DEVICE FOR DELIVERING ELECTRICAL ENERGY

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for supplying electrical energy, in particular for supplying electrical energy to an electrical storage device of a motor vehicle.

[0002] Such a dispensing device can, for example, be positioned next to or at a parking space for a motor vehicle with an electrical storage device in order to charge the electrical storage device of the motor vehicle.

[0003] As part of the energy transition, there has recently been a rapidly growing demand for parking spaces where the electrical storage devices of electric vehicles can be charged. Such parking spaces are an essential prerequisite for the implementation of widespread electric mobility concepts. Such parking spaces must preferably be available both in public or semi-public spaces (e.g., in parking garages, on streets, etc.) and in private spaces (e.g., in private garages, neighborhood garages, or any other type of parking space closed to the public) to ensure that mobility with electric vehicles is possible in a manner acceptable to users.

[0004] Such parking spaces represent an essential aspect of the infrastructure for electromobility.

[0005] However, a very significant problem in providing infrastructure for electromobility is the high costs that arise from providing infrastructure.

[0006] These costs are particularly problematic given that it is generally not possible to recoup investments in such infrastructure within a foreseeable period of time. Firstly, the profit margins that can be achieved by providing parking spaces for electric vehicle charging are so low that the high investment costs are already difficult to recoup. Secondly, this is further exacerbated by the fact that so far only a few electric vehicles are on the road. This normally results in very high fluctuations in the demand for parking spaces with the option of electric vehicle charging. In particular, it is very difficult to ensure constant and permanently high occupancy for large numbers of parking spaces.

[0007] Another very important problem surrounding the charging of electrically powered vehicles within the framework of mobility concepts is the control and communication between the individual components relevant to the charging process. This is particularly relevant for individual billing of charging processes, which often poses a major problem. Electrical energy is provided via the electricity grid and is usually billed by the electricity grid operators via electricity meters. Offering charging options for electrically powered vehicles ultimately represents a resale of electrical energy by the party to whose electricity meter the charging option is connected. The owner of the electricity meter therefore requires very precise consumption data that quantifies the electrical energy transmitted to the electric vehicle and consumed from the perspective of the operator of the charging option.

[0008] In addition, secure access to the person responsible for the electrically powered vehicle that was charged is necessary in order to bill the charging process of a vehicle.

[0009] This together (the exact knowledge of consumption data, as well as the possibility of billing the person responsible for the vehicle) are basic requirements for a successful business with charging options for electrically powered vehicles.

[0010] From DE 10 2013 203 634 A1 it is known to install charging stations on power rails running on the ground.

[0011] From CN 105711436 A it is known to connect charging stations to the terminal ends of T-shaped distribution elements of a busbar system.

[0012] Further details on charging stations are disclosed in document DE 10 2009 026 936 A1.

[0013] Based on this, the object of the present invention is to disclose a device for delivering electrical energy, a charging station for a motor vehicle equipped with the device, and a method for charging a motor vehicle. The delivery device, the charging station, and the method at least partially solve or mitigate the described problems.

[0014] These objects are achieved with a charging station and a method according to the independent claims. Further preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims and are further explained and supplemented in detail in the description. It should be noted that the dependent claims and the description (and in particular the description of the figures) show only preferred embodiments to which the invention is not limited.

[0015] The invention relates to a device for supplying electrical energy to an electrical storage device of a vehicle, comprising a coupling for connecting the supply device to an adapter port of a power distribution rail, a supply connection for a supply line for supplying electrical energy to the motor vehicle, wherein the coupling and the supply connection are arranged on or in a common housing and wherein an energy meter and a control device with a network interface are arranged in the housing, which are designed to count the energy supplied to the motor vehicle via the supply connection and to communicate energy supply data to a data processing system via the network interface.

[0016] The charging device represents a key component of the charging infrastructure for electrically powered vehicles used in electromobility concepts. The charging device combines all logic (particularly circuitry) that must be present at the charging station itself or in the vicinity of the vehicle being charged in order to enable secure, individual billing of charging processes. This includes, on the one hand, components that enable identification of the person responsible for the respective charging process (usually the vehicle operator). On the other hand, it includes components that enable precise detection of the energy delivered. This also includes providing sufficient security against tampering. This includes (in preferred embodiments) above all a targeted option for activating and deactivating the delivery of electrical energy.The described components for the described functions include, in particular, an energy meter, which can be designed as an electricity meter, for example. Preferably, the output voltage with which the output device outputs or provides the electrical current is then either fixed or this output voltage is also measured in order to determine the actual amount of electrical energy output. The described components further include a control unit that monitors the electrical energy output and a network interface via which instructions can be given to the control unit and via which the control unit can communicate information about the energy output (energy output data) to a central data processing system. Further components can be implemented in the output device. However, in the simplest embodiment, they are not absolutely necessary to ensure the basic function of the output device.With the components described here, the described functions can already be implemented in a minimal version of the described dispensing device. The additional components required for functionality can be implemented, for example, in the (central) data processing system.

[0017] Electrical energy is provided in the form of electrical current, which is available at a specific voltage. In conventional concepts, billing for the use of a specified delivery device is usually based on the actual electrical energy delivered. Other billing models are also conceivable, for example, time-based billing, where the time a vehicle is charged at a charging station with a specified delivery device is billed. Ultimately, however, electrical energy is the most common metric used to bill for the use of a charging station.

[0018] The electrical storage device that can be charged with the described delivery device, or to which electrical energy can be delivered with the described delivery device, is typically an accumulator. The designation of the electrical storage device as "electrical" should not be seen as restricting the electrical energy absorbed by the storage device to actually still exist in electrical form within the storage device. In an accumulator (for example, in a widely used lithium-ion battery or a lead-acid battery), the electrical energy is also present in chemical form during storage and not in electrical form itself. Rather, the decisive factor for classifying the electrical storage device as "electrical" is that, from the perspective of external components, the storage device behaves as if it were storing electrical energy. During the charging process, electrical energy is supplied to the storage device.The stored electrical energy can then be used. Storing electrical energy in the storage device and its subsequent use / removal typically results in losses, but these do not conflict with the definition of electrical storage here. Of course, other forms of energy storage are also possible in an electrical storage device. For example, in the form of kinetic energy (gyro storage) or in the form of direct electrical storage (in a capacitor), etc.

[0019] The vehicle is, in particular, a conventional motor vehicle and particularly preferably a passenger car (car). However, the charging device can also be used for any other type of vehicle that can be powered by electrical energy (e.g., boats, aircraft, trucks, etc.). A special focus here will also be placed on two-wheelers (e.g., electric-powered motorcycles, bicycles, mopeds, etc.). Such two-wheelers are also vehicles for which the charging devices described here and the charging stations installed therewith can be used.

[0020] It is essential for the described power distribution device that it is arranged directly on a power distribution bar. A power distribution bar is a special component for conducting electrical energy. A power distribution bar is to be distinguished in particular from a power cable. A power distribution bar is rigidly constructed. This means that bending and deformation of a power distribution bar can occur (due to exceptionally high mechanical loads), but are not intended for the use and, in particular, for the assembly and installation of a power distribution bar. Unlike power cables, power distribution bars are not pulled; instead, they are assembled from various power distribution bar components to ensure the electrical supply to a consumer (for example, the described power distribution device).

[0021] In a power distribution bar, individual electrical conductors are arranged next to one another, insulated from one another, forming individual electrical poles. Plate-shaped electrical conductors are preferably used in power distribution bars. Insulation layers are located between such plate-shaped electrical conductors, which insulate the individual conductors (the individual poles) from one another. Power distribution bars suitable for transmitting three-phase currents (three-phase alternating currents) are preferred for the described output device. Such electrical power distribution bars have at least three poles and, in conventional designs, four poles, with three of these four poles serving to conduct the (alternating) phases of the electrical current and a fourth pole forming the so-called zero, via which a compensating current can be discharged in a mains-side star connection of the electrical conductors. Such a busbar usually has an earth wire as the fifth conductor.In variants of busbars, it is possible that the earthing line is formed by a metallic housing of the power distribution bar.

[0022] The power distribution busbar for which the delivery device is intended here is preferably suitable for transmitting very large amounts of electrical energy (or electrical power). Preferably, the power distribution busbar is suitable for conducting currents above 400 amperes with voltages in the low-voltage range up to 1000 V. The use of power distribution busbars with transmittable currents of up to 6300 amperes is easily feasible. Higher currents are also conceivable. Such busbars can transmit electrical power in the megawatt range.

[0023] A power distribution rail is (as already described) typically composed of individual power distribution rail components. Individual busbar components can be, for example, straight sections for bridging longer distances, angle sections for bending or changing the direction of the power distribution rail, or connectors for connecting several longer sections.

[0024] Adapter ports are preferably provided on such a power distribution rail. Such adapter ports can be provided at the ends of power distribution rail components in the region of connecting pieces. Such adapter ports can also be provided on longer power distribution rail components in regions between the ends. Such adapter ports are designed as laterally accessible access points at which the individual conductors (poles) within the power distribution rail can be electrically accessed. Such access points include, for example, interruptions in a housing of a power distribution rail at which the conductors (poles) can be accessed and which can be closed, for example, by flaps, if no output device is connected to an adapter port.

[0025] The described power supply unit has a connector that can be connected directly to an adapter port on a power distribution bar. The connector is adapted to the design of adapter ports on power distribution bars.

[0026] The described output device also has an output connection for an output line for supplying electrical energy to the vehicle. Typically, a vehicle is not positioned precisely relative to the output device, for example because the vehicle was manually parked near the output device. In this configuration, a flexible line is required on the (imaginary) last meter from the output device to a corresponding connection for connecting a output line to the motor vehicle. For this reason, the output line is flexible at least in sections. Particularly preferably, the output line is designed as a flexible cable at least in sections. The output line can thus be clearly separated from the power distribution rail.The output connection can preferably be a socket for a charging cable, whereby this charging cable forms the output line and this charging cable can be plugged into the output connection, for example, by the owner / operator of the vehicle to be charged. The output connection can also be a connection for a permanently installed output line, at least in sections, to which a socket (or a connector plug) for a charging cable can be connected, which can be plugged in by the owner / operator of the vehicle. However, this socket is a passive component that has no control, switching, or monitoring function with regard to the output of electrical energy.

[0027] Particularly preferably, the output connection also includes a locking mechanism with which a plug of a delivery line can be locked and unlocked. The locking mechanism can preferably be actively locked and unlocked by a control unit of the delivery device and / or by a data processing system with which the delivery device communicates. Particularly preferably, the locking mechanism can be used to unlock the connector to a delivery line again after locking during charging, so that it does not unnecessarily block the output connection for an unreasonably long period of time after the energy delivery process has ended.

[0028] For the power supply device described here, it is essential that the power supply to the power supply device is provided via a rigid power distribution bar on the grid side (the side of the power supply device where the current enters the power supply device). On the power supply side (the side where the vehicle to be supplied with electrical energy is located or connected to the power supply device), the power is usually also provided via a (flexible) cable.

[0029] By connecting the charging device to a power distribution rail, a very cost-effective, simple, and safe installation of the charging device is possible. The described charging device can significantly simplify the wiring for providing charging stations for electric vehicles. Another important aspect is that the (easily possible) pre-installation of power distribution rails creates the possibility of later installing the described charging devices. The charging devices do not have to be installed yet if the power distribution rail is already laid near parking spaces that will later be used as charging stations for electric vehicles. This very efficiently alleviates the described problem of initial investment, which regularly arises when providing charging infrastructure.

[0030] By directly connecting the power supply unit to the power distribution rail, it is also possible to provide very high electrical power for rapid vehicle charging. Ensuring such power with a conventional power supply to power supply units via standard flexible cables requires considerable effort in laying these cables. This effort can be significantly reduced with the power supply unit described here.

[0031] The dispensing device described here also includes a housing. It should be clarified here that both the coupling for connecting the dispensing device to the adapter port of a power distribution bar and the dispensing connection for connecting a dispensing line to a motor vehicle are provided in or on the housing. The housing is intended, on the one hand, to reliably protect the dispensing device from tampering. On the other hand, the housing also serves to protect the user from the strong currents flowing in the dispensing device or the power distribution bar.

[0032] The coupling has at least two electrically separated power transmission elements which are designed to engage in the adapter port and to establish electrical connections to conductors in the power distribution rail.

[0033] In the area of ​​an adapter port on the power distribution bar, individual openings for each conductor (pole) are preferably provided in the power distribution bar. The power transmission elements extend through these openings. The power transmission elements can, for example, be designed in the form of metal sheets with a cross-section sufficient to transmit the electrical currents flowing from the electrical energy delivery device to a vehicle.

[0034] The dispensing device has at least one retaining clip configured to form a mechanically secure connection between the power distribution rail and the housing when the dispensing device is connected to the adapter port of the power rail.

[0035] A retaining clip can be attached to the designated attachment points on the power distribution rail in order to firmly connect the housing there. By connecting the housing to a power distribution rail, the output device itself is firmly connected to the power distribution rail. The retaining clip can have a latching mechanism which latches onto the power distribution rail or onto the holding points provided on the power distribution rail for this purpose. In a preferred embodiment, a retaining clip is designed so that the housing or the output device can be suspended from the power distribution rail. For example, the output device can be attached to the power distribution rail from above using a retaining clip and then attached to the power distribution rail by a pivoting movement. During this pivoting movement, the coupling of the output device is inserted or pushed into the adapter port on the power distribution rail.connected to the adapter port of the power distribution rail.

[0036] The at least one retaining clip has at least one hook which is configured to engage in an undercut on the power distribution rail in order to hold the delivery device on the power distribution rail.

[0037] Particularly preferably, the power distribution rail is designed in the basic shape of a double-T beam. The adapter port is preferably arranged on one of the two end legs (belts) of this double-T beam. The conductors of the power distribution rail are arranged in the web of this double-T beam. The web is thus much wider than in conventional mechanical double-T beams. This design of the power distribution rail gives the power distribution rail high mechanical stability, which is fundamentally desirable. This design also provides an undercut on each of the two end legs facing the web, which allows hooks from the delivery device to engage around it, thus enabling a secure connection of the adapter device to the power distribution rail.

[0038] The dispensing device has a safety lock with which the at least one retaining clip can be locked in order to prevent tool-free disassembly of the dispensing device from the power distribution rail.

[0039] The locking area of ​​the safety lock can be implemented, for example, by including a special screw connection that can only be operated with a special screwdriver, thus ensuring that the dispenser can only be removed from the power distribution bar using a special tool. This ensures that no end user will consider tampering with the dispenser. At the same time, a user who has the relevant special tool at their disposal can assemble and disassemble the dispenser very quickly.

[0040] The dispensing device is also advantageous if the housing is designed for attachment exclusively to the power distribution rail.

[0041] Exclusive attachment to the power distribution rail here means that the dispenser or the housing of the dispenser has no further connections to other components that perform a mechanical holding function. Connections that perform a mechanical holding function here do not include connections formed by a flexible outgoing cable that extends from the dispenser and is then, for example, routed along a wall to a socket located outside the dispenser, to which, for example, a motor vehicle charging cable can be connected. However, it is particularly preferred that such connections do not exist either; instead, the charging station is actually only connected to the power distribution rail when no charging cable (no dispenser line) is connected to the dispenser connection. The dispenser can then be assembled and disassembled particularly easily.

[0042] If a power distribution rail has a large number of adapter ports, but fewer output devices are available than adapter ports, a user (e.g., a charging station operator, such as a parking garage operator) can very quickly connect output devices to other adapter ports. This often avoids having to move vehicles to a charging station. Instead, it is possible for the charging station to move toward the vehicle.

[0043] Furthermore, the delivery device is advantageous if the network interface is configured to send data via at least one power transmission element.

[0044] Such network communication can be achieved, for example, with components that enable network communication via power grids. Data transmission preferably occurs via two conductors: a phase in the power distribution busbar and another existing conductor in the power distribution busbar (another phase or neutral conductor).

[0045] Such components are known, for example, for home network user operation. Such network communication via the power transmission elements makes it possible to dispense with additional cabling for network communication (e.g., CAT cables running parallel to the power distribution rail). In particular, it also makes it possible to dispense with wireless network communication from the delivery device to other components (e.g., to a router for connecting to the Internet). This fundamentally increases the security against manipulation of the network communication with the delivery device described.

[0046] Of course, it is also possible to provide alternative network interfaces in the described delivery device, such as the wireless network communication interface already mentioned (for example via WLAN) or network communication via an additional network cable run parallel to the power distribution rail, whereby the term refers less to a spatial parallel arrangement than to a parallel arrangement in the sense that all delivery devices are connected to a network (in particular indirectly to the Internet) both from the power distribution rail with electrical energy and then via the network cable or via several (different) network cables.

[0047] In further embodiments, it is also possible for a (separate) data cable to be provided in the power distribution rail for network communication between the delivery device and a data processing system. Preferably, the coupling on the delivery device and the adapter port on the power distribution rail are then also designed such that when the delivery device is coupled to the power distribution rail, a data-conducting connection is (automatically) formed between the delivery device and the data cable in the power distribution rail. In other embodiments, it is also possible for such a connection to be established manually, for example by the delivery device having a network plug that can be inserted into a network socket on the adapter port of the power distribution rail. Preferably, this establishes a network connection, and the delivery device is then coupled to the adapter port.The distribution device preferably conceals the network connection to protect it from tampering. Alternatively, the network socket can be located on the distribution device and a network plug can be connected to the adapter port of the power distribution bar.

[0048] The dispensing device is also advantageous if it has at least one electrical switch for controlling the delivery of electrical energy at the delivery connection.

[0049] Such a switch is preferably designed in the form of a relay, in particular a high-performance relay. Such a switch makes it possible to selectively activate and deactivate the supply of electrical energy to the output connection.

[0050] The dispensing device is further advantageous if the control device is configured to control the electrical switch in dependence on control data that the control device receives via the network interface.

[0051] Control data is, for example, data that triggers the activation of an electrical switch to provide electrical energy at a supply connection or data that triggers the deactivation of an electrical switch to stop the provision of electrical energy at a supply connection.

[0052] Control data can also include data that triggers a reservation of the charging station. Control data can, for example, be used to prevent the charging station from being seized or blocked by other users (users other than the user who reserved the charging station).

[0053] Furthermore, the dispensing device is advantageous if it has a display device for the visual and / or acoustic display of information for a user of the dispensing device.

[0054] A display device is particularly preferably a screen that shows the user information about the charging status (whether energy is being provided or not). Such a display can also provide additional information, for example, information about the amount of electrical energy delivered, remaining charging time, information about subsequent reservations of the charging station, etc.

[0055] However, the indicator device can also be simpler, for example, in the form of a light or indicator light that lights up red when the dispenser is reserved, blue when the dispenser is available, and green when the dispenser is currently being used for charging. Combinations of different indicator device concepts are possible.

[0056] Another special design variant of the described dispensing device will be briefly described here. It is also preferred if the dispensing device is intended for the simultaneous charging of several vehicles. The dispensing device preferably has several dispensing connections for this purpose, for example two dispensing connections. Such dispensing devices can, for example, be arranged so that they can be reached from two directly adjacent parking spaces. However, such dispensing devices particularly preferably have only one coupling for coupling to a power distribution rail and only one housing. The rest of the design of the dispensing device, however, is duplicated, so that the dispensing device can ultimately be operated separately for each of the parking spaces to be supplied or for each vehicle in one of these parking spaces.Such dispensers are particularly preferred for providing electrical energy to two-wheelers, for example, because two-wheelers do not normally take up so much space that long dispenser lines would be necessary if several two-wheelers were to be charged with only one dispenser.

[0057] A charging station for charging an electrical storage device in a motor vehicle, comprising a described device for delivering electrical energy, is also to be described here.

[0058] The charging station can be any parking space for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle. The charging station is particularly preferably located in a parking garage. In a parking garage, pre-installations for installing the charging devices described can be implemented with little effort and, above all, at low cost using power distribution rails. Subsequently, it is possible to retrofit additional parking spaces with charging stations for electrically charged motor vehicles with little effort.

[0059] The special advantages and design features described for the described dispensing device are applicable and transferable to the described charging stations in an analogous manner. The same applies to the special advantages and features of the charging station described below, which are applicable and transferable to the dispensing device.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the charging station in a parking garage, the power distribution rail for connecting the charging device is arranged such that a socket located directly on the charging device and, if present, a display device (e.g., a screen) located on the charging device are directly in the user's field of vision. This is achieved, for example, if the power distribution rail and thus also the charging devices are arranged at a height of approximately 1.30 m on an end wall (or rear wall) at the end of a row of parking spaces.

[0061] In another preferred embodiment of charging stations in a parking garage, a power distribution rail is arranged just below the ceiling of the parking garage at a height of, for example, 2 m above the floor of the parking garage deck. It is then possible, for example, to install a freely suspended power cable to which a vehicle can be connected, which is permanently connected to the power cable. It is also possible to run a permanent cable from the power cable to an external socket (an external connector). Such an external socket can then be arranged at a suitable height so that the vehicle can be connected to this socket.

[0062] In further design variants, it is also possible for the power distribution rail to be located not on a wall (end wall or rear wall) at the end of parking spaces, but in the middle between two rows of parking spaces. In such an arrangement, two rows of parking spaces are preferably arranged directly adjacent to one another. These parking spaces in these two rows are then preferably accessible via separate roadways. The power distribution rail runs where the rows of parking spaces adjoin one another. The parking spaces in the two rows are preferably adjacent to one another at the ends. The power distribution rail is then preferably configured to supply parking spaces in both rows or supply devices for parking spaces in both rows. This power distribution rail is therefore a "common" power distribution rail for two rows of parking spaces.

[0063] Particularly preferred is the design variant with a shared power distribution rail for two rows of parking spaces in combination with a power distribution rail located just below the parking garage ceiling. External sockets, connected to power distribution devices via permanent cables, are then preferably located on supporting columns in the parking garage ceiling, preferably arranged at regular intervals on the border between the two rows of parking spaces. There, the external sockets are easily accessible for users. At the same time, the space required for the power distribution devices, the power distribution rail, and the external sockets is minimal.

[0064] In further preferred embodiments, the described charging station is provided at temporary parking spaces. With the described charging station or the described dispenser, and the power supply to the described dispenser via power distribution rails, it is (very easily) possible to provide and dismantle electric charging options for motor vehicles even for temporary parking spaces, for example, during major events.

[0065] In addition, a method for charging a vehicle is to be described here, which method comprises the following steps: a) Activating a delivery device for delivering electrical energy with a mobile device, wherein an activation request is transmitted to a data processing system via the mobile device, and the data processing system triggers activation of the delivery device if the activation request is successful. b) Providing electrical energy to the delivery device via a power distribution rail, and c) Delivering electrical energy from the delivery device to the vehicle.

[0066] The special advantages and design features described for the described dispensing device and charging station are analogously applicable and transferable to the described method. The same applies to the special advantageous features of the described method described below, which are analogously transferable to the dispensing device and charging station.

[0067] The central data processing system for the described method is preferably a central server, which is connected to the charging devices, for example, via the Internet, and on which software is run that enables management of the charging station. Access to this central server can be achieved, for example, via mobile devices. A user who wishes to use a charging station creates an account on the server, which allows them to spontaneously book or reserve the charging station. Information that enables billing of the completed charging processes to the operator of the charging device is then usually also linked to the account.

[0068] Activating the device (step a) to deliver electrical energy can also be done in conjunction with a reservation of the delivery device, whereby this reservation is made, for example, well before the start of the charging process. For example, a charging station with a described delivery device can be reserved before actually arriving at the location of the delivery device.

[0069] The power distribution bar used to provide the electrical energy (step b) enables the efficient supply of large amounts of electrical energy to the delivery device. This also enables the delivery of large amounts of electrical energy to the delivery port, so that the described method also enables efficient rapid charging of electrically powered motor vehicles.

[0070] Furthermore, the use of a power distribution rail for supplying a plurality of output devices for supplying electrical energy to electrical storage devices of motor vehicles is proposed here, wherein the output devices are directly connected to the power distribution rail.

[0071] The special advantages and design features described for the described dispensing device, the described charging station, and the described method are analogously applicable and transferable to the described use of a power distribution bar. The same applies to the special advantages and features described below in connection with the described power distribution bar, which are analogously applicable and transferable to the dispensing device, the charging station, and the described method.

[0072] In connection with the use of power distribution rails to supply a plurality of output devices, the very cost-efficient supply of output devices for charging stations for charging electrically powered motor vehicles, as already mentioned above, is possible.

[0073] Particular attention should be paid to ensuring that the power distribution devices are located or connected directly to the power distribution busbar, and that the power distribution busbar thus directly supplies the power distribution devices with electrical energy. This means, in particular, that no other electrical cables, especially no flexible cables, are located between the power distribution devices and the power distribution busbar.

