Method and device for transmitting electrical energy to a load

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a load (1) via an electrical plug connection (2), comprising the steps of: i) transmitting the electrical energy (E) to the load (1) via the plug connection (2); ii) detecting the electrical energy (E) which, during a detection time window (14) which progresses with time, is transmitted to the load (1) via the plug connection (2); and iii) adapting, in particular controlling in an open loop and / or a closed loop, an electrical variable, in particular an electric current (I) which flows via the plug connection (2), according to a setpoint specification (R) during a regulation time window (15) which preferably follows the detection time window (14), wherein in the regulation time window (15) the setpoint specification (R) is set in such a way that the electrical energy (E) transmitted during an observation time window (16) which in particular progresses with time corresponds at most to a specified maximum total electrical energy amount (Emax). The invention also relates to a device (51) for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a load (1).

Description

[0001] Method and device for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer

[0002] The invention relates to a method for transferring electrical energy to a consumer, namely to an energy storage device, via an electrical plug connection.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for charging an energy storage device and a device for transferring electrical energy to a consumer, namely to an energy storage device, wherein the device can be connected to a higher-level energy supply network via a plug connection.

[0004] Electrical connectors allow consumers to be electrically connected to an electrical circuit, such as a higher-level electrical power supply network. For this purpose, a first element, usually a male plug, is inserted into a second element, usually a female socket or connector, so that the respective electrical contacts of the two elements are electrically connected and mechanically secured. Connectors therefore generally enable both an electrical and a mechanical connection between the first and second elements. In many cases, the connection between the first and second elements can be made and disconnected without tools. Electrical connectors allow, for example, electrical devices to be connected to the electrical power supply network.An example of such devices are chargers for energy storage systems, which can be connected to the power grid using plug connectors. Electrical energy can be drawn from the power grid and transferred to the energy storage system via the charger using the plug connector.

[0005] A wide variety of electrical connectors are known from the state of the art. Many connectors are standardized with regard to dimensions, number of poles, pole arrangement, and electrical specifications. This ensures that devices from different manufacturers are compatible with each other or can be connected to the power supply network. Other connectors, however, are manufacturer-specific, also known as proprietary connectors, and are usually only used within a single manufacturer's ecosystem. An example of standardized connectors are the three-pole Schuko connectors (abbreviated as "Schuko"), which are predominantly used in Europe and comprise a Schuko plug, a Schuko socket, and a Schuko coupler.

[0006] All electrical connections have in common that they can only handle electrical loads up to a certain limit. In particular, the electrical power, current, or voltage cannot be arbitrarily high, as this would damage the connection and compromise the safety of connected devices and people in the vicinity. Therefore, electrical connections, especially standardized ones, have limits for voltage, current, power, and / or electrical energy. In many cases, however, brief exceedances of these limits do not pose a problem and do not compromise safety or the connection itself. Consequently, some electrical connections have limits for both continuous and short-term loads.(Active) electrical loads, however, generally do not differentiate between these, but rather statically limit the electrical power, current, and / or voltage to the lowest predefined limits in order to prevent any overloading of a plug connection or exceeding of limits in any operating situation. Disadvantageously, this means that in certain operating situations, where, for example, a higher current or power is only needed briefly, the full current or power cannot be accessed, even though this would theoretically be possible and compatible with the permissible limits for the electrical quantities.

[0007] EP 0 464 423 Bl of fenbart a method in which an exceedance of an energy setpoint is avoided by switching off consumers by means of controllable switches in building units that are integrated into the building installation .

[0008] In light of these considerations, the object of the present invention is to mitigate or even completely eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art. Preferably, the object of the present invention is to provide a method or device for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer, in which the energy transmission potential of a plug connection, in particular a pin-type plug connection, can be better utilized within the predetermined limits of a plug connection.

[0009] This problem is solved by a method for transferring electrical energy to a consumer according to claim 1, a method for charging an energy storage device according to claim 13 and a device for transferring electrical energy according to claim 14.

