionality. The separate hoses or fluidic lines can be made of a chemical-resistant material such as multi-layered plastic or reinforced rubber, which takes into account both the mechanical stress and the chemical properties of the transported fluids. Their individual routing prevents cross-contamination and allows for the simultaneous filling or emptying of multiple fluid reservoirs in the vehicle.

[0033] As an alternative or supplement to separate hoses, the connecting lines can be equipped with valves that selectively control the fluid flow from each fluid tank. A valve is a fluid power component that regulates the flow of a medium by opening, closing, or adjusting the cross-section of the line. Electrically or pneumatically actuated valves, controlled by the central control unit, could be used in this system. The valves are positioned to independently control the flow of each operating fluid, eliminating the need for separate lines to each fluid tank. This offers a space-saving alternative to separate hoses while still allowing for precise fluid regulation.

[0034] Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible for the connecting line to have at least one connection interface, wherein the connection interface can be connected to a docking port on the motor vehicle, in particular by force-fit and / or positive locking. This connection interface serves as a coupling or connector to connect the connecting line to a docking port on the motor vehicle by force-fit and / or positive locking. This design ensures a secure, reliable, and loss-free fluidic connection between the operating fluid station and the fluid reservoirs of the motor vehicle.

[0035] The connection interface is a means that enables the transition between the connecting line and the vehicle. Typical designs of such interfaces could be quick couplings, bayonet fittings, plug connections, clip connections, or screw connections, which allow for simple and user-friendly handling.

[0036] The docking port on the vehicle is a specially designed device that serves as the counterpart to the connection interface. The term docking port describes the connection point on the vehicle, which is designed to ensure correct alignment and a secure fit of the connection interface. A coordinated geometry between the connection interface and the docking port ensures that the connection remains stable even under mechanical stresses, such as vibrations during operation. Furthermore, the docking port may have a cover flap or a locking element to protect it from external influences when not in use.

[0037] A key advantage of this connection interface is the ability to create a particularly tight fluidic connection, thus preventing leaks or contamination of the operating fluids. Additionally, the interface can be designed to automatically seal itself when disconnected from the vehicle. This protects both the connecting line and the docking port from contamination or damage.

[0038] Furthermore, the connection interface significantly simplifies the system's operation. By using quick-release couplings or similar mechanisms, connections can be made and disconnected without tools. This reduces maintenance time and complexity, making the system attractive for both professional and private users. Combined with the ergonomic design of the connectors, the entire process becomes user-friendly and intuitive.

[0039] Furthermore, the invention may provide for the connection interface to be designed as a dispensing nozzle. A dispensing nozzle is an ergonomically designed handheld device that enables the precise and controlled dispensing of liquids. Its design makes liquid transfer intuitive and user-friendly, which is particularly advantageous in the maintenance of motor vehicles.

[0040] The dispensing nozzle can be equipped with a dispensing tube that is inserted into the corresponding filler neck of the vehicle. This dispensing tube is designed to fit tightly into the filler neck, thus preventing leaks during filling. An integrated valve within the dispensing nozzle controls the flow of the operating fluid, allowing the user to precisely regulate the quantity and speed of the fluid transfer, or to initiate the process, by operating, for example, a lever or similar device. The valve preferably closes automatically when the lever is released or the filling or emptying process is complete, ensuring a safe and leak-free fluid transfer.

[0041] One advantage of this advanced training is the option of equipping the fuel nozzle with an automatic shut-off function. This function is based on a sensor or mechanical device that detects the fill level in the vehicle's reservoir. As soon as the reservoir is completely full or empty, the fluid flow is automatically stopped. This prevents overfilling and ensures that the maintenance process is completed efficiently and cleanly.

[0042] Designing the connection interface as a dispensing nozzle makes the system more versatile and user-friendly. The combination of precise control, automatic shut-off, and ergonomic design makes the maintenance process not only more efficient but also more comfortable for the user.

[0043] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that at least one pump is provided, wherein the operating fluid can be extracted or filled by means of the pump. A corresponding further development of the system for testing and regulating the operating fluids of a motor vehicle comprises the integration of at least one pump that enables the transfer of the operating fluids. The pump performs the function of extracting fluids from the vehicle reservoirs or filling them with fresh operating fluids. By using such a pump, the fluid transfer becomes efficient, precise, and almost completely automated.

