Charging device for charging at least one vehicle battery

Abstract

The invention relates to a charging device (100) for charging at least one vehicle battery, in particular a land vehicle battery or aircraft battery, preferably a motor vehicle battery, particularly preferably a truck battery, comprising - at least one charging column (1) having at least one charging point (11), wherein the outer shell of the charging column (1) is formed by a shaped tube (12), and - a technology shaft (2), in particular a walkable technology shaft, arranged below the road level (3), wherein the technology shaft (2) runs below the charging column (1), and wherein the shaped tube (12) of the charging column (1) extends into the technology shaft (2) and is fastened in the technology shaft, in particular to the base (21) and / or a wall of the technology shaft (2).

Description

[0001] Charging device for charging at least one vehicle battery

[0002] The invention relates to a charging device for charging at least one vehicle battery, in particular a land vehicle or aircraft battery, preferably a car battery, especially preferably a truck battery, according to claim 1.

[0003] To achieve national, European, and international climate targets, it is necessary to replace fossil fuels with renewable energies in all sectors. In the transport sector, this means that combustion engines must be increasingly replaced by zero-emission vehicles. This applies to all types of vehicles, including aircraft and vehicles or machinery used in mining.

[0004] Battery-electric propulsion will play a crucial role in passenger cars, trucks, and buses in Europe and other parts of the world. A high-performance charging infrastructure is needed to supply millions of vehicles with energy. Hundreds of thousands of charging points for passenger cars have already been installed in the last decade.

[0005] In the heavy goods vehicle sector, battery-electric trucks are available for regional deliveries up to a weight class of 21 tons. Thousands of battery-electric vehicles are already in operation as city buses. Series production coaches will be available within a few years. At the end of 2024, the first series-produced, long-distance electric semi-trailer trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight of up to 42 tons will be delivered to customers. For these semi-trailer trucks to cover distances similar to those of combustion engine vehicles, special, high-performance charging technology with charging capacities in the megawatt range is required. The MCS (Megawatt Charging System) was developed for this purpose.

[0006] The typical daily routine of a battery-electric semi-trailer truck in European long-haul transport is as follows: In the morning, the vehicle's battery is fully charged. The driver drives for 4.5 hours and is then legally required to take a 45-minute break. After the initial leg of the journey, the truck's battery is almost depleted. During the 45-minute break, the battery must be recharged to 80%. This requires approximately 500 kilowatt-hours. The necessary charging power is around one megawatt. After charging, the driver continues driving until the evening. By then, the battery is almost empty again. Overnight, the vehicle's battery is recharged to 100%. This requires a charging power of 100 kW.

[0007] The transition of vehicle energy supply from fossil fuels to electricity presents significant challenges. Firstly, electricity is not available at the locations where trucks currently park. Secondly, every truck / bus requires a charging station. The MCS (Megawatt Charging System) specifies that the charging port on the vehicle is located on the left side (driver's side).

[0008] A significant problem arises from the additional space required for charging equipment. While trucks and buses currently park side-by-side in parking spaces, a charging station, along with its protective features, requires at least one additional meter of space. A typical truck parking space is 3.5 meters wide; adding the charging equipment and its protective devices increases this to 4.5 meters or more per truck parking space. This means that roughly every 3.5 parking spaces is lost. This poses a substantial problem for both site operators and drivers, as parking spaces are expensive and already insufficient at many locations. Therefore, a common issue with existing site designs is the loss of space due to the charging equipment and the necessary mechanical protection measures.

[0009] Common charging station designs attempt to save space by using charging stations with two charging points, each capable of charging two vehicles. These stations are arranged so that there are two parking spaces between them. The disadvantage of this arrangement is the need for very long charging cables, as the charging ports on trucks are typically located on the left side behind the driver's door. Specifically, the charging cable for the truck using the right-hand parking space next to a charging station must be routed around the truck. The long cables required for this pose significant problems for the charging station operator, as they lie on the ground and are therefore easily damaged by mechanical impact, as well as by temperature fluctuations, ice, and snow, leading to charging point failure and costly repairs.

[0010] The object of the invention is therefore to remedy this situation and to provide a charging device for charging at least one vehicle battery, which is designed to be compact and robust in order to minimize the loss of parking space when installing charging infrastructure and at the same time to withstand high stresses, especially when used by, for example, trucks.

[0011] The invention solves this problem in a charging device for charging at least one vehicle battery, in particular a land vehicle or aircraft battery, preferably a car battery, especially preferably a truck battery, according to claim 1.

[0012] According to the invention, the charging device for charging at least one vehicle battery comprises the following: at least one charging column with at least one charging point, wherein the outer shell of the charging column is formed by a shaped tube, and a technical shaft arranged below street level, in particular one that is walkable, wherein the technical shaft is arranged running below the charging column, and wherein the shaped tube of the charging column extends into the technical shaft and is attached in the technical shaft, in particular to the floor and / or a wall of the technical shaft.

[0013] In the context of this invention, a vehicle is understood to be any land or air vehicle equipped with a battery and an electric drive. This may include aircraft, motor vehicles, or the like, but also mining machinery or similar equipment.

[0014] In the context of the invention, a hollow profile is understood to be a preferably rectangular hollow section. Hollow profiles are also available with square, round, or oval cross-sections. In the trade, hollow profiles are often referred to as structural steel hollow sections. Steel is particularly suitable as a material for the hollow profile due to its strength and cost. However, the hollow profile can also be manufactured from, for example, steel sheets. For this purpose, steel sheets are bent and welded together, resulting in the required hollow profile.

[0015] This design of a charging device according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to mount the charging stations unprotected in the harsh environment of a parking lot, since its outer shell, formed from a square tube, and its foundation deep underground in the technical shaft, for example on the floor or a wall of the technical shaft, make it sufficiently robust. In the context of the invention, "foundation" refers to the fastening of the square tube in the technical shaft, for example on the floor and / or a wall of the technical shaft. This fastening can receive and secure the square tube.