[0010] According to claim 1, a method for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer, namely an energy storage device, via an electrical connector comprises the following steps: i) transmitting the electrical energy to the consumer via the connector; ii) detecting the electrical energy that is transmitted to the consumer via the connector during a time-progressing detection window; and iii) adjusting, in particular controlling and / or regulating, an electrical quantity, in particular an electric current, flowing via the connector, according to a setpoint during a regulation window preferably following the detection window, wherein the setpoint in the regulation window is adjusted such that the electrical energy transmitted during a time-progressing observation window, in particular, does not exceed a predetermined maximum electrical value.The total energy corresponds to the step of the method, wherein the steps of the method are carried out by a device for transferring electrical energy to a consumer, which can be connected to a higher-level power supply network via the plug connection, and the target value, in particular a target curve, is set such that it approximates a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device. With the method according to the invention, the specifications regarding the amount of energy transferred within predetermined time periods can be maintained at plug connections without unduly restricting the energy transfer. The target value can be, but of course does not have to be, set so that the transferred electrical energy corresponds to the maximum total electrical energy. It is only important that the electrical energy transferred during the observation period does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy.and the target value is adjusted accordingly. The target value is therefore set such that the energy transferred during the observation window is not greater than the specified maximum total electrical energy. The target value can be set essentially freely, taking into account the specified maximum total electrical energy. In one embodiment of the invention, electrical parameters of the consumer can be considered when selecting the target value. In this way, it is possible to supply the consumer individually with the electrical voltage, electrical current, electrical energy, and / or electrical power it requires, insofar as this is permitted by the maximum total electrical energy in the observation window. This is particularly advantageous with regard to charging energy storage devices. In particular, the target value can be tailored to the consumer and its requirements, needs, orThe setpoint can be adapted to specific conditions. For example, if communication with the consumer is possible, the setpoint can be adapted to one or more parameters output by the consumer. For example, if the consumer is an energy storage device connected to a charger, the setpoint can be adapted to a charging curve of the energy storage device defined by at least one electrical parameter. The setpoint can, for example, specify a charging current and / or a charging voltage. This also indirectly adjusts the energy transmitted at the connector. With the method according to the invention, it is possible, for example, to initiate and complete a charging process of an energy storage device. In particular, with the method according to the invention, the charging process can be carried out quickly with a high charging speed and efficiently by maximizing the electrical energy and / or electrical power. In other words,The charging speed can be maximized while adhering to the maximum total electrical energy during the observation time window. When maximizing electrical energy and / or electrical power, a charging curve of the energy storage device can also be taken into account to charge the energy storage device according to demand and to avoid overloading or conserving its energy. Simultaneously, the method according to the invention can prevent exceeding the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. Thus, in one embodiment of the method according to the invention, a charging process of an energy storage device can be initiated and preferably completed without interruption, in which the energy storage device is charged as closely as possible to its individual charging curve, ensuring that the electrical energy transferred during the observation time window does not exceed the predetermined maximum total electrical energy. When the charging processSince charging is carried out continuously, the energy storage device can be charged particularly efficiently. During a continuous charging process, electrical energy is continuously transferred into the energy storage device. A continuous charging process can be achieved, for example, by reducing the charging power as needed. The maximum total electrical energy is not exceeded. In one embodiment of the invention, a charging process refers to the period between the start of the energy transfer to the energy storage device and the point at which the energy storage device is charged to a predetermined state of charge. During a continuous charging process, the energy storage device is charged continuously without interruption during this period. The predetermined state of charge can, for example, be essentially 100% (fully charged energy storage device) or lower, for example, 90% orat 80%. The energy storage device can be, for example, a lithium-ion battery or a lead-acid battery. Examples of lithium-ion batteries are LEB, LTO, NMC, NCA, NGO, LMO, or LCO batteries. Examples of lead-acid batteries are PzS, GiS, PzV, GiV, or CSM batteries. Examples of lead-crystal batteries are EVFJ, CNFJ, or NiCd batteries. The electrical quantity to be adjusted can be modified by a regulating unit. The adjustment can be achieved, in particular, by a controller and / or regulator. The adjustment can be made directly or indirectly, for example by adjusting the charging current and / or charging voltage output by the charger to the energy storage device according to the target value. This also results in an adjustment of the electrical current flowing into the charger and thus the energy transferred via the plug connection.The electrical quantity can be, for example, an electric current and / or an electric voltage. In one embodiment, the electrical quantity is a current flowing through the connector, which is adjusted according to the target value. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the consumer is an energy storage device, and the electrical quantity is a charging current and / or a charging voltage for an energy storage device, which is / are adjusted according to the target value. By adjusting the charging voltage or charging current, the current through the connector is also adjusted. In other words, by adjusting the charging current and / or charging voltage, the energy transmitted via the connector can also be regulated. Steps i), ii), and / or iii) can be carried out at least partially overlapping or simultaneously, i.e., in parallel. The connector preferably comprises a first plug element.and a second plug-in element. The plug connection establishes an electrical and a mechanical contact between the plug-in elements. The first and second plug-in elements are preferably connectable and / or disconnectable without tools. The first plug-in element can be designed as an electrical plug. The second plug-in element can be designed as an electrical socket or as an electrical coupling. Preferably, the first plug-in element is a grounded plug and the second element is a grounded socket or a grounded coupling. The grounded plug can be a grounded plug according to CEE 7 / 4 (CEE = Commission on the Rules for the Approval of the Electrical Equipment). This grounded plug is also known as a Type F grounded plug. The grounded socket can be a grounded socket according to CEE 7 / 3. The plug connection,In particular, the safety plug and / or the safety socket can be standardized, for example, with regard to geometric dimensions and / or electrical specifications. Standardization can vary from country to country. After the electrical connection is established or the first and second plug elements are joined, electrical energy is transferred to the consumer in step i). The transferred electrical energy can be measured in step ii) using a measuring device. The measuring device, which can form part of the measurement unit mentioned below, can, for example, be integrated into a device for transferring electrical energy to a consumer, in particular a charger for an energy storage device. For example, the electrical power can be determined by measuring the electrical voltage at the plug connection and the electrical current through the plug connection.and by integrating the electrical power over time, the transferred electrical energy can be determined over a period of time, particularly during the detection time window. The transferred energy can be detected, in particular, as a temporal energy profile. The detection time window preferably extends into the past and reaches to the present, i.e., to the current time, which progresses continuously. The detection time window can have a predetermined duration, which, however, can be adjustable. Progressing over time preferably means that the entire detection time window slides over time, i.e., its beginning and end are shifted over time. However, in one embodiment of the invention, progressing over time can also mean that only the end of the detection time window progresses over time. In this case, the duration of the detection time window increases over time.The acquisition time window can also increase only up to a defined duration, after which the entire time window, including the beginning of the acquisition time window, glides over time. This is particularly advantageous at the beginning of the method according to the invention. However, it is also conceivable that the acquisition time window continuously increases and all energy values ​​are recorded and stored. In step iii), the electrical quantity is adjusted according to a target value during the regulation time window, in particular controlled and / or regulated. The adjustment of the electrical quantity can, as mentioned, be carried out directly or indirectly, for example by adjusting another electrical quantity related to the electrical quantity. In one embodiment of the invention, the consumer can be an energy storage device and the electrical quantity can be a charging current and / or a charging voltage output by a charger, which / whichThe current flowing through the connector is adjusted to the target value, which also results in an adjustment of the current. The regulation time window preferably connects directly to the detection time window and is preferably located in the future. The end of the detection time window and the beginning of the regulation time window can therefore coincide at the current point in time as it progresses. Both the end of the detection time window and the beginning of the regulation time window can progress over time. The regulation time window serves for the future planning of the temporal progression of the electrical quantity. The regulation time window preferably has a predefined duration, which is adjustable. The duration of the regulation time window can be selected, in particular, depending on the energy transmitted in the detection time window. The regulation time window as a whole can progress over time.If the beginning of the regulation time window progresses over time, but the end is fixed, at least temporarily, the duration of the regulation time window can also be reduced. The regulation time window can also be reduced only up to a specific, predetermined duration, after which the entire regulation time window—that is, both the beginning and the end—progresses over time. Conversely, the regulation time window can also be increased by shifting the end of the regulation time window further into the future. Increasing and decreasing the regulation time window can be particularly advantageous during transitional phases, for example, when little or no electrical energy has recently been transmitted via the connector, as described in more detail below. The observation window can be linked to the detection time window and / or to...The observation window, in particular its beginning and end, can progress over time. The observation window can also have an adjustable duration. The observation window can lie at least partially in the past and / or in the future. Since the condition that the transferred energy does not exceed the predetermined maximum total energy must be fulfilled for the observation window at every point in time, the temporal relationship between the observation window, the detection window, and the regulation window is irrelevant for the invention. Therefore, in an implementation of the invention, the observation window can, for example, coincide with the detection window. In this case, the target value must be set such that at a later time, when the observation windowThe specified maximum total energy is not exceeded. In other words, with this implementation, the target value is planned in the future such that if the observation window passes later than the period planned by the (current) regulation window, the condition that the transferred energy does not exceed the specified maximum total energy is met. However, it is also possible that the end of the observation window coincides with the end of the regulation window. In this preferred implementation, the observation window lies at least partially in the future and can also extend into the past if the regulation window is shorter than the observation window. The target value in the regulation window is set such that the transferred electrical energy corresponds at most to the specified maximum total electrical energy. As already mentioned...As mentioned, the transmitted energy may or may not correspond to the specified maximum total energy. If a large amount of electrical energy has already been transmitted within the detection or observation time window, the target value is adjusted accordingly so that the transmitted electrical energy does not exceed the specified maximum total electrical energy. To adjust the target value within the control time window so that the specified maximum total electrical energy is not exceeded, past recorded values ​​of the energy transmitted via the connector can be taken into account. To reduce the transmitted electrical energy, for example, the electrical current and / or voltage can be reduced. Conversely, increasing the current and / or voltage allows more energy to be transmitted. As already mentioned, the electrical quantity could be, for example,The electrical quantity transmitted through the plug connection is an electric current. If the device is an energy storage device, the electrical quantity can also be a charging current and / or a charging voltage. Reducing the charging current and / or charging voltage, due to the reduced energy transfer between the charger and the energy storage device, also leads to a reduction in the current and thus the electrical energy transmitted through the plug connection.

