Method and charging control device for automatically authorising a vehicle to use a charging station

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for authorising, in particular automatically, a vehicle (1), in particular an electrically driven vehicle, to use a charging station (22) for charging an energy storage device (12) of the vehicle (1), said method comprising the steps of: - acquiring charging-station data by means of a charging-station recognition device (18) of the vehicle (1), the charging-station data being characteristic of at least one property of the charging station (22); - transmitting the acquired charging-station data to a vehicle backend (30) by means of a data-transmission device (14) of the vehicle (1); - determining an operator of the charging station (22) on the basis of the transmitted charging-station data; - issuing a request to initiate an authorisation procedure; - determining an authorisation parameter by authenticating the vehicle (1), the authorisation parameter being characteristic of an entitlement of the vehicle (1) to use the charging station (22); - transmitting the authorisation parameter to the vehicle (1).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Method and charging control device for the automatic authorization of a vehicle to use a charging station

[0003] The present invention relates to a method and a charging control device for the automatic authorization of a vehicle to use a charging station.

[0004] Charging the energy storage system of electric vehicles can be done, for example, at a home wallbox or at designated charging stations for a fee. In the latter case, the driver typically has to manually authenticate themselves at the charging station. Before charging begins, the driver must activate the charging station. This can be done, for example, by scanning a payment card (debit card, credit card, etc.) or using a smartphone (e.g., an account with a saved payment method). In the latter case, a QR code on the charging station can be scanned, and the charging station can be activated using a corresponding app in which a payment method is saved.

[0005] More recently, methods have been developed that enable automatic authentication of the vehicle at the charging station and thus automatic authorization of the vehicle to use the charging station. One such method is the Plug & Charge (PnC) function of specially designed charging stations. With this method, the driver only needs to connect their vehicle to the charging station, and authorization is fully automatic. In this process, a digital fingerprint (OEM Provisioning Certificate) is first assigned to the vehicle, and a corresponding charging contract (contract certificate) is stored in the vehicle's memory.

[0006] With this certificate and the charging contract, the vehicle authenticates itself at the charging station. This involves an exchange of data between the vehicle and a backend system of the charging station operator (CPO, Charge Point Operator). This data exchange takes place via a high-level communication connection in accordance with ISO standard 15118. Therefore, this procedure is only possible at specially equipped (modern) charging stations that support such a communication connection. German patent DE 102010 026689 A1 discloses a method for charging a vehicle's battery by an authorized charging station. First, a cryptographically protected communication connection is established between the vehicle's charging control unit and the charging station after the vehicle's charging control unit has successfully performed preliminary verification of a digital certificate from the charging station.A second communication link is then established between the vehicle's charging control unit and a charging station authorization server. The charging control unit sends the preliminary verified digital certificate of the charging station, or verification information extracted from it, via this second communication link to the charging station authorization server. The authorization server then uses this information to perform an authorization check on the respective charging station. Finally, the authorization check result is sent from the authorization server to the vehicle's charging control unit via the second communication link. Based on this result, the vehicle's charging control unit then initiates a charging process to charge the vehicle's battery using the charging station.

[0007] From US 2011 / 0099144 A1, a method and a system are known in which an electric vehicle charging station is connected to the host computer system by using a non-purpose-bound network resource contained in the electric vehicle to be charged, thereby enabling unsupervised (non-networked) use of the charging stations.

[0008] From DE 102022 208 145 B3 a method for authentication at a charging infrastructure using a charging cable, wherein the charging cable is connected to the vehicle with a vehicle-side primary connector and to the charging infrastructure with a charging infrastructure-side secondary connector, comprising the following steps: first determining a communication standard of the charging infrastructure, second determining a communication standard of the vehicle, and transmitting an identifier of the charging cable to the charging infrastructure depending on the first determination and second determination.

[0009] However, no known method exists in the current state of the art that enables the use of a Plug & Charge function at a charging station that does not meet the technical requirements for a communication connection according to ISO 15118. This applies particularly to older AC and DC charging stations, which are still widely in use today.

[0010] The present invention therefore aims to overcome the disadvantages known from the prior art and to provide a method and a device which enables the use of a Plug & Charge function at charging stations which cannot establish a communication connection according to ISO 15118 with a backend of the CPO.

[0011] The object of the invention is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0012] A method according to the invention for the particularly automatic authorization of a vehicle, particularly an electrically powered one, for the use of a charging station to charge the vehicle's energy storage system comprises, in one step, the acquisition of charging station data by a charging station recognition device of the vehicle, wherein the charging station data is characteristic of at least one property of the charging station. Preferably, the charging station data is characteristic of an identity of the charging station and / or of a geographical position of the charging station and / or of a charging point operator (CPO). Hereinafter, the terms charging point operator, charge point operator, and CPO are used synonymously. Preferably, the charging station data is retrieved by a charging station recognition device of the vehicle and / or determined by the charging station recognition device.