[0044] A pump is a technical device that transfers energy to a fluid to move it or increase its pressure. In the system according to the invention, it can be designed as an electrically driven pump, integrated either within the operating fluid station or near the connecting line. The pump drive is controlled by a control unit that monitors the transfer process and automatically switches the pump on or off, depending on requirements and the fill level of the reservoirs. One advantage of the pump is its ability to transfer fluids with high precision. This is achieved through the controllability of the flow rate and the delivery pressure.

[0045] Integrating a pump transforms the system into a powerful and versatile solution for managing process fluids. Automating fluid transfer reduces manual effort, improves precision, and increases system flexibility. This enhancement significantly contributes to the system's efficiency and user-friendliness.

[0046] According to a second aspect, the present invention further relates to a method for testing and regulating operating fluids of a motor vehicle using a system according to the invention, comprising the steps: - Connecting an operating fluid station to the motor vehicle by means of a flexible connecting line, so that a fluidic connection is established, - Checking at least one status information of the operating fluid using a control unit and - Regulating at least one operating fluid depending on the status information.

[0047] This results in the same advantages with regard to a method according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a system according to the invention.

[0048] The process begins with connecting the service fluid station to the vehicle, establishing a fluidic connection via the flexible connecting line. This connection enables the direct exchange of fluids between the service fluid station and the corresponding reservoirs in the vehicle. The term "fluidic connection" describes the ability to transport fluids safely and without loss between two systems. This is ensured by the precise design of the connecting elements, such as a dispensing nozzle or quick-release coupling.

[0049] The next step involves checking the status information of the operating fluid. This status information includes data such as the current fill level, chemical quality, and temperature of the fluid. This information is collected by sensors in the vehicle and transmitted to the control unit. Additionally, it is conceivable that the control unit could independently detect anomalies and suggest appropriate actions, such as topping up coolant or changing the engine oil.

[0050] In the context of this process, the term "regulating" refers to adjusting the operating fluid level based on status information. This step can include, for example, filling a reservoir to an optimal level or removing excess or used fluid. The system preferably utilizes the integrated pump, which precisely controls the fluid transfer. The transfer process is monitored by the control unit, preferably in real time, so that the process is automatically terminated when the desired state is reached. This prevents overfilling and ensures that all fluids are present in the vehicle in the ideal quantity and quality.

[0051] By combining these steps, the process offers a user-friendly, precise, and resource-efficient approach to maintaining vehicle fluids. It ensures that fluids are in optimal condition and sufficient quantity, and supports the user through automated processes and clear status feedback. This process contributes to the vehicle's operational safety and longevity, representing a beneficial solution for vehicle maintenance.

[0052] According to a third aspect, the present invention further relates to a motor vehicle with at least one operating fluid and a docking port, wherein the motor vehicle is configured to carry out the inventive method with a system according to the invention. The motor vehicle according to the invention is accordingly designed to interact with the previously described system for testing and regulating operating fluids and to carry out the associated method. This motor vehicle has at least one operating fluid, such as coolant, brake fluid, or windshield washer fluid, which is essential for safe and comfortable operation. To enable integration with the system, the vehicle is equipped with a docking port that serves as an interface between the vehicle and the connecting line of the operating fluid station.This docking port is preferably designed to ensure a precise, tight and reliable connection to enable safe fluid transfer.

[0053] The docking port is a structural component of the vehicle. Its geometry is tailored to the system's connection interface. The docking port ensures that the fluidic connection is established without leaks and maintains its tightness and stability even with repeated use.

[0054] The vehicle can also be equipped with an internal sensor unit that continuously monitors the condition of the operating fluids. This unit can include various sensors, such as level sensors that measure the current fluid level, as well as quality sensors that analyze parameters like viscosity, chemical composition, or impurities. The sensor data is transmitted to a control unit in the vehicle, which in turn can communicate with the control unit of the operating fluid station to manage fluid transfer based on real-time data.