[0011] Unless otherwise stated, the electrical values ​​given in this disclosure are effective values.

[0012] It has proven particularly advantageous when the observation time window is between 2 hours and 4 hours, especially essentially 3 hours.

[0013] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention arises when the observation time window coincides with the acquisition time window, or in particular, corresponds to it. In this embodiment, the observation time window also preferably lies exclusively in the past. The target value can be planned within the regulation time window such that the transmitted electrical energy does not exceed the specified maximum total electrical energy during the subsequently passing observation time window. Therefore, past values ​​of the transmitted energy can be taken into account when planning the target value.

[0014] Preferably, the duration of the detection window is at least 60 minutes, preferably at least 120 minutes, or at least 180 minutes. It is advantageous if the duration of the detection window is at least as long as the duration of the observation window. During periods when little or no energy has been transferred previously, the energy transfer can be planned further into the future without exceeding the predetermined maximum total electrical energy within the observation window. Therefore, it is advantageous if the duration of the regulation window is variably adjustable. Thus, during periods when no electrical energy has been transferred previously, for example, 3 hours earlier, the regulation window can be extended, for example, to 3 hours.

[0015] The duration of the regulation time window can be selected depending on the energy transferred in the detection time window. It has proven particularly advantageous if the duration of the regulation time window is between 0 minutes and 180 minutes, preferably between 30 minutes and 90 minutes or between 45 minutes and 75 minutes, and especially essentially 60 minutes.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, it has proven advantageous if the regulation time window is at least 10 minutes, at least 30 minutes, or at least 1 hour.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the target value is a time-dependent target curve, which is preferably determined by at least one electrical parameter, which parameter is specified, in particular, by the consumer. The at least one electrical parameter can be, for example, a parameter for electric current, electric voltage, electric power, and / or electric energy. If the consumer is, for example, an electrical energy storage device, the parameter can be, for example, a parameter for a charging curve, or a charging curve can be derived from the parameter. Multiple parameters can also be specified by the consumer.

[0018] To avoid overloading the connector, it is advantageous if the specified maximum total electrical energy is between 6000 Wh and 9000 Wh, preferably between 6500 Wh and 8000 Wh or between 7200 Wh and 7500 Wh, in particular essentially 7360 Wh.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the target value is limited to a predetermined maximum value. In other words, the electrical quantity is further limited in its magnitude. The maximum value can also be time-dependent and vary. The electrical quantity need not, of course, reach the maximum value. Taking into account the predetermined maximum total energy, the electrical quantity can assume any value below the maximum value. In one embodiment of the invention, the electrical quantity is an electric current through the connector. In this case, it is advantageous if the predetermined maximum value is essentially between 10 amperes and 16 amperes. For example, the predetermined maximum value can be 10 A, 11 A, 12 A, 13 A, 14 A, 15 A, or 16 A (A for amperes). The specified values ​​are preferably effective values.If the target value relates to an electrical quantity associated with the electrical current through the connector, for example a charging current or charging voltage, the maximum value can also be chosen so that the current through the connector does not exceed the values ​​above.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, the electrical energy and / or electrical power transferred to the consumer during the regulation time window can be maximized. This allows the consumer to be supplied with a high energy supply, which is particularly advantageous for charging an energy storage device. An energy storage device can thus be charged quickly and preferably without interruption, without exceeding the maximum total electrical energy. At least one parameter of the consumer can also be taken into account to prevent overloading the device. In particular, if the consumer is an energy storage device, a charging curve defined by at least one parameter can be considered when maximizing the transferred electrical energy or power.When maximizing the transferred electrical energy and / or electrical power, the maximum value of the target value can also be taken into account. By maximizing the electrical power and / or electrical energy, an energy storage device can, for example, be charged quickly – possibly taking into account at least one parameter, in particular a parameter for a charging curve or from which a charging curve can be derived.

