Curb or paving stone charging device for charging an energy store of an electrically driven vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a curb or paving stone charging device (18) for charging an energy store (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32), having a curb or paving stone unit (34) in which an inner receiving space (38) is formed that is delimited by walls (43), an opening (54) being formed in one of the walls (43); a charging socket (24); and a pivoting part (58) to which the charging socket (24) is secured and which has a cover element (60) via which the opening (54) in the wall (43) can be closed, wherein the pivoting part (58) is connected to the wall (43) in which the opening (54) is formed via a rotary joint (56) such that by moving the pivoting part (58) out of the cover element (60) position which closes the opening (54), the charging socket (24) can be extended out of the receiving space (38). In order to simplify handling and increase fail-safety, the receiving space (38) is equipped with an electrically actuatable actuator (104) via which the pivoting part (58) can be rotated together with the charging socket (24).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Curb, paving stone or kerb charging device for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle

[0003] The invention relates to a curb, paving stone or kerb charging device for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle, comprising a curb, paving stone or kerb unit in which an inner receiving space is formed which is delimited by walls, wherein an opening is formed in one of the walls, a charging socket, a pivoting part to which the charging socket is fastened, and which has a cover element via which the opening in the wall can be closed, wherein the pivoting part is connected to one of the walls via a rotary joint, so that by moving the pivoting part from the position of the cover element in which the opening is closed, the charging socket can be extended from the receiving space.

[0004] Such curb, paving stone, or kerb charging devices are charging stations integrated into the curb, paving stone, or kerb, or curbs, paving stones, or kerbs that have at least one charging socket integrated into them and are connected to a central charging station. An electrical connection to an electrically powered vehicle can be established via the charging sockets to charge its energy storage device or battery. This applies in particular to purely electrically powered vehicles but also to hybrid vehicles. Chargeable vehicles can be passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, or electric bicycles.Due to the new legislation, the growing interest of the population in climate protection and the improved economic viability of electrified vehicles, it is to be expected that the proportion of electric vehicles will increase dramatically, especially in inner-city areas, so that the available charging infrastructure must be expanded significantly. This means that some existing parking spaces or sidewalks must be provided with appropriate charging options in order to ensure individual mobility in the future.

[0005] Known concepts for this include the use of streetlights, additional charging stations, or wall boxes on building walls. All of these concepts require additional space and cause disruption to pedestrians due to the charging cables required.

[0006] For this reason, charging systems have become known in which the charging devices or at least the charging sockets are integrated into the curb or the kerbstone or paving stones forming the sidewalk. In this context, it should be noted that, for the purposes of the invention, a paving stone, curbstone, or kerbstone does not necessarily have to comprise a stone element. This means that the paving stones, curbstones, or kerbstones can also be composed of different materials, such as plastic, in particular fiber-reinforced plastic, or metal, concrete, or plastics containing stones. Different parts made of different materials can also be assembled to form the paving, curbstone, or kerbstone unit.

[0007] Integrating the charging socket or the entire charging unit into the curb has the advantage of eliminating charging stations from blocking the sidewalk and thus spoiling the visual appeal. It also prevents charging cables from protruding across the sidewalk and creating tripping hazards for pedestrians. Instead, it requires no additional space, simply utilizing existing infrastructure. It also prevents damage to the charging infrastructure caused by vehicle accidents.

[0008] The charging ports should be easily accessible for initiating the charging process and also easy to install. Furthermore, damage to the charging ports must be avoided.

[0009] For example, French patent document FR 2 713 307 A1 discloses a container that is embedded in the ground and whose surface can serve as a walkway or driveway. This container has a hinged lid that, when folded in, forms a walking surface. When opened, it reveals a charging socket on its underside. When closed, the socket is located in a receiving space within the container. The lid is connected to a fixed part of the container's top via a swivel joint, allowing it to be manually opened. It is held in its open position by a gas spring.

[0010] A similar box is also known from GB 1 402 267 B, where the part swung out from the interior is held in its position by a switch after manual opening.