[0055] An additional advantage of the vehicle is the ability to integrate maintenance data into an existing vehicle data network, such as the CAN bus. This network allows information about the condition of the operating fluids to be shared with other vehicle control units in real time. For example, warning messages or status information can be displayed on the vehicle's screen, immediately alerting the user to maintenance needs. Furthermore, the vehicle can transmit data about the operating fluids to the fluid station, enabling the station to automatically adjust maintenance as required.

[0056] By being designed to interact with the described system and process, precise and resource-saving maintenance of the operating fluids is enabled, thus contributing to both operational safety and the longevity of the vehicle components.

[0057] This results in the same advantages with regard to a motor vehicle according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a system and / or a method according to the invention.

[0058] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which several exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Fig. 1 a possible embodiment of a motor vehicle according to the invention with a possible embodiment of the system according to the invention and Fig. 2 an alternative embodiment of a motor vehicle according to the invention with an alternative embodiment of the system according to the invention.

[0059] The figures use identical reference numerals for the same technical features, even for different embodiments.

[0060] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a system 10 according to the invention for testing and regulating operating fluids I, II, III, which operates in conjunction with a motor vehicle 100 according to the invention. A central component of the system 10 is the operating fluid station 20, which comprises several fluid tanks 21, 22, 23. These fluid tanks 21 are each designed for different operating fluids I, II, III, such as coolant, engine oil, or windshield washer fluid, and are preferably designed to ensure strict separation of the media. The tanks are connected via separate lines to a pump 50, which precisely controls the fluid transfer.

[0061] System 10 communicates with the motor vehicle 100 via a connecting line 30. The connecting line 30 is connected at one end to the operating fluid station 20 and terminates at the other end in a connection interface 23, which is designed as a dispensing nozzle 34. The dispensing nozzle 34 is designed to establish a fluidic connection with the docking port 120 of the motor vehicle 100. The docking port 120 is essentially and preferably circular and has several openings or channels, each intended for a specific operating fluid I, II, III. These openings are matched to the corresponding outlets of the dispensing nozzle 34, thus ensuring a secure and leak-free connection.

[0062] The dispensing nozzle 34 is preferably ergonomically designed and, due to its multi-channel design, enables the simultaneous transfer of several operating fluids I, II, and III. The outlets of the dispensing nozzle 34 are geometrically arranged in a configuration that corresponds to the structure of the docking port 120. This ensures that the respective operating fluid I, II, and III is correctly directed into the corresponding reservoir of the motor vehicle 100.

[0063] The connecting line 30 contains fluidic channels as well as a communication interface 31, which enables data exchange between the control unit 40 of the operating fluid station 20 and the vehicle 100. Status information on the operating fluids I, II, and III, such as fill level and quality, and / or the state of charge of the traction battery 110, is transmitted via this interface. This allows the operating fluid station 20 to optimally adjust the fluid transfer and, if necessary, the charging of the battery.

[0064] The docking port 120, located on the motor vehicle 100, is preferably designed not only to accommodate the dispensing nozzle 34, but also to ensure a tight, leak-proof connection. Its circular design and the channels 121, 122, 123 for the various operating fluids I, II, and III are based on the proven geometry of charging ports for electric vehicles or fuel filler necks. This ensures intuitive and reliable operation for the user. Furthermore, a transmission element 124 for the communication interface 31 is arranged on the docking port 120, enabling communication between the motor vehicle 100 and the operating fluid station 20.

[0065] The operating fluid station 20 is equipped with a pump 50, which enables both the filling of fresh operating fluids I, II, and III and the extraction of used fluids. The entire fluid transfer is monitored by the control unit 40, which evaluates the data from the communication interface 31 in order to regulate the operating fluids I, II, and III as required. This includes both the quantity and the quality of the transferred fluids.

[0066] Fig.Figure 2 shows a combined embodiment of the connecting line 30 with a corresponding connection interface 34, which includes a communication interface 31, a hose 33, and a charging interface 32. This configuration is designed to perform both the transfer of operating fluids I, II, and III and the charging of the traction battery 110 of the vehicle 100 in a single operation. For this purpose, the connecting line 30 integrates a charging cable and a hose 33 for operating fluids I, II, and III in a compact, functional arrangement.

