Method for operating a system, system and motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (26) for operating a system (24), which comprises a first motor vehicle (2) having a first electrical energy store (8) and a second motor vehicle (12) having a second electrical energy store (18). The second motor vehicle (12) is moved to a connecting position (46) when the first motor vehicle (2) is parked in a first parking space (38), and the first and the second motor vehicle (12, 2) are electrically connected to one another by means of a flexible electrical line (22). The second motor vehicle (12) is moved to a stopping position (52) different from the connecting position (46). After the electrical connection, electrical energy is transferred from the second electrical energy store (18) to the first electrical energy store (8). The invention also relates to a system (24).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Method for operating a system, system and motor vehicle

[0003] The invention relates to a method for operating a system and to a system itself. The system comprises a first motor vehicle with a first electrical energy storage device and a second motor vehicle with a second electrical energy storage device.

[0004] Motor vehicles, such as passenger cars, increasingly use electric motors for propulsion. These motors are powered by an electrical energy storage device, usually a high-voltage battery. During operation, this battery typically provides a direct current voltage between 400 V and 900 V. The high-voltage battery should be as lightweight as possible while also offering a relatively high capacity to allow for a longer driving distance without needing to be recharged. Therefore, a capacity of between 40 kWh and 100 kWh is usually used as a compromise. High-voltage batteries are typically recharged using charging stations, which are usually stationary. These charging stations are electrically connected to and powered by the power grid.

[0005] Charging stations typically provide an electrical charging capacity between 10 kW and up to 300 kW. Such high capacities, however, require a relatively extensive infrastructure upgrade, making these charging stations comparatively rare. Conversely, charging at a lower capacity station takes a relatively long time. Therefore, the vehicle is usually parked at the charging station while charging. Consequently, if the vehicle is not moved immediately after charging is complete, the charging station cannot be used to charge another vehicle. Furthermore, if the driver is prompted to move the vehicle immediately after charging, convenience is reduced.

[0006] CN 1 11 245 080 A shows a mobile charging device for electric vehicles. The charging device comprises a trolley, an automatic driving system, a first power supply module, a second power supply module, a fuel generator, and an interface module.

[0007] A towing acceleration aid is known from DE 102022 106 731 A1. The towing acceleration aid can be provided by the towed vehicle in the form of a supporting drive torque to assist the towing vehicle in accelerating during the towing operation if one or more vehicle conditions indicate a need for the towing acceleration aid.

[0008] In DE 10 2017220 017 A1 a mobile charging station for electric charging of electric vehicles is disclosed, comprising a battery unit, a first charging interface for charging the battery unit, a second interface for charging an electric vehicle from the battery unit, means for automated navigation of the mobile charging station and means for receiving a charging request.

[0009] US 2020 / 0376974A1 shows a system for charging an electric vehicle. An autonomous vehicle includes a suspended body, a variety of elongated legs configured to allow the autonomous vehicle to maneuver around obstacles in a parking structure, and the suspended body to be suspended above the electric vehicle, a charging system configured to charge the electric vehicle, and a variety of sensors that collect data about an environment around the autonomous vehicle.

[0010] The invention is based on the objective of providing a particularly suitable method for operating a system with a first motor vehicle and a second motor vehicle, as well as a particularly suitable system with a first motor vehicle and a second motor vehicle, advantageously increasing safety and / or comfort.

[0011] With regard to the method, this problem is solved according to the invention by the features of claim 1, and with regard to the system by the features of claim 8. Advantageous further developments and embodiments are the subject of the respective dependent claims.

[0012] The method serves to operate a system comprising a first motor vehicle and a second motor vehicle. Both motor vehicles are land-based and preferably have a number of wheels, at least one, preferably several or all, of which are driven by a drive system. The drive system preferably comprises an electric motor in each case. Particularly preferably, the drive system comprises only one or more electric motors in each case, so that the respective motor vehicle is designed as an electric vehicle. Adequately, one, preferably several, of the wheels of each motor vehicle is designed to be steerable. Thus, it is possible to move each motor vehicle independently of a specific roadway, such as rails or the like. It is advantageously possible to position each motor vehicle essentially arbitrarily on a roadway, which is made, in particular, of asphalt, tar, or concrete.