[0013] In a further step of the method according to the invention, the acquired charging station data and / or data derived therefrom are transmitted to a vehicle backend via a data transmission device in the vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle backend is a backend of the vehicle manufacturer and / or a service provider associated with and / or commissioned by the manufacturer, in particular a roaming provider or an Electronic Vehicle Service Provider (EMSP). It would be conceivable for the vehicle backend to consist of rented server space, server farms, or the like.

[0014] Preferably, a (first) communication connection is established between the vehicle and the vehicle backend. In a further step of the inventive method, a charging point operator (CPO) is determined based on the transmitted charging station data. In a further step of the inventive method, a request to start an authorization process is made. Preferably, this request is transmitted from the vehicle backend to an operator backend. In other words, the vehicle backend sends a request to the operator backend to start the authorization process. Preferably, a (second) communication connection is established with the operator backend.Preferably, the operator backend is a backend of the charging station operator and / or a service provider associated with the operator, in particular a roaming provider or an Electronic Vehicle Service Provider (EMSP). Preferably, a (second) communication connection is established between two independent backends, and particularly preferably between the vehicle backend and the operator backend. Preferably, the (second) communication connection is a non-private public network connection. Preferably, the (second) communication connection is an encrypted and / or otherwise secured communication connection.

[0015] In a further step of the method according to the invention, an authorization parameter is determined by authenticating the vehicle, preferably by transmitting and verifying a contract certificate stored in the vehicle's storage device, wherein the authorization parameter is characteristic of the vehicle's authorization to use the charging station. In a further step, the determined authorization parameter is transmitted to the vehicle and / or the charging station.

[0016] In a preferred method, the vehicle backend verifies the transmitted contract certificate. Alternatively, the operator backend could perform the verification of the contract certificate, preferably transferring the contract certificate or derived data from it from the vehicle backend to the operator backend. Preferably, the operator backend determines the authorization level. In a preferred method, vehicle authentication is performed using challenge-response authentication, as described in detail below.

[0017] Preferably, the authorization parameter is first transmitted from the operator backend to the vehicle backend (via the (second) communication link) and then preferably (subsequently) to the vehicle (via the (first) communication link). Preferably, in a further step of the process, a charging process starts immediately and / or automatically after the transmission of the authorization parameter. In a preferred method, the authorization parameter includes an authorization to release the charging station or an authorization to use the charging station.

[0018] In a preferred method, the authorization parameter includes a control signal that automatically starts a charging process. It would also be conceivable that, if the determination of the authorization parameter reveals that the vehicle is not authorized to use the charging station, the authorization parameter could contain corresponding data about this and preferably also be output to the user.

[0019] For example, such an output could read "Authorization unsuccessful", "Contract certificate invalid", or similar.

[0020] The proposed method offers the advantage that authorization to use the charging station is carried out via a (second) communication link between the vehicle backend and the operator backend, and is therefore completely independent of whether the charging station enables high-level communication, such as that specified in ISO 15118. This makes it possible to use the Plug & Charge function (hereinafter also abbreviated as PnC) even at older charging stations that do not have such a communication capability.

[0021] Similar to the prior art methods for using a Plug & Charge function at charging stations with high-level communication that comply with ISO 15118, the present invention also requires that the driver or user of the vehicle concludes a contract with the CPO for the use of the charging station and that the corresponding contract data or a corresponding contract certificate is provided.

[0022] In an advantageous method, a contract certificate is stored in a single step in a storage device of the vehicle and / or on the vehicle manufacturer's backend. This contract certificate is characteristic of a contract between a user of the vehicle, in particular between the driver of the vehicle and the operator of the charging station, regarding the use of a charging function of the charging station. Preferably, it is characteristic of a contract between the user of the vehicle and the operator of the charging station regarding the use of a charging function for a multitude of charging stations of the CPO (Charging Point Operator). Preferably, the charging function is a Plug & Charge function of the charging station. A Plug & Charge function is understood here to be a function in which a user of the vehicle connects the vehicle to the charging station (e.g., via the charging cable) and a charging process is started fully automatically.

[0023] In a preferred method, the driver or user of the vehicle can conclude a contract for the use of the CPO's charging stations via an app or website of the CPO or a corresponding service provider, in particular a roaming provider or an Electronic Vehicle Service Provider (EMSP). Specifically, the driver or user can conclude a contract for the use or activation of the PnC (Pick-and-Play) function. It would also be conceivable for the driver to conclude such a contract via the vehicle's HMI (Human Machine Interface). Ