Facade installation and method for charging vehicles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a facade installation for charging vehicles at a distance from said facade installation, wherein this facade installation includes a charging system, and wherein this facade installation comprises a base and a swing-out arm, and wherein the facade installation is equipped with a motor and a mechanical support system, wherein the base and the swing-out arm are connected to each other via this mechanical support system, and wherein said motor and / or said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base. The invention also relates to a method for charging vehicles.

Description

[0001] FACADE INSTALLATION AND METHOD FOR CHARGING VEHICLES

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to charging vehicles. More specifically, the invention relates to a facade installation and method for charging vehicles.

[0004] PRIOR ART

[0005] Today, we are facing a rapid transition to electric mobility, driven by environmental and climate considerations as well as technological advances. As a result, the demand for efficient charging infrastructure, especially in urban areas, has reached an unprecedented level. This growing need for charging points in cities however raises a complex problem that extends beyond the technical aspect of charging itself.

[0006] In the dense and complex urban environment, available space is a scarce commodity. Traditional charging systems typically require one or more manual actions from a user in order to connect a vehicle and start a charging session, which means these charging systems must always be within the user's reach. This ensures that these systems mainly occupy space at person height, where it is precisely desirable to create more free space.

[0007] In addition to spatial challenges, aesthetic considerations are also important. Urban areas have a unique architectural and historical character that must be protected and preserved. The integration of modern technologies, such as charging stations in this environment, requires solutions that are not only functional but also visually harmonious. However, traditional charging systems are often poorly integrated into the environment.

[0008] Legislation adds yet another dimension to this problem. For example, to ensure safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, laying charging cables on footpaths and cycle paths is increasingly being prohibited and / or penalized. This means that innovative solutions are needed to bridge the effective distance between the vehicles and their charging points without violating legal standards or hindering the public domain.

[0009] Additionally, traditional charging systems come with their own sets of challenges. Their often large form can lead to obstructions in already limited spaces, and they are often not equipped to withstand certain negative external influences, such as frost or vandalism. The result is a potential conflict between the urgent technological need for charging stations and the physical, aesthetic, and legal constraints of urban areas.

[0010] A charging installation that aims to address this is, for example, the installation according to WO 2022 / 193018. The installation as described herein includes a movable arm so that a vehicle to be charged can be more easily reached with the charging installation. However, the arm must be moved manually by a user, which inherently limits its design in height. This contributes to a significant occupation of public space.

[0011] US 20130257373 describes a charging system wherein a movable arm is provided, which is also motorized. However, the charging system does not provide adequate facilities for robust use in an outdoor environment, such as against the facade of a house in an urban area.

[0012] Further charging systems are described in BE 1026323, EP 3459785 and US 2021 / 053451, among others. A further optimization concerning the use of public space and / or improved robustness for outdoor environments remains desirable, however.

[0013] The invention aims to provide a solution to one or more of the aforementioned problems. In particular, the facade installation and method according to the present invention aim to optimize charging of electric vehicles in an urban environment.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The invention relates to a facade installation according to claim 1. This facade installation has the advantage of being compact, safe, and aesthetically pleasing when installed in an urban environment, particularly against a facade of a building, such as a residence. The various embodiments of the facade installation allow a vehicle to be charged at a distance from the facade installation, wherein loading this vehicle via the facade installation poses little to no obstacle to public space, such as possible pedestrian or bicycle paths that may be located between the facade installation and the vehicle. Thus, the invention offers a solution to a complex issue and is widely applicable in an urban environment.

[0016] Various embodiments of the facade installation are shown in dependent claims 2 to 14.

[0017] Some particularly preferred embodiments are shown in claims 6, 7 and 8. These embodiments ensure that the facade installation, and in particular its moving parts, can remain operational in adverse weather conditions and / or in the event of possible incidents involving passers-by, such as acts of vandalism. These embodiments may therefore be better suited for implementation in an urban environment.

[0018] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for charging a vehicle according to claim 15.

[0019] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0020] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a preferred form of the facade installation, wherein the swing-out arm is folded out.

[0021] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The invention relates to a facade installation for charging vehicles at a distance from said facade installation, wherein this facade installation includes a charging system, and wherein this facade installation comprises a base and a swing-out arm, characterized in that the facade installation is equipped with a motor and a mechanical support system, wherein the base and the swing-out arm are connected to each other via this mechanical support system, and wherein said motor and / or said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings as commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. For a better understanding of the description of the invention, the following terms are explained explicitly.

[0024] In this document, "a" and "the" refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context presupposes otherwise. For example, "a segment" means one or more segments.