[0074] The invention and the technical environment are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. It should be noted that the figures show particularly preferred embodiments of the invention, to which the invention is not limited. It should be noted in particular that the figures are only schematic. This applies in particular to the proportions depicted in the figures. They show: Fig. 1: a described delivery device on a power distribution rail; Fig. 2: the power distribution rail from Fig. 1without the described dispensing device; Fig. 3: a described dispensing device in a rear view; Fig. 4: a schematic representation of the interior of the described dispensing device; Fig. 5: a first example of the design of charging stations with described dispensing devices; Fig. 6: a second example of the design of charging stations for electrically powered motor vehicles with described dispensing devices; Fig. 7: an overview of the data communication when using a described dispensing device; Fig. 8: an alternative embodiment of a power distribution rail; and Fig. 9: a further alternative embodiment of a power distribution rail.

[0075] The Fig. 1 and the Fig. 2each show a power distribution rail 6. The power distribution rail has, viewed from the outside, a double-T-beam-shaped cross-sectional area 39 with a web 40 and two flange sections 41, which each connect to the ends of the web 40. Electrical conductors 15 of the power distribution rail 6 are located in the web 40. The electrical conductors 15 are insulated from one another and from a housing of the power distribution rail 6 (not shown separately) by means of electrical insulation (not shown separately here). The Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 ) has four electrical conductors 15. Three of these electrical conductors 15 are preferably used to transmit a three-phase alternating current. The fourth of these electrical conductors 15 serves as a neutral conductor. The housing of the power distribution bar 6 (not shown separately here) serves as a grounding conductor. Fig. 2The adapter port 5 is visible on the power distribution rail 6. The adapter port 5 is arranged on one of the belt sections 41 and is mechanically protected by the protruding flange 42 on the belt section 41. This adapter port 5 is used to connect a delivery device 1, which is shown in the illustration according to Fig. 1 is placed on the adapter port 5 of the power distribution rail 6. A (in Fig. 3 shown coupling 4 of the adapter device 1. The adapter port 5 has plug receptacles 27, into which (in Fig. 3illustrated power transmission elements 14) can engage the coupling 4 of the delivery device 1 to enable power transmission from the conductors 15 of the power distribution bar 6 to the delivery device 1. The adapter port 5 has a cover 23 with which the adapter port 5 can be closed so that the adapter port 5 is protected when no delivery device 1 is placed on the adapter port 5. The cover 23 can preferably be closed with a latch 24, which can preferably only be opened with a key or a tool.

[0076] The Fig. 1 The dispenser 1 shown has a housing 9 and can be attached to the power distribution rail 6 with retaining clips 16 when the (in Fig. 3shown in more detail) coupling of the delivery device 1 is placed on the adapter port 5 of the power distribution rail 6. The retaining clips 16 each have hooks 17 that engage in undercuts 18 formed by the belt sections 41 of the power distribution rail 6. The retaining clips 16 are preferably lockable with a safety lock 19. The safety lock 19 can preferably only be released with a special tool or a key. Fig. 1 It can also be seen that the dispensing device 1 has a dispensing connection 7 for connecting a dispensing line 8 (not shown here), via which electrical energy can be provided to a vehicle. Also shown is a display device 21 (here embodied as a display), with which information can be provided to a user of the dispensing device 1.

[0077] The Fig. 3shows a rear view of the dispenser 1. Here, the coupling 4 on the housing 9 of the dispenser 1 can be seen, which in Fig. 1 cannot be seen because this coupling 4 is in Fig. 1 on the side of the output device 9 facing the power distribution rail. It can be seen that the coupling 4 has power transmission elements 14 which are inserted into plug receptacles of the adapter port on the power distribution rail (see Fig. 2 ) can intervene. In Fig. 3 Also visible are the retaining clips 16, which are arranged laterally on the housing 9 of the dispenser 1 and which have hooks 17 and a safety lock 19. The hook 17 and the safety lock 19 are described above in connection with the Fig. 1 already explained.

[0078] Fig. 4shows a housing interior 28 of the housing 9 of the dispensing device 1. In the housing interior 28, the power distribution bar 6 with its conductors 15 is shown schematically in the background in dashed lines. High-performance conductors 26 can be seen in the housing 9, which run from power transmission elements 14, which are in contact with the conductors 15, to the dispensing connection 7. Located in the housing 9 is an electrical switch 20, with which the provision of electrical energy at the dispensing connection 7 can be activated and deactivated. Also located in the housing 9 is an energy meter 10, with which electrical energy delivered at the dispensing connection 7 can be counted. In addition, a control unit 11, which controls the dispensing device 1, is also arranged in the housing 9.For this purpose, the control unit 11 is connected via internal data lines 43 to the other components in the housing 9 of the dispensing device 1, namely in particular to the electrical switch 20 and the energy meter 10. The control unit 11 is also connected to a network interface 12 which has a network connection 26 which has a data-conducting connection to an external, central data processing unit (for example a central control server for a plurality of such dispensing devices) via the power transmission elements 14 or via the conductors 15 of the power distribution rail 6.

