Docking station, charging system, computer program product and method

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a docking station for connecting a mobile charging control unit to a power grid. The mobile charging control unit, also referred to as a mobile charge-integrated control and protection device (IC-CPD), comprises a housing, a grid-side connection, and a load-side connection. The charging control unit is designed to provide alternating current for charging on the load side.

[0002] The charging control unit is a component of a mobile charging cable for controlling the charging process and charging batteries of electric vehicles. The mobile charging cable consists of the charging control unit, an electrical cable connected to the load-side connection of the charging control unit, and a vehicle coupling, for example, a three-phase vehicle connector for coupling to the electric vehicle. The grid-side connection is designed as a connector mechanically integrated into the housing of the charging control unit and features a communication interface.

[0003] Electric vehicles are generally well known. The proportion of electric vehicles on the road has been steadily increasing in recent years. Wallboxes are used to charge electric vehicles. These are connected to the vehicle via a charging cable without a charging control unit. These wallbox charging cables have either a three-phase fixed connection on the consumer side or a three-phase connector on the consumer side at their wallbox end and a vehicle coupling for coupling to the electric vehicle at their vehicle end. The latter charging cable, with the connector on the consumer side at the wallbox end and the vehicle coupling at the vehicle end, can be transported in the vehicle and connected to charging stations in the public charging infrastructure while on the move.

[0004] However, the public charging infrastructure often has too low a density of charging stations, meaning that other grid connection points, such as household sockets, must be used to charge an electric vehicle on the go. To connect the electric vehicle to such other grid connection points, an additional mobile charging cable is required, as described, for example, in DE 10 2019 121 108 B3. However, many electric vehicle users do not purchase such an additional mobile charging cable, preferring instead to charge the electric vehicle primarily at home using the permanently installed charging solution, in particular the wallbox. The radius of action of the electric vehicle around this wallbox, within which an electric vehicle is actually used regularly, is therefore comparatively small.

[0005] A mobile charging cable with a mobile charging control unit can be used stationary, but the charging control unit lies on the floor during use and is therefore a hazard and poorly protected. If the user uses the mobile charging cable primarily at home but also wants to be able to take it with them in their vehicle, the exposed plug, such as a CEE plug, is also visually disturbing. Furthermore, it is notoriously difficult to remove this familiar plug connection conveniently and easily. For stationary use, the known solutions always require an additional wall bracket in addition to the plug connection if the charging control unit is not to be left lying on the floor.When removing the charging control unit from the wall mount, several steps must be performed until the charging control unit is finally installed on the wall and ready for use or can be carried in the vehicle. First, the plug must be connected, then the charging control unit must be inserted into the wall mount, or the plug must be removed and the charging control unit removed from the wall mount.

[0006] The document DE 20 2021 104 997 U1 describes a mobile charging cable for controlling the charging of accumulators of electric vehicles, comprising a charging control unit having a housing, a grid-side connection and a consumer-side connection, wherein the charging control unit is designed to provide an alternating current for charging on the consumer side, a charging cable connected to the consumer-side connection of the charging control unit and comprising a three-phase vehicle coupling for coupling to the electric vehicle, wherein the grid-side connection is designed as a plug-in connector mechanically integrated into the housing and has a communication interface, characterized in that the communication interface has identification means designed: for identifying a grid connection device, in particular for distinguishing a grid connection cable and a grid connection station that is connected to the plug-in connector,and for identification to the mains connection device.

[0007] Document US 2018 0215280 A1 describes a charging control device and a control method. A charging control device comprises: a communication unit that performs wireless communication with at least one communication device including a vehicle; a charging plug that is electrically connected to a charging inlet provided in the vehicle; a locking unit disposed in the charging plug to perform or release a locking between the charging plug and the charging inlet;a control unit that checks whether the vehicle ID received from the communication unit is included in a pre-stored authentication information list in response to an electrical connection between the charging plug and the charging port and the charging inlet, and if the vehicle ID is included in the pre-stored authentication information list, determines whether the lock between the charging plug and the charging inlet should be released depending on the location of a previously authenticated portable device, and controls the lock unit according to the determination;

[0008] The document EP 3 453 559 A1 describes a charging cable, in particular for electrically charging an electric vehicle, comprising a charging line which, on the one hand, is detachably electrically connectable to a connection device with an energy storage device to be charged and, on the other hand, is electrically connected to an adapter interface which is detachably connectable to an adapter in a form-fitting manner, wherein the adapter is detachably electrically connectable to an energy supply device in order to transmit electrical energy from the energy supply device via the charging cable to the energy storage device to be charged.In order to achieve a particularly compact and robust charging cable, it is provided that the adapter interface has a communication device which enables wireless communication with the adapter having a corresponding communication device when the adapter is connected to the adapter interface, so that control signals between the energy supply device on the one hand and electronics of the charging cable and / or an energy storage device connected to the charging cable on the other hand can be transmitted wirelessly between the adapter and the adapter interface. Task

