System for charging, cooling and heating rechargeable batteries

Abstract

The invention relates to a system having at least one first receiving device (2a) for receiving at least one first rechargeable battery (4a), wherein the at least first rechargeable battery contains a temperature sensor (7) for detecting at least one temperature value of the rechargeable battery, wherein the at least first receiving device contains a charging unit (13) for charging the rechargeable battery with electrical energy, a cooling unit (14) for cooling the rechargeable battery, and a heating unit (15) for heating the rechargeable battery.

Description

[0001] System for charging, cooling and heating batteries

[0002] The present invention relates to a system having at least one first receiving device for receiving at least one first accumulator, wherein the at least first accumulator contains a temperature sensor for detecting at least one temperature value of the accumulator.

[0003] Accumulators (also called batteries) as power supplies for machine tools are widely known in the art. These accumulators typically contain a number of energy storage cells (also called battery cells) that are designed and used to absorb, store, and release electrical energy. The absorption of electrical energy into the energy storage cells can also be referred to as charging. The release of electrical energy from the energy storage cells can also be referred to as discharging.

[0004] To charge or recharge with electrical energy, the battery is usually connected to a charging device (also called a charger). The charging device supplies electrical energy to the individual energy storage cells of the battery according to a predetermined charging setting (also called charging mode) with fixed parameters for the actual charging process.

[0005] To achieve near-optimal charging of a battery with electrical energy and near-optimal discharging of the battery (i.e., the re-release of the energy stored in the battery to, for example, a machine tool), the battery parameters should be between minimum and maximum thresholds. Operating a battery, i.e., charging and discharging, outside of these thresholds can lead to significantly longer charging times, lower capacity, and / or a lower discharge current.

[0006] Maintaining the battery parameters within the ideal range or between the threshold values ​​is difficult, especially when the batteries are used outdoors and in extreme weather conditions.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to solve the problem described above. This object is also achieved by the subject matter of claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the corresponding subclaims.

[0008] The object is achieved in particular by a system having at least one first receiving device for receiving at least one first accumulator, wherein the at least first accumulator contains a temperature sensor for detecting at least one temperature value of the accumulator.

[0009] According to the invention, the at least first receiving device contains a charging device for charging the accumulator with electrical energy, a cooling device for cooling the accumulator and a heating device for heating the accumulator.

[0010] To store electrical energy, the accumulator contains at least one energy storage cell. It should be noted that the temperature sensor of the accumulator is designed, in particular but not exclusively, to detect the temperature of the at least one energy storage cell. In an embodiment in which the accumulator contains a plurality of energy storage cells, the temperature sensor is designed and positioned such that it detects at least the temperature of the energy storage cell located furthest from an outer wall of the accumulator.

[0011] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it may be possible to include a diagnostic device for determining at least one parameter of the accumulator. The accumulator parameters may be the electrical voltage, the capacitance, the temperature, the electrical resistance, and the like.

[0012] According to an advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for the at least first receiving device to include at least one display device for outputting at least one enable signal or one disable signal. The display device can be configured to output acoustic and / or visual signals. A user of the system can be provided with information about the status of the system and / or a battery using the display device.

[0013] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for the receiving device to be designed as a chamber, wherein the chamber has at least one volume for receiving at least one rechargeable battery and at least one resealable opening for placing the at least one rechargeable battery inside the chamber. With the aid of the chamber or the insulating effect of the chamber, a desired temperature for a rechargeable battery positioned in the chamber can be more easily reached and maintained. According to an advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for at least one second receiving device to be included for receiving at least one second rechargeable battery. This allows multiple rechargeable batteries to be positioned in the system simultaneously.

[0014] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for an acceptance device and a first transport device to be included, wherein the acceptance device is designed to receive at least one accumulator and the first transport device is designed to transport the at least one accumulator to a receiving device.

[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment, it may be possible that a storage device and a second transport device are included, wherein the

[0016] Storage device for at least temporarily storing at least one accumulator and the second transport device for transporting the at least one accumulator from a receiving device to the storage device.

[0017] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the figures. The figure illustrates a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention. The figures, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0018] In the figure, identical and similar components are numbered with the same reference numerals.

[0019] It shows:

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a system with a first and second

[0021] Receiving device according to a first embodiment; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the system with the first and second

[0022] Recording device according to the first embodiment in an activated state;

[0023] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a receiving device according to a first

[0024] Embodiment; and Figure 4 perspective view of a system with a first, second and third

[0025] Receiving device according to a second embodiment.