[0011] However, with the existing designs, it is impossible to prevent unauthorized use when used as part of a charging infrastructure in public spaces. Furthermore, these containers are uncomfortable for operators, as the user always comes into contact with dirt on the surfaces when opening them. Furthermore, the containers are not protected against the ingress of water or contaminants, so malfunction and blockage of the mechanism can be expected after a short period of use. There is also a risk of fingers or other limbs being trapped with these existing designs.

[0012] The challenge, therefore, is to provide a curb, paving stone, or kerb charging device for charging the energy storage unit of an electrically powered vehicle that significantly simplifies operation and reliably prevents injuries caused by entrapment and soiling of the operator. Furthermore, a high level of reliability must be ensured by, among other things, preventing the ingress of dirt and water both in the open and closed positions, and, if possible, in all intermediate positions.

[0013] This object is achieved by a curb, paving stone or kerb charging device for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle having the features of main claim 1.

[0014] A curb, paving stone, or kerb charging device according to the invention for charging an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle comprises a curb, paving stone, or kerb unit with a surface that forms a walking or driving surface when installed. This unit has an internal receiving space defined by walls that can be formed from several assembled individual parts and essentially close off the receiving space. In this context, "essential" means that openings can be formed in the walls that are closed off by other components or cover parts or serve as a drain. An opening is formed in one of the walls, which usually faces upwards and forms the walking or driving surface, but is accessible at least when the unit is installed.Furthermore, the curb, paving stone, or kerb charging device has a charging socket into which a plug for charging the vehicle can be inserted. The charging socket is attached to a pivoting part which has a cover element by means of which the opening in the wall can be closed. The pivoting part is connected to the wall in which the opening is formed via a pivot joint. By pivoting the pivoting part about the axis of rotation of the pivot joint from the position of the cover element closing the opening, the charging socket can be extended from the receiving space and becomes accessible to the user. To carry out the pivoting process, an electrically controllable actuator is arranged in the receiving space, via which the pivoting part with the charging socket can be rotated.In this context, an electrically controllable actuator refers to both an actuator with an electric motor and a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator system with corresponding electrically controllable valves and pumps. This electrical actuation of the pivoting part and the resulting pivoting of the charging socket enables external control, which initiates the process. This can be done, for example, by identifying a user via a card or their mobile phone. Accordingly, it is no longer necessary to manually extend the charging socket, reliably preventing hands from getting dirty or fingers from getting trapped. This creates the possibility of one-handed use with a high level of system comfort. Operating errors and unauthorized use are also prevented, thereby reducing malfunctions.

[0015] The electrically controlled actuator preferably comprises an electric motor with a gearbox. This electric actuator is particularly simple and robust in design. Compared to hydraulic or pneumatic systems, fewer components are required, significantly reducing space requirements. Furthermore, unlike a hydraulic system, oil changes are no longer required for maintenance. Higher efficiency is also achieved. Unlike pneumatic systems, air supply is not required.

[0016] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the curb, paving stone, or kerbstone unit has a base body in which the inner receiving space is formed, and a protective cover as a wall, which essentially closes the receiving space in the direction of a surface serving as a walking or driving surface and on which the opening is formed. The base body can be made of stone, a plastic such as fiber-reinforced plastic, concrete, as well as various steel parts or reinforcements. The protective cover, which can in particular be detachably attached to the base body, geodetically closes the receiving space in the base body when installed, thus forming a walking or driving surface. It can in particular be made of steel and is very strong. Such a curb, paving stone, or kerbstone unit is simple in construction and remains easily accessible for maintenance or repairs.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the pivot joint is designed as a hinge whose axis of rotation is located outside the circumference of the cover element and which is connected to the cover element. This creates an eccentric bearing outside the cover element, so that the cover element is completely rotated from one side during the pivoting process toward the protective cover or the wall to which the hinge is attached at its other end. This eccentricity also allows the charging socket to be raised significantly higher above the walking or driving surface, facilitating user access.

[0018] Preferably, the actuator's gearing converts the rotary motion of the electric motor into a translatory motion of a push-pull rod. With such a design, high forces can be applied to rotate the pivoting part and thus open the cover element. Such an actuator is also significantly easier to seal, since rotating parts of the actuator can be completely encapsulated.

[0019] The push-pull rod advantageously has a coupling element at its end, which is connected to the pivoting part. This coupling element can easily transmit the force of the actuator or push rod to the pivoting part to generate the pivoting action. This coupling element can be a simple pin attached to the push rod and mounted in a corresponding opening on the pivoting part.

[0020] Preferably, the gear mechanism is a spindle gear mechanism, with a spindle nut at least indirectly connected to a rotor of the electric motor, and the spindle rod serving as the push-pull rod, which is secured against rotation by the connection of the coupling member to the pivoting part. Such an actuator requires very little space and can be designed with a self-locking mechanism, so that no additional energy is required for holding.

[0021] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the actuator has a housing, to the end of which facing the coupling element for actuating the pivoting part, a first axial end of a bellows is attached, which surrounds the push and pull rod over an axial section and whose opposite axial end is attached to the push and pull rod. The bellows reliably seals the push and pull rod so that no dirt or liquids can penetrate into the interior of the actuator or between the spindle nut and the push and pull rod. This significantly increases the functional reliability and service life of the actuator. In a further embodiment, a second bellows is arranged at the end of the actuator remote from the coupling element, by means of which the actuator is sealed and which surrounds the push and pull rod over an axial section, at least when the cover element is closed.When the swivel part retracts into the receiving space, the push-pull rod partially extends out of the actuator housing at the end opposite the coupling link. To create a seal on this side between the actuator's interior and thus also between the spindle rod and the spindle nut, a bellows is also used on this side. However, unlike the first bellows, it is closed at the end remote from the actuator. This creates complete encapsulation of the actuator. Both bellows can be glued at the mounting points or secured using clamps or similar.

[0022] The actuator is advantageously mounted in the receiving space so that it can pivot about an axis that is parallel to the rotational axis of the swivel joint. This allows it to be rotated about the axis when the swivel part is extended and retracted, in order to compensate for the lateral offset of the spindle rod during the part-circular movement of the coupling element during opening and closing. This provides a simple way to use a translatory actuator for the movement process.

[0023] In a further embodiment, two bearing plates are attached to the protective cover, on which the actuator is pivotably mounted. This can be achieved via a simple pin axis on the actuator that extends into corresponding openings in the bearing plates. Attaching it to the protective cover allows for complete pre-assembly of the actuator with the pivoting part and charging socket, so that these can be attached to the base body together with the protective cover.

[0024] Additionally, the charging socket is located within a completely enclosed space, both during and outside of the charging process, at least with a section remote from its insertion opening, where an electrical connection to an electronic unit is formed. This means that only the insertion opening is accessible when open, allowing charging to proceed. However, the area where the internal electrical connection to the electronic unit is made is always protected from the ingress of liquids and solids, as it is located in a closed space. This also prevents these substances from penetrating the base body.

[0025] Preferably, the charging socket is attached to a socket receiving element of the pivoting part, which extends perpendicularly to the cover element in a first section, to which the charging socket is attached, at a section of the cover element remote from the pivot joint. Accordingly, the charging socket is pivoted vertically upward upon rotation of the support part, making it easily accessible. Furthermore, the socket receiving element can be designed as a straight plate to which the charging socket can be easily attached via a flange connection.

[0026] In a further or alternative embodiment of the invention, the socket receiving element has a section with a circular arc in cross-section, the distance of which from the pivot joint is constant, wherein this distance of the circular arc section from the pivot joint is selected such that, during the opening and closing process, the circular arc section is guided opposite an edge remote from the pivot joint that defines the opening in the wall. This circular arc-shaped boundary wall of the pivot part largely prevents the penetration of water or dirt, not only in the open and closed positions, but also during the entire movement of the pivot part, since there is only a very small gap between the defining edge and the pivot part, which enables movement with as little friction as possible. This prolongs the functionality of the loading device.It also prevents limbs and larger objects such as branches from getting caught.