[0009] The invention is based on the object of providing an improved charging solution that enables the mobile charging of an electric vehicle both at home and on the move. invention

[0010] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a docking station according to claim 1, a charging system according to claim 11, and a computer program product according to claims 12 and 13. Particular embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0011] The inventive docking station for connecting a mobile line-integrated control and protection device (IC-CPD), hereinafter referred to as a charging control unit, to a power supply network comprises three modules. The modules are integrated in a preferably common housing. The first module in the housing comprises connection contacts for conductors of a power supply network. The power supply network is typically a low-voltage network, for example, a single-phase AC network with a nominal voltage of 230 V or a three-phase AC network with a nominal voltage of 230 / 400 V. All common types of electrical connections are suitable as connection contacts, for example, contact terminals or connectors or the like.

[0012] The second component is a connector electrically connected to the connection contacts. This connector is located in a housing wall, particularly the housing side wall, of the housing. The connector extends through this housing wall or side wall. As a permanently live component, the connector is usually designed as a socket. The connector is a coupling part and is complemented by a plug-compatible mating connector to form the electrical plug-in coupling. The mating connector is the mains-side connection of the charging control unit, equipped with plug contacts.

[0013] Finally, a third component is a locking element which, when the plug-in coupling is closed, secures the mating connector to the docking station connector. This locking element has two functional positions: the locking position described above, and an unlocking position in which the mating connector can be removed from the connector to open or release the plug-in coupling. Finally, a locking member is provided to lock the locking element in its locking position. In the preferably locked locking position of the locking element with the plug-in coupling closed, the charging control unit is connected both electrically and mechanically to the docking station housing. The charging control unit is thus mechanically mounted on the housing.

[0014] This makes it possible to mechanically secure the charging control unit to the housing using only the plug-in connector. If the housing is mounted on a building wall near the electric vehicle parking space, or on a garage wall or carport wall, the charging cable and charging control unit can simply be docked to the docking station and locked. In this docked position, the docking station and the charging control unit docked to the docking station form a wall-mounted charging system comparable to a wallbox.

[0015] The first assembly with the connection contacts is preferably configured so that both a single-phase AC line and a three-phase AC line can be connected. This way, the charging system formed by the docking station and the connected charging control unit has no disadvantages compared to a wallbox in terms of charging behavior or charging speed.

[0016] When the plug-in coupling is closed and locked, the charging cable with the charging control unit is used like a stationary charging cable. If the plug-in coupling is opened, it is also possible to separate the plug-in connector and the mating connector, so that the charging cable can be used as a mobile charging cable, in particular using an adapter cable suitable for the respective mains connection socket. The user of the invention can thus use the charging cable both as a stationary and as a mobile charging cable, eliminating the need to purchase the aforementioned additional mobile charging cable. The resulting cost savings are obvious. In addition, the user of the electric vehicle only has to get used to using a single charging cable type and does not have to switch back and forth between multiple systems when charging.

[0017] To improve the mechanical support of the charging control unit, one or more projections can be formed on the housing wall. These projections can also be designed as continuous strips. On the wall of the charging control unit opposite the housing wall, corresponding complementary grooves are formed, into which the projections or strips engage like a tongue and groove connection when the plug-in coupling is closed. The design of the projections and complementary grooves can also be reversed, so that the projections are designed accordingly on the charging control unit.

[0018] It is also advantageous to provide a contact tongue on the housing of the docking station that projects towards the charging control unit. This contact tongue is preferably designed such that it flanks the control unit housing of the charging control unit laterally when the plug connection is closed. The contact tongue has guide elements that project towards the charging control unit, for example mushroom-shaped projections, which engage in a corresponding receiving groove on the control unit housing of the charging control unit. This receiving groove forms a closed path guide for the charging control unit when the mating connector is inserted into the plug-in connector of the docking station and additionally supports the charging control unit on the docking station, thus making it easier to close the plug-in coupling. This guide also serves to absorb the forces introduced by the charging cable / vehicle cable, for example when pulled.The receiving groove can also be provided accordingly on the contact tongue and the complementary projecting guide elements on the control unit housing of the charging control unit.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment, bearing eyes penetrate the housing base of the docking station to accommodate fastening screws for wall mounting the housing. Furthermore, a grommet for the power supply cables is provided. Preferably, the housing walls protrude substantially vertically at the edges of the housing base. Likewise, the connector is preferably arranged in a housing wall and / or the contact tab is designed as an extension of the housing base.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment, a rotating ring is rotatably mounted on the outer casing of the connector. This rotating ring at least partially overlaps the outer casing of the mating connector when the plug-in coupling is closed. The rotating ring thus forms the locking element for the plug-in coupling. The locking mechanism enables a quickly established and released mechanical connection, for example, in the manner of a bayonet lock.

[0021] In one embodiment, a preferably sleeve-shaped bolt receptacle is formed on the rotating ring, into which a longitudinally displaceable locking element designed as a locking pin can engage. When the plug-in coupling is closed, the locking pin can be moved into the bolt receptacle to lock the rotating ring in its locking position. Other types of locking the rotating ring in its locking position are also conceivable in advantageous embodiments.

[0022] In a further advantageous embodiment, a drive, in particular an electric motor-driven spindle drive, a rack and pinion drive, a tie rod, or similar, is provided in the housing for the locking pin. The locking pin can thus be driven back and forth in the direction of insertion of the connector toward the rotating ring. Preferably, the electric motor has a control system with position detection for the locking pin. When the plug-in coupling is closed, the locking pin can be moved into the pin receptacle, for example, by an electric motor, thus eliminating the rotating ring's ability to rotate.

[0023] The electric motor's power supply can preferably be provided via the charging control unit. This means that the docking station has no electrical components that are directly connected to the power grid, which simplifies its design. In particular, a power supply unit for converting the voltage of the supply grid into the extra-low voltage typically required for the electric motor can be implemented on the charging control unit side, or the power supply unit commonly used there can be used for this purpose. This eliminates the need for additional components and also reduces the space required in the docking station. Furthermore, the certification process can be simplified, as all of the docking station's electronic components are located on the low-voltage side, eliminating the need for a power supply unit.

[0024] In other designs, a power supply unit may also be present in the docking station, thus ensuring independence from the design of the charging control unit.

[0025] Particularly preferably, a contact line is configured between the docking station and the charging control unit for communication between the charging control unit and the electric motor. This allows the charging cable or the charging control unit, for example, to instruct or control the electric motor to open or close the locking element, such as the locking pin. The control can be implemented directly as a voltage signal or via a communication protocol. Other types of communication are also conceivable; for example, wireless communication between the electric motor and the charging cable can take place as soon as the electric motor is supplied with voltage via the charging cable.

[0026] In other preferred embodiments, wireless communication is also conceivable regardless of the connection state between the docking station and the charging cable, for example if the docking station has its own power supply or at least an energy storage device for supplying energy to the electronic components of the docking station.

[0027] Should the electric motor fail due to a power outage or other reasons, an emergency release for the rotating ring is provided. Such an emergency release is particularly necessary in the event of a power outage, because the electric vehicle can no longer be charged via the docking station and must be temporarily charged at an external outlet until the cause of the power outage is resolved. Therefore, the charging cable with the charging control unit must be removed from the docking station to be used as a mobile charging cable.

[0028] The manual emergency drive for the locking pin consists of a predetermined breaking point in the housing wall, which is opposite the housing wall through which the connector passes. This predetermined breaking point allows a section of the housing wall to be broken out, creating an access opening for driving the locking pin. The access opening is preferably sealed watertight by a removable element such as a rubber plug.

[0029] A tension rod is mounted on the locking pin, which is driven by an adjusting screw. The adjusting screw is simply screwed in, causing the tension rod to pull the locking pin out of its locked position in the pin receptacle in the rotating ring. The rotating ring can then be manually unlocked, and the charging cable with the charging control unit can be removed from the docking station.

[0030] In a further advantageous embodiment, a pivoting cover flap is cut out of the contact tongue. This pivoting cover flap serves to cover the socket contacts of the connector when the mating connector is removed, when the charging cable is used as a mobile charging cable, i.e., when the docking station is deactivated. It is particularly advantageous if the unlocking element, i.e., the rotating ring, also acts as the drive element for the cover flap.

[0031] The charging system according to the invention consists of the docking station described above on the one hand and a charging cable connected to the connector of the docking station with the mating connector of its charging control unit on the other hand.

[0032] The mobile charging cable designed according to the German utility model with the file number DE 20 2021 104 997.9, which is traceable back to the applicant, comprises the charging control unit, which has a control unit housing, the mains-side mating connector, and a consumer-side connection. The charging control unit is designed to provide an alternating current for charging on the consumer side. Furthermore, the mobile charging cable comprises the cable line, which is connected to the consumer-side connection of the charging control unit and has a three-phase vehicle coupling for coupling to the electric vehicle. The mains-side mating connector, which is mechanically integrated into the control unit housing, has a communication interface. The communication interface has identification means that identify a mains connection device, in particular for distinguishing a 240 V or240 / 400 V AC network and a high-performance network of a public charging station connected to the connector. Furthermore, the communication interface identifies the mobile charging cable to the grid connection device.