[0016] This chosen design advantageously eliminates the need for protective concrete elements, traffic islands, and / or bollards used in conventional charging stations to protect the charging stations, cables, and plugs from damage, but these measures require space. Therefore, the design according to the invention makes it possible to preserve parking spaces that would otherwise be lost when installing charging infrastructure. For parking lot operators, this saving represents a significant cost factor. Furthermore, it protects the environment because fewer new parking spaces need to be built, thus reducing soil sealing.

[0017] Furthermore, the technical shaft located beneath the charging station allows for the relocation of many components, such as electronics, heating and cooling systems for charging cables, etc., enabling the charging station itself to be extremely compact and thus saving even more space. This also makes it possible to equip each individual parking space with a charging station, allowing, for example, the charging station in truck parking spaces to be positioned on the left side of the driver's cab. As a further advantage, this means that short charging cables are sufficient.

[0018] In the context of the invention, a charging station is understood to be a device used for charging vehicle batteries or electric vehicles and comprising one or more charging points. A charging point, in the context of the invention, is understood to be an interface with which only one electric vehicle can be charged at a time.

[0019] Further advantageous embodiments of a charging device according to the invention for charging at least one vehicle battery, in particular a land vehicle or aircraft battery, preferably a car battery, especially preferably a truck battery, are described in the dependent claims.

[0020] The charging column of a charging device according to the invention can be designed to be particularly robust and stable if the shaped tube of the charging column is formed in one piece and completely enclosed, wherein it is particularly provided that the shaped tube is made of, preferably powder-coated, steel, and / or has at least a section of a plastic and / or bitumen coating as corrosion protection, and / or has a wall thickness of > 1.0 cm, in particular between 1.0 and 1.5 cm, preferably 1.2 cm, and / or has a rectangular, square, round or oval cross-section.

[0021] Steel is the most suitable material for the shaped tube or hollow profile of a loading device according to the invention due to its strength and cost. The shaped tube can also be manufactured from steel sheets. For this purpose, steel sheets can be bent and welded together, resulting in the required hollow profile.

[0022] A rectangular shape is particularly suitable for charging devices because it allows for the best placement of externally accessible technical equipment such as displays, charging cables, etc., as well as technical equipment that can be located inside the charging station, such as measuring devices, control electronics, etc., while simultaneously keeping the width of the charging station as small as possible to minimize the space requirement.

[0023] In order to make the charging station of a charging device according to the invention particularly flexible in adapting to a wide variety of location or parking configurations, it can be provided that the charging device comprises a lower charging station mounting arranged on the floor of the technical shaft, wherein the charging station is rotatable about an axis of rotation normal to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging station by means of the lower charging station mounting, and / or comprises a further lower charging station mounting arranged on a wall, in particular a side wall, of the technical shaft, wherein the charging station is rotatable about an axis of rotation normal to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging station by means of the further lower charging station mounting, and / or comprises an upper charging station mounting arranged at street level.wherein the upper charging station mounting is attached to the top of the technical shaft, wherein the charging station can be rotated about the axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging station by means of the upper charging station mounting, and / or the height of the upper charging station mounting is reversibly adjustable. Such a height-adjustable design of the upper charging station mounting makes the installation or replacement of the charging station particularly easy without construction work and without damaging the roadway.

[0024] A charging device according to the invention can be designed to be particularly user-friendly if the charging station comprises one or more of the following components: a display, a measuring device, in particular an electricity meter, an RFID reader, a payment terminal, operating elements, a receptacle for a charging plug, ambient lighting, a status signaling system, a parking space indicator, at least one camera for parking space monitoring and / or for license plate recognition for a reservation system, a WIFI access point.

[0025] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the charging device may include at least one charging cable that can be connected to a truck. The charging cable is reversibly extendable from inside the charging station and retractable within the station, extending into the technical compartment. This makes it advantageously possible to route one or more charging cables inside the charging station. In the retracted state, the charging cable is protected within the technical compartment. With such an embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the charging plugs can advantageously be positioned so that they lie inside the charging station, thus protecting them from damage.

[0026] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the charging device may comprise at least one charging cable with a CCS type charging connector and / or with an MCS type charging connector. With a charging device designed in this way, it is advantageously possible, depending on the application, to use CCS (Combined Charging System) type charging connectors for currents up to 500 amperes and / or MCS (Megawatt Charging System) type charging connectors for currents up to 1,250 amperes. The at least one charging point of a charging device according to the invention, i.e., the at least one interface with which only one electric vehicle can be charged at the same time, is in this case designed as a charging cable with a CCS or MCS type charging connector and, optionally, cooling units.

[0027] In order to further and significantly reduce the size of the charging stations and thus the space requirement of a charging device according to the invention, it can be provided that at least one power unit for converting alternating current into direct current for charging vehicle batteries is housed in the technical shaft and / or at a location separate from the charging device, in particular in a separate technical building, wherein it is particularly provided that the technical building and the at least one technical shaft are connected to each other via a supply shaft.

[0028] Installing multiple power units in a separate technical building from the charging equipment allows for the use of heavier, but also more powerful and cost-effective power units. Furthermore, such a central arrangement of the power units makes the utilization of their waste heat simple and cost-effective.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the charging device can include a switching matrix for distributing the power of several power units to several charging stations, in particular the charging points of several charging stations. This makes it advantageously possible to charge many vehicles with few power units and to always provide the vehicles with the charging power they require.

[0030] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the charging device can be provided with a heating and / or cooling device for heating and / or cooling the at least one charging cable. Such an embodiment of a charging device according to the invention advantageously makes it possible not only to cool but also to heat the charging cables when weather conditions require it and the charging cables are not in use, or when the charging cable is still connected to the vehicle, but the charging process has already ended and thus no waste heat is available to keep the charging cable dry and flexible.