[0079] The Fig. 5 and the Fig. 6each show examples of configurations of charging stations 22 with described delivery devices 1. In both figures, charging stations 22 are shown in parking spaces in a parking garage, wherein each of the electrified parking spaces 38 (which can also be referred to as charging stations 22) equipped with delivery devices 1 and conventional parking spaces 37 exist. In the electrified parking spaces 38 or the charging stations 22, there are motor vehicles 3 with electrical storage devices 2, which are connected via delivery lines 8 to delivery connections 7 of the delivery devices 1. The delivery devices 1 are each arranged at the end of the parking spaces on a rear wall 44 of the parking garage. To supply the delivery devices 1 with electrical energy, a power distribution rail 6 runs along the parking spaces on the rear wall 44. The delivery devices are connected to adapter ports 5 of the power distribution rail 6. In both Fig. 5 as well as in Fig. 6In each case, an adapter port 5 is shown to which no charging device 1 is connected. Here, a conventional parking space 37 exists in which an electrically powered motor vehicle 2 cannot be charged. However, by installing a charging device 1 on this adapter port 5, this conventional parking space 37 can be very quickly retrofitted or converted into an electrified parking space 38 or a charging station 22.

[0080] In the version according to Fig. 5 The power distribution rail 6 and the delivery devices 1 are installed at a height such that a user can easily reach the delivery connection 7 on the delivery device 1 and can also easily read a display device 21 on the delivery device 1. This is achieved by a rail height 34 of the power distribution rail 6 between 0.80 m and 1.40 m above the floor of the parking spaces.

[0081] In the version according to Fig. 6the power distribution rail 6 and the delivery devices 1 are installed at a height at which a user can no longer easily reach the delivery connection 7 on the delivery device 1. The rail height 34 of the power distribution rail 6 here corresponds, for example, to more than 1.80 m above the floor of the parking space. Particularly preferably, the power distribution rail 6 is arranged just below the parking garage ceiling 34 (less than 0.30 m below the parking garage ceiling 34 or even less than 0.20 m below the parking garage ceiling 34). In this embodiment, not only is the delivery connection 7 on the delivery device 1 not easily accessible to a user. A display device 21 directly on the housing of the delivery device 1 would also be difficult for a user to read. For this reason, the delivery line 8 is initially routed from the delivery connection 7 to an (external) connector 36, to which a further section of the delivery line 8 can be connected.A user can then do this easily. The connecting plug 36 is preferably permanently installed on the rear wall 44 of the parking space. A display device 21 is preferably also arranged on the rear wall 44 at a height that is easily readable by a user, so that the user can easily read it.

[0082] Fig. 7shows in a schematic representation various details of a system around the described delivery device 1, with a focus on the data communication between the various components. Two delivery devices 1 can be seen which are connected to the power distribution rail 6. It is shown that the power distribution rail 6 can be composed of various pieces. As examples, straight pieces 29 and an angle piece 30 are shown here. Many different other types of power distribution rail pieces can exist with which an electrical supply system based on power distribution rails can be easily adapted to the respective spatial conditions. In the case of the upper delivery device 1 in Fig. 7The interior, consisting of the control unit, energy meter, and network interface 12, is also shown schematically, although these components are shown here only as examples. Many other components may be present in the dispensing device 1, which are described further above (for example, in connection with Fig. 4) are also explained in detail. Particular attention should be drawn here to the network interface 12 in the dispensing device 1, which enables the control unit 11 to be connected to a central data processing unit 13 via the network interface, the power distribution rail 6, a further network adapter 31, a router 32, and an internet connection 45. The central data processing unit 13 is, for example, a server with which a plurality of dispensing stations 1 can be centrally managed. A user can book a dispensing station 1 with the aim of obtaining electrical energy from the dispensing station 1 using a mobile terminal 33, which communicates with the central data processing unit 13 via a mobile radio connection 46. It should be noted that all of the network components shown here (mobile radio connection 46, internet connection 45, router 32, network adapter 31, etc.)) are only schematic and are intended to illustrate the basic functionality of the connection between the delivery device 1, the central data processing unit 13 and the mobile terminal 33.

[0083] Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 show two different, alternative designs of power distribution rails 6, with which the delivery devices described here can be combined. These power distribution rails 6 are alternatives to the design of a power distribution rail 6 according to the Fig. 1 and 2 . In order to deal with the Figs. 8 and 9 In order to be able to use the illustrated embodiments of power distribution rails 6, the described output devices 1 and in particular their couplings 4 must be adapted for coupling to the corresponding adapter ports 5 of these embodiments of power distribution rails 6.