[0033] As already mentioned, the mobile charging cable can be carried on the go and used independently of a stationary charging device, such as a charging station. It enables an electric vehicle to be connected to various grid connection stations or grid connection cables, thus offering the user of an electric vehicle the option of charging the electric vehicle independently of the public charging infrastructure. For this purpose, the vehicle coupling of the mobile charging cable is connected to the electric vehicle, and the mechanically integrated connector is connected to a grid connection station or, via a grid connection cable, to an electrical supply network. Because the connector has a communication interface with identification means, it is possible for the mobile charging cable to identify a grid connection device and also itself to the grid connection device.The communication interface with identification means enables, in particular, the use of the mobile charging cable with different mains connection devices. Knowledge of the connected mains connection device and / or the mobile charging cable used can preferably be used to regulate the charging current used to charge the electric vehicle, e.g., by setting a charging current limit. Preferably, the mobile charging cable and, in particular, the charging control unit contains the electronic components necessary for charging a rechargeable battery of an electric vehicle with alternating current. In particular, the mobile charging cable enables Mode 2 charging, and the charging control unit preferably assumes the control and protection functions necessary for charging, such as limiting the charging current and ensuring the continuity of the protective earthing to the electric vehicle.The charging control unit can be designed in particular in the form of a so-called in-cable control box.

[0034] Furthermore, a computer program product is proposed, in particular an application for a smartphone that can be downloaded from an Internet-based digital distribution platform for application software, such as an app store, for configuring a mobile charging cable according to the present invention or a preferred embodiment thereof and / or a docking station according to the present invention or a preferred embodiment thereof. The computer program product comprises a charging profile unit that is designed to generate at least one charging profile for charging control of an electric vehicle based on user inputs, and an update unit that is designed to transmit the charging profile to the mobile charging cable and / or the docking station. For example, the computer program product can provide a data connection to an external data processing device or a server, e.g.a cloud server, and perform an update, in particular to update a loaded charging profile. Charging control updates can also be downloaded from an external data processing device or a server, e.g., a cloud server, and the charging control implemented in the docking station can be updated accordingly. An update for the charging control of a charging control unit of a mobile charging cable can also be downloaded to update the charging control implemented in the charging control unit.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, the computer program product comprises a locking control component configured to lock and / or release the locking element in its locking position, in particular to control the drive of the locking member, based on a user input to the computer program product. The user, for example, on a smartphone, can thus control the locking between the charging control unit and the docking station, so that no user interaction with the docking station is necessary. For this purpose, the computer program product can communicate either directly with the docking station or indirectly via the charging control unit and, for example, control the electronics of the docking station.

[0036] Finally, a method for activating a charging process of a charging device is proposed. The charging device can be designed as desired and can, in particular, comprise a wall box, a charging cable, a docking station according to the invention, or a charging system according to the invention. The method first comprises the step of identifying a charging device that is within range of a radio communication means, in particular a Bluetooth transceiver, of a device, in particular a smartphone. The method, which is also referred to as "keyless charging," can be carried out, for example, by an app installed on a smartphone. In this case, charging devices located in the vicinity of the smartphone can be scanned; for example, Bluetooth or other radio signals can be received and evaluated for this purpose.

[0037] One or more charging devices can be identified, for example if there are several charging devices in close proximity to each other in a parking space.

[0038] The method further comprises determining a distance between the device and the charging device, in particular using the signal strength of the radio communication signal received by the charging device. Other methods of determining the distance are also conceivable. The distance detection can be performed by the device itself, for example, the smartphone, or by the charging device.

[0039] Finally, the method includes enabling the charging process of the charging device when the determined distance falls below a proximity threshold. This ensures that the vehicle to be charged, and thus the user carrying the device, is actually at the charging device to connect the charging cable and charge the vehicle. In other words, unintentional activation of the charging process can be made more difficult.

[0040] Preferably, the method further includes the step of selecting one of several charging devices identified within the range as the charging device to be enabled, wherein the selecting step comprises determining the charging device closest to the device. If there is therefore more than one charging device in the vicinity of the device, such that signals from several charging devices are received by the device, the method must select one of the identifiable charging devices for which the charging process is to be enabled. The challenge here is to identify the charging device to which the user has actually connected or intends to connect their vehicle for charging. According to the invention, the charging device that is closest to the device is selected for this purpose.As with the distance determination, the selection can be performed by the charging device itself or by the device. If the selection is performed by the charging device, communication is preferably established between the charging devices, by means of which the charging devices exchange or synchronize with each other at the respective distance from the device.