[0031] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the charging device may include a component that provides heating or cooling energy for temperature control of the batteries. In order to ensure the highest possible charging power and / or the longest possible battery life in applications requiring particularly short charging times, it is advantageous to bring the batteries to the optimal temperature before charging and to maintain this optimal temperature during the charging process. Particularly when large batteries are used or charging power is especially high, the battery temperature can be maintained within an optimal range by supplying external heating or cooling power, thus achieving maximum charging power while simultaneously protecting the battery.An advantageous embodiment makes it possible to provide heating or cooling power via the charging device according to the invention for heating / cooling batteries. Charging cables and plugs capable of transmitting heating / cooling power to batteries are already available and can be used in conjunction with the charging device according to the invention.

[0032] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, the power and / or data lines required for the operation of the charging station can be routed to the charging station via the technical shaft. Such an embodiment of a charging device according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to easily expand locations as needed, since power and / or data cables or the like can be easily installed subsequently via the technical shaft.

[0033] According to a particularly simple modular design variant of a loading device according to the invention, it can be provided that the technical shaft is formed from individual, in particular identically designed, segments, wherein it is particularly provided that the segments are made of precast concrete elements, preferably transportable on a low loader and / or connectable to one another.

[0034] According to a further embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, which is particularly easy to extend, it can be provided that the individual segments of the technical shaft, in particular ex works, comprise one or more of the following components: at least one cable guide, at least one lighting unit, at least one ventilation pipe, at least one pipe for heating, cooling and / or dripping water.

[0035] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, at least one heating pipe for a liquid-based heating system can be arranged in the ceiling and / or at least one side wall and / or the floor of the technical shaft. This advantageously makes it possible to keep the area of ​​the charging station and the area above the technical shaft free of snow and ice and to utilize waste heat from the charging infrastructure for this purpose. In order to provide additional cooling capacity in hot countries, or if the soil surrounding the shaft is to be used as a heat storage medium, heating pipes can also be laid in the side walls and the floor.

[0036] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, at least one heating conductor can be arranged in the ceiling and / or at least one side wall and / or the floor of the technical shaft. This embodiment advantageously makes it possible to keep the area of ​​the charging station and the area above the technical shaft free of snow and ice.

[0037] According to a further embodiment of a charging device according to the invention, which is particularly simple and can be expanded modularly, especially in combination with a technical shaft formed from individual segments, the charging device can be provided to comprise a plurality of charging columns, wherein the technical shaft is arranged running under the charging columns and wherein the shaped tube of each of the charging columns extends into the technical shaft and is attached in the technical shaft, in particular to the floor and / or to a wall of the technical shaft.

[0038] The invention further relates to a parking arrangement comprising a charging device according to the invention with a plurality of charging stations, in particular for land vehicles or aircraft, preferably for motor vehicles, especially preferably for cars, trucks and buses.

[0039] In the context of the invention, a "parking space" is understood to mean not only a parking space for motor vehicles, but also a parking area for any other vehicles such as aircraft, mining machines, etc.

[0040] Such a parking arrangement according to the invention advantageously utilizes the above-mentioned advantages of charging devices according to the invention and can therefore, among other things, provide a comparatively particularly high number of parking spaces compared to conventional parking spaces with charging stations.

[0041] Particularly when combined with a charging device according to the invention, which includes a heating pipe or heating conductor, a parking arrangement according to the invention is especially advantageous with regard to keeping the area free of snow and ice: Heating pipes / conductors in the ceiling of the technical shaft would keep the driver's entry and exit area, as well as the area around the charging station, free of snow and ice. Since conventional charging technology requires manual clearing, this approach saves considerable time and increases safety. Any excess waste heat can also be used to heat other facilities and buildings, such as rest stops, hotels, etc.

[0042] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a parking arrangement according to the invention, which is particularly suitable for charging truck batteries, it can be provided that each parking space is assigned a charging station, wherein it is particularly provided that the charging station is arranged on the left side of the driver's cab.

[0043] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of a parking arrangement according to the invention, which enables particularly flexible charging, it can be provided that a parking space is arranged between two charging stations.

[0044] According to a further advantageous embodiment of a parking arrangement according to the invention, which ensures particularly easy access and egress for vehicles to be loaded, it can be provided that the longitudinal axis of the parking spaces is arranged at an angle of 0 degrees to 180 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft.

[0045] With an orientation of 0 degrees, for example, the long side of the charging station would be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft, which is particularly advantageous for car charging points.

[0046] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the description and the accompanying drawings.

[0047] The invention is below schematically illustrated in the drawings using particularly advantageous, but not limiting, embodiments and is described by way of example with reference to the drawings.

[0048] The following schematically illustrates:

[0049] Fig. 1 shows a first sectional view of an embodiment of a charging device according to the invention for charging at least one vehicle battery,

[0050] Fig. 2 shows a second sectional view of the embodiment from Fig. 1 ,

[0051] Fig. 3 shows a first detailed view of a parking arrangement according to the invention,

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a second detailed view of the parking arrangement from Fig. 3, and Fig. 5 shows a third detailed view of the parking arrangement from Fig. 3.

[0053] Fig. 6 shows a view of the parking arrangement from Fig. 3 with the technical building.

[0054] Supply shaft and technical shafts,

[0055] Fig. 7 a schematic sketch of an MCS charging cluster, Fig. 8 a schematic view of a technical building.

[0056] Figures 1 and 2 show two sectional views AA and BB of an embodiment of a charging device 100 according to the invention for charging at least one vehicle battery, i.e., a battery of an electric vehicle. In this embodiment, the charging device 100 is for truck batteries. However, a charging device 100 according to the invention can also be used for charging passenger car batteries or the batteries of other vehicles.

[0057] As can be seen in Fig. 1, a charging device 100 according to the invention basically comprises at least one charging column 1 with at least one charging point 11 and a technical shaft 2 arranged below ground or street level 3, which runs below the charging column 1. Fig. 1 shows a cross-section through the technical shaft 2, while Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal section through the technical shaft 2. The charging column 1, or rather its shaped tube 12, which forms the outer shell of the charging column, extends into the technical shaft 2, where it is attached to the ground 21.

[0058] The position of sections AA and BB from Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, respectively, is shown in Fig. 3, a first view of an embodiment of a parking arrangement 200 according to the invention. Further views of the parking arrangement 200 from Fig. 3 are shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5.

[0059] A parking arrangement 200 according to the invention comprises, in principle, a charging device 100 according to the invention with a plurality of charging stations 1, beneath which a common technical shaft 2 runs, into which the charging stations 1 or their shaped tubes 12 extend and are attached to the ground 21, as well as a plurality of parking spaces 4 or parking spaces. Each parking space 4 is arranged between two charging stations 1 and the longitudinal axis of each individual parking space is arranged at an angle of 120 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft 2.

[0060] The outer shell of each charging station 1 in Figures 1 to 5 is formed by a square tube 12 and extends into the technical shaft 2, where it is attached to the floor 21 of the technical shaft 2. The charging stations 1 provide the necessary power for charging the vehicles. In this embodiment, the square tube 12 is a single, fully enclosed piece made of steel with a wall thickness of 1.5 cm. Manufacturing it from stainless steel is possible, but involves higher material costs. In this embodiment, the square tube 12 is a welded construction. For this purpose, steel sheets are cut to the desired thickness. The necessary cutouts for displays, etc., are also cut out of the sheet. The sheets are then bent. This creates two half-shells, which are welded together. Suitable materials include, for example, steel grades "S235JR" or "S355J2".

[0061] Since the exemplary embodiment is a charging device 100 for trucks, the charging station 1 has a rectangular cross-section, as this allows the charging station 1 to be designed to be particularly narrow while still providing sufficient space for the technical components (charging cables, displays, etc.). Additionally, this shape offers flat surfaces, which facilitates the installation of displays, etc. Rectangular, round, or oval shapes would also be possible.

[0062] Unlike conventional charging stations, which are not robust enough to be installed unprotected in the harsh environment of a parking lot, the charging station 1 of a charging device 100 according to the invention, as described above, can be used completely without additional concrete elements, traffic islands, and / or bollards, since the charging station 1, charging cable 18, and charging plug 19 are effectively protected from damage even without such aids. Only about 0.30 meters of space per parking space are lost to the charging station 1, meaning that only about one in every fourteen parking spaces is affected. This results in enormous space and cost savings and reduces soil sealing.

[0063] Furthermore, in a charging device 100 according to the invention, the stability required, especially for large vehicles, is ensured by attaching the charging column 1 to the base 2 of the technical shaft 2. The extension of the charging column 1 between the road surface 3 and the base 21 of the technical shaft 2 results in a correspondingly large leverage effect. Conventional, known charging columns are usually attached to a foundation with 4-6 screws, so that even a slight impact from a vehicle is sufficient to cause the screws or the housing to break. The service life of the charging column 1 is designed for 15 years in the exemplary embodiment. To prevent corrosion, the charging column 1 is galvanized and powder-coated. In the lower area of ​​the charging column 1, i.e., in the exemplary embodiment in the area of ​​0.3 m above the road level 3, or...The charging station 1 is additionally surrounded by a robust plastic, resin or bitumen-based protective coating, extending from the asphalt / paving up to the ceiling 22 of the technical shaft 2.

[0064] To enable the charging station 1 to be replaced easily, quickly and safely, lifting lugs for attaching lifting equipment are permanently installed on the upper end face of the square tube 12, or threads are provided on the end face of the square tube 12 to allow lifting lugs to be easily screwed in.

[0065] The height of charging station 1 above street level 3 can be selected depending on the intended use. For trucks and buses, charging station 1 is designed to be higher than for cars. For charging stations 100 for trucks / buses, it is advisable to design them high enough so that drivers can clearly see the parking space numbers (orientation numbers) located at the top of charging station 1. A height of approximately 2.2 meters above road level is advantageous. Depending on the application, the height can be adjusted accordingly. For cars, for example, lower stations are more suitable.

[0066] In the exemplary embodiment, charging station 1 houses technical equipment and user controls that facilitate its use: a display 13, measuring devices such as an energy meter 14, an RFID reader 15, a payment terminal 16, and operating elements. This allows the customer to authenticate themselves at the charging point and start, stop, or monitor the charging process. The energy meter 14 display enables the user to track the energy consumption of the charging process on the calibrated meter. The payment terminal 16 allows payment with standard payment cards.

[0067] Furthermore, the charging station 1 in the exemplary embodiment includes ambient lighting, a status indicator 17 in the form of a lighting element, and a parking space display. In the exemplary embodiment, the parking space display is located in the upper area of ​​the charging station 1 and is designed as a guidance system that indicates the parking space number. The status of the charging point (reserved / free / occupied / malfunction) is displayed to the user via a color code using the status indicator 17. The user receives the location of their assigned charging point in advance via a reservation system.

[0068] To prevent vehicles from using a charging point that is already reserved for another vehicle, the charging station 1 in this example incorporates cameras for license plate recognition. Charging is only activated if the recognized license plate matches that of the vehicle for which the parking space is reserved. The cameras also serve to verify that the parking space is indeed free and not blocked by other vehicles. In this example, the cameras are also connected to a control center staffed around the clock, thus contributing to increased security at the site. The charging station 1 in this example also includes a Wi-Fi access point to provide users with internet access while charging.