[0013] The first vehicle is, for example, a commercial vehicle such as a truck or bus. Preferably, however, the first vehicle is a passenger car. Ideally, the first vehicle can be piloted by a driver. For example, the first vehicle is partially or fully automated or capable of autonomous movement. The second vehicle is capable of autonomous movement and has a suitable level of automation. In particular, the second vehicle includes several pilot systems and / or sensors.

[0014] For example, the two vehicles are identical in construction. Preferably, however, they are configured differently. In particular, the first vehicle is suitable for, designed for, and equipped for the transport of persons. The second vehicle, on the other hand, is preferably not suitable for, and / or designed for, the transport of persons. In particular, the second vehicle is intended solely to support the first vehicle.

[0015] The first motor vehicle has a first electrical energy storage device, and the second motor vehicle has a second electrical energy storage device. The electrical energy storage device, or at least one of them, is designed as a battery, preferably a secondary battery. A DC voltage between 400 V and 900 V is suitably provided by means of the first and / or second electrical energy storage device. For example, the two electrical energy storage devices can be identical in construction, thus allowing the use of identical components. Alternatively, they can be different, thereby increasing flexibility. Advantageously, the second electrical energy storage device comprises several first electrical energy storage devices, so that identical components can still be used, while increasing the capacity of the second electrical energy storage device.

[0016] In this procedure, the first vehicle is initially parked in a designated parking space. This first parking space is defined by existing infrastructure and is, for example, at least partially formed by the shoulder of a roadway. For instance, the first parking space may be designated by urban planners and / or infrastructure operators. Alternatively, the first vehicle may park autonomously in the first parking space. A driver may also be required to park the first vehicle appropriately in the first parking space. For example, the first parking space may be selected by the driver / user, or it may be predetermined by the procedure. In particular, the first parking space must meet certain conditions to allow the procedure to proceed.For example, the procedure includes the step of parking, or the procedure only begins when the first motor vehicle is parked in the first parking space.

[0017] The second vehicle is moved to a connecting position near the first vehicle, which is parked in the first parking space. This connecting position can be either absolutely predetermined or, more conveniently, relative to the first vehicle. In other words, the connecting position is determined by the position of the first vehicle. For example, the second vehicle is only moved there after a corresponding request from the user / driver of the first vehicle. This request is transmitted to the second vehicle, for example, via a device carried by the user, such as a smartphone. Preferably, the request is sent from the first vehicle to the second vehicle.In this case, the request is entered by the user or generated by an on-board computer of the vehicle, for example when the user activates a certain operating mode and / or the first electrical energy storage falls below a certain charge level.

[0018] When the second vehicle is at the connection point, the first and second vehicles are electrically connected by means of a flexible electrical cable. For this purpose, the first vehicle preferably has a charging socket into which the flexible electrical cable, for example, supplied by the second vehicle, is plugged. In particular, the connection point is located adjacent to, or at least within the vicinity of, the charging socket of the first vehicle. The charging socket is expediently electrically connected to the first electrical energy storage device. The electrical cable, on the other hand, is electrically connected to the second electrical energy storage device. Alternatively, a charging plug is used instead of the charging socket.In another alternative scenario, for example, the second vehicle has the charging socket or plug, and the flexible electrical cable is carried by the first vehicle. The electrical connection is made autonomously, requiring no additional manual intervention. Specifically, signals are exchanged between the first and second vehicles to facilitate the connection. This is achieved, for example, through the use of NFC technology and / or signals that comply with a Wi-Fi, mobile network, and / or Bluetooth standard. For instance, one vehicle sends a request to the other to remove any cover from the charging socket. The second vehicle has a connection mechanism, such as an arm, through which the flexible electrical cable is inserted into the charging socket of the first vehicle.In particular, the flexible electrical cable is a charging cable.

[0019] The flexible electrical cable is used to connect the two electrical energy storage devices, preferably via a charging controller. The first vehicle ideally has the charging controller, through which the charging socket / plug of the first vehicle is electrically connected to the first electrical energy storage device, preferably permanently and / or in a non-removable manner. The flexible electrical cable is ideally an integral part of the second vehicle and is permanently connected to the second electrical energy storage device.