[0021] It is advantageous if the consumer is an energy storage device, particularly a lithium-ion battery, and the target value, especially a target curve, is set such that it approximates a predetermined charging curve for the energy storage device, and in particular corresponds to it essentially. If the target value specifies a charging current and / or a charging voltage, the energy transferred via the connector is also indirectly set. The charging curve can be defined by or derived from at least one parameter of the energy storage device. The target curve can approximate the charging curve as closely as the predetermined maximum total energy or, if applicable, the maximum value of the target value allows. If the predetermined maximum total energy and, if applicable, the maximum value permits, the target value can correspond to the charging curve.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the consumer may be an energy storage device, in particular a lithium-ion battery, and a charging plan may be created for charging the energy storage device, according to which the target value is set. The charging plan may, in particular, be a time-based charging plan. The charging plan may, for example, take into account that the available electrical power is currently limited because a large amount of energy has been transferred via the connector in recent hours. The charging plan may stipulate that charging is postponed until more energy or power can be transferred without exceeding the specified maximum total energy within the observation window.

[0023] The problem described above is also solved by a method for charging an energy storage device, in particular a vehicle's energy storage device. In this method, the energy storage device is charged with electrical energy via a plug connection, and the method for transferring electrical energy to a consumer of the type described above is applied.

[0024] The task described above is further solved by a device for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer. The device can be connected to a higher-level power supply network via a plug connection and comprises the following: a detection unit which is configured to detect the electrical energy that is transmitted at the plug connection during a time-dependent detection window;A regulating unit, in particular a control and / or regulation unit, which is configured to adjust, in particular to control and / or regulate, an electrical quantity, in particular an electric current flowing via the plug connection, according to a setpoint during a regulating time window following the acquisition time window, wherein the control and / or regulation unit is further configured to set the setpoint in the regulating time window such that the electrical energy transmitted during a time-progressing observation time window corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy, wherein the device is configured to set the setpoint, in particular a setpoint curve, such that it approximates a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device.

[0025] The advantages, effects, and characteristics described above in connection with the method for transferring electrical energy to a consumer are transferable to the device for transferring electrical energy. The device for transferring electrical energy to a consumer can be a standalone unit located between the consumer and the main power supply network. The connection to the main power supply network is made via a plug connector. The electrical energy is thus transferred to the consumer via the device. Advantageously, this does not involve any modifications to existing electrical installations. When charging the energy storage device, the charging process is preferably not interrupted; that is, energy is continuously charged into the energy storage device during the charging process.In one embodiment of the invention, the sensing unit can be configured to directly or indirectly measure an electric current through the connector and an electric voltage across the connector. From the measured quantities, an electrical power can be determined, and by integrating over time, the electrical energy transmitted via the connector can be calculated. In one embodiment of the invention, the sensing unit can be configured as a standalone unit. In another embodiment, the sensing unit can be arranged within a housing of the device. The control unit can include a microprocessor. If the load is configured as an energy storage device, the control unit can be configured to adjust a charging current and / or a charging voltage.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, the device can be configured as a charger for charging an energy storage device, particularly an energy storage device in a vehicle. The vehicle can be, for example, an electrically powered vehicle or industrial truck, with the energy storage device serving to supply power to the vehicle's drive system. Charging electric cars is particularly preferred. When the device is configured as a charger, the electrical parameter is preferably a charging current and / or a charging voltage, the control or regulation of which also affects the transferred energy. By adjusting the charging current or the charging voltage, the energy transferred at the connector can thus also be controlled and / or regulated. The sensing unit can be integrated within or attached to the housing of the charger.In this embodiment of the invention, the detection unit can detect the electrical voltage at the connector by measuring an input voltage at an electrical input of the charger, particularly if the electrical input is directly connected to the connector via a supply cable. In this case, the electrical current through the connector can also be detected by measuring an input current of the charger, provided no other electrical devices are connected to the connector, since the electrical current through the connector inevitably also flows into the input of the charger. In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a charging current and a charging voltage for the energy storage device are detected, and the transferred electrical energy is determined from this by calculating the electrical power and integrating over time.The electrical energy transferred to the energy storage device essentially corresponds, apart from negligible losses and the electrical energy required for controlling the charger, to the electrical energy transferred via the plug connection. In other words, by measuring the charging power and charging energy, the power and energy transferred at the plug connection can also be determined.

[0027] The invention can also be described using the following embodiments:

[0028] Implementation form 1: Method for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer via an electrical connector comprising the steps: i) transmitting the electrical energy to the consumer via the connector; ii) detecting the electrical energy transmitted to the consumer via the connector during a time-progressing detection window; and iii) adjusting, in particular controlling and / or regulating, an electrical quantity, for example an electric current, flowing via the connector, according to a setpoint during a regulation window preferably following the detection window, wherein the setpoint in the regulation window is adjusted such that the electrical energy transmitted during a time-progressing observation window corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy.

[0029] Implementation form 2: Method according to implementation form 1, wherein the observation time window is between 2 and 4 hours, in particular substantially 3 hours. Implementation form 3: Method according to implementation form 1 or 2, wherein the observation time window coincides with the data acquisition time window, in particular corresponds to the data acquisition time window.

[0030] Implementation form 4: Method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 3, wherein the duration of the recording time window is at least 60 minutes, preferably at least 120 minutes or at least 180 minutes.

[0031] Implementation form 5: Procedure according to one of implementation forms 1 to 4, wherein the duration of the regulation time window is variably adjustable.

[0032] Implementation form 6: Method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 5, wherein the duration of the regulation time window is between 0 minutes and 180 minutes, preferably between 30 minutes and 90 minutes or between 45 minutes and 75 minutes, in particular substantially 60 minutes.