[0069] The charging station 1 of a charging device 100 according to the invention can, in principle, be equipped with different charging plugs 19 and charging cables 18. For the truck and bus sector, two different charging plugs are generally provided per charging station 1: a CCS (Combined Charging System) type charging plug for currents up to 500 amperes and an MCS (Megawatt Charging System) type charging plug 19 for currents up to 1,250 amperes. Other charging plugs are also available that can transmit even higher power levels. Such charging plugs can be combined with a charging device 100 according to the invention.

[0070] It is possible to use both actively cooled (liquid-cooled) and uncooled charging cables 18. However, due to the high charging capacities of heavy commercial vehicles, cooled charging cables 18 are preferred. In the passenger car sector, CCS charging connectors are most commonly used in Europe. For example, two CCS charging connectors can be installed per charging station 1 for passenger cars.

[0071] At well-known high-performance charging stations that charge vehicles with direct current, suitable charging cables 18 and charging plugs 19 with active liquid cooling are typically used for energy transmission. Without active cooling, the conductor cross-sections would have to be considerably larger, making the cables very thick and unmanageable for users.

[0072] These charging cables (18) are equipped with multiple temperature sensors, additional cooling lines, and lines for energy and data transmission. They are complex in design and expensive. Damage to a charging cable (18) would result in significant costs for the operator and problems due to the charging point being out of service. In some cases, the necessary cable replacement may also require recalibration, leading to further downtime.

[0073] At well-known charging stations, the charging cables are routed freely along their entire length. When not in use, the charging plugs are attached to the charging stations without protection. This means they protrude and are therefore easily damaged. Some well-known charging stations have a cable management system, which takes the form of a support arm or a cable pulley system mounted at the top of the charging station. While such cable management prevents the charging cables from lying on the ground and thus reduces the risk of falls and damage, a support arm, for example, has a certain reach and is therefore problematic or unusable in conjunction with tall vehicles and in tight parking spaces.

[0074] In the charging station 1 of a charging device 100 according to the invention, a cable management system is integrated in the exemplary embodiment. This system is designed such that the charging cable 18 and charging plug 19 are stored in recesses embedded in the charging station 1, protected against damage, when not in use. To ensure that the charging cable 18 is of sufficient length for connection to a vehicle, it can be pulled out of the charging station 1, as shown schematically in Fig. 2. When the charging cable 18 is not in use, the extendable portion is stored in the technical compartment 2.

[0075] A charging device 100 according to the invention, as described above, manages without mechanical or electromechanical cable winding devices. This saves space, and the simple design also minimizes malfunctions and downtime. Since the charging cable 18 is not wound up but rather deflected via a pulley in the upper area of ​​the charging station 1 and guided downwards into the technical shaft 2 within the charging station 1, the expensive charging cables 18 are protected to the greatest extent possible, thus extending their service life. When retracted, the charging cable is safely housed in the technical shaft.

[0076] All necessary power cables 30 and data or control cables 29 are routed to the charging station 1 or charging points at the parking spaces via the accessible technical shaft 2 in the exemplary embodiment. The power cables 30 can be, for example, 6x300 mm². 2 AI for MCS charging point trading.

[0077] In the exemplary embodiment, the technical shaft 2 is assembled from individual segments. Preferably, these are prefabricated concrete elements. Alternatively, the shaft can also be made of other materials such as steel. On-site fabrication is also conceivable.

[0078] The individual segments are lined up and screwed together. At the joints, they are sealed with gaskets to prevent water / moisture ingress. To shorten on-site assembly times and save costs, the individual segments in the exemplary embodiment are already equipped at the factory with technical features such as cable trays, lighting units 25, ventilation 31, pipes 26 for heating / cooling and wastewater 32 or drip drainage, etc., which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0079] To construct the technical shaft 2 in a particularly efficient and cost-effective manner, it is assembled in the exemplary embodiment using a modular system consisting of a few identical segments. These segments include various types, such as: straight segments, segments with branches (i.e., segments from which another shaft branches off), segments with charging station 1 for trucks and buses, segments with charging station for cars, end segments, etc.

[0080] The segment with charging station 1 for heavy commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses, used in the exemplary embodiment, is designed to be accessible and has an outer width of 2.50 m, an inner clear height of 2.30 m, and a length of 3.80 m, assuming a standard parking space width of 3.50 m. If parking spaces are narrower or wider, the segments can be manufactured accordingly shorter or longer. Due to the selected dimensions and the resulting weight, the individual segments can be easily transported to the installation site and installed by truck. Segments, both with and without charging station 1, can also be made longer to reduce the number of connection points.

[0081] Since parking spaces are generally not arranged at a 90-degree angle, the charging station 1 in the exemplary embodiment is designed to be adjustable in its angle to the longitudinal axis of the parking space or the technical shaft 2. This is achieved by an angle-adjustable bracket on the top of the technical shaft 2, i.e., an upper charging station mounting 23 located at street level 3, by means of which the charging station 1 can be rotated about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft 2 and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging station 1. The bracket is also height-adjustable to adjust the distance between the technical shaft 2 and the road surface.

[0082] In this embodiment, a lower charging station mounting 24, preferably made of steel, serves as the foundation. This component is attached to the base 21 of the technical shaft 2 and is capable of receiving and securely anchoring the square tube 12. The component is designed so that the charging station 1 / square tube 12 can be easily inserted or removed as needed.

[0083] The lower charging column mounting 24, located at the bottom 21 of the technical shaft 2, is also an angle-adjustable bracket that receives and anchors the charging column 1 or its profile tube 12 and allows the charging column 1 to be rotated about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft 2 and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging column 1. In the exemplary embodiment, the brackets are designed as welded steel or cast iron constructions.