[0020] After the two vehicles are electrically connected by means of the flexible electrical cable, which will hereinafter also be referred to simply as the cable, the second vehicle is moved from the connection position to a holding position that differs from the connection position. During this movement, and even after the second vehicle has reached the holding position, the electrical connection via the cable remains in place. In particular, the cable is of a suitable length for this purpose.

[0021] According to the procedure, after electrical connection, electrical energy is transferred from the second electrical energy storage device to the first. In other words, the first electrical energy storage device is charged from the second. The charging control system is used for this purpose.

[0022] For example, the transfer begins essentially immediately after the electrical connection, or at least while the second vehicle is still in the connection position. Alternatively, it only occurs when the second vehicle is in the holding position. At the very least, it is expedient for the energy transfer to also take place when the second vehicle is in the holding position. In particular, the second vehicle is in the holding position for the majority of the charging process of the first electrical energy storage device, i.e., while the electrical energy is being transferred from the second electrical energy storage device to the first electrical energy storage device.

[0023] Due to the use of a second vehicle, charging the first vehicle, specifically its primary electrical energy storage unit, is essentially independent of stationary charging infrastructure. This increases flexibility. Short-term adjustments to the energy transfer method are also possible. Furthermore, the first vehicle can be charged at various locations, enhancing convenience. It is not necessary to choose the first parking space in such a way that the connection point is not otherwise required, even during a relatively long charging process, or that it does not inconvenience other road users. Thus, the process can be carried out virtually anywhere. The stopping position can also be chosen in such a way that no other road users, persons, or objects are endangered. This increases safety.Furthermore, it is not necessary for the user of the first vehicle to remove the vehicle essentially immediately after the charging process is complete, as no hazard exists if the parking position is chosen appropriately, or the vehicle is not needed for any other purpose. Moreover, it is possible to use the second vehicle for other purposes after the charging process is complete, in particular to charge another vehicle. For this, it is not necessary to move the first vehicle. Specifically, the parking position should be chosen in such a way that the second vehicle is accessible and can be used accordingly.

[0024] The second electrical energy storage device of the second vehicle is charged, for example, after the charging process is complete or when its charge level is comparatively low, at a suitable charging infrastructure, which is primarily stationary. For instance, the second electrical energy storage device is charged when charging the first vehicle is not necessary. Alternatively, or in combination with this, the second vehicle may have a solar cell, which can be used to at least partially charge the second electrical energy storage device.

[0025] For example, the stopping position is fixed. Particularly preferably, the stopping position is determined based on the first vehicle and / or its position in the first parking space and / or the position of the first parking space itself. Preferably, the stopping position is at least partially fixed relative to the first vehicle. Suitablely, the stopping position is chosen such that it is not on a sidewalk. Thus, the second vehicle does not obstruct pedestrians, increasing acceptance. Alternatively or in combination with this, the second vehicle is not parked on a roadway. Therefore, it also does not obstruct other road users. At a minimum, the stopping position is chosen such that there is no, and will not be, any traffic flow there.This ensures that traffic flow is not obstructed, particularly while the charging process is underway, or at least while the second vehicle is at the stopping position. It also allows for the connection point to be chosen independently, for example, so that it is located on the sidewalk and / or obstructs traffic flow. Since establishing the electrical connection via the cable is completed within a relatively short time, any obstruction of traffic flow and / or pedestrians resulting from the choice of connection point only lasts for that short period. For example, the stopping position is determined using an algorithm. Specifically, all possible positions in the vicinity of the first vehicle are first identified, and each position is evaluated. The stopping position is then selected based on this evaluation.In particular, any resulting disability is determined during the assessment.

[0026] For example, the charging position remains constant during the charging process, or at least as long as the two vehicles are electrically connected via the cable. Alternatively, it is possible for the position to change, for example, due to changes in traffic flow and / or time restrictions regarding parking the second vehicle. This allows the system to adapt to the current environment and / or requirements, further increasing user acceptance. It also allows the charging process to last a comparatively long time.

[0027] The stopping position is conveniently chosen in a parking lot. Specifically, the parking lot is positioned at a distance from the first vehicle that is less than the length of the cable. Ideally, no other road users or objects are located between the stopping position and the first vehicle. This ensures that the cable's path is not obstructed. Because of this choice, the second vehicle is positioned in a designated parking area. Therefore, determining a stopping position with comparatively low nuisance and / or hazard is unnecessary, simplifying the process. Furthermore, no additional space is required to implement the procedure. This reduces the effort required to implement the procedure and eliminates the need to modify existing infrastructure.

[0028] For example, the parking space is separate from the first parking space, but preferably adjacent to it. The first parking space is given particular preference. Thus, the first and second vehicles are parked in the first parking space for at least the majority of the charging process. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide an additional parking space that could then be unusable by other road users. For example, the first parking space is a space that is also intended for a vehicle combination and / or commercial vehicle. Thus, the first parking space is sufficiently large to provide a comparatively large amount of space for the vehicles to stop.

[0029] Preferably, the first vehicle is parked in the first parking space in such a way that the connecting position is accessible. For this purpose, for example, a corresponding instruction is given to the driver of the first vehicle, and the driver is guided accordingly, for example, by means of the instruction and / or a suitable assistance system. Alternatively, the first vehicle is positioned autonomously, so that manual maneuvering by the driver of the first vehicle is not required. This increases convenience.

[0030] For example, the first vehicle is left unchanged in the first parking space after the two vehicles are electrically connected via the cable. However, it is particularly preferred that the first vehicle is moved in the first parking space. This is expediently done in such a way that at least part of the parking space is cleared. For example, part of the parking space is already clear before the vehicle is moved, and the movement of the first vehicle clears the entire parking space. Alternatively, for example, the parking space is completely covered by the first vehicle before it is moved, and the movement again expediently clears the entire parking space. Thus, it is not necessary, for example, to park the first vehicle in the first parking space in such a way that the parking space is already accessible.Rather, the only practical restriction is that the connection position must be freely accessible. This makes it possible, in particular, to initially park the first vehicle in such a way as to facilitate establishing the electrical connection via the cable. The first vehicle is then moved accordingly so that the stopping position is clear. Alternatively, or in combination with this, the path to the stopping position is cleared by moving the first vehicle. This allows for easier positioning of the second vehicle at the stopping position without, for example, endangering or damaging either vehicle or other objects. Preferably, the first vehicle remains in the position it occupies after being moved. Alternatively, the first vehicle is first moved to clear the path, and then the second vehicle is moved to the stopping position.The first vehicle is then moved back to its original position. This makes it possible, for example, to partially move the first vehicle away from the first parking space, thus facilitating the positioning of the second vehicle. Following this re-movement, the first vehicle is once again in the first parking space, preventing any unwanted obstruction of other road users. For example, a corresponding request is issued to the driver of the first vehicle to move it. However, it is particularly advantageous for the first vehicle to move itself essentially autonomously, and the first vehicle is suitably designed to do so. This increases driver comfort.

[0031] For example, after the energy transfer from the second electrical energy storage device to the first is complete—that is, when the first electrical energy storage device is fully or at least sufficiently charged—the electrical connection is disconnected. This makes it possible to use the second vehicle to charge another vehicle, thus performing the same process in a different system where the first vehicle has been replaced. This enables improved resource utilization. Furthermore, the driver of the first vehicle can then use it essentially immediately.

[0032] The second vehicle is moved to the connection position again. Once the second vehicle is there, the cable is disconnected. The connection position here corresponds exactly to the position where the connection was made using the cable, even if the first vehicle has moved in between. Preferably, however, the connection position is also changed and is expediently the same relative to the first vehicle. Since the electrical connection was made there, disconnecting it when the second vehicle is present is easier and / or prevents any risk to the surroundings. Furthermore, the required cable length is shorter in this case, thus simplifying subsequent cable stowing.

[0033] For example, the entire second vehicle remains stationary. However, the second vehicle preferably includes a charging module that comprises the second electrical energy storage device. The cable is also suitably a component of the charging module or is at least electrically connectable to it. Furthermore, the second vehicle includes a chassis that preferably incorporates the drive system and, in particular, a further (electrical) energy storage device by means of which the drive system is powered. The chassis suitably includes one or more sensors and / or pilot systems, enabling autonomous movement of the second vehicle's chassis. The charging module and the chassis are expediently detachably connected to each other, allowing them to be separated.

[0034] At the holding position, the charging module is conveniently detached from the chassis and set down. The chassis is then moved away from the holding position. During this process, the charging module continues to charge the first electrical energy storage unit, so charging is still ongoing even after the chassis has been moved. Alternatively, charging can be started only after the charging module has been set down. The charging module has several supports or legs, which may be fixed or extend at the holding position. These support legs allow the module to lift off the chassis, thus facilitating its subsequent movement. This makes it possible to use the chassis to move another charging module to a different first vehicle and charge it. Therefore, multiple charging modules can be used, requiring only a single chassis.In this system, the individual sensors and / or systems that enable autonomous movement of the second vehicle are specifically assigned to the chassis. This makes it possible to equip the charging module cost-effectively and / or without a large number of sensors, thus reducing manufacturing costs, while still allowing multiple primary vehicles to be charged.

[0035] The system comprises a first motor vehicle with a first electrical energy storage device and a second motor vehicle with a second electrical energy storage device. For example, the same motor vehicles are always combined into the system. Particularly preferably, the system is formed only temporarily, or preferably, the same second motor vehicle is always used to form the system, followed at different times by different first motor vehicles.

[0036] The system operates according to a method in which the second vehicle is moved to a connection position near the first vehicle, which is parked in a first parking space. The first and second vehicles are electrically connected by means of a flexible electrical cable, and the second vehicle is moved to a holding position other than the connection position. Following the electrical connection of the two vehicles, preferably via the cable, electrical energy is transferred from the second electrical energy storage device to the first electrical energy storage device.

[0037] According to a further aspect of the invention, a second motor vehicle is proposed, which is operated in a driverless manner. It has a second electrical energy storage device, in particular a rechargeable one, i.e., a battery, as well as a flexible electrical connecting cable with which a connection to a first motor vehicle can be established for the purpose of energy transfer. For this purpose, the electrical cable can be plugged into a charging socket provided in the first motor vehicle.

[0038] Furthermore, the second vehicle has a corresponding control unit by means of which the second vehicle can be steered to a connecting position of a parked first vehicle. The control unit activates a drive, in particular an electric drive, of the first vehicle, which moves the second vehicle to the intended target position. Preferably, energy from the second electrical energy storage device is used for this purpose.

[0039] After the electrical cable is connected to the first vehicle, particularly autonomously, i.e., by means of a specially designed arm, the control unit is designed to move the second vehicle to a holding position different from the connection position. The transfer of electrical energy from the second electrical energy storage device to the first vehicle via the flexible electrical cable occurs after connection, or at the latest after the second vehicle has reached the holding position.

[0040] The invention also relates to a corresponding first motor vehicle that is suitable, designed, and equipped for carrying out the method, or at least the associated part of the method. The further developments and advantages explained in connection with the method are also transferable, mutatis mutandis, to the system / the first / second motor vehicle and to each other, and vice versa.

[0041] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. The drawing shows:

[0042] Fig. 1 schematically simplifies a first motor vehicle,

[0043] Fig. 2 shows a second motor vehicle in perspective,

[0044] Fig. 3 shows a method for operating a system comprising the two motor vehicles,

[0045] Figs. 4-6 schematically show, from a bird's-eye view, the system for different work steps during the execution of the procedure.

[0046] Figs. 7, 8 show the system in perspective with alternative arrangements of the two motor vehicles relative to each other during the execution of the procedure.

[0047] Figs. 9-11 show different perspective designs of a charging module for the second motor vehicle, and

[0048] Fig. 12 schematically shows the system from a bird's-eye view at the end of the process.