[0027] According to the invention, the space in which the section of the charging socket remote from the insertion opening, where the electrical connection to the electronics unit is formed, is delimited by the pivoting part, which consists of the socket receiving element, the cover element, and two opposing side walls, as well as by the walls delimiting the receiving space, wherein the pivoting part essentially continuously closes the opening in the protective cover. Essentially means here that small gaps must remain between the circular arc-shaped section of the socket receiving element and the edge on the narrow side of the opening in the protective cover that is to be opened, as well as between the side walls and the edges of the long sides of the opening for movement, which gaps can, however, be sealed at least against the ingress of dirt, for example by means of a brush seal or a circumferential elastomer seal.However, these gaps are so small that any potential fluid penetration can be neglected, as only a low-friction movement capability is required. The electrical connection of the charging socket is therefore always protected from the ingress of dirt and fluids by the pivoting part, i.e., the side walls, the cover element, and the socket receptacle. The electronics unit located in the receptacle is also protected in this way, as no contaminants can penetrate the interior of the receptacle.

[0028] Preferably, a hinged socket cover is arranged on the first section of the socket receiving element, via which the circular arc-shaped section of the socket receiving element is extended to the cover element. This allows the charging socket itself to be attached to a flat plate, while the complete quarter circle is closed by the socket cover and the circular arc-shaped section of the socket receiving element, ensuring a good seal even at the beginning of the opening process. In addition, water penetration into the insertion area of ​​the charging socket during the opening process is prevented.

[0029] The side walls advantageously extend over a quarter circle, whereby the two side walls, the hinged socket cover, and the circular-arc section of the socket receiving element form a quarter cylinder closed on both base surfaces. This quarter cylinder, which is open only on the side facing downwards into the receiving space when opened, can thus provide the electrical connection to the charging socket, which is accordingly protected.

[0030] During the opening and closing process, the side walls are preferably guided opposite edges that delimit the opening perpendicular to the axis of rotation, thereby ensuring sufficient sealing of the receiving space while simultaneously allowing the pivoting part to move.

[0031] In another design, the coupling link is designed as a pin connected to the push and pull rod, which protrudes into corresponding receiving openings in the two side walls. Because the pin protrudes into the openings in the side walls of the pivoting part, it is possible to apply a tensile and compressive force exactly perpendicular to the pivoting part's axis of rotation, thus preventing tilting, and it also reliably secures the spindle axis against twisting. Alternatively, the connection can also be established via an axis that engages in corresponding openings on additional actuating arms.

[0032] It is also advantageous if an extension is formed at an end of the circular arc-shaped section of the socket receiving element remote from the first section and / or at an end of the side walls extending from this end to the cover element, with which extension the side walls and / or the circular arc-shaped section rest against the protective cover in the receiving space when opened. This ensures that the gaps required for movement between the boundary edges of the opening and the side walls and the socket receiving element are completely closed when the pivoting part is in the open position. If necessary, an additional seal can be placed on these extensions and on the circumference of the cover element or in the area of ​​the edges of the opening, which reliably prevents water from penetrating the receiving space during a prolonged charging process and thus with the pivoting part open.In addition, these seals can also be used as a stop to terminate the opening movement, which can simplify the control of the electric motor.

[0033] Preferably, a locking actuator is mounted in the receiving space, which secures the pivoting part in its position when fully retracted and fully extended. This locking actuator can, in particular, be electrically controlled and engage in a corresponding recess or under the pivoting part when extended. This prevents the pivoting part from being swung open by hand and damage caused by unintentional closing during the charging process, as the existing forces are absorbed accordingly. Such an actuator is advantageously arranged at the end of the pivoting part opposite the rotation axis.

[0034] Additionally, it is advantageous if the area of ​​the edges bordering the opening can be heated using a heating element. This ensures reliable pivoting even at temperatures below freezing, where the lid element could otherwise freeze solid near the edges. Such a heating element can be a heat pad or an electric heating wire, or it can be formed by pre-energizing the electric motor, provided the motor is energized in such a way that the stator windings generate heat without causing rotation. Particularly preferred is the integration of a heating wire into an elastomer seal in the area of ​​the edges, which serves to seal the pivoting part.

[0035] The curb, paving stone, or kerbstone loading device according to the invention offers a high level of user comfort and a long service life compared to known designs, as the penetration of liquids and dirt into the receiving space and thus into the electronics is reliably prevented. Incomplete opening or closing due to existing dirt can be virtually eliminated, thus reducing the susceptibility to errors. It is also significantly easier to operate and can be performed one-handed without worrying about dirtying your hands.

[0036] A non-limiting embodiment of a curb, paving stone or kerb charging device according to the invention for charging an energy storage device of an electrically driven vehicle is described below using the example of a curb charging device with reference to the figures.

