Cabinet for charging batteries

Abstract

A cabinet (1) for charging batteries, consisting of a rear wall (3), two side walls (4), a floor wall (5), a ceiling wall (6) and a door (2) opposite the rear wall (3) and lockable with a locking mechanism (10), characterized by at least one shelf (8) detachably mounted in the cabinet (1), wherein the cabinet (1) and the at least one shelf (8) are made of a non-combustible material and are positioned at a distance of more than 2.5 metres from combustible components or materials, and a connection (11) for a power supply, which is formed in the rear wall (3) of the cabinet (1) or through the bottom wall (5).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a cabinet for charging batteries. In particular, the cabinet consists of a rear wall, two side walls, a floor wall, a ceiling wall, and a door opposite the rear wall that can be closed with a locking mechanism.

[0002] German utility model DE 20 2012 001 450 discloses a charging station with a housing defining an interior space. The charging station further comprises a holding device for holding a bicycle. The interior of the housing is designed to accommodate at least one rechargeable battery.

[0003] The German utility model DE 20 2012 104 011 relates to a parking facility with an integrated charging station for two-wheeled vehicles with electric drive: A cross member has recesses arranged in a horizontal line, over which at least leaning elements for the two-wheeled vehicles and charging boxes with connection sockets for charging batteries are arranged at adjustable distances.

[0004] German utility model DE 20 2014 001 252 discloses a locker as a battery charging station with an ID card reader. The locker serves to store and charge the battery. The reading element for an electronic ID card is installed in such a way that it is accessible from the outside.

[0005] German utility model DE 20 2014 001 252 discloses a fire protection container. The fire protection container preferably has a service life of at least 60 minutes, in particular at least 90 minutes or 120 minutes, in the event of a fire.

[0006] Statistically, the greatest fire risk occurs when charging lithium batteries. This is especially true when a defective lithium battery is connected to a charger and the supplied energy can no longer be converted correctly. Defects can be caused by a variety of events, such as mechanical damage to the lithium battery (dropping, impact, crushing) or improper storage (thermal stress, exposure to moisture, deep discharge). But even when charging undamaged lithium batteries, a lot can go wrong: For example, overcharging the battery due to excessively high charging voltage or excessively long charging times with defective or non-original chargers. Even excessive external heat can be dangerous. In short: There are many sources of error for the user when charging lithium batteries.

[0007] Lithium batteries should never be charged near flammable materials or objects. Also, do not charge lithium batteries in locations where high temperatures or direct sunlight are expected. Since the charging process itself generates heat, you should never cover lithium batteries while charging. Especially if you plan to charge many devices simultaneously, you should avoid heat buildup in enclosed spaces or cabinets. This can be problematic during operation, for example, if devices need to be locked away or protected from unauthorized access during charging.

[0008] Unlike standard hazardous materials cabinets, charging cabinets for lithium batteries should not only have 90 minutes of fire protection from the outside, but also from the inside. If you want to charge multiple devices simultaneously in one charging cabinet, it should have technical ventilation to prevent heat buildup inside the cabinet. Depending on the company's safety concept, charging cabinets with integrated extinguishing systems are also available. As the number of batteries to be charged increases, intelligent charging management becomes increasingly important. Simultaneous charging processes must not lead to grid overload. Therefore, the energy flows in the charging compartment are intelligently distributed as needed based on available power capacities.

[0009] The object of the invention is to provide a cabinet for charging batteries, in particular lithium batteries, which meets the fire protection requirements, is simple in design and cost-effective.

[0010] This object is achieved by a cabinet for charging batteries comprising the features of claim 1.

[0011] According to the inventive design, at least one shelf is detachably mounted in the cabinet. The cabinet and the at least one shelf are made of a non-combustible material, and the cabinet itself is positioned at a distance of more than 2.5 meters from combustible components, materials, and / or buildings. Furthermore, a connection for a power supply is provided in the rear wall of the cabinet. Wall mounting on solid masonry or concrete is also possible. It is important to ensure that the masonry is not insulated, that there is a distance of more than 2.5 meters from combustible components or materials, and that the cabinet is not mounted under a roof overhang or is mounted at a considerable distance from it.

[0012] The advantage of the cabinet according to the invention is that batteries can be charged while ensuring the protection of apartments, houses, and buildings. Furthermore, the cabinet represents a cost-effective solution.

[0013] The cabinet material can be galvanized and powder-coated sheet steel. The powder coating is plastic-based, and RAL facade quality can be selected as the color.

[0014] The cabinet's locking door is a rebate door that can be fitted with various locking mechanisms, such as a 3-point lock, a PIN code lock for wet areas, or a rim lock for a profile cylinder (provided by the customer) for integration into their locking system. Using the base of the support frame, the cabinet can be installed in locations that meet fire safety requirements. One possible design involves a cabinet with a maximum height of approximately 754 mm, a width of approximately 490 mm, and a depth of approximately 342 mm. Cabinets with these or similar dimensions are intended for private use.