[0084] In this embodiment, the upper charging station mounting 23, which is attached to the technical shaft 2, is height-adjustable so that it is flush with the road surface. In this embodiment, the upper charging station mounting 23 is a welded steel construction. A further rectangular tube, slightly larger than the charging station 1 (or rectangular tube 12), supports the charging station 1. This further rectangular tube extends from the road surface to just below the ceiling 22 of the technical shaft 2. This allows the charging station 1 to be easily installed or replaced without requiring the removal or damage of the surrounding road surface.

[0085] In the exemplary embodiment, pipes 26 for heating and cooling are arranged in the technical shaft 2, and a ventilation system removes the waste heat from the charging cables 18, extracts moisture from the technical shaft 2, and supplies fresh air. A fire detection and extinguishing system 42 prevents fires or extinguishes them early to avoid or minimize damage to the equipment. The technical shaft 2 allows for easy expansion of locations as needed, and power and data cables, heating and cooling lines can be easily installed or extended retroactively. To keep the charging station 1 area and the area above the technical shaft 2 free of snow and ice, pipes 26 for a liquid-based heating / cooling system are embedded in the ceiling 22 of the individual segments of the technical shaft 2, which will be discussed in more detail below.The use of electric heating conductors would also be conceivable, but this would not allow for the utilization of waste heat. To provide additional cooling capacity in hot countries, or if the soil surrounding the technical shaft 2 is to be used as a heat storage medium, heating pipes 26 can also be installed in the side walls 27 and in the floor 21 of the technical shaft 2.

[0086] In this embodiment, the power units that convert the alternating current from the grid into the direct current required for charging the vehicle batteries are arranged separately from the charging stations 1. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the size of the charging stations and thus their space requirements. The power units can, for example, be located in the technical shaft 2.

[0087] In the exemplary embodiment, however, the power units are installed centrally in a technical building 4 separate from the charging device 100 (see Fig. 6 and Fig. 8). The spatial concentration of the power units allows for maintenance and repairs to be carried out under controlled, weather-independent, and safe conditions, as such work does not need to be performed in the vicinity of the parking areas, where there is constant activity.

[0088] The installation of the power units in a technical building (building 4) also allows for the use of a lifting device, such as an overhead crane. This makes it possible to use larger and therefore heavier, but also more powerful and cost-effective power units. The lifting device enables power units to be installed or replaced quickly and safely by just one employee.

[0089] The central arrangement of the power units makes utilizing their waste heat simple and cost-effective. In this example, water-cooled power units are used. While air-cooled systems would also be possible, they are not as efficient.

[0090] To ensure that the existing grid connection capacity is available to the individual charging points as needed, the power of the individual power units is distributed to the charging points or charging stations 1 via a switching matrix in this exemplary embodiment (see Fig. 7). This makes it possible to charge many vehicles with just a few power units and to provide each vehicle with the required charging power. This results in shorter charging times for users and greater efficiency for the operator of the system.

[0091] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of an MCS charging cluster LC for the demand-based distribution of charging power to the charging points. The MCS charging cluster LC comprises in Fig.

[0092] Seven five Power Units (PU). Each Power Unit PU comprises 12 Power Modules (PM), each with a power output of 120 kW. Each Power Unit PU has four outputs. Each output delivers a maximum of 360 kW. CCS charging clusters can also be configured with 120 kW Power Units PU. The charging power can then be limited to 360 kW per charging point.

[0093] All Power Units PU are connected to a switching matrix SM, which distributes the power in 360 kW increments to 8 charging stations 1 and / or 8 charging points. The maximum power per charging point is limited to 1.5 MW. Power is supplied by two 8 MVA transformers (20 kV / 0.4 kV - 16 MVA). The waste heat from the systems (i.e., the Power Units PU, transformers, charging cables, etc.) is used to de-ice / snow the area around the charging stations and the driver's cab and to heat charging station 1, charging cables 18, and buildings. All components are liquid-cooled. A four-pipe system allows for independent heating or cooling (e.g., cooling the charging cables, heating the ground around charging station 1 to prevent snow accumulation). The Power Units PU and the switching matrix SM are housed in technical building 4 and are thus protected from the elements. The cables (6x300 mm) 2 AI per MCS charging point) are guided onto mounting floors.

[0094] In the exemplary embodiment, the following system components are provided in the previously mentioned external technical building 4 to supply the charging stations with direct current for charging the truck batteries:

[0095] The energy coming from the public power grid is stepped up to the voltage required by the system via a grid connection and a transformer station. Depending on the system size (power output), one or more transformers may be used.

[0096] A low-voltage distribution system distributes energy from the transformers to the power units that provide the direct current for charging the vehicle batteries. Energy storage systems, such as battery storage, can also be integrated into this system to provide additional charging power. Photovoltaic systems or other power generation plants can also be integrated here.

[0097] Additional charging power can be provided by means of an energy storage system 47, which can also be connected to the photovoltaic system. A storage system 47 can be particularly useful at locations where the grid connection offers insufficient power. Suitable options include lithium-ion batteries, vanadium redox flow batteries, or flywheel energy storage systems.

[0098] Energy can also be generated on-site using photovoltaic systems or wind turbines and fed into the public grid or used to charge vehicles.

[0099] In a power conversion process, the alternating current supplied by the transformers is converted into direct current for charging vehicle batteries. The Power Units (PU) are installed, for example, in cabinets or mounting frames. Together, the Power Units PU form an MCS charging cluster (LC) or CCS charging cluster (CLC). Such a charging cluster (LC, OLG) can include a switching matrix (SM), which distributes the power of the individual Power Units PU to the individual charging points assigned to the charging cluster (LC, CLC). Depending on the power demand of a vehicle, one or more Power Units PU are connected to the charging point via the switching matrix (SM). This ensures that the user always has access to the maximum possible charging power. By allocating power to charging points according to demand, the number of Power Units PU required can be reduced, thus saving costs.

[0100] Furthermore, the external technical building houses 4 monitoring, control and communication facilities 44, such as the load and charging management 43, internet connection 45, video server 46, 10 / 15 / 20 / 30 kV switchgear 53 emergency power supply, etc.

[0101] The technical building 4 can be easily adapted to the site requirements, for example by selecting the appropriate number of MCS charging clusters LC. The technical building in Fig. 8 has a basement, which houses the cable routing and access to the technical shaft 2. Heating / cooling 48, ventilation with heat recovery 49, and a 0.4 kV switchgear 50 are also located there. This saves space above ground. In the exemplary embodiment, the technical building 4 is constructed using precast concrete elements.

[0102] In this embodiment, an overhead crane is available for the installation and replacement of Power Units PU and the switching matrix SM. This allows a single employee to perform maintenance and troubleshooting, for example, by replacing defective Power Modules PM. A photovoltaic system can be installed on the roof of the technical building 4. In this embodiment, all power components, including two transformers 51 and 52, are liquid-cooled. The waste heat recovery system 54 provides waste heat for keeping the areas around the charging stations 1 and the truck cabs free of snow and ice, which will be discussed in more detail below. Excess heat can be used for other purposes (e.g., building heating).

[0103] High-performance charging technology, including transformers, power electronics, power cables, charging cables 18, and charging plugs 19, generates significant amounts of waste heat during operation. Approximately 6% of the energy required by a site is released as waste heat. For larger sites, this amounts to an annual average of more than 100 kilowatts. This heat is typically released unused into the environment.

[0104] Charging cables at high-performance charging points are, as previously described, usually actively cooled with liquids (generally water / glycol mixtures). At known charging stations, the heat generated by the charging current is dissipated to the ambient air via a cooling unit.

[0105] In the exemplary embodiment of a charging device 100 according to the invention, this waste heat is not simply released into the environment, but is used for other purposes such as keeping the area around the charging station or the associated parking space free of snow and ice, for heating buildings, etc. By using heat pumps, the low temperature level can be raised and thus the waste heat can also be used for other applications.

[0106] The charging cables 18, for example, are exposed to the elements. Depending on the prevailing climate, they can be damp (e.g., in fog or light rain) or wet (e.g., in snow and rain). Many users are hesitant to use damp / wet charging cables for fear of electric shock or getting their hands dirty. At low temperatures, the charging cables 18 also become increasingly stiff and therefore more difficult to handle. In the exemplary embodiment, a liquid-based heating / cooling system advantageously provides heating / cooling power, which in this embodiment comprises heating pipes or tubes 26 laid in the ceiling 22, the floor 21, and the side walls 27 of the technical shaft 2. Additionally, a four-pipe system 28 can be used for this purpose, as shown schematically in Figures 1 and 2.

[0107] In the four-pipe system 28 of the exemplary embodiment, two pipes (supply and return) are used for cooling. The other two pipes transfer heating energy. This makes it possible to cool a charging cable in use and simultaneously, if necessary, to heat a charging cable that is not currently in use, in order to keep it flexible and dry. Heating and cooling capacity is provided by corresponding heating / cooling units, or the waste heat from power electronics, transformers, or the charging cable cooling system can be used for heating.

[0108] To achieve optimal charging performance and, in particular, to protect very large batteries in, for example, aircraft, mining equipment, ships, etc., these batteries must not be too hot or too cold. With a four-pipe system like the one shown, heating / cooling power can advantageously also be provided for battery temperature control. This requires the use of, for example, charging connectors that can transmit heating or cooling power for battery climate control in addition to electrical energy.

[0109] To maximize efficiency and minimize maintenance costs, a central heating / cooling system 48 is provided in the exemplary embodiment. The heat / cold is transported via a four-pipe system 28 through the supply shaft 41 and the technical shaft 2 to the charging points at the charging stations 1. This makes it possible, for example, to cool a charging cable 18 that is currently in use and to heat another that is not currently in use.

[0110] Heating or cooling charging cables 18, keeping the area around charging stations and parking spaces free of snow and ice are thus possible. Excess heat from transformers, power units, energy and charging cables is collected and can be used for other purposes such as keeping the area free of ice / snow or for heating charging cables or buildings. With such a liquid-based heating / cooling system, it is advantageously possible not only to cool the charging cables 18, but also to heat them when weather conditions require it, when the charging cables 18 are not in use, or when the charging cable 18 is still connected to the vehicle but the charging process has already ended and therefore no waste heat is available to keep the charging cables 18 dry and flexible.

[0111] At conventional rest areas or parking lots without charging stations, snow removal and ice control using heavy equipment is easily accomplished. However, when charging stations and their protective barriers are installed in such areas, the process becomes significantly more complex and time-consuming. In particular, the area around the charging stations must be cleared manually. To prevent accidents, the area around the charging station, extending to the vehicle's charging plug, must be gritted or salted to keep it ice-free.

[0112] With a charging device 100 according to the invention, which, as in the exemplary embodiment, has a liquid-based heating / cooling system, it is advantageously possible to keep the area of ​​the vehicle's cab and the area around the charging station 1 free of snow and ice without difficulty. This eliminates the need for snow removal and ice control, which contributes to cost savings and protects the environment (salt) and the technology (corrosion of the charging technology) and also prevents accidents.

[0113] Further advantages of a charging device 100 or a parking arrangement 200 according to the invention are maximum landscape protection, since the technology is virtually hidden underground in the technical shaft 2, and that ice throwing is not possible, as can be the case with known charging stations that provide a roof or a supporting structure in the area above the driver's cabs and where energy and control cables are routed on or under the roof or on the supporting structure.