[0033] Implementation form 7: Method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 6, wherein the target specification is a time-dependent target curve, which is preferably determined by at least one electrical parameter, which parameter is in particular specified by the consumer.

[0034] Implementation form 8: Method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 7, wherein the specified maximum total electrical energy quantity is between 6000 Wh and 9000 Wh, preferably between 6500 Wh and 8000 Wh or between 7200 Wh and 7500 Wh, in particular substantially 7360 Wh.

[0035] Implementation form 9: A method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 8, wherein the target value assumes at most a predetermined maximum value, preferably wherein the electrical quantity is an electric current through the plug connection and the predetermined maximum value is, in particular, essentially between 10 amperes and 16 amperes. Implementation form 10: A method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 9, wherein the electrical energy and / or electrical power transferred to the consumer during the regulation time window is maximized.

[0036] Implementation form 11: Method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 10, wherein the consumer is an energy storage device, in particular a lithium-ion battery, and the target specification, in particular a target curve, is set such that it approximates a predetermined charging curve for charging the energy storage device, in particular essentially corresponds to it.

[0037] Implementation form 12: Method according to one of implementation forms 1 to 11, wherein the consumer is an energy storage device, in particular a lithium-ion battery, and a charging plan is created for charging the energy storage device, according to which the target value is set.

[0038] Implementation form 13: Method for charging an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device of a vehicle, in which the energy storage device is charged with electrical energy via a plug connection, wherein the method for transferring electrical energy to a consumer via a plug connection according to one of implementation forms 1 to 12 is used.

[0039] Execution form 14: Device for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer, wherein the device is connectable to a higher-level power supply network via a plug connection and comprises the following: a detection unit which is configured to detect the electrical energy which is transmitted at the plug connection during a time-sliding detection window;A regulatory unit, in particular a control and / or regulation unit, which is configured to adjust, in particular to control and / or regulate, an electrical quantity, for example an electric current flowing via the plug connection, according to a setpoint during a regulation time window following the recording time window, wherein the control and / or regulation unit is further configured to set the setpoint in the regulation time window in such a way that the electrical energy transmitted during an observation time window, in particular one that progresses over time, corresponds at most to a predetermined maximum total electrical energy.

[0040] Implementation form 15: Device according to implementation form 13, wherein the device is designed as a charger for charging an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device in a vehicle.

[0041] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, to which it is not, however, limited. The figures show:

[0042] Fig. 1 schematically shows a consumer in the form of an energy storage device connected to a charger which is supplied with electrical energy via a plug connection;

[0043] Fig. 2A shows a schematic current profile over time in a prior art method for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer according to a first variant;

[0044] Fig. 2B shows a schematic current profile over time in a prior art method for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer according to a second variant;

[0045] Fig. 3A shows a schematic current profile over time in a method according to the invention for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer;

[0046] Fig. 3B shows an alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, wherein the schematic current flow corresponds to that shown in Fig. 3A;

[0047] Fig. 4A shows a further schematic current profile over time in a method according to the invention for transmitting electrical energy to a consumer;

[0048] Fig. 4B shows an alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, wherein the schematic current flow corresponds to that of Fig. 4A.

[0049] Fig. 1 shows a consumer 1 in the form of an energy storage device 5, which is connected to a charger 4. The charger 4 is connected via a plug connection 2 to a power supply network 3 with, for example, a supply voltage of 230 V (within the permissible tolerances), so that electrical energy E can be charged into the energy storage device 5 via the charger 4. The charger 4 itself thus forms a device 51 for transferring electrical energy E to a consumer 1. The charger 4, or the device 51, is independent of any building installations and can therefore be connected to and disconnected from the power supply network 3 by connecting and disconnecting the plug connection 2. The plug connection 2 has a plug 6 in the form of a safety contact plug 7 and a socket 8 in the form of a safety contact socket 9. The plug 6 is connected to the socket 8 in a way that can be detached without tools.The charger 4 is connected to the plug 6 via a supply line 10. The charger 4 is in turn connected to the energy storage device 5 via a connecting line 11, which can also be detached without tools and may be two-pole. The energy storage device 5 can be a lithium-ion battery 5a. Data, in particular electrical parameters, can be transmitted between the charger 4 and the energy storage device 5 via a wireless or wired data communication connection 54. The energy storage device 5 can, for example, be an energy storage device of an electrically powered vehicle (not shown) and supply the vehicle's drive system with electrical energy.

[0050] An alternating voltage U, typically 230 V, is applied to connector 2. However, in North America, the alternating voltage U may only be 110 V–120 V. Furthermore, an electric current I flows through connector 2. In one embodiment (not shown), the voltage U and the current I can be measured directly at connector 2. In another embodiment of the invention, the voltage U and the current I can be measured using a sensing unit 12 in or on the charger 4. The input voltage U measured at an input 13a of the charger 4 E In the illustration shown, this essentially corresponds to the electrical voltage U applied to connector 2. The input current I flowing at input 13a E This essentially corresponds to the current I flowing through the connector. From the electrical voltage U or the input voltage U Eand the electric current I or the input current I E The power P transmitted at connector 2 can be determined. By integrating the power P over time, the energy E transmitted via connector 2 can be determined.

[0051] In another embodiment of the invention, a charging voltage U can be added or alternatively provided. L , in particular a DC voltage, and a charging current I L , in particular a direct current, at an output 13b of the charger 4, which can be set, in particular controlled and / or regulated, by a regulating unit 52, in particular a control and / or regulation unit. By multiplying the charging current I L with the charging voltage U L can a charging power P L to be determined, from which, in turn, a charging energy E can be calculated by integrating over time. Lcan be determined. Due to the energy balance of the device 51, the electrical energy E transferred at the plug connection 2 essentially corresponds to the charging energy E. L , with the exception of negligible losses or negligible energy for controlling or regulating the charger 4. Thus, the electrical energy E at the connector 2 can also be determined by measuring the charging energy E L be recorded.