[0049] Corresponding parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0050] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a first motor vehicle 2 in the form of a passenger car. The first motor vehicle 2 has several wheels 4, at least some of which are driven by a first drive 6 comprising one or more electric motors. The first drive 6 is powered by a first electrical energy storage device 8, which is designed as a high-voltage battery, i.e., a secondary battery, providing a direct current voltage between 400 V and 800 V. A charging socket 10 of the first motor vehicle 2 is provided for recharging the first electrical energy storage device 8. This socket is electrically connected to the first electrical energy storage device 8, for example, directly or via a charging controller (not shown).

[0051] Figure 2 shows a partial perspective view of a second motor vehicle 12. This second motor vehicle 12 has a chassis 14 to which several appropriately adapted wheels 4 are assigned. These wheels are driven by an electric motor via a second drive (not shown). The chassis 14 is designed autonomously, so that no manual operation is required to pilot the second motor vehicle 12. The second motor vehicle 12 also has no passenger compartment. A charging module 16 is detachably mounted on and attached to the chassis 14. The charging module 16 includes a second electrical energy storage device 18 arranged within a housing 17. The second electrical energy storage device 18 comprises several modules, each of which is identical in construction to the first electrical energy storage device 8.Thus, the electrical capacity provided by the charging module 16 is a multiple of the capacity provided by the first electrical energy storage device 8. In a variant not shown in detail, the modules of the second electrical energy storage device 18 differ from those of the first electrical energy storage device 8.

[0052] It is possible to draw electrical energy from the second electrical energy storage device 18 to operate the chassis 14. However, the chassis 14 also has a further electrical energy storage device (not shown in detail), the capacity of which is reduced. Inside the housing 17, an arm 20 movable about several axes is arranged, by means of which it is possible to grasp and move a flexible electrical conductor 22 in the form of a charging cable. The flexible electrical conductor 22 is electrically connected to the second electrical energy storage device 18.

[0053] The first motor vehicle 2 and the second motor vehicle 12 form, at least temporarily, a system 24, and Figure 3 shows a method 26 for operating the system 24, which comprises the first motor vehicle 2 with the first electrical energy storage device 8 and the second motor vehicle 12 with the second electrical energy storage device 18. Consequently, the system 24 is operated according to the method 26, and the first motor vehicle 2 has a correspondingly adapted first control unit 28 for this purpose, which includes a computer 30 in the form of a microprocessor. Furthermore, the first control unit 28 has a memory 32 on which a computer program product 34 is stored. The computer program product 34 comprises several instructions which, when executed by the computer 30, cause the computer 30 to carry out at least part of the method 26.The second motor vehicle 12 also has a second control unit 36, which is arranged within the housing 17 and by means of which a part of the procedure 26 is also carried out. Furthermore, the chassis 14 is assigned a control unit (not shown in detail) by means of which any remaining part of the procedure 26 is carried out.

[0054] Procedure 26 is carried out when the first motor vehicle 2, which is shown schematically from a bird's-eye view in Figure 4, is parked in a first parking space 38 located between a roadway 40 and a footpath 42. Procedure 26 is carried out when the charge level of the first electrical energy storage device 8 is less than a certain limit and / or a driver of the first motor vehicle 2 has made a corresponding user input.

[0055] In the first step 44 of the procedure 26, the second motor vehicle 12 is autonomously moved to a connection position 46 located on the roadway 40 next to the first motor vehicle 2 at the level of the charging socket 10. There, the second motor vehicle 12 is stopped, remaining on the roadway 40. In summary, the second motor vehicle 12 is moved to the connection position 46 near the first motor vehicle 2, which is parked in the first parking space 38.

[0056] The first work step 44 is only carried out, or at least completed, if the first vehicle 2 has been parked in the first parking space 38 in such a way that the connecting position 46 is accessible. In other words, there is no infrastructure there, for example. If the connecting position 46 is not accessible, the first vehicle 2 is moved accordingly in the first parking space 38, whereby the connecting position 46, which is determined relative to the second vehicle 2, also moves. If the connecting position 46 is still not accessible, the procedure 26 is aborted. Otherwise, a second work step 48 is carried out.