[0026] Examples of implementation:

[0027] Figures 1 and 2 show a system 1 according to the invention with a first receiving device 2a and a second receiving device 2b as well as a control unit 3 according to a first embodiment.

[0028] A first accumulator 4a is positioned in the first receiving device 2a and a second accumulator 4b is positioned in the second receiving device 2b.

[0029] The two accumulators 4a, 4b are identical in the first embodiment. However, it is also possible that the accumulators 4a, 4b are not identical or are designed differently.

[0030] The accumulator 4a, 4b can be detachably connected to a machine tool to supply the machine tool with electrical energy. The machine tool is not shown in the figures.

[0031] Furthermore, the accumulator 4a, 4b essentially contains a battery housing 5, a number of energy storage cells 5a, a battery interface and a control device 6.

[0032] The energy storage cells 5a can also be referred to as battery cells and are arranged inside the battery housing 5. The battery interface is not shown in the figures.

[0033] The battery housing 5 essentially contains a cover element, four side walls and a base element.

[0034] The battery interface is arranged on the outside of the cover element and serves for the electrical or electronic as well as mechanical connection of the battery 4a, 4b to the machine tool or the holding device 2a, 2b.

[0035] For electrical or electronic connection, the battery interface has a positive contact, a negative contact, and a communication contact. The positive and negative contacts serve to create an electrical circuit when the battery 4a, 4b is connected to a machine tool or the mounting device 2a, 2b. The communication contact is used to send and receive data and information in the form of electrical signals.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the accumulator 4a, 4b may also contain radio communication (e.g. Bluetooth) or wireless communication.

[0037] The energy storage cells 5a serve to absorb, store, and re-release electrical energy. As indicated in the figures, the energy storage cells 5a are cylindrical in shape and based on lithium-ion technology. Each energy storage cell 5a contains a contact device at one end, which serves to transmit electrical energy. The individual contact devices are connected to the control device 6 via corresponding lines.

[0038] Alternatively, the energy storage cells 5a may also be based on another suitable technology.

[0039] The contact devices are not shown in the figures.

[0040] The cylindrical shape of the energy storage cells 5a is also exemplary, so any other suitable shape or geometry can be selected. In particular, it is also possible for the energy storage cells 5a to be designed as pouch cells.

[0041] It is also possible for the accumulator 4a, 4b to contain both cylindrical energy storage cells 5a and pouch cells. In particular, it is possible for the accumulator 4a, 4b to contain a single cylindrical energy storage cell 5a and a single pouch cell.

[0042] The control device 6 regulates and controls various functions of the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b. Furthermore, the control device 6 contains a temperature sensor 7 for detecting at least one temperature value of the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b. As indicated in the figures, the temperature sensor 7 is positioned in the center of the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, i.e., near the energy storage cell 5a that is furthest from the walls of the battery housing 5. This energy storage cell 5a typically becomes the warmest during use of the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b and is therefore most susceptible to heat-related damage.

[0043] Furthermore, the control device 6 is connected to the energy storage cells 5a and the battery interface via corresponding lines so that electrical energy can reach the battery interface from the energy storage cells 5a via the control device 6.

[0044] A rail device is provided for the releasable mechanical coupling of the accumulator 4a, 4b to the machine tool.

[0045] A locking device (not shown in the figures) serves to releasably connect the accumulator 4a, 4b to the machine tool or the holding device 2a, 2b.

[0046] The control unit 3 of the system 1 serves to regulate and control the individual functions of the system 1 and in particular the functions of the recording device 2a, 2b. Furthermore, the control unit 3 contains an input and output device 8, a power connection 9, and a memory 10.

[0047] As indicated in Figures 1, 2, and 4, the power connector 9 is designed in the form of a power cable for releasably connecting the system 1 to a power source (e.g., a socket) for supplying electrical energy. The power source is not shown in the figures.

[0048] The first and second receiving devices 2a, 2b are essentially structurally identical according to the first embodiment.

[0049] Each receiving device 2a, 2b contains a chamber 11, a diagnostic device 12, a charging device 13, a cooling device 14 and a heating device 15.

[0050] As indicated in Figure 1, the system 1 according to the first embodiment includes a frame R. The two receiving devices 2a, 2b and the control unit 3 are positioned in the frame R. As also indicated in Figure 1, the cooling device 14 for the first receiving device 2a is positioned on one side of the frame R, and the cooling device 14 for the second receiving device 2b is positioned on another side. Instead of a frame R, a closed or nearly closed box can also be provided.