[0025] The terms "comprise," "comprising," "consist of," "consisting of," "provided with," "have," "having," "include," "including," "contain," "containing" are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows, and which do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components, characteristics, elements, members, steps, as known from or disclosed in the prior art.

[0026] Quoting numeric intervals by the endpoints includes all integers, fractions, and / or real numbers between the endpoints, including those endpoints. A first aspect of the present invention relates to a facade installation for charging vehicles at a distance from said facade installation, wherein this facade installation includes a charging system, and wherein this facade installation comprises a base and a swing-out arm, and wherein the facade installation is equipped with a motor and a mechanical support system, wherein the base and the swing-out arm are connected to each other via this mechanical support system, and wherein said motor and / or said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing- out arm relative to the base.

[0027] In the context of the current invention, the term "facade installation" should be understood as an installation that is attached to or integrated into the exterior wall or facade of a structure, such as a building or residence, primarily designed to charge vehicles at a distance from the said exterior wall or facade. In particular, such installations are designed not to disrupt the cityscape while providing charging capabilities. They are directly attached to building structures and are intended to save space and integrate charging stations more efficiently in urban environments.

[0028] The term "vehicle" refers to a motorized means of transport, such as a car, van, truck, motorcycle, or scooter, that requires electrical energy to function, which can be supplied by means of electric charging. With the growth of such electric vehicles (EVs), there is an increasing need for innovative charging solutions. In the context of the present invention, reference is mainly made to an electric car as a vehicle. However, it is not excluded that other vehicles can be used with the facade installation according to the present invention.

[0029] The wording "charging system" refers to a system, integrated into the facade installation, that provides the necessary electrical current to charge a vehicle.

[0030] In the context of the present invention, the term "base" means a primary support and / or attachment component of the facade installation that is directly attached to the facade. The strength and stability of the base are important for the safety of the entire installation, especially as it is exposed to weather influences and possible mechanical loads.

[0031] The rotational movement as described herein involves, according to some embodiments, a hinged movement. According to some embodiments, the base and the swing-out arm are rotatably connected to each other via the mechanical support system at one of the axial ends of the base. According to some other embodiments, the base and the swing- out arm are rotatably connected to each other via the mechanical support system between the axial ends of the base.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the base is designed as a hollow tube. This tube may possibly be made of plastic or metal, such as galvanized steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. The advantage of shaping the base as a hollow tube is that at least part of the electronic components of the facade installation can be safely integrated into a cavity of the hollow tube. According to some embodiments, the base is designed so that the swing-out arm can be at least partially housed in the hollow tube of the base. In particular, a portion of the hollow tube of the base includes an open slot for this purpose. According to some embodiments, this hollow slot can be covered with a cover plate.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the base is designed as a hollow tube with a square or rectangular cross-section. Preferably, the base is designed as a hollow tube with a square cross-section. This square or rectangular cross-section may have dimensions ranging between 10 by 10 cm and 30 by 30 cm. More preferably, the dimensions range between 10 by 10 cm and 20 by 20 cm. The advantage of shaping the base as a hollow tube with a square or rectangular cross-section is that it can withstand high mechanical loads and / or that the overall stability is guaranteed, for example, during heavy gusts of wind or external impact.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the base is designed as a hollow tube with a cylindrical cross-section. This cylindrical cross-section may have a diameter ranging between 10 and 30 cm, preferably between 10 and 20 cm.

[0035] According to a further or other embodiment, the base, in particular the hollow tube, has a wall thickness ranging between 2 and 10 mm, preferably between 5 and 10 mm.

[0036] The term "swing-out arm" [In Dutch: uitvalarm] should be interpreted as a movable arm connected to the base of the facade installation for the purpose of reaching a vehicle to be charged. This swing-out arm, preferably made from durable and weather-resistant materials, can be designed to extend or rotate to accommodate varying distances and vehicle positions.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the swing-out arm is designed as a hollow tube. This tube may possibly be made of plastic or metal, such as galvanized steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. The advantage of shaping the swing-out arm as a hollow tube is that at least part of the electronic components of the facade installation can be safely integrated into a cavity of the hollow tube.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the swing-out arm is designed as a hollow tube with a square or rectangular cross-section. Preferably, the swing-out arm is designed as a hollow tube with a square cross-section. This square or rectangular cross-section may have dimensions ranging between 10 by 10 cm and 30 by 30 cm. More preferably, the dimensions range between 10 by 10 cm and 20 by 20 cm. The advantage of shaping the swing-out arm as a hollow tube with a square or rectangular cross-section is that it can withstand high mechanical loads and / or that the overall stability is guaranteed, for example, during heavy gusts of wind or external impact.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the swing-out arm is designed as a hollow tube with a cylindrical cross-section. This cylindrical cross-section may have a diameter ranging between 10 and 30 cm, preferably between 10 and 20 cm.