[0041] The invention is explained in further detail using an exemplary embodiment. The figures show: Fig. 1 schematically shows a charging cable comprising a mobile charging cable and a power connection station, Fig. 2 a perspective view of a docking station and Fig. 3 a plan view of an opened docking station according to Fig. 2 .

[0042] Identical and structurally identical parts are provided with identical reference numbers. Some figures contain simplified or schematic representations. Different views of identical parts may be scaled differently.

[0043] Fig. 1 shows a charging system 10 comprising a docking station 30 and a mobile charging cable 3. The mobile charging cable 3 comprises a charging control unit 12, which has a control unit housing 14, a network-side connection 16 designed as a mating connector, and a load-side connection 18. The charging control unit 12 can, in particular, be an in-cable control box and is designed to provide an alternating current for charging on the load side.

[0044] The mobile charging cable 3 further comprises an electrical cable 20, which is permanently connected to the consumer-side connection 18 of the charging control unit 12 and comprises a three-phase vehicle coupling 22 for coupling to an electric vehicle 1. The vehicle coupling 22 is, in particular, a Type 2 charging plug and is permanently connected to the cable 20. The vehicle coupling 22 is connected to an electric vehicle 1 that is not part of the charging system 10.

[0045] The network-side mating connector 16 comprises a communication interface with identification means (not shown). The identification means serve, on the one hand, to identify the docking station 30 in stationary operation or a mobile network connection adapter 2 in mobile operation, to which the mating connector 16 is connected during charging, and, on the other hand, to enable the mobile charging cable 3 to be identified by the docking station 30 or the mobile network connection adapter 2. For this purpose, the identification means are designed, in particular, to query the identity of the docking station 30 or the network connection adapter 2 and to provide the identity of the mobile charging cable 3 to the docking station 30 or the network connection adapter 2. The identity can, for example, be an identifier stored in the charging control device 12 or in the docking station 30 or the network connection adapter 2, which uniquely identifies the docking station 30 or the network connection adapter 2.the power adapter 2 or the mobile charging cable 3.

[0046] The docking station 30 is used to connect the mobile charging cable 3 for controlling the charging of a battery of the electric vehicle 1. The docking station 30 is permanently and firmly connected to an electrical supply network, in particular the 230 V or 230 / 400 V low-voltage network.

[0047] The docking station 30 further comprises a connector 24 for connecting to the mobile charging cable 3. The plug-in coupling formed by the connector 24 of the docking station 30 and the connector 16 of the mobile charging cable 3 enables a mechanical and electrical connection of the charging control unit 12 of the mobile charging cable 3 to the stationary docking station 30.

[0048] The connector 24 of the docking station 30 also has a communication interface with identification means (not shown) that allow the connected mobile charging cable 3 to be identified and also that the docking station 30 is identified by the mobile charging cable 3.

[0049] In contrast to known mobile charging solutions that are connected to a power supply using a suitable adapter, the charging system 10 is a charging solution in which a stationary unit (the docking station 30) is permanently wired to the power grid, and a mobile charging unit (the mobile charging cable 3) can be connected to and uncoupled from the stationary unit using a plug connection.

[0050] The charging system 10 offers advantages such as the convenience and functionality of a stationary unit and allows a user to remove a mobile charging unit (the mobile charging cable 3) from the stationary unit. The charging system 10 can be used as a purely stationary charging solution like a conventional wallbox. However, the charging system 10 can also be used as a purely mobile charging solution by separating the mobile charging cable 3 from the docking station 30 and carrying it as a standalone unit. A user can thus benefit from a mobile charging option with just one charging solution without incurring double investment costs and without having to forego the advantages of a stationary unit in terms of functionality.

[0051] If the charging system 10 is to be used as a mobile charging solution, i.e., if the mobile charging cable 3 is used independently of the docking station 30, the mobile charging cable 3 can be connected to a power cable (not shown) instead of the power connection adapter 2 in order to connect it to an electrical supply network or a charging station or wall box. For this purpose, the power connection cable has a plug connector at one end for connecting to the mating connector 16, and a plug at the other end for connecting to a power outlet, in particular a Schuko outlet.

[0052] Both the plug-in coupling between the plug-in connector 24 of the docking station 30 and the mating plug-in connector 16 of the mobile charging cable 3 and the plug-in connection between the plug-in connector 16 of the mobile charging cable 3 and the plug-in connector 24 of a power cable or the power adapter 2 can be secured by an anti-theft device, for example the lockable rotating ring shown below, but also a lockable lock or the like.