[0015] According to one possible embodiment, the cabinet is mounted hanging on a support frame.

[0016] The added benefit of the cabinet for private use is that it can be used to store packages for the recipient. A PIN code lock is used as the locking mechanism. If a package is expected, the batteries and chargers must, of course, be removed. More space for packages can be created by, for example, moving the shelf to the rear wall or removing it.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the cabinet features several detachable or removable shelves. According to one possible design, the cabinet has a height of approximately 1700 mm, a width of approximately 500 mm, and a depth of approximately 500 mm. This size of the cabinet allows companies to store and charge numerous batteries outside of the factory premises. This removes any potential fire hazard from the building. The lower section of the cabinet contains a technical area (power connection and sockets) that supplies the entire cabinet with electrical power. For example, two sockets are provided, each with five additional sockets arranged on the sides of the cabinet.

[0018] For example, a heater for the cabinet is connected to a power outlet. A fan heater combined with a hygrostat (temperature and humidity) can ensure that the batteries are stored and charged in an optimal, good environment throughout the year. Power is distributed, for example, via two Schuko sockets, which supply two 5-way power strips. Each is equipped with a 10A RCD / MCB fuse and has a load capacity of 2300 watts. The height-adjustable shelves can be optimally adapted to the chargers and batteries. The shelves can be perforated at the front with cable ties for permanent cable securing.

[0019] Of course, the sizes given are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as a limitation.

[0020] There are several options for installing the cabinet. For a freestanding installation, the cabinet is equipped with a stainless steel back panel and base. The cabinet can be installed on a separate foundation located beneath the finished floor.

[0021] The invention and its advantages will now be explained in more detail by means of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, without thereby limiting the invention to the exemplary embodiment shown. The proportions in the figures do not always correspond to the actual proportions, as some shapes are simplified and others are shown enlarged relative to other elements for better illustration. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the internal configuration of the battery charging cabinet. Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the interior design of the cabinet from Fig. 1. Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of another possibility for the internal design of the cabinet from Fig. 1. Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the cabinet from Fig. 1 with closed door. Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the cabinet from Fig. 1, which is held by a supporting structure. Fig. 6 shows a side view of the cabinet from Fig. 5. Fig. 7 shows another possible embodiment of the cabinet according to the invention. Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of the interior design of the cabinet from Fig. 7. Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of another possibility for the interior design of the cabinet from Fig. 7. Fig. 10 shows a top view of the cabinet from Fig. 7.

[0022] Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals are shown in the individual figures that are necessary for the description of the respective figure. The figures merely illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, without, however, limiting the invention to the illustrated exemplary embodiments.

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the internal configuration of a cabinet 1 for charging batteries (not shown). The cabinet 1 has a height H, a width B, and a depth T and consists of two side walls 4, a bottom wall 5, a ceiling wall 6, a rear wall 4, and a Fig. 4, the door 2 closing the cabinet 1. The rear wall 3 has a power connection 11. A single shelf 8 is detachably inserted into the cabinet 1. The batteries to be charged and the associated chargers can be placed on the shelf 8.

[0024] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the interior design of the cabinet from Fig. 1. Here, shelf 8 has been removed from the strips 20 attached to the side walls 4. Shelf 8, for example, leans against the rear wall 3 of cabinet 1. This redesign of cabinet 1 creates more space for parcels to be deposited in cabinet 1. Cabinet 1 then has the added benefit of a "private parcel box." It goes without saying that the batteries and chargers are removed from the cabinet when a parcel is awaiting delivery.

[0025] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of another possibility for the internal design of the cabinet 1 of the Fig. 1. Here the shelf 8 is removed from the strips 20 and removed from the cabinet 1 . Fig. In the illustration of the cabinet 1 shown in Figure 4, it is closed with a door 2. A locking mechanism 10 serves to lock the door.

[0026] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the cabinet 1 of the Fig. 1, which is held by a support frame 12. The support frame 12 is provided with two feet 14. By means of the feet, the cabinet 1 can be installed at a distance of more than 2.5 meters from flammable components, materials or even a private house. The side view of the cabinet 1 can be Fig. 6 that the support frame 12 consists of a frame 13 with attached feet 14. The cabinet 1 is hung on the frame 13 of the support structure 12 after the support frame 12 is anchored to the ground or a foundation. Fig. 1 to 6, the cupboard 1 has a height H3 on the rear wall 3 which is greater than the height H in the area of ​​the door 2 of the cupboard 1. This results in an inclination 9 of the ceiling wall 6. The inclination 9 ensures, for example, that rainwater drains away.

[0027] Fig. Figure 7 shows another possible embodiment of the cabinet 1 according to the invention. This embodiment of the cabinet 1 is used to charge multiple batteries with their associated chargers. The cabinet 1 is suitable for craft businesses, landscapers, etc., who need to keep their batteries safely charged even during the cold season. Preferably, the cabinet 1, which has a height H, a width B, and a depth T, is provided with a base frame 16. Consequently, the height H16 is greater than the height H of the cabinet 1 itself.