[0040] According to a further or other embodiment, the swing-out arm, in particular the hollow tube, has a wall thickness ranging between 2 and 10 mm, preferably between 5 and 10 mm.

[0041] More specific choices of dimensions, shape, material, and strength of both the base and the swing-out arm can be made considering the specific environmental conditions, such as wind loads, salinity (in coastal areas), temperature variations, and the expected loads during normal use.

[0042] A "motor" can be understood as an electric or mechanical device within the facade installation that provides the rotational movement of the swing-out arm.

[0043] According to some embodiments, the motor is chosen from the group of a brushless DC motor, a stepper motor, or a servo motor.

[0044] A "DC motor" or "direct-current motor" typically has carbon brushes to transfer current to a rotor. Such motors are easy to control but require regular maintenance. A "brushless DC motor" replaces the carbon brushes with electronic control, resulting in a longer lifespan, higher efficiency, and less need for maintenance.

[0045] A "stepper motor" can rotate in precise steps, making it ideal for applications where accurate positioning is required. "servo motor" is a self-contained system with a motor and a sensor for position feedback. Servo motors are ideal for applications requiring fast and precise positioning control.

[0046] The wording "mechanical support system" refers to a system that provides controlled flexibility between the base and the swing-out arm, thereby damping shocks or abrupt movements. This system contributes to the longevity of the facade installation by reducing mechanical stress and shocks that could damage the swing-out arm and motor.

[0047] According to some embodiments, the mechanical support system is a system chosen from the group of spring systems, hinge systems, support systems, or combinations thereof.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the mechanical support system is a system chosen from the group of compression springs, tension springs, torsion springs, leaf springs, coil springs, disc springs, wave springs, volute springs, constant force springs, torsion bars, or combinations thereof. Such spring systems can be used to absorb shocks and allow the swing-out arm to smoothly return to its original position.

[0049] According to some other embodiments, the mechanical support system is a magnetic support system, such as an electromagnetic damping system or an eddy current damping system.

[0050] According to some other embodiments, the mechanical support system consists of one or more shock absorbers. These shock absorbers, often used in the automotive industry, can provide increased shock absorption and ensure stable positioning of the swing-out arm.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the mechanical support system is a magnetic damping system, wherein magnetic fields are used to control the movement of the swing-out arm and minimize shocks.

[0052] Preferably, the said motor and / or the said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base, in a plane that includes the base.

[0053] According to a further or other embodiment, the said motor and / or the said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base, from a first or folded state to a second or unfolded state, or from this second or unfolded state to this first or folded state, wherein the rotation angle between the first and the second state is between 45° and 135°.

[0054] A "folded state" should be understood as a state in which the swing-out arm is in the most compact position, often parallel or in line with the base. The wording "unfolded state" refers to a state in which the swing-out arm is in the maximum extended or rotated position, often perpendicular or transversely extended from the base. This state allows charging and accommodates different vehicle sizes and parking configurations without causing obstruction to public space.

[0055] Preferably, the rotation angle between the first and the second state is 90°.

[0056] More preferably, the base and the swing-out arm in the first or folded state are parallel to each other, more preferably oriented in each other's extension. This has advantages for aesthetics and safety, as it prevents the swing-out arm from protruding and forming an obstacle or hazard when not in use.

[0057] Even more preferably, the base and the swing-out arm in the first or folded state are oriented in a mainly vertical direction.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the swing-out arm of the facade installation bridges a distance between 1.0 and 2.5 meters. Preferably, this distance is bridged in a mainly horizontal direction. More preferably, the swing-out arm of the facade installation bridges a distance between 1.5 and 2.0 meters.

[0059] According to a further or other embodiment, the facade installation includes a frost detection system.

[0060] The term "frost detection system" refers to a system in the facade installation that detects the presence of frost or extremely low temperatures.

[0061] Preferably, this frost detection system is integrated into and / or on the base, or into and / or on the swing-out arm. The presence of the frost detection system can maintain the functionality of the installation during cold periods by preventing freezing.

[0062] According to a further or other embodiment, the facade installation includes a heating element. A "heating element" refers to a component that generates heat to warm the installation, at least partially. In cold climates, frost can hinder the moving parts of the installation. The heating system allows for appropriate intervention.

[0063] Preferably, this heating element is integrated into and / or on the base, or into and / or on the swing-out arm.

[0064] According to a further or other embodiment, the motor is coupled to the base and / or the swing-out arm of the facade installation via a suspension system.

[0065] In the context of the current invention, the term "suspension system" refers to a system or mechanism that flexibly supports components, such as the motor, within the facade installation. It absorbs shocks and vibrations, thereby protecting the motor and other critical components and extending their lifespan.

[0066] Preferably, this suspension system is a shock-absorbing and / or spring suspension system.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the charging system includes a charging plug. Preferably, the charging plug is positioned at the axial end of the swing-out arm, opposite the base.

[0068] The term "charging plug" refers to an electrical contact point at the end of the swing- out arm with which the vehicle connects to charge. The charging plug is preferably chosen from the group of a type-2 (Mennekes) plug, a type-1 (SAE J1772) plug, a Combo-2 (CCS2) plug, a Combo-1 (CSS1) plug, a CHAdeMO plug, a Tesla (supercharger) plug, a magnetic or inductive plug, or combinations thereof.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the charging plug is a Type-2 (Mennekes) plug. This is the standard for electric vehicles in Europe. The plug has a seven-wire interface and can support both single-phase and three-phase alternating current (AC) charging. Preferably, the Type-2 (Mennekes) plug can be equipped with a locking mechanism that prevents the plug from being removed during charging.

[0070] According to another embodiment, the charging plug is a Type-1 (SAE J1772) plug. This plug is mainly used in North America and parts of Asia. The plug supports singlephase alternating current (AC) charging and has a five-wire interface. As with Type-2, a locking mechanism can preferably be provided for safety. According to yet another embodiment, the charging plug is a Combo-2 (CCS2) plug. This plug is a variant of the Type-2 plug and offers the possibility for fast charging with direct current (DC) in addition to alternating current (AC) charging. To this end, this plug is equipped with a number of extra contacts at the bottom.

[0071] According to yet another embodiment, the charging plug is a Combo-1 (CCS1) plug. This plug is a variant of the Type-1 plug with additional direct current (DC) contacts.

[0072] According to yet another embodiment, the charging plug is a CHAdeMO plug. This plug originates from Japan and supports direct current (DC) fast charging.

[0073] According to yet another embodiment, the charging plug is a Tesla (supercharger) plug. This charging plug can only be used specifically for Tesla vehicles. In Europe, this concerns a modified version of the Type-2 plug for superchargers, while in North America, a specific Tesla plug was developed.

[0074] According to another embodiment, the charging plug is a magnetic or inductive plug. Such a plug allows a charging connection between the facade installation and a vehicle to be made via magnetic induction, as opposed to physical contact. This embodiment allows for a wireless charging option, making charging even more flexible.

[0075] When choosing a specific charging plug design for the facade installation, it is important to consider the most common vehicle types in a particular area and the charging needs of potential users. According to some embodiments, different types of plugs can be provided as interchangeable modules for the facade installation, to serve a wider variety of vehicles.

[0076] Preferably, the charging system includes charging cabling, which allows the charging plug to be moved in a direction away from the axial end of the swing-out arm, opposite the base. This charging cabling is, according to some embodiments, self-retractingly provided in the swing-out arm.

[0077] According to a further or other embodiment, the facade installation includes a control module.

[0078] Preferably, this control module is a wireless control module.

[0079] More preferably, the control module is configured for controlling the motor and / or for controlling the charging system. Controlling the motor may include activating, regulating, or controlling the motor to achieve the desired movement or rotation of the swing-out arm. Controlling the charging system may include activating, regulating, or controlling the charging system to deliver electrical energy to the vehicle. According to some embodiments, the control module allows a charging session to be reserved at the facade installation, via an app and / or via a website.

[0080] The swing-out arm may, according to some embodiments, consist of multiple segments that slide into each other, allowing the arm to extend for greater reach and retract when not in use.

[0081] According to some embodiments, the base includes one or more ventilation openings, which guarantee the optimal operation of the present electronics. According to a further or other embodiment, the base includes an additional power outlet, such as a regular socket, for connecting household appliances, for example.

[0082] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a method for charging a vehicle using the facade installation according to the first aspect, wherein the method comprises the steps of: (a) detecting and / or positioning a vehicle in the vicinity of the facade installation; (b) rotating the swing-out arm towards the vehicle; (c) establishing a charging connection between the vehicle and the facade installation; (d) charging the vehicle.