[0051] As can be seen from the figures, the chamber 11 essentially has a bottom, a lid, three side walls, and an opening 16. The chamber 11 has a volume (or interior space) for accommodating a battery 2a, 2b.

[0052] The opening 16 is designed in the form of a door 16a with a hinge 16b, so that the chamber 11 can be closed. Furthermore, the opening 16 is at least large enough for a battery 2a, 2b to fit through. According to another embodiment, the chamber 11 has no door, so that the chamber 11 is always open on one side.

[0053] In addition, two opposite side walls contain elongated ventilation openings 17. Alternatively or additionally, the lid can also contain at least one ventilation opening 17.

[0054] The ventilation openings 17 serve to allow the cooling air to flow into the interior of the chamber 11 and out of the chamber 11 again.

[0055] Furthermore, as indicated in the figures, a display device 18 for outputting at least one release signal or one blocking signal is positioned on an outer side of the lid of the chamber 11. The display device 18 is designed such that acoustic and / or visual signals can be output. It is also possible for further signals to be emitted in addition to a release signal or a blocking signal. In the present exemplary embodiment, the display device 18 is designed in the form of a first and second LED light 18a, 18b, with a green LED light 18a indicating the release signal and a red LED light 18b indicating the blocking signal.

[0056] The diagnostic device 12 serves to determine at least one parameter of the accumulator 4a, 4b and is connected to the control unit 3 and the memory 10 of the system 1 in such a way that data and information can be exchanged in the form of signals.

[0057] The parameters are electrical voltage, capacitance, temperature, electrical resistance, and the like. As indicated in Figure 3, the diagnostic device 12 therefore includes a voltage detection device 19, an electrical capacitance detection device 20, a temperature sensor for detecting temperature values ​​21, an electrical resistance detection device 22, and an electrical current detection device 23.

[0058] The diagnostic device 12 contains an interface 24, with the aid of which the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b can be detachably connected to the diagnostic device 12. The interface 24 essentially contains a positive contact, a negative contact, and a communication contact. When the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b is to come into contact with the diagnostic device 12, the communication contact of the diagnostic device 12 and the communication contact of the rechargeable battery interface are connected to one another in such a way that data and information can be exchanged in the form of signals. In this way, when a connection is established, the parameters of the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b are transmitted to the diagnostic device 12. In the alternative embodiment, the parameters of the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b can also be transmitted wirelessly or by radio from the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b to the diagnostic device 12.

[0059] The charging device 13 serves to charge the accumulator 4a, 4b with electrical energy and is connected to the diagnostic device 12, see in particular Figure 3. Through the connection to the diagnostic device 12, the charging device 13 can conduct electrical energy to the accumulator 4a, 4b via the interface 24. Likewise, electrical energy can also be drawn from the accumulator 4a, 4b using the charging device 13.

[0060] The cooling device 14 serves to cool the accumulator 4a, 4b with the aid of an air flow F and, in the present exemplary embodiments, is designed as a fan 14a with a fan impeller 14b. In the present exemplary embodiment, a fan 14a is positioned next to a side wall of the chamber 11, which has ventilation openings 17. If, as indicated in Figure 2, the cooling device 14 designed as a fan 14a generates an air flow F, this air flow can flow into the chamber 11 through the ventilation openings 17 on a first side wall, over and along the accumulator 4a, 4b, and flow out of the chamber 11 again through the ventilation openings 17 on a second side wall.

[0061] The heating device 15 serves to heat the accumulator 4a, 4b. In the present embodiment, the heating device 15 is designed in the form of a heating coil. It is possible for the heating device 15 to consist of more than a single heating coil. As shown in the figures, the heating device 15 designed as a heating coil is mounted in the floor of the chamber 11 or below an accumulator 4a, 4b positioned in the chamber 11. Alternatively or additionally, a heating device 15 designed as a heating coil can be positioned in the lid and / or on a side wall of the chamber 11.

[0062] Figure 4 shows a system 1 according to the invention according to a second embodiment with a first, second and third receiving device 2a, 2b, 2c and a control unit 3. In contrast to the first embodiment, the system 1 according to the second embodiment contains a third receiving device 2c, an acceptance device 25, a storage device 26, a first and second transport device 27a, 27b.