[0114] Roofs and supporting structures for large vehicles are massive constructions that can significantly impact the landscape. Roofs and supporting structures require corresponding foundations and pillars, which also take up space and lead to a loss of parking spaces. Such structures are advantageously completely avoided with a charging device 100 or a parking arrangement 200 according to the invention. Furthermore, locations can be easily expanded as needed with a charging device 100 or a parking arrangement 200 according to the invention. New charging points can be easily added by adding further segments with charging columns 1 to the technical shaft 2. This is particularly advantageous because the currents to be transmitted increase with the continuously rising charging capacities. Consequently, the required cable cross-sections also increase.If a performance increase is required, existing cables can be easily and cost-effectively replaced with those of a larger cross-section, or, especially when using single-core cables, additional cables can be laid.

[0115] By routing and storing the charging cables and all the necessary infrastructure for the new charging points in the technical shaft, installation can be simple and cost-effective. This offers a significant advantage over expanding parking lots with existing charging stations, as the construction and cable laying work required for such an expansion involves considerable costs. Furthermore, the construction work would cause disruptions to the existing charging points.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Charging device (100) for charging at least one vehicle battery, in particular a land vehicle or aircraft battery, preferably a motor vehicle battery, especially preferably a truck battery, comprising at least one charging column (1) with at least one charging point (11), wherein the outer shell of the charging column (1) is formed by a shaped tube (12), and a technical shaft (2) arranged below the street level (3), in particular accessible, wherein the technical shaft (2) is arranged running below the charging column (1), and wherein the shaped tube (12) of the charging column (1) extends into the technical shaft (2) and is fastened in the technical shaft, in particular to the floor (21) and / or a wall of the technical shaft (2).

2. Charging device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the shaped tube (12) of the charging column (1) is formed in one piece and is fully enclosed, wherein it is particularly provided that the shaped tube (12) is made of, preferably powder-coated, steel, and / or has at least a section of a plastic and / or bitumen coating, and / or has a wall thickness of > 1.0 cm, in particular between 1.0 and 1.5 cm, preferably 1.2 cm, and / or has a rectangular, square, round or oval cross-section.

3. Charging device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the charging device (100) comprises a lower charging column mounting (24) arranged on the floor of the technical shaft (2), wherein the charging column (1) is rotatable about an axis of rotation normal to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft (2) and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging column (1) by means of the lower charging column mounting (24), and / or comprises a further lower charging column mounting arranged on a wall, in particular a side wall, of the technical shaft (21), wherein the charging column (1) is rotatable about an axis of rotation normal to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft (2) and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging column (1) by means of the further lower charging column mounting, and / or comprising an upper charging station mounting (23) arranged at street level (3), wherein the upper charging station mounting (23) is attached to the top of the technical shaft (2), and wherein the charging station (1) is rotatable by means of the upper charging station mounting (23) about the axis of rotation normal to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft (2) and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging station (1), and / or wherein the height of the upper charging station mounting (23) is reversibly adjustable.

4. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the charging station (1) comprises one or more of the following components: a display (13), a measuring device, in particular an electricity meter (14), an RFID reader (15), a payment terminal (16), operating elements, a receptacle for a charging plug, ambient lighting, a status signaling (17), a parking space display, at least one camera for parking space monitoring and / or for license plate recognition for a reservation system, a WIFI access point.

5. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the charging device (100) comprises at least one charging cable (18) connectable to a truck, wherein the charging cable (18) is reversibly extendable from the inside of the charging column (1) and retractable inside the charging column (1) and extends into the technical shaft (2).

6. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the charging device (100) comprises at least one charging cable (18) with a charging plug of type CCS and / or with a charging plug (19) of type MCS.

7. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one power unit for converting alternating current into direct current for charging vehicle batteries is housed in the technical shaft (2) and / or at a location separate from the charging device (100), in particular in a separate technical building (4), wherein it is particularly provided that the technical building (4) and the at least one technical shaft are connected to each other via a supply shaft (41).

8. Charging device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the charging device (100) comprises a switching matrix for distributing the power of several power units to several charging stations (1), in particular the charging points of several charging stations (1).

9. Charging device (100) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the charging device (100) comprises a heating and / or cooling device for heating and / or cooling the at least one charging cable (18) and / or the vehicle battery.

10. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power and / or data lines required for the operation of the charging station (1) are routed to the charging station (1) in the technical shaft (2).

11. Loading device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the technical shaft (2) is formed from individual, in particular similarly designed, segments, wherein it is particularly provided that the segments are made of precast concrete elements that are preferably transportable on a low loader and / or connectable to one another.

12. Charging device (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that the individual segments of the technical shaft (2), in particular ex works, comprise one or more of the following components: at least one cable guide, at least one lighting unit, at least one ventilation pipe, at least one pipe for heating, cooling and / or dripping water.

13. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one heating pipe for a liquid-based heating system is arranged in the ceiling (22) and / or at least one side wall and / or the floor (21) of the technical shaft (2).

14. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one heating conductor is arranged in the ceiling (22) and / or at least one side wall and / or the floor (21) of the technical shaft (2).

15. Charging device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the charging device (100) comprises a plurality of charging columns (1), wherein the technical shaft (2) is arranged running under the charging columns (1) and wherein the shaped tube (12) of each of the charging columns (1) extends into the technical shaft (2) and is attached to the bottom (21) of the technical shaft (2).

16. Parking arrangement (200), comprising a charging device (100) according to claim 15, as well as a number of parking spaces, especially for trucks.

17. Parking arrangement (200) according to claim 16 characterized in that each parking space is assigned a charging station (1), wherein in particular it is provided that the charging station (1) is arranged on the left side of the driver's cab.

18. Parking arrangement (200) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that a parking space is arranged between two charging stations (1).

19. Parking arrangement (200) according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the longitudinal axis of each parking space is arranged at an angle of 0 to 180, in particular at an angle of 45° to the longitudinal axis of the technical shaft (2).

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