[0057] In the subsequent second step 48, the arm 20 is used to insert a charging plug of the charging cable 22 into the charging socket 10 of the first vehicle 2. For this purpose, a cover that protects the charging socket 10 is removed or discarded, if necessary, so that the charging socket 10 is accessible. Since the connection position 46 is located relatively close to the charging socket 10, inserting the flexible electrical cable 22 is facilitated. In summary, the flexible electrical cable 22 connects the first and second vehicles 2, 12, namely the first electrical energy storage device 8 and the second electrical energy storage device 18.

[0058] In a subsequent third step 50, electrical energy is transferred from the second electrical energy storage device 18 to the first electrical energy storage device 8. Thus, the first electrical energy storage device 8 is charged by means of the second electrical energy storage device 18. A stopping position 52 is then selected. This position is chosen such that it is not located on the footpath 42 or in a traffic flow. Since the connecting position 46 is located on the roadway 40, it is unsuitable as stopping position 52. Therefore, stopping position 52 is chosen in the first parking space 38. As shown in Fig. 4, it is possible that the first motor vehicle 2 at least partially covers stopping position 52.

[0059] Therefore, in a fourth step 54, as shown in Figure 5, the first vehicle 2 is moved longitudinally on the first parking space 38, thus releasing the remaining portion of the holding position 52. The second vehicle 12, however, remains in its current position. The electrical connection between the two vehicles 2 and 12 is maintained by the flexible electrical cable 22, which is unwound from a reel (not shown). Furthermore, the movement of the first vehicle releases the path to the holding position 52 for the second vehicle 12. The movement of the first vehicle 2 also moves the connection position 46, which is predetermined with respect to the first vehicle 2 but is not shown in Figure 5.During the fourth work step 44 and also during a subsequent fifth work step 56, the energy transfer continues.

[0060] In the fifth step 56, the second vehicle 12 is moved to the holding position 52, as shown in Figure 6. For this purpose, the length of the flexible electrical cable 22 is adjusted accordingly. It is possible to park the second vehicle 12 in different orientations on the first parking space 38, as shown in Figures 7 and 8. A cover 58 (not shown in Figure 2), which covers the compartment containing the arm 20 when the second vehicle 12 is in ferry mode, is also positioned such that a solar cell 60 attached to the outside of it is exposed to increased sunlight.

[0061] It is also possible, as shown in Figure 9, to extend the supports 62 retracted into the housing 17 and lower them onto the ground. In the variant shown in Figure 9, corresponding support housings are extended horizontally from the housing 17. Subsequently, one of the supports 62 is extended vertically downwards from each of these housings. In the variant shown in Figure 10, the supports 62 are essentially arc-shaped and are extended along the base shape from the housing 17 until they rest on the ground. In the variant shown in Figure 11, the supports 62 are extended both arcually and vertically from the housing 17. After the supports 62 are resting on the ground, the loading module 16 is uncoupled from the chassis 14 and thus detached. Consequently, the loading module 16 is placed at the holding position 52.Subsequently, the chassis 14 is moved away autonomously, and another charging module is picked up using it, which is then used to charge another first vehicle.

[0062] In summary, in the fifth step 56, the second motor vehicle 12 is moved to the holding position 52, which differs from the connecting position 46. During the movement and also afterwards, i.e., when the charging module 16 is at the holding position 52, the energy transfer from the second electrical energy storage device 18 to the first electrical energy storage device 8 continues.

[0063] When the first electrical energy storage device 8 has a charge level specified by the driver of the first vehicle 2, or at least a sufficient charge level, for example 90%, the energy transfer is stopped and a sixth step 64 is carried out. In this step, the second vehicle 2, as shown in a top view in Figure 12, is moved again to the connection position 46, which is located next to the first vehicle 2 at the level of the charging socket 10 on the roadway 40. For this purpose, the chassis 14 may first be moved again to the holding position 52 and the charging module 16, and the module is picked up.