[0063] The third receiving device 2c is substantially identical in construction to the first and / or second receiving device 2a, 2b in the first embodiment.

[0064] The receiving device 25 serves to receive or accept a first, second, or third rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c and, according to the second exemplary embodiment, is essentially designed as a plate or platform. The essential function of the receiving device 25 is to provide a secure storage option for a rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c, from which the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c can be transported further. The first transport device 27a is designed as a conveyor belt in the second exemplary embodiment and is arranged between the receiving device 25 and the receiving devices 2a, 2b, 2c such that a rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c can be transported from the receiving device 25 to a receiving device 2a, 2b, 2c.

[0065] Alternatively, the first transport device 27a can also be designed as a roller conveyor with a drive for the rollers.

[0066] The storage device 26, similar to the receiving device 25, serves to receive or accept a rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c and, according to the second exemplary embodiment, is essentially designed as a plate or platform. The essential function of the storage device 26 is to provide a secure storage option for a rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c, from which the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c can be transported further. The second transport device 27b is also designed as a conveyor belt in the second exemplary embodiment and is arranged between the receiving devices 2a, 2b, 2c and the storage device 26 such that a rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c can be transported from a receiving device 2a, 2b, 2c to the storage device 26.

[0067] Alternatively, the second transport device 27b can also be designed as a roller conveyor with its own drive for the rollers. Furthermore, the rollers of the second transport device 27b can also be driven by the drive of the first transport device 27a.

[0068] To operate the inventive system 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment, a rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c is positioned in the first receiving device 2a. The rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c is connected to the interface 24 of the diagnostic device 12 using the rechargeable battery interface. By connecting the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c to the diagnostic device 12, data and information can be exchanged between the rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c and the diagnostic device 12. The rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c transmits the capacity values, the voltage value, and the temperature value to the diagnostic device 12. The rechargeable battery 4a, 4b, 4c contains a temperature sensor 21 and detects the temperature of the energy storage cells 5a.If the diagnostic device 12 determines, based on the detected and transmitted temperature value, that this temperature value is below a first predetermined threshold value, the heating device 15 is activated to heat the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c.

[0069] Alternatively or additionally, the control device 6 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c can determine, based on the temperature value detected by the temperature sensor 21 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c, that this temperature value is below a first predetermined threshold. The control device 6 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c sends a corresponding signal to the control unit 3 of the system 1 so that the heating device 15 heats the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c.

[0070] The first temperature threshold is defined specifically for the respective accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c and stored in the memory 10 of the control unit 3 of the system 1. The first temperature threshold is defined as a temperature value that is too low for an approximately optimal charging of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c with electrical energy. For example, it is possible for the first temperature threshold to be 5°C. Alternatively, the first temperature threshold can also be higher or lower than 5°C. If, with the aid of the heating device 15, the temperature of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c is above the first temperature threshold (i.e., higher than 5°C), this is detected by the temperature sensor 21 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c, and a corresponding signal is transmitted to the control unit 3.Now that the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c has a temperature above the first temperature threshold, which is more suitable for a charging process with electrical energy, the actual charging process can start with the aid of the charging device 13, so that electrical energy can reach the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c from the control unit 3.

[0071] The detection device 19 for the electrical voltage of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c detects or determines the voltage value of the energy storage cells 5a. To charge the energy storage cells 5a with electrical energy, a corresponding signal is sent from the control device 6 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c to the control unit 3 of the system 1. After receiving the signal, the control unit 3 of the system 1 sends electrical energy to the energy storage cells 5a. The desired voltage value (i.e., volts) for the charging process is transmitted from the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c to the control unit 3 of the system 1 via the corresponding signal. In addition, with the aid of the transmitted signal from the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c to the system 1, a suitable or desired current value (i.e., amperes) is also transmitted and is thereby specified by the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c for the charging process.

[0072] During charging, the electrical voltage detection device 19 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c detects the current voltage of the energy storage cells 5a. In addition to the electrical current detection device 19, the electrical current detection device 23 also detects the current (i.e., A or Ah) of the electrical energy transmitted for the charging process. After reaching a predetermined voltage value for the energy storage cells 5a, i.e., for example, 70 or 80% of the maximum voltage value or capacity of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c, the charging process is stopped.

[0073] During the charging process, the cooling device 14 can cool the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c to cool the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c or the energy storage cells 5a to a temperature value that lies below a second temperature threshold. According to the exemplary embodiment, the second temperature threshold is 60°C.