[0053] The docking station 30 has a housing 32. The mating connector 24 is arranged in the housing front wall 34. Furthermore, the housing front wall 34 carries a projection 36 configured as a continuous strip. The projection 36 can form a tongue-and-groove connection with a complementary groove on the control unit housing 14 of the charging control unit 12.

[0054] Preferably, the housing 32 has a housing tray which can be screwed to a wall arranged behind it, and a housing cover placed on the housing tray.

[0055] A contact tab 38 protrudes from the housing front wall 34. The contact tab 38 carries two mushroom-shaped guide elements 40 on its contact surface for the control unit housing 14 of the charging control unit 12. Furthermore, a pivoting cover flap 42 is cut out of the contact tab 38. The pivoting cover flap 42 serves to cover the socket contacts of the connector 24 when the mating connector 16 is removed when the charging cable 3 is used as a mobile charging cable 3, i.e., when the docking station 30 is deactivated.

[0056] Finally, a rotating ring 44 with a handle 46 is adapted to the connector 24. With the handle, the rotating ring 44 can be rotated between a Fig. 3 locking position shown and one in Fig. 2The locking position shown in the figure can be turned back and forth. Fig. 3 the rotating ring 44 locks the plug-in coupling formed by the plug-in connector 24 and the mating plug-in connector 16 plugged into the plug-in connector 24 in the manner of a bayonet lock.

[0057] Several connection contacts 48 for connecting the docking station 30 to the power grid are mounted in the housing 32. The conductors of the connecting cables are inserted into the housing through a grommet 50 that penetrates a wall of the housing 32. The housing wall is also penetrated by bearing eyes 52 for receiving fastening screws for wall mounting the housing 32.

[0058] Finally, an electric motor 54 is arranged in the housing 32. The electric motor 54 drives a linearly movable locking pin 56.

[0059] The locking pin 56 can thus be driven by the electric motor 54 and moved back and forth in the plug-in direction 60 of the connector 24 toward the rotating ring 44. When the plug-in coupling is closed, the locking pin 56 is moved into a pin receptacle formed in the rotating ring, thus preventing the rotating ring 44 from rotating. The electric motor 54 is powered via the charging cable 3.

[0060] Should the electric motor 54 fail due to a power failure or for other reasons, an emergency release is provided for the rotating ring 44. The emergency release initially consists of a predetermined breaking point 64 in the housing wall, which is opposite the housing wall through which the plug connector 24 passes. The predetermined breaking point 64 makes it possible to break out a portion of the housing wall, thereby opening an access opening for driving the locking bolt. A tension rod 66 is mounted on the locking bolt 56 and can be driven via an adjusting screw 68. The adjusting screw 68 is simply screwed into the tension rod 66, whereby the tension rod 66 pulls the locking bolt 56, together with the electric motor 54, out of its locked position in the bolt receptacle in the rotating ring 44 against the plug-in direction 60. The rotating ring 44 can then be manually unlocked, and the charging cable 3 with the charging control unit 12 can be removed from the docking station 30.

[0061] Further preferred variants and further training are described below as examples of implementation.

[0062] In one embodiment, the locking between the docking station 30 and the charging control unit 12 is controlled via a user input in an app that is installed, for example, on a smartphone.

[0063] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is designed in such a way that it completely takes over the mechanical fastening of the charging control unit 12 or the IC-CPD to the docking station 30.

[0064] While the power supply to the electronic components of the docking station 30 in the illustrated embodiment is via the charging control unit 12 and the connector 24, in other embodiments, the power supply and control of the actuator(s) can be provided directly from the docking station 30. This also enables communication with the docking station 30 directly and independently of a connection to a charging control unit 12.

[0065] As an example of a manual emergency release, the tie rod 66, which can be driven with the adjusting screw 68, is described. Other types of emergency release in the event of a motor or transmission failure are also conceivable.

[0066] In a further development, a mechanical lock and / or a pull magnet can be provided for locking the rotating ring 44 or the locking bolt 56.

[0067] As an anti-theft device, a locking system can be provided in a further development. For this purpose, the user has an electronic key, either as a separate device or as an electronic application on the smartphone, which transmits radio signals to its surroundings. Unlocking is only permitted if the docking station 30 is within the vicinity of the electronic key. For example, automatic locking can also be implemented if the electronic key is not within range of the docking station 30.

[0068] In further developments, unlocking the anti-theft device is enabled by a fingerprint sensor or RFID reader located on the docking station 30. The user can then unlock the device by scanning the fingerprint or a suitable RFID transponder.