[0052] Connectors 2 are typically assigned limit values ​​to prevent damage and ensure safety. Usually, different limit values ​​exist for different electrical quantities, such as current, voltage, power, and / or energy. These limit values ​​can also be time-dependent and interdependent. It is known in the art for electrical applications, for example, to use the lowest limit values ​​for all operating situations for current I and voltage U, in order to prevent any potential exceedance of the limit values ​​and any potential energy overload of the connector 2 in all operating situations. Such a situation is illustrated in Fig. 2A. Fig. 2A shows a current waveform over time in a diagram according to a prior art method. The abscissa of the diagram represents time t in hours.The ordinate of the diagram represents the current I, measured in amperes, transmitted at a connector 2. To prevent potential energy overloads of the connector 2, the current I is limited to 10 A, regardless of the operating conditions. The electrical energy that can be transmitted in three hours is thus limited to approximately 6.9 kWh at a voltage U of 230 V. Figure 2A shows that 10 A are transmitted continuously for two hours. After a one-hour break, a current of 10 amperes is transmitted again for four hours. Subsequently, 5 amperes are transmitted for one hour. A disadvantage of this method is that the transmittable energy E is limited. However, for connectors 2 designed as safety sockets of type F, short-term higher electrical currents I or higher electrical power P can be harmless to the connector 2, provided they are limited in duration.Theoretically, it would therefore be possible and permissible to transmit higher currents I, and thus higher electrical power P and higher electrical energy E, for shorter periods using protective contact connectors. However, this is not possible with the prior art method shown in Fig. 2A.

[0053] The need for higher currents is met by the prior art method shown in Fig. 2B. Fig. 2B shows another prior art method for transmitting energy E via a plug connection 2. This variant makes it possible to transmit a higher electrical current I and thus more electrical energy E for short periods, but requires a subsequent transmission pause 53 of at least one hour for the current I or the energy E, during which, for safety reasons, no more electrical energy E is transmitted via the plug connection 2. Fig. 2B also shows an exemplary current waveform in a time diagram. The abscissa again represents the time t in hours. The ordinate represents the current I via the plug connection 2 in amperes. As can be seen in Fig. 2B, in this variant, 16 A will be transmitted several times continuously for two hours at a time.However, a one-hour transmission break (53) must then be observed to protect connector 2. With this configuration, an energy E of 7.36 kWh can be transferred in two hours at a voltage of 230 V. The disadvantage is that the one-hour transmission break, during which no energy E can be transferred, is mandatory, thus significantly limiting the flexibility of energy transfer via connector 2.

[0054] In order to avoid the transmission pause, as shown in Fig. 2B, and to be able to transmit more electrical current I, at least briefly, if necessary, than is possible with the variant according to Fig.2A, the method according to the invention provides the following steps: i) transmitting the electrical energy E to the consumer 1 via the plug connection 2; ii) detecting the electrical energy E that is transmitted to the consumer 1 via the plug connection 2 during a time-progressing detection time window 14; and iii) adjusting, in particular controlling and / or regulating an electrical quantity, for example the electric current I, according to a setpoint R during a regulation time window 15 preferably following the detection time window 14, wherein the setpoint R in the regulation time window 15 is set such that the electrical energy E transmitted during a time-progressing observation time window 16, in particular one that progresses with time t, does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy E. max corresponds .

[0055] Advantageously, the method according to the invention allows for compliance with a time-limited energy transfer, such as that provided for in protective contact sockets. At the same time, however, the limit values ​​for electrical quantities can be better utilized and the flexibility with regard to energy transfer can be increased. Thus, for example, the energy storage device 5 can be charged as quickly as possible, i.e., with a high charging speed, and preferably taking into account a charging curve L, without exceeding a predetermined maximum total electrical energy E. max The observation time window exceeds 16. Likewise, the charging process is preferably not interrupted.

[0056] Fig. 3A shows an embodiment of the method according to the invention in a time diagram. The abscissa represents the time t in hours. The ordinate represents the current I across the connector 2 in amperes. The voltage U across the connector 2 is essentially 230 V, so the transmitted current is proportional to the transmitted energy E. From the current I and the voltage U, a transmitted power P and a transmitted energy E can be derived.

[0057] In Fig. 3A a detection time window 14 can be seen, which in the illustrated embodiment measures a time duration T 14 exhibits and as a whole slides over time t. In other words, a beginning 14a and an end 14b of the acquisition time window 14 progress, as it were, over time t. The duration T 14 This is preserved. During the acquisition window 14, the transferred energy E is recorded, plotted, and stored. The duration T14The acquisition time window 14, in the embodiment shown, is essentially 3 hours. The end 14b of the acquisition time window 14, in the embodiment shown, coincides with the current time 50 and progresses with it. The current time 50 is labeled Oh on the abscissa in the diagram shown. The acquisition time window 14 is a time window that, with the exception of the end 14b, which coincides with the current time 50, lies in the past. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown, it can also be provided that only the end 14b of the acquisition time window 14 progresses with time t, while the beginning 14a of the acquisition time window 14 remains fixed in time. This causes the acquisition time window 14 to increase with time t.This can be the case, in particular, at the beginning of the process, when the process is started and the acquisition time window 14 only builds up over time t. However, it is also conceivable that the acquisition time window 14 continuously increases with time t, i.e., records and stores all energy values ​​since the beginning of the process.