[0084] In the Figs. 8 and 9It can first be seen that adapter ports 5 in these power distribution rails 6 are designed differently than in the power distribution rail 6 according to Fig. 2 . Fig. 8 shows a rectangular adapter port 5 which is compact in a longitudinal direction of the power distribution bar 6. Fig. 9 shows an adapter port 6, which is recessed in a recess 48 of the power distribution rail 6. This adapter port 5 is thus particularly well protected. The (electrical) functioning of the adapter port 5 according to the design variants of the Figs. 8 and 9 is ultimately identical to the functionality of the adapter port 5 in the version according to the Fig. 1 and 2 . The adapter ports 5 each allow access to the electrical conductors 15 in the power distribution rail 6 via plug receptacles 27 for individual power transmission elements of a correspondingly designed coupling on the output device. Both adapter ports 5 according to the Figs. 8 and 9can each be covered with a cover 23, which can be closed with a schematically shown latch 24. In the case of the power distribution rail according to the Fig. 1 and 2 It is intended that the delivery device can be coupled to undercuts on the power distribution rail using hooks or retaining clips. In contrast, the power distribution rails 6 are designed according to the Figs. 8 and 9 In each case, explicit points of engagement 47 are provided, which enable the engagement of a mechanical coupling mechanism (however designed) on the delivery device 1 in order to firmly connect the delivery device to the power distribution rail 6. A special feature of the embodiment according to Fig. 9 It is also shown that a network plug 49 is also provided on the adapter port 5, which enables a data connection from the output device to a data line (not shown here) arranged in the power distribution rail 6. List of reference symbols

[0085] 1 Discharge device 2 Electrical storage device 3 Motor vehicle 4 Coupling 5 Adapter port 6 Power distribution rail 7 Discharge connection 8 Discharge line 9 Housing 10 Energy meter 11 Control unit 12 Network interface 13 Data processing system 14 Power transmission elements 15 Conductor 16 Retaining clip 17 Hook 18 Undercut 19 Safety lock 20 Electrical switch 21 Display device 22 Charging station 23 Cover 24 Latch 25 Network connection 26 Heavy-duty conductor 27 Plug receptacles 28 Housing interior 29 Straight section 30 Elbow section 31 Network adapter 32 Router 33 Mobile device 34 Rail height 35 Parking garage ceiling 36 Connector 37 Conventional parking space 38 Electrified parking space 39 Cross-sectional area 40 Web 41 Belt sections 42Flange 43Data cable 44Rear panel 45Internet connection 46Mobile connection 47Point of attack 48Recess 49Network interface

Claims

1. Charging station (22) for charging an electrical storage (2) in a motor vehicle (1), comprising at least one output device (1) for delivering electrical energy to the electrical storage (2) of the motor vehicle (3) as well as a e power distribution busbar (6) for supplying the at least one output device (1) with electrical energy, wherein the at least one output device (1) has a coupling (4), via which the at least one output device (1) is connectable directly to an adapter port (5) of the power distribution busbar (6), wherein the adapter port (5) forms a lateral access point, at which the individual conductors (15) within the power distribution busbar (6) can be accessed electrically conductive, wherein the at least one output device (1) has an output connection (7) for an output line (8) for delivery of electrical energy to the motor vehicle (3), wherein the coupling (4) and the output connection (7) are arranged at or in a common housing (9), and wherein in the housing (9) are arranged an energy meter (10) and a control unit (11) with a network interface (12), which are configured to meter the energy, which is delivered to the motor vehicle (3) via the output connection (7), and to communicate energy delivery data via the network interface (12) to a data processing system (13), wherein the coupling (4) has at least two power transmission elements (14) electrically isolated from each other, which are configured to engage into individual openings of the adapter port (5) for each conductor (15) in the power distribution busbar (6) and to establish electrical connections to the conductors (15) in the power distribution busbar (6), wherein the output device (1) has at least one retaining clamp (16), which is configured to form a mechanically firm connection between the power distribution busbar (6) and the housing (9), in case the output device (1) is connected to the adapter port (5) of the power busbar (6), wherein the at least one retaining clamp (16) comprises at least one hook (17), which is configured to engage into an undercut (18) at the power distribution busbar (6), in order to hold the output device (1) at the power distribution busbar (6), wherein the output device (1) has a safety lock (19), via which the at least one retaining clamp (16) is lockable, in order to avoid a tool-free demounting of the output device (1) from the power distribution busbar (6).

2. Charging station (22) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (9) is designed for exclusive mounting to the power distribution busbar (6).

3. Charging station (22) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the network interface (12) is configured to send data via at least one power transmission element (14).

4. Charging station (22) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the output device (1) has at least one electrical switch (20) for controlling the delivery of electrical energy at the output connection (7).

5. Charging station (22) according to claim 4, wherein the control unit (11) is configured to control the electrical switch (20) depending on control data, which the control unit (11) receives via the network interface (12).

6. Charging station (22) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the output device (1) has a display device (21) for visual and / or acoustic display of information for a user of the output device (1).

7. Charging station (22) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein via the power distribution busbar (6) a plurality of output devices (1) is supplied.

8. Method for charging a motor vehicle (3) via a charging station (22) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps a) Activating via a mobile device (33) the output device (1) for delivering electrical energy, wherein an activating request is sent via the mobile device (33) to the data processing system (13) and the data processing system (13) triggers an activation of the output device (1), if the activating request was successful, b) Providing via the power distribution busbar (6) electrical energy to the output device (1), and c) Delivering electrical energy from the output device (1) to the motor vehicle.