[0028] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of the interior design of the cabinet from Fig. 7. In the cabinet 1, several shelves 8 can be individually arranged one above the other. Each shelf 8 has several rows of holes 15 in an area opposite the rear wall 3. Rising heat is guided towards the ceiling wall 6 by means of the rows of holes 15. In the rear wall 3 of the cabinet 1, suspension openings 19 for the shelves 8 are formed essentially over the entire height H of the cabinet 1. Rising heat can also escape through the suspension openings 19. In the Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of another possibility for the interior design of the cabinet 1 from Fig. 7. The bottom shelf 8 is permanently installed in the cabinet 1. A power distribution board (not shown) is installed beneath the shelf 8. The cabinet 1 is equipped with a base frame 16, which, in the embodiment shown here, is securely connected to a foundation 18.

[0029] Fig. 10 shows the top view of the cabinet 1 of the Fig. 7, with the ceiling wall 6 removed. This allows a view of a shelf 8. The rows of holes 15 in the shelf 8 allow the heat to pass upwards. The heat can, as in the Fig. 8 or Fig. 9, through the multitude of hanging openings 19. If the cabinet 1 is provided with a rear wall cover 22, the heat enters the space between the rear wall 3 and the rear wall cover 22. In the case of the Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 10 is a freestanding cabinet 1. In this embodiment, the shelves 8 are spaced apart from the door 2. In the space between the front edge 8V of the shelf 8 and the door 2, at least one socket 25 or power strip is provided so that the charging devices on the shelves 8 are supplied with the required power.

[0030] It is believed that the present disclosure and many of the advantages recited therein will be understood from the foregoing description. It will be apparent that various changes in form, construction, and arrangement of components may be made without departing from the disclosed subject matter. The form described is merely illustrative, and it is the intent of the appended claims to encompass and embrace such changes. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the appended claims. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 1 closet 2 doors 3 Rear wall 4 side wall 5 floor wall 6 Ceiling wall 8 shelves 8V leading edge 9 Inclination 10 Locking mechanism 11 connection 12 Support frame 13 frames 14 Footboard 15 rows of holes 16 base frame 18 Foundation 19 Hanging opening 20 bar 22 Rear panel cover 25 socket B Width H Height H3 Height in the area of ​​the rear wall H16 height with base T Depth 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] DE 20 2012 001 450

[0002] DE 20 2012 104 011

[0003] DE 20 2014 001 252 [0004, 0005]

Claims

[1] A cabinet (1) for charging batteries, consisting of a rear wall (3), two side walls (4), a bottom wall (5), a ceiling wall (6) and a door (2) opposite the rear wall (3) and lockable with a locking mechanism (10), characterized by at least one shelf (8) detachably mounted in the cabinet (1), wherein the cabinet (1) of the at least one shelf (8) consists of a non-combustible material and is installed at a distance of more than 2.5 metres from combustible components or materials, and a connection (11) for a power supply, which is formed in the rear wall (3) of the cabinet (1) or through the bottom wall (5). [2] The cabinet (1) according to claim 1, wherein the material of the cabinet (1) is galvanized and powder-coated sheet steel. [3] The cabinet (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the locking mechanism (10) comprises a 3-point lock, a cylinder lock, PIN code lock or a box lock for PZ half cylinders. [4] The cabinet (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the cabinet (1) is mounted on a solid masonry structure which does not include insulation and the cabinet (1) is spaced more than 2.5 meters from combustible components or materials. [5] The cabinet (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein a support frame (12) consisting of a frame (13) and two foot parts (14) is provided, on which the cabinet (1) is mounted in a hanging manner. [6] The cabinet (1) according to claim 5, wherein the two foot parts (14) of the support frame (12) are anchored at a prepared installation location of the cabinet (1). [7] The cabinet (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ceiling wall 6 is mounted so that it has an inclination 9. [8] The cabinet (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1-4, wherein a plurality of detachable or removable shelves (8) are mounted in the cabinet (1). [9] The cabinet (1) according to claim 8, wherein a shelf (8) is permanently installed in the cabinet (1), under which a power distribution is installed. [10] The cabinet (1) according to any one of claims 8-9, wherein each shelf (8) is formed with a plurality of rows of holes (15) in an area opposite the rear wall (3) to conduct rising heat towards the ceiling wall (6). [11] The cabinet (1) according to claim 10, wherein the ceiling wall (6) also has several rows of holes (15) formed to dissipate the rising heat from the interior of the cabinet (1) to the outside. [12] The cabinet (1) according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein a controlled temperature control is provided in the cabinet (1) to ensure a certain temperature in the cabinet (1) during charging. [13] The cabinet (1) according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the cabinet (1) consists of a base frame (16) and is provided with an upper anti-tilt device, or the cabinet (1) is attached to a wall without a base frame (16), or stands freely on a foundation (18).

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