[0058] In Fig. 3A, a time window 15 that progresses with time t is also visible, the beginning 15a of which coincides with the end 14b of the acquisition time window 14 and thus also with the current time 50, which progresses with time t. The end of the time window 15b lies in the future. The time window 15 preferably slides with time. The time window 15 is a time window that, with the exception of its beginning 15a, lies in the future. In the representation shown, the time window 15 has a duration T. 15of one hour. The duration T 15 is preferably variably adjustable and, in particular, adaptable during the process. This is advantageous, for example, during transition phases in which little or no energy E has been transmitted via connector 2. In particular, if no energy E has been transmitted at connector 2 for a longer period of time, planning can be carried out further into the future and the regulation time window 15 can be extended, for example, to three hours. The duration T 15 The regulation time window 15 can preferably be selected depending on the energy E transferred in the detection time window 14, as will be shown further below in connection with Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B. In the regulation time window 15, the target value R for an electrical quantity, for example for the current I, for the charging current I, can be set. L or the charging voltage U LThe target value R for the current I is specified via connector 2 in the illustrated version for clarity. This target value R can be determined by a specification of connector 2. However, if the consumer 1 is an energy storage device 5, the charging current I is preferred. L and / or the charging voltage U LThe electrical quantity is adjusted according to a target value R, which is related to the current I through connector 2 and influences both the current and the transmitted energy E. The target value R can be a time-dependent target curve K. In other words, the future course of the electrical quantity is determined within the regulation time window 15 by the target value R. The electrical quantity can be adjusted directly or indirectly, in particular regulated and / or controlled. Indirect control and / or regulation results, for example, from adjusting another electrical quantity related to the electrical quantity. The target value R is set such that the electrical energy E transmitted during an observation time window 16, which in particular progresses over time, does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy E. maxThis corresponds to . In other words, the target value R is set such that the electrical energy E transmitted during the observation time window 16, which will be described in more detail below, does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy E. max does not exceed. For example, the electrical quantity can be reduced or even made zero to prevent exceeding the specified maximum total electrical energy E. max To avoid this, the electrical quantity is preferably only reduced to avoid interrupting a charging process. The target value R allows the future course of the electrical quantity to be planned, but only under the condition that the transferred electrical energy in the observation window 16 does not exceed the specified maximum total electrical energy E. maxdoes not exceed. The electrical quantity is thus related to the transferred electrical energy E. The target value R can be influenced by at least one parameter P of the consumer 1. For example, the target value R can be adapted to a charging curve L of an energy storage device 5, which is determined by at least one parameter P. However, if the adaptation to the charging curve L would result in the specified maximum total electrical energy E being exceeded... max If the observation time window 16 were exceeded, the electrical quantity, for example the current I through the plug connection 2, the charging current I, could be exceeded. L or the charging voltage U L , correspondingly reduced. However, the charging curve L can still be determined by the target value R, insofar as this results in the specified maximum total electrical energy E. maxallows for approximation. If the consumer 1 is an energy storage device 5, the state of charge of the energy storage device 5 can be read out and the remaining charging time determined via the data communication link 54. This allows the charging process of the energy storage device 5 to be even better adapted to the energy storage device 5. Preferably, the detection time window 14, the regulation time window 15, and the observation time window 16 slide with time t.

[0059] The condition is that the electrical energy E transferred during the observation time window 16 does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy E. maxThe condition that the electrical energy E transmitted during the observation window 16 does not exceed the specified maximum total electrical energy E is preferably fulfilled at every point in time during the process according to the invention. The observation window 16, which progresses over time, can therefore be arranged in any temporal relation to the current time 50, the acquisition time window 14, or the regulation time window 15. Whether the observation time window 16 lies at least partially or even completely in the future or in the past is irrelevant for the invention and is only important for the specific implementation of a particular embodiment of the invention. What is relevant to the invention is only that at all times during the execution of the process, the condition is fulfilled that the electrical energy E transmitted during the observation time window 16 does not exceed the specified maximum total electrical energy E. maxdoes not exceed the limit. The observation time window 16 can be positioned arbitrarily in relation to the current time 50 and, in particular, can slide with time t. In one variant, the observation time window 16 is positioned in relation to the start of a charging process of an energy storage device 5. To fulfill the aforementioned condition, the target value R is specified or planned in the regulation time window 15 such that the described condition is fulfilled at all future times. For this purpose, the values ​​of the electrical energy E already recorded during the acquisition time window 14 can be taken into account when planning the target value R.Based on the physical relationship between the electrical quantity for which the target value R is specified and the electrical energy E, the target value R can be set such that the aforementioned condition remains fulfilled for all possible temporal arrangements of the observation time window 16 during the method according to the invention. In a specific, particularly preferred implementation of the invention, an end 16b of the observation time window 16 can coincide with the end 15a of the regulation time window 15 (see Fig. 3B) and progress with it. In an alternative implementation of the invention, the end 16b of the observation time window 16 coincides with the current time 50 and progresses with time t (see Fig. 3A). It is particularly advantageous if a time duration T. 16The observation time window 16 is three hours long. In this case, the beginning 16a of the observation time window 16 can also coincide with the beginning 14a of the recording time window 14, as shown in Fig. 3A.

[0060] The specified maximum total electrical energy is preferably 7360 Wh. In the illustrated embodiment, the duration T is 16 of the observation time window 16 three hours. The target value R is set in the regulating time window 15 in the implementation form according to Fig. 3A such that the specified maximum total electrical energy E is reached in the subsequently passing observation time window 16. max will not be exceeded. In other words, the future target value R will be chosen such that it does not exceed the maximum total electrical energy E. max is exceeded.

[0061] Figure 3A shows that the acquisition time window 14 coincides with the observation time window 16. The regulation time window 15, with a duration T, directly follows the acquisition time window 14 and the observation time window 16. 15From one hour onwards. It is assumed that at the current time 50, which is assigned hour Oh in Fig. 3A, a consumer 1, in particular an energy storage device 5, is connected, which is to be supplied with as much power P and energy E as possible. Since only a small electrical current I of 5 A and thus little energy E, namely Ex = 2300 Wh, was transmitted via the connector 2 in the observation time window 16 or the recording time window 14 in the last two hours, it is possible to set the target value R in the one-hour control time window 15 such that 16 A are transmitted. In the control time window 15, an energy of E2 = 3680 Wh will thus be consumed in the future. The target value R can also take into account a maximum value M. This can, for example, be 16 A.If the observation time window 16 later shifts over this period, which includes the regulation time window 15 at the current location as well as the past two hours, then a total of 2300 Wh + 3680 Wh = 5980 Wh will have been consumed within the observation time window 16, and thus less than 7360 Wh. Since the regulation time window 15 shifts with time t, such planning or adjustments to the target value R will be made continuously. Fig. 3B shows the same situation as in Fig. 3A, except that the end 16b of the observation time window 16 coincides with the end of the regulation time window 15b.

