System for the electric self-charging of an autonomous vehicle

Abstract

Electric autonomous charging system for driverless vehicles, consisting of a charging port integrated in the rear of the vehicle, a stationary charging unit with actuator, a magnetic-mechanical coupling as well as sensors and cameras for autonomous alignment, whereby the connection takes place in a defined sequence (pre-centering, PE contact, pilot communication, locking, power release).

Description

State of the art

[0001] In the field of automated charging of electric vehicles, various approaches exist: • Robot arms: Systems that automatically insert conventional CCS connectors into the charging socket using cameras and actuators. • Inductive charging: Vehicles park over a charging pad, with energy being transferred wirelessly. This method is elegant, but involves high energy losses and complex positioning. • Mobile charging units: Autonomous robots move to parked vehicles and mechanically connect to the charging port.

[0002] These existing solutions are complex, require intricate infrastructure, or cannot be modularly integrated into existing vehicle architectures. A standardized rear charging port for driverless vehicles has not yet been described. Object of the invention

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a robust, modularly integrable, and autonomous charging system specifically designed for driverless vehicles. The system is intended to: • can be integrated into the rear of the vehicle, • enable a secure and precise connection with a stationary charging unit, • Supports various coupling options (magnetic, mechanical, camera-guided), • are monitored by sensors and cameras, • and ensure a staged, safe power transmission. Description of the invention

[0004] 1. Modular vehicle connection • A retractable female charging port in the rear area of ​​the vehicle (trailer zone). • Includes centering guides, pilot contacts, PE contact and high-current contacts. • Magnetic unit supports initial alignment and connection.

[0005] 2. Stationary charging unit • A male connector on an actuator that can align vertically / horizontally. • Cameras and sensors monitor the vehicle's position and the connection. • The unit sends position data and coupling signals to the vehicle.

[0006] 3. Parking module with reverse guidance • The vehicle reverses into a defined zone. • Tire sensors or ground contacts detect the exact positioning. • The clutch is automatically activated when the target position is reached. • Connection is made in a defined sequence: Magnetic pre-centering → PE contact → pilot communication → mechanical locking → current release.

[0007] 4. Coupling variants • Camera-guided coupling: Stationary unit detects the female connector on the vehicle and precisely inserts the male plug. • Magnetic plate coupling: The vehicle and station each have a flat plate with magnets. When they approach each other, the plates attract each other and form a closed connection with integrated high-current contacts. • Screw / drill coupling: A cylindrical charging connector extends from the station and screws itself into a prepared receptacle on the vehicle, similar to a drill bit. The threaded connection creates a stable electrical and mechanical coupling. After charging is complete, the connector rotates back and withdraws.

[0008] 5. Safety and time control • Cameras monitor the entire process of plugging in and unplugging. • Sensors dynamically regulate charging time and current. • In case of malfunctions, the charging process is automatically aborted and the plug is safely retracted. • Additional features include: • Self-cleaning mechanisms such as brushes or air blowing to remove dirt and ice from the contact surfaces, • Thermal monitoring with automatic current limiting in case of overheating, • Protection according to IP69K against high-pressure water, dust and environmental influences, • Emergency release in case of mechanical overload or malfunction to ensure safe disconnection of the connection.

[0009] Advantages of the invention • Modularity: Retrofittable and compatible with existing vehicle platforms. • Flexibility: Several coupling options (cable with magnet (female + male connection) camera, magnetic plate, tube and screw mechanism) cover different application scenarios. • Robustness: Magnetic-mechanical connection resists dirt, ice and weathering. • Autonomy: No manual interaction required. • Security: Sensors, cameras and tiered connectivity minimize risks. • Scalability: Can be used for different vehicle sizes and charging capacities. Illustrations Description Fig. until Fig. represent different possibilities for connecting an autonomous vehicle to a charging station, as explained in the description and requirements.

Claims

[1] Electric autonomous charging system for driverless vehicles, consisting of a charging port integrated in the rear of the vehicle, a stationary charging unit with actuator, a magnetic-mechanical coupling as well as sensors and cameras for autonomous alignment, wherein the connection is made in a defined sequence (pre-centering, PE contact, pilot communication, locking, power release). [2] Electric autonomous charging system according to claim 1, characterized by , that the coupling is achieved by two magnetic plates with integrated high-current contacts that automatically attract each other when approaching and form a closed connection. [3] Electric autonomous charging system according to claim 1, characterized by that the stationary charging unit includes a screw- or drill-like connection that screws into a receptacle on the vehicle, thereby creating a mechanically stable and electrically conductive connection. [4] Electric autonomous charging system according to claim 1, characterized by , that cameras detect the female connector on the vehicle and precisely align the male connector of the station, while monitoring and controlling the coupling processes. [5] Electric autonomous charging system according to claim 1, characterized by , that a parking module is provided into which the vehicle reverses, with tire sensors or ground contacts detecting the exact positioning and automatically activating the clutch.

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