[0083] In what follows, the invention will be described by way of non-limiting examples illustrating the invention, and which are not intended to and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0084] EXAMPLES

[0085] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a preferred form of the facade installation, wherein the swing-out arm [in Dutch: uitvalarm] is folded out. The shown facade installation 1 allows vehicles to be charged at a distance from said facade installation 1, wherein this facade installation 1 includes a charging system 2, and wherein this facade installation 1 comprises a base 3 and a swing-out arm 4. The facade installation is further equipped with a motor and a mechanical support system 5, wherein the base 3 and the swing- out arm 4 are connected to each other via this mechanical support system 5, and wherein said motor and / or said mechanical support system 5 are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm 4 relative to the base 3, in a plane that includes the base 3. This rotational movement is possible from a first or folded state to a second or unfolded state, or from this second or unfolded state to this first or folded state. The rotation angle a between the first and the second state is between 45° and 135°, as shown here 90°. The swing-out arm 4 of the facade installation 1 allows a distance between 1.0 and 2.5 meters to be bridged in a mainly horizontal direction. The facade installation 1 is equipped with a frost detection system, which frost detection system is integrated into the base. It is also possible for a heating element to be provided as a replacement for, or to complement, the frost detection system. The motor is further coupled to the base 3 and the swing-out arm 4 of the facade installation via a suspension system. This suspension system is a spring suspension system. The charging system 2 includes a charging plug 6, which charging plug 6 is positioned at the axial end 7 of the swing-out arm 4, opposite the base 3. The charging system 2 may include charging cabling, which charging cabling allows the charging plug 6 to be moved in a direction away from the axial end 7 of the swing-out arm 4, opposite the base 3. Although not explicitly shown in the present Figure 1, it is possible that the facade installation 1 includes a control module, preferably a wireless control module, which can be configured for controlling the motor and / or for controlling the charging system 2. The base 3 is designed as a hollow tube so that, as shown here, the swing-out arm 4 can be housed in the hollow tube of the base 3. In particular, a portion of the hollow tube of the base 3 includes an open slot 8 for this purpose. This hollow slot 8 can, however, be covered with a cover plate if the swing-out arm 4 is in the unfolded state. Also shown are the ventilation openings 9, which guarantee the optimal operation of the present electronics, and an additional power outlet 10.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A facade installation for charging vehicles at a distance from said facade installation, wherein this facade installation includes a charging system, and wherein this facade installation comprises a base and a swing-out arm, characterized in that the facade installation is equipped with a motor and a mechanical support system, wherein the base and the swing-out arm are connected to each other via this mechanical support system, and wherein said motor and / or said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base.

2. The facade installation according to claim 1, characterized in that said motor and / or said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base, in a plane that includes the base.

3. The facade installation according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said motor and / or said mechanical support system are configured for the rotational movement of the swing-out arm relative to the base, from a first or folded state to a second or unfolded state, or from this second or unfolded state to this first or folded state, wherein the rotation angle between the first and the second state is between 45° and 135°, preferably 90°.

4. The facade installation according to claim 3, characterized in that the base and the swing-out arm in the first or folded state are oriented in each other's extension, preferably in a mainly vertical direction.

5. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-4, characterized in that the swing-out arm of the facade installation bridges a distance between 1.0 and 2.5 meters, preferably in a mainly horizontal direction.

6. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-5, characterized in that the facade installation includes a frost detection system, which frost detection system is preferably integrated into and / or on the base, or into and / or on the swing-out arm.

7. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-6, characterized in that the facade installation includes a heating element, whichheating element is preferably integrated into and / or on the base, or into and / or on the swing-out arm.

8. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-7, characterized in that the motor is coupled to the base and / or the swing-out arm of the facade installation via a suspension system, preferably a shock-absorbing and / or spring suspension system.

9. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-8, characterized in that the charging system includes a charging plug, which charging plug is positioned at the axial end of the swing-out arm, opposite the base.

10. The facade installation according to claim 9, characterized in that the charging system includes charging cabling, which charging cabling allows the charging plug to be moved in a direction away from the axial end of the swing-out arm, opposite the base.

11. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-10, characterized in that the facade installation includes a control module, preferably a wireless control module.

12. The facade installation according to claim 11, characterized in that the control module is configured for controlling the motor and / or for controlling the charging system.

13. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-12, characterized in that the base is designed as a hollow tube.

14. The facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-13, characterized in that the swing-out arm is designed as a hollow tube.

15. A method for charging a vehicle using the facade installation according to any of the preceding claims 1-14, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a. detecting and / or positioning a vehicle in the vicinity of the facade installation; b. rotating the swing-out arm towards the vehicle;c. establishing a charging connection between the vehicle and the facade installation; d. charging the vehicle.

Images