[0037] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a road with a limiting curb loading device according to the invention in plan view.

[0038] Figure 2 shows a side view of a curb loading device according to the invention with the rear wall cut away.

[0039] Figure 3 shows a side view of the curb loading device according to the invention according to Figure 2 in a partially sectioned representation.

[0040] Figure 1 shows a walking or driving surface 10 in the form of a sidewalk, which is bordered on one side by a house wall 12 and on the other side by a curb 14 formed by several stone elements 16 and curb charging devices 18 according to the invention, forming a boundary to the street 19. On the side of the sidewalk facing away from the curb 14, there is an energy source 20 in the form of a power connection connected to the power grid. The energy source 20 is connected to the curb or kerb charging devices 18 via underground power supply cables 22. Charging sockets 24 are arranged on the curb charging devices 18, into which a plug 26 is inserted. The plug 26 is connected via a cable 28 to an energy storage device 30, in particular a battery of an electrically powered vehicle 32, so that this energy storage device 30 can be charged via the energy source 20.

[0041] The curb charging device 18 shown in Figures 2 and 3 consists of a curb unit 34, which has a base body 36, which is made, for example, of concrete or plastic and may have fiber reinforcements or armouring, and in which a receiving space 38 is formed, delimited by walls 43, into which at least the power supply cable 22 protrudes, and an electronic unit 39 for charging control is arranged. The receiving space 38 can, in particular, be essentially hollow cuboid-shaped and has one side open towards the walking or driving surface 10, which is closed by a protective cover 40 serving as a delimiting wall 43, the outward-facing surface 42 of which forms the outer part of the walking or driving surface 10.

[0042] In the present exemplary embodiment, the receiving space 38 is delimited by walls 43 of a receiving container 44 glued to the base body 36. On the side facing the protective cover 40, on which receiving container 44, lugs 46 are formed, in which an internal thread is formed, so that the protective cover 40 can be fastened to the receiving container 44 and thus to the base body 36 via screws 48. The protective cover 40 forms the upper wall 43 of the receiving space 38 and is made in particular of steel. The protective cover 40 closes the upwardly facing, open side of the receiving space 38 or of the receiving container 44, in particular with the interposition of a seal, which is not shown. In addition, the protective cover 40 also rests on an upper side of the base body 36 and, viewed in the longitudinal direction, also extends over the ends of the receiving space 38.

[0043] The protective cover 40 has a rounded impact wall 50, which covers an edge between the upper side of the base body 36 and a side surface of the base body 36 facing the street. The protective cover 40 limits the receiving space 38 upwards to the walking or driving surface 10.

[0044] The protective cover 40 has an opening 54, which is covered by a pivoting part 58 pivotable about a pivot joint 56 in the form of a hinge to the receiving space 38. This pivoting part 58 consists of a cover element 60, with which the pivoting part 58, in the closed state, rests on a circumferential edge 62, 64 of the protective cover 40 that delimits the opening 54, a socket receiving element 66, and two opposing side walls 68, one of which is shown open in Figure 2 and can also be fastened with screws in a removable manner, if possible. Accordingly, a cover element circumference 69 is slightly larger than the opening 54. The cover element 60 is mounted eccentrically, so that a rotation axis 86 of the cover element 60 is arranged outside the cover element circumference 69.

[0045] The socket receiving element 66 consists of a first section 70 in the form of a plate which, in the closed state in which the cover element 60 rests on the edges 62, 64 of the protective cover 40 that delimit the opening 54, extends perpendicularly from the cover element 60 into the receiving space 38. The charging socket 24 is fastened to this first section 70, with its section having an insertion opening 72 for inserting the plug 26 protruding through the plate. The charging socket 24 is fastened via a flange section 74 from the side opposite the insertion opening 72 to the first section 70 of the socket receiving element 66 by means of screws 76. However, fastening by gluing or riveting would also be conceivable.An electrical connection 80 is formed on a section 78 of the charging socket 24 remote from the insertion opening 72, with which the charging socket is connected to the electronics unit 39; the corresponding lines are not shown in the figures. The section 78, on which the electrical connection 80 is formed, is accordingly always located in a space 82 delimited by the side walls 68, the socket receiving element 66, and the cover element 60. The space 82 is delimited downwards in the direction of the receiving space 38 by the walls 43 of the receiving space 38 and is thus essentially closed.