[0067] The charging cable is designed to establish a direct connection to the charging interface 32, which is connected to the traction battery 110 of the vehicle 100. Alongside the charging cable runs the hose 33, which is intended for transporting the operating fluids I, II, and III. Both connections—for the charging cable and for the hose 33—are spaced apart but located side by side on the connecting line 30. This design allows both the charging interface 32 and the fluidic connection via the hose 33 to be established in a single insertion operation.

[0068] The vehicle 100 is equipped with a docking port 120 for the operating fluids I, II, and III, and a separate charging port 125 for the electrical connection. Both interfaces are positioned to allow parallel connection with the connecting line 30. This arrangement significantly simplifies the entire maintenance and charging process, as the user only needs to perform a single step to charge the traction battery 110 and to check, top up, or change the operating fluids I, II, and III. The docking port 120 on the vehicle 100 is not only designed to accommodate the charging interface 32, but is also constructed to ensure a tight, fluidic connection. Its circular design and the channels 121, 122, and 123 for the various operating fluids I, II, and III are preferably aligned with the geometry of the charging port 125.In addition, a transmission means 124 for the communication interface 31 is arranged on the docking port 120, so that communication between motor vehicle 100 and operating fluid station 20 can take place.

[0069] Another component of system 10 is the operating fluid station 20, which comprises several fluid tanks 21, 22, 23. These fluid tanks 21 are each designed for different operating fluids I, II, III, such as coolant, engine oil, or windshield washer fluid, and are preferably designed to ensure strict separation of the media. The tanks are connected via separate lines to a pump 50, which precisely controls the fluid transfer.

[0070] The combined design offers several advantages. First, the integration of the charging cable and hose 33 into a single connecting line 30 reduces the space requirements and complexity of the system 10. Second, the side-by-side arrangement of the connections allows for ergonomic handling, as all connections can be made in one step. Third, the communication interface 31 enables continuous monitoring of the condition of the operating fluids I, II, III and the traction battery 110, thereby optimizing the maintenance process. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] US 11022012 B2

[0005]

Claims

[1] System (10) for testing and regulating operating fluids (I, II, III) of a motor vehicle (100), comprising an operating fluid station (20) which can be arranged outside the motor vehicle (100) and has at least one fluid tank (21, 22, 23) for receiving at least one operating fluid (I, II, III), a flexible connecting line (30) wherein a fluidic connection between the operating fluid station (20), in particular the fluid tank (21), and the motor vehicle (100) can be established by means of the connecting line (30), and a control unit (40) wherein at least status information of the operating fluid (I, II, III) of the motor vehicle (100) can be retrieved by means of the control unit (40) and a transfer of the at least one operating fluid (I, II, III) can be controlled. [2] System (10) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the connecting line (30) has at least one communication interface (31), wherein the status information, in particular on the fill level and / or the operating fluid quality, can be transmitted between the motor vehicle (100) and the operating fluid station (20) by means of the communication interface (31). [3] System (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the connecting line (30) has at least one charging interface (32) by means of which electrical energy, in particular for charging a traction battery (110) of the motor vehicle (100), can be transferred. [4] System (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the operating fluid station (20) includes a wallbox. [5] System (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a large number of liquid tanks (21, 22, 23) are provided for different operating liquids (I, II, III). [6] System (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the connecting line (30) for each liquid tank (21, 22, 23) has a separate hose (33) and / or at least one valve. [7] System (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connecting line (30) has at least one connecting interface (34), wherein the connecting interface (34) can be connected in particular by force and / or form locking to a docking port (120) on the motor vehicle (100). [8] System (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the connection interface (34) is designed as a dispensing nozzle. [9] System (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one pump (50) is provided, wherein the operating fluid (I, II III) can be extracted or filled by means of the pump (50). [10] Method for testing and regulating operating fluids (I, II, III) of a motor vehicle (100) using a system (10) according to claim 1, comprising the steps: - Connecting an operating fluid station (20) to the motor vehicle (100) by means of a flexible connecting line (30) so that a fluidic connection is established, - Checking at least one status information of the operating fluid (I, II, III) using a control unit (40) and - Regulating at least one operating fluid (I, II, III) depending on the status information. [11] Motor vehicle (100) with at least one operating fluid (I, II, III) and a docking port (120), wherein the motor vehicle (100) is configured to carry out the method according to claim 10 with a system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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