[0064] Then, a seventh step 66 is performed in which the flexible electrical cable 22 is removed from the charging socket 10 by means of the arm 20, thus terminating the electrical connection between the two vehicles 2, 12. In summary, after the energy transfer from the second electrical energy storage device 18 to the first electrical energy storage device 8 has ended, the second vehicle 12 is moved to the (displaced) connection position 46, and the flexible electrical cable 22 is disconnected there. Subsequently, the second vehicle 12 is moved away, and the system 24 is disassembled.

[0065] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, other variants of the invention can also be derived by a person skilled in the art without departing from the subject matter of the invention. In particular, all individual features described in connection with the individual embodiments can also be combined with one another in other ways without departing from the subject matter of the invention. List of reference numerals for the first motor vehicle

[0066] Wheel, first drive, first electrical energy storage

[0067] Charging socket for second vehicle

[0068] chassis

[0069] Charging module

[0070] Housing of second electrical energy storage

[0071] Arm flexible electrical cable

[0072] system

[0073] Procedure first control unit

[0074] computer

[0075] memory

[0076] Computer program product, second control unit, first parking space

[0077] roadway

[0078] Footpath first step

[0079] Connection position, second work step, third work step, holding position, fourth work step, fifth work step, cover, solar cell support, sixth work step, seventh work step

Claims

Patent claims 1. Method (26) for operating a system (24) comprising a first motor vehicle (2) with a first electrical energy storage device (8) and a second motor vehicle (12) with a second electrical energy storage device (18), which is autonomously movable and has a suitable level of automation, wherein the second motor vehicle (12) is moved to a connection position (46) near the first motor vehicle (2) parked in a first parking space (38), the first and second motor vehicles (12, 2) are electrically connected to each other by means of a flexible electrical line (22), and the second motor vehicle (12) is moved to a holding position (52) different from the connection position (46), wherein the electrical connection by means of the line (22) remains in place during this process and also when the second motor vehicle (12) has reached the holding position (52),wherein after electrical connection electrical energy is transferred from the second electrical energy storage device (18) to the first electrical energy storage device (8), and wherein after the end of the energy transfer from the second electrical energy storage device (18) to the first electrical energy storage device (8) the second motor vehicle (12) is moved to the connection position (46) and the flexible electrical line (22) is disconnected.

2. Method (26) according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding position (52) is selected such that it is not located on a footpath (42) or in a traffic flow.

3. Method (26) according to claim 2, characterized in that the holding position (52) is selected in a parking lot.

4. Method (26) according to claim 3, characterized in that that the first parking space (38) is used as the parking space.

5. Method (26) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first motor vehicle (2) is parked on the first parking space (38) in such a way that the connecting position (46) is accessible.

6. Method (26) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first motor vehicle (2) is moved on the first parking space (38) and thus at least part of the holding position (52) or a path to the holding position (52) is released.

7. Method (26) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at the holding position (52) a charging module (16) of the second motor vehicle (12) comprising the second electrical energy storage device (18) is detached from a chassis (14) of the second motor vehicle (12) and placed at the holding position (52), and that the chassis (14) is then moved away.

8. System (24) comprising a first motor vehicle (2) with a first electrical energy storage device (8) and a second motor vehicle (12) with a second electrical energy storage device (18), and operated according to a method (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A second motor vehicle (12) comprising a second electrical energy storage device (18) and a flexible electrical line (22) by which the second motor vehicle (12) can be electrically connected to a first motor vehicle (2) comprising a first electrical energy storage device (8), and which is capable of autonomous movement and has a suitable level of automation, further comprising: - a control unit (36) by means of which the second motor vehicle (12) can be moved to a connecting position (46) at the first motor vehicle (2) parked in a first parking space (38), - and by means of the control unit the second motor vehicle (12) can be moved to a holding position (52) different from the connection position (46), whereby during this time, and even when the second motor vehicle (12) has reached the stopping position (52), the electrical connection via the line (22) remains in place, the second motor vehicle (12) being configured, after electrical connection, to transfer electrical energy from the second electrical energy storage device (18) to the first electrical energy storage device (8), and, after completion of the energy transfer from the second electrical energy storage device (18) to the first electrical energy storage device (8), to move the second motor vehicle (12) to the connection position (46) and to disconnect the flexible electrical line (22).

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