[0046] The first section 70 of the socket receiving element 66 is followed by a second section 84 with a circular arc in cross-section. The center point of this circular section 84 is the rotation axis 86 of the rotary joint 56. The circular arc section 84 is also extended in a circular arc with the same center point by a socket cover 88, essentially as far as the cover element 60, which is hingedly attached to the first section 70 and, when closed, covers the insertion opening 72 of the charging socket 24. The outer radius of the resulting quarter circle corresponds approximately to the distance of the edge 62, which delimits the opening 54 on the side remote from the rotary joint 56, from the rotation axis 86 of the rotary joint 56, or is slightly smaller, so that an outer wall surface 90 of the socket receiving element 66 is located directly opposite the edge 62 in every position.

[0047] The two side walls 68 also have a corresponding quarter-circle shape and extend accordingly in a quarter circle from the cover element 60 to the end of the second section 84 of the socket receiving element 66, wherein one side wall 68 is arranged on one longitudinal side and the other side wall 68 is arranged on the opposite longitudinal side of the socket receiving element 66, wherein the longitudinal sides are to be understood as the sides extending perpendicular to the axis of rotation 86.The distance between the side walls 68 essentially corresponds to the distance between the two edges 64 defining the longitudinal sides of the opening 54, or is slightly smaller, so that the least possible frictional movement is possible, and only small gaps are present between the edges 62, 64 and the side walls 68 or the socket receiving element 66, which gaps can optionally be sealed by a flexible seal, such as a brush seal or an elastomer seal. Accordingly, the cover element 60, together with the side walls and the socket receiving element, forms a quarter cylinder that is open only to the receiving space 38.

[0048] On the inner sides of the side walls 68, a receiving opening 92 is formed, which are opposite one another and thus correspond to one another. The axial ends of a pin 96, serving as a coupling member 94, extend into these receiving openings 92 and is centrally mounted in an opening 98 at one end of a push-pull rod 102 designed as a spindle rod 100.

[0049] This spindle rod 100 is part of an electrically controllable actuator 104, which in the present embodiment comprises an electric motor 106 with a gear 108, which is designed as a spindle gear. A spindle section 110 with an external thread of the spindle rod 100 runs in a spindle nut 112, which is directly connected to the rotor 114 of the electric motor 106 or is manufactured integrally therewith. The electric motor 106 also has an electrical connection area 116, which is connected via cables (not shown) to the electronics unit 39, which is arranged in a separate electronics box 118 and can contain all parts for charging and actuator control or just a few electronic components. This electronics box 118 can also be omitted, and only the pivoting part 58 with the actuator 104 can be arranged in the receiving space 38.

[0050] The electric motor 106 and its gear unit 108 are arranged in a housing 120, which has openings 122 only at its axial ends, through which the spindle rod 100 protrudes depending on its position. To prevent moisture or dirt from penetrating the electric motor 106 or the gear unit 108, an annular projection 126 is formed on the first axial end 124 of the housing 120 facing the cover element 60, which projection encloses the opening 122. A first axial end 128 of a first bellows 130 is fitted onto this projection 126, the opposite end 132 of which firmly encloses the spindle rod 100. The sealing effect can be enhanced by a clamp, adhesive bonding, or an additional element interposed therebetween.When the spindle rod 100 is extended or retracted, this bellows 130 is stretched or compressed, but constantly seals the electric motor 106 and the gear 108 by reliably preventing the ingress of water or dirt via the opening 122.

[0051] At the axial end 134 of the housing 120 of the electric motor 106 remote from the coupling member 94, an annular projection 136 is similarly formed, onto which a first end 138 of a second bellows 140 is fitted, the opposite end 142 of which is closed. When the pivoting part 58 is closed, the spindle rod can be moved into the second bellows, which is stretched accordingly. In any state, the opening 122 at the second axial end 134 of the electric motor 106 is also reliably sealed.