[0069] The position of the locking pin can be detected in many ways. For example, the position detection can be achieved using a light barrier, a Hall sensor, reed contacts, a slide switch, or similar suitable means.

[0070] The locking design was described as a bayonet in connection with the rotating ring 44. Other locking types are also advantageous. In some embodiments, the locking is implemented via a slider or folding lever.

[0071] In some embodiments, a slider with a bayonet for actuation can be coupled with a rack and pinion geometry. This enables reliable locking.

[0072] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is operated entirely electrically instead of the manually operated rotary ring 44 shown, and is inaccessible from the outside. This makes the locking mechanism theft-proof and can simultaneously perform the locking function.

[0073] In further developments, other locking kinematics are implemented. Preferably, a lever mechanism can replace the locking pin 56 described as an example.

[0074] In further developments, a screw connection between the charging cable 3, i.e., the IC-CPD, and the docking station 30 can be formed parallel to the connector 24. The IC-CPD can, in particular, be electromechanically screwed onto the docking station 30 via a thread, or the docking station 30 can be screwed onto the IC-CPD. For this purpose, an electrically driven thread can be provided on the IC-CPD or the docking station 30, which can screw into a mating thread on the docking station 30 or IC-CPD. The plug-in connection is thereby established simultaneously.

[0075] Finally, in some embodiments, the cover mechanism for the plug connection of the docking station 30 is also actuated via the locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, a mechanical coupling between the cover flap 42 and the rotating ring 44 can be provided for this purpose, so that rotation of the rotating ring 42 occurs simultaneously with actuation of the cover flap 42 away from or toward the plug connector 24.

[0076] In further developments, the "Keyless Charge"-type system can also enable other functions in addition to or as an alternative to locking or unlocking. For example, the smartphone or an additional device that transmits radio signals to its surroundings can enable the charging process. This eliminates the need to manually enable the charging process either at the docking station 30 or in an app installed on the smartphone. In the following, we will briefly refer to "Keyless Charge," whereby all alternative implementations, including apps installed on the smartphone and dedicated additional devices, are understood and explicitly encompassed by the term "Keyless Charge."

[0077] In a practical application, a user can then connect the charging cable 3 in the docking station 30 and, when the charging cable 3 is or will be connected to the electric vehicle, the charging is enabled automatically via the authentication of the system in the "Keyless Charge" type, for example via Bluetooth or another radio communication standard.

[0078] After the charging process is complete, the charging socket is released, preferably via a vehicle app on the smartphone or manually on the electric vehicle. The charging cable 3 can then be stored near the docking station 30.

[0079] It is particularly advantageous if the "Keyless Charge" function enables contactless activation of the charging process with any charging device, such as the charging cable 3 or the docking station 30 or another wallbox.

[0080] The "Keyless Charge" function preferably enables manual or automatic selection of the corresponding charging device for which the charging process is to be enabled. It is particularly preferred that the smartphone or device implementing the "Keyless Charge" function wirelessly selects only known chargers, i.e., those charging devices to which the smartphone or device implementing the "Keyless Charge" function has access authorization. For this purpose, the "Keyless Charge" function can, for example, manage a list of known chargers on the device itself or in a cloud storage, to which chargers can also be added or removed.

[0081] In particular, the "Keyless Charge" function can detect that the device, in particular the smartphone, on which the "Keyless Charge" function is executed, is at a distance from the charging device that is below a proximity threshold. Thus, if, for example, the smartphone is close enough to the charging device, for example, the charging cable 3 or the docking station 30, and the proximity threshold is exceeded, the charging process can be enabled.

[0082] For example, the "Keyless Charge" function can store a list of known charging stations from which the desired charging station can be manually selected. This can be useful, for example, in parking areas with several different charging stations when the vehicle is connected to one of the several available charging stations. The charging stations can be identified in the "Keyless Charge" function using any identifier, such as a unique name and / or number.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, the "Keyless Charge" function can detect that multiple charging devices are within range, for example, within Bluetooth transmission range or within range of another suitable radio communication technology. In this case, the "Keyless Charge" function can determine the distance between the respective charging devices based on the received data and then select the nearest of the multiple charging devices as the charging device to be activated. The distance between the respective charging devices and the device executing the "Keyless Charge" function can be determined, for example, based on the signal strength of the received radio signals. Other variants for determining the distance are also possible.