[0074] Alternatively, the second temperature threshold can be higher or lower than 60°C.

[0075] Furthermore, during the charging process, it is also possible for the heating device 15 to heat the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c in order to heat the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c or the energy storage cells 5a to a temperature value that lies above a first temperature threshold. To operate the system 1 according to the invention according to the second embodiment, a accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c is positioned in the first receiving device 2a.

[0076] A battery 4a, 4b, 4c is positioned on the receiving device 25. The control unit 3 of the system 1 determines which receiving device 2a, 2b, 2c is available, i.e., in which receiving device 2a, 2b, 2c there is currently no battery 4a, 4b, 4c. If the battery 4a, 4b, 4c is to be transported to the second receiving device 2b, the first transport device 27a transports the battery 4a, 4b, 4c from the receiving device 25 to the second receiving device 2b. When the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c has reached the second receiving device 2b, the accumulator interface connects to the interface 24 of the diagnostic device 12. After the corresponding data and information in the form of signals have been transmitted from the control device 6 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c to the control unit 3 of the system 1, the charging process controlled by the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c is carried out.The cooling device 14 and heating device 15, which are also controlled or regulated by the control device 6 of the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c, are activated when the corresponding temperature threshold values ​​are reached.

[0077] After the charging process is completed, the accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c is transported from the second receiving device 2b to the storage device 26 by means of the second transport device. The accumulator 4a, 4b, 4c charged with electrical energy can be removed from the storage device 26 by a user.

[0078] List of reference symbols:

[0079] I System

[0080] 2a first receiving device

[0081] 2b second receiving device

[0082] 2c third receiving device

[0083] 3 Control unit

[0084] 4a first accumulator

[0085] 4b second accumulator

[0086] 4c third accumulator

[0087] 5 battery housing

[0088] 5a Energy storage cell

[0089] 6 Control device

[0090] 7 Temperature sensor

[0091] 8 Input and output device

[0092] 9 Mains connection

[0093] 10 storage

[0094] II Chamber

[0095] 12 Diagnostic device

[0096] 13 Charging device

[0097] 14 Cooling device

[0098] 14a fan

[0099] 14b Fan wheel

[0100] 15 Heating device

[0101] 16 Opening

[0102] 16a Door

[0103] 16b Hinge

[0104] 17 Ventilation opening

[0105] 18 Display device

[0106] 18a first LED light

[0107] 18b second LED light

[0108] 19 Detection device for electrical voltage

[0109] 20 Detection device for electrical capacity 21 Temperature sensor for detecting temperature values

[0110] 22 Detection device for electrical resistance

[0111] 23 Detection device for electrical current

[0112] 24 Interface 25 Acceptance device

[0113] 26 Storage facility

[0114] 27a first transport facility

[0115] 27b second transport device

[0116] F Airflow R Frame

Claims

Patent claims 1. System (1) with at least one first receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c) for receiving at least one first rechargeable battery (4a, 4b, 4c), wherein the at least first rechargeable battery (4a, 4b, 4c) contains a temperature sensor (7) for detecting at least one temperature value of the rechargeable battery (4a, 4b, 4c), characterized in that the at least first receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c) contains a charging device (13) for charging the rechargeable battery (4a, 4b, 4c) with electrical energy, a cooling device (14) for cooling the rechargeable battery (4a, 4b, 4c) and a heating device (15) for heating the rechargeable battery (4a, 4b, 4c).

2. System (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that a diagnostic device (12) for determining at least one parameter of the accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) is included.

3. System (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one display device (18) for outputting at least one release signal or one blocking signal is included on the at least first receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c).

4. System (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c) is designed as a chamber (11), wherein the chamber (11) has at least one volume for receiving at least one accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) and at least one resealable opening for placing the at least one accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) in the interior of the chamber (11).

5. System (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one second receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c) for receiving at least one second accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) is included.

6. System (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that an acceptance device (25) and a first Transport device (27a) is included, wherein the acceptance device (25) is designed to receive at least one accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) and the first transport device (27a) is designed to transport the at least one accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) to a receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c).

7. System (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a storage device (26) and a second transport device (27b) are included, wherein the storage device (26) is designed for at least temporarily storing at least one accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) and the second transport device (27b) is designed for transporting the at least one accumulator (4a, 4b, 4c) from a receiving device (2a, 2b, 2c) to the storage device (26).

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