[0052] Since the coupling member 94 is firmly connected to the pivoting part 58, the latter must also follow a partial circular path during the opening movement. To enable this, the actuator 104 is rotatably suspended. For this purpose, a pin 144 extends radially outward from its housing 120, parallel to the axis of rotation 86 of the pivot joint 56. These pins 144 project into bearing receptacles 146 of two bearing plates 148, which are fastened to the protective cover 40, so that the actuator 104 is indirectly mounted on the protective cover 40 for rotation about an axis 150. If a charging process is now to be carried out, the electric motor 106 is energized, which moves the spindle rod 100 upward. As a result, the pivoting part 58 is rotated about the axis of rotation 86 via the coupling member 94, so that the cover element 60 is lifted from the opening 54. The side walls slide along the edge 64 and the socket receiving element 66 slides along the edge 62 of the opening 54.In this process, the actuator 104 is rotated slightly about the axis 150. After passing through an angle of 90°, ends 152 of the side walls 68 and one end 154 of the socket receiving element 66 reach the edges surrounding the opening 54. On this straight side of the side walls 68 and the end of the socket receiving element 66 remote from the first section 70, outwardly facing extensions 156 are formed, which, in the fully extended state, rest against the edges 62, 64, so that further expansion of the pivoting part 58 is not possible and the opening 54 is completely sealed again.

[0053] In any state, there is thus a maximum of a small gap between the pivoting part 58 and the edges 62, 64 delimiting the opening 54, while in the end positions, the opening 54 is completely closed. This prevents the ingress of water and, above all, dirt into the receiving space 38. After the socket cover 88 has been folded back, the plug 26 can be inserted into the charging socket and the energy storage unit 30 of the vehicle 32 can be charged. In this state, no additional power supply to the actuator 104 is required due to the self-locking mechanism of the gear 108. However, it is advisable to provide a locking actuator, in particular an electrical one, at the end remote from the swivel joint to prevent unwanted extension and retraction. After the charging process is complete, the electric motor is rotated in the opposite direction until the cover element 60 closes the opening 54 again by returning the spindle rod 100.The activation can be initiated via a corresponding authentication system using a mobile phone or a chip card. Once extended, the charging socket is easily accessible for the user. Manual intervention for opening and closing is not required, thus preventing injuries from pinching or similar, as well as contamination from dirty charging sockets or lids that the user must touch. The charging device is nevertheless very robust, as malfunctions caused by the ingress of dirt or liquids are prevented.