[0084] In this described embodiment, the device implementing the "Keyless Charge" function is responsible for selecting the associated charging device for which the charging process is to be enabled. Alternatively or additionally, the associated charging device itself can also identify itself as "selected." For this purpose, the charging device can determine a distance from the device implementing the "Keyless Charge" function, for example, also via a signal strength. The determined distance can then be communicated to surrounding charging devices, after which the charging device that is closest to the device implementing the "Keyless Charge" function enables the charging process. List of reference symbols

[0085] 1 Electric vehicle 2 Mains connection adapter 3 Mobile charging cable 5 Mains connection 10 Charging system 12 Charging control unit 14 Control unit housing 16 Mains connection / mating connector 18 Consumer connection 20 Charging cable 22 Vehicle coupling 24 Connector 30 Docking station 32 Housing 34 Housing front wall 36 Projection 38 Contact tab 40 Guide element 42 Cover flap 44 Rotating ring 46 Handle 48 Connection contacts 50 Feed-through grommet 52 Bearing eye 54 Electric motor 56 Locking bolt 60 Plug-in direction 64 Predetermined breaking point 66 Tie rod 68 Adjusting screw

Claims

1. A docking station (30) for connecting a charging control unit (12) to a power supply network, comprising a housing (32) enclosing the assemblies of the docking station (30) with connection contacts (48) for conductors of the power supply network arranged in the housing (32) as a first assembly, characterized by a plug connector (24) arranged in a housing wall and passing through the housing wall as a coupling part of an electrical plug coupling formed with a mating connector (16) as a second assembly, further characterized by a locking element that fixes the mating connector (16) to the plug connector (24) when the plug coupling is closed, which can be moved back and forth between a locking position and an unlocking position, such that the charging control unit (12) is both electrically connected and mechanically mounted on the connector when the plug coupling is closed.

2. The docking station (30) according to claim 1, characterized by a locking member for locking the locking element in its locking position as a third assembly.

3. The docking station (30) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by at least one projection (36) protruding from the housing wall penetrated by the plug connector (24) in the direction of the charging control unit (12) as a spring for forming a tongue and groove connection with a groove formed on the wall of the charging control unit (12) opposite the housing wall when the plug coupling is closed.

4. The docking station (30) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by a contact tongue (38) protruding from the housing (32) in the direction of the charging control unit (12) and flanking the charging control unit (12), with guide elements (40) which, together with corresponding guide elements on the side of the charging control unit (12), form a guide, in particular a linear guide, for coupling with the plug connector (24).

5. The docking station (30) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by a housing base with one or more bearing eyes (52) passing through the housing base for receiving fastening screws for mounting the housing (32) on a building wall and with at least one feed-through grommet (50) for a supply cable of the power supply network, with housing walls arranged at the edges of the housing base, surrounding the housing base and preferably protruding vertically from the housing base, with the plug connector (24) in one housing wall and with the contact tongue (38) as an extension of the housing base.

6. The docking station (30) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by a rotating ring (44) mounted rotatably on the outer casing of the plug connector (24) and, when the plug coupling is closed, at least partially overlapping the outer casing of the mating connector (16) as a locking element with a bolt receptacle and a locking bolt (56) mounted in the housing so that it can be moved longitudinally as a locking element, such that when the plug coupling is closed, the locking bolt (56) can be moved into the bolt receptacle to lock the rotary ring (44) in its locking position.

7. The docking station (30) according to claim 6 characterized by a drive, preferably a spindle drive driven by an electric motor, for the locking bolt (56), preferably with a control for the electric motor (54) with position detection.

8. The docking station (30) according to claim 6, characterized by a spindle drive driven by an electric motor as a drive for the locking bolt (50), preferably with a control for the electric motor (54) with position detection, wherein the electric motor (54) can be coupled to the charging control unit (12) via the plug connector (24) for power supply and / or data communication.

9. The docking station (30) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by a manual emergency drive for the locking bolt (56) with an adjusting screw (68) as drive element and with a wall section that can be broken out by means of a predetermined breaking point (64) from the housing wall opposite the housing wall penetrated by the plug connector (24) as access to the emergency drive, in particular to the adjusting screw (68).

10. The docking station (30) according to one of claims 1 to 9 characterized by a cover flap (42) preferably broken out of the contact tongue (38) and pivotably mounted on the contact tongue (38) to coverthe contact openings of the plug connector (24), which is preferably driven by the locking element.

11. A charging system (10) with a docking station (30) according to one of claims 1 to 10 and with a charging cable (3) with a charging control unit (12) and with a mating connector (16), which is plugged into the plug connector (24) of the docking station (30) to form a closed plug coupling, and with an electrical cable line (20) connected to the charging control unit (12) via a consumer-side connection (18), which has a three-phase vehicle coupling at its end facing away from the charging control unit (12) for coupling to an electric vehicle (1).