[0062] Fig. 4A shows another embodiment of the invention according to a further time diagram. It can be seen that no current I and therefore no energy E was transmitted via the connector 2 within the detection time window 14. For this reason, the regulating time window 15 can be extended to plan the energy transmission further into the future. In the embodiment shown, the regulating time window 15 is set to a duration T. 15 The charging time is extended by three hours and the target value R is continuously adjusted according to a charging curve L (as target curve K). It is also possible that the duration T 15 The regulatory time window 15 is extended for a longer period, i.e., more than three hours. Furthermore, it is possible that the regulatory time window 15 is extended while maintaining the duration T. 15The target value R slides over time t and continuously specifies the setpoint. Theoretically, if required for the connected consumer 1 or another consumer 1, the setpoint R can be continued, for example duplicated, after the end 15b of the depicted regulation time window 15. For example, this can initiate a new charging process.

[0063] Fig. 4B shows the same situation as Fig. 4A, except that the end 16b of the observation time window 16 coincides with the end 15 of the regulation time window 15.

[0064] In Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B it can also be seen that the target value R is not set in such a way that the maximum permissible energy E max The energy to be transferred is not simply that the target value R is adapted to at least one parameter P (see Fig. 1) of the consumer 1. The energy to be transferred, E2, is below E. maxThe at least one parameter P defines a charging curve L in the illustration shown, to which the target value R is adapted. Thus, while it is possible with the method according to the invention to maximize energy or power, it is not absolutely necessary. The at least one parameter P can be transmitted from the energy storage device 5 to the charger 4 via data communication.

Claims

Patent claims:

1. Method for transferring electrical energy (E) to a consumer (1) via an electrical connector (2), wherein the consumer (1) is an energy storage device (5), in particular a lithium-ion battery (5a), and the method comprises the following steps: i) transferring the electrical energy (E) to the consumer (1) via the connector (2); ii) capturing the electrical energy (E) that is transferred to the consumer (1) via the connector (2) during a time-progressing capture window (14);and iii) Adjusting, in particular controlling and / or regulating, an electrical quantity, for example an electric current (I) flowing via the plug connection (2), according to a setpoint (R) during a control time window (15) preferably following the acquisition time window (14), wherein the setpoint (R) in the control time window (15) is set such that the electrical energy (E) transmitted during an observation time window (16), in particular one that progresses over time, does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy (E; max) corresponds, wherein the steps of the method are carried out by a device (51) for transferring electrical energy (E) to a consumer (1), which can be connected to a higher-level power supply network (3) via the plug connection (2), and the target specification (R) , in particular a target curve (K) , is set such that it approximates a predetermined charging curve (L) for charging the energy storage device (5).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein a time period (T) 16 ) of the observation time window (16) is between 2 hours and 4 hours, in particular substantially 3 hours.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the observation time window (16) coincides with the acquisition time window (14), in particular corresponds to the acquisition time window (14).

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a Time duration (T 14) of the detection window (14) is at least 60 minutes, preferably at least 120 minutes or at least 180 minutes.

5. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a time period (T) 15 ) of the regulation time window (15) is variably adjustable.

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a time period (T) 15 ) of the regulation time window (15) is between 0 minutes and 180 minutes, preferably between 30 minutes and 90 minutes or between 45 minutes and 75 minutes, in particular substantially 60 minutes.

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the target specification (R) is a time-dependent target curve (K), which is preferably determined by at least one electrical parameter (P), which parameter (P) is in particular specified by the consumer (1).

8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined maximum total electrical energy quantity (E)max ) between 6000 Wh and 9000 Wh, preferably between 6500 Wh and 8000 Wh or between 7200 Wh and 7500 Wh, in particular substantially 7360 Wh.

9. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the target value (R) assumes at most a predetermined maximum value (M), preferably wherein the electrical quantity is an electric current (I) through the plug connection (2) and the predetermined maximum value (M) is in particular substantially between 10 amperes and 16 amperes.

10. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the electrical energy (E) and / or electrical power (P) transferred to the consumer (1) during the regulation time window (15) is maximized.

11. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the target specification (R) , in particular a target curve (K) , is set such that that it essentially corresponds to a predetermined charging curve (L) for charging the energy storage device (5).

12. Method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the consumer (1) is an energy storage device (5), in particular a lithium-ion battery (5a), and a charging plan is created for charging the energy storage device (5), according to which the target value (R) is set.

13. Method for charging an energy storage device (5), in particular an energy storage device (5) of a vehicle, wherein the energy storage device (5) is charged with electrical energy (E) via a plug connection (2), wherein the method for transferring electrical energy (E) to a consumer (1) via a plug connection (2) according to one of claims 1 to 12 is used.

14. Device (51) for transmitting electrical energy (E) to a consumer (1), namely an energy storage device (5), wherein the device (51) is connectable to a higher-level power supply network (3) via a plug connection (2) and comprises the following: a detection unit (12) which is configured to detect the electrical energy (E) which is transmitted at the plug connection (2) during a time-sliding detection window (14);a regulating unit (52), in particular a control and / or regulation unit, which is configured to adjust, in particular to control and / or regulate, an electrical quantity, for example an electric current (I) flowing via the plug connection (2), according to a setpoint (R) during a regulating time window (15) following the acquisition time window (14), wherein the control and / or regulation unit (52) is further configured to set the setpoint (R) in the regulating time window (15) such that the electrical energy (E) transmitted during an observation time window (16), in particular one that progresses over time, does not exceed a predetermined maximum total electrical energy (E; max ) corresponds, wherein the device (51) is configured to The target specification (R), in particular a target curve (K), is to be set such that it approximates a predetermined charging curve (L) for charging the energy storage device (5).

15. Device (8) according to claim 13, wherein the device (51) is configured as a charger (4) for charging an energy storage device (5), in particular an energy storage device in a vehicle.

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