[0054] It should be noted that the swivel joint can also be attached using appropriate holders inside the receiving space, but it must be aligned in a defined manner to the protective cover or additionally attached to it.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS Curbstone, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) with a curbstone, paving stone or curbstone unit (34) in which an inner receiving space (38) is formed, which is delimited by walls (43), wherein an opening (54) is formed in one of the walls (43), a charging socket (24), a pivoting part (58) to which the charging socket (24) is fastened, and which has a cover element (60) via which the opening (54) in the wall (43) can be closed, wherein the pivoting part (58) is connected via a pivot joint (56) to the wall (43) in which the opening (54) is formed, so that by moving the pivoting part (58) from the position of the cover element (60) closing the opening (54), the charging socket (24) can be moved out of the receiving space (38) is extendable, characterized in thatthat an electrically controllable actuator (104) is arranged in the receiving space (38), via which the pivoting part (58) with the charging socket (24) can be rotated. Curb, paving stone, or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrically controllable actuator (104) has an electric motor (106) with a gear (108). Curbstone, paving stone, or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to claim 1, characterized in that the curbstone, paving stone, or curbstone unit (34) has a base body (36) in which the inner receiving space (38) is formed, and a protective cover (40) as a wall (43), which essentially closes the receiving space (38) in the direction of a surface (42) serving as a walking or driving surface (10) and on which the opening (54) is formed. Curbstone, paving stone, or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotary joint (56) is designed as a hinge, the rotational axis (86) of which is arranged outside the cover element circumference (69) and which is connected to the cover element (60).Curbstone, paving stone, or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the gear (108) of the actuator (104) converts the rotary movement of the electric motor (106) into a translatory movement of a push and pull rod (102). Curbstone, paving stone, or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 5, characterized in that. the push-and-pull rod (102) has a coupling member (94) at its end, which is connected to the pivoting part (58). Curb, paving stone, or curb loading device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to claim 6, characterized in that the gear (108) is a spindle gear, wherein a spindle nut (112) is at least indirectly connected to a rotor (114) of the electric motor (106), and a spindle rod (100) serves as the push-and-pull rod (102), which is secured against rotation by the connection of the coupling member (94) to the pivoting part (58).Curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the actuator (104) has a housing (120), to the end (124) of which facing the coupling member (94) for actuating the pivoting part (58) a first axial end (128) of a bellows (130) is fastened, which surrounds the push and pull rod (102) over an axial section and whose opposite axial end (132) is fastened to the push and pull rod (102). Curbstone, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that a second bellows (140) is arranged at the end (134) of the actuator (104) remote from the coupling member (94), by means of which the actuator (104) is sealed and which supports the push and pull rod (102).at least in the closed state of the cover element (60) over an axial section. Curb, paving stone, or kerb charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that the actuator (104) is pivotably mounted in the receiving space (38) about an axis (150) which is arranged parallel to the axis of rotation (86) of the rotary joint (56). Curb, paving stone, or kerb charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that two bearing plates (148) are fastened to the protective cover (40), on which bearing plates the actuator (104) is pivotably mounted.Curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the charging socket (24), both during the charging process and outside the charging process, is arranged within a space (82) that is enclosed on all sides, at least with a section (78) remote from its insertion opening (72), on which an electrical connection (80) to an electronics unit (39) is formed. Curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims. characterized in that the charging socket (24) is fastened to a socket receiving element (66) of the pivoting part (58), which extends in a first section (70), to which the charging socket (24) is fastened, perpendicular to the cover element (60) at a section of the cover element (60) remote from the pivot joint (56). Curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to claim 13, characterized in that the socket receiving element (66) has a section (84) which is circularly arcuate in cross section and whose distance from the rotary joint (56) is constant, wherein this distance of the circularly arcuate section (84) from the rotary joint (56) is selected such that the circularly arcuate section (84) is guided during the opening and closing process opposite an edge (62) which is remote from the rotary joint (56) and delimits the opening (54) in the wall (43).Curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of claims 13 or 14, characterized in that the space (82) in which the section (78) of the charging socket (24) remote from the insertion opening (72), on which the electrical connection (80) to the electronics unit (39) is formed, is delimited by the pivoting part (58), which consists of the socket receiving element (66), the cover element (60), and two mutually opposite side walls (68), and by the walls (43) delimiting the receiving space (38), wherein the pivoting part (58). the opening (54) in the protective cover (40) is essentially continuously closed. Curb, paving stone, or curb charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to claim 15, characterized in that a hinged socket cover (88) is arranged on the first section (70) of the socket receiving element (66), via which the circular-arc-shaped section (84) of the socket receiving element (66) is extended to the cover element (60).Curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 15 or 16, characterized in that the side walls (68) extend over a quarter circle, wherein a quarter cylinder closed at both base surfaces is formed by the two side walls (68), the foldable socket cover (88), and the circular-arc-shaped section (84) of the socket receiving element (66). Curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, during the opening and closing process, the side walls (68) are guided opposite edges (64) delimiting the opening (54) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (86). Curbstone, paving stone or curbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that the coupling member (94) is designed as a pin (96) connected to the push and pull rod (102) and protruding into corresponding receiving openings (92) in the two side walls (68).Curbstone, paving stone or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically driven vehicle (32) according to one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that an extension (156) is formed at an end (154) of the circular-arc-shaped section (84) of the socket receiving element (66) remote from the first section (70) and / or at an end (152) of the side walls (68) extending from this end to the cover element (60), with which extension the side walls (68) and / or the circular-arc-shaped section (84) bear against the protective cover (40) in the open state in the receiving space (38).Curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a locking actuator is fastened in the receiving space (38), via which locking actuator the pivoting part (58) is fixed in its position in the fully retracted state and in the fully extended state. Curbstone, paving stone, or kerbstone charging device (18) for charging an energy storage device (30) of an electrically powered vehicle (32) according to one of claims 14 to 21, characterized in that. the area of ​​the edges (62; 64) delimiting the opening (54) can be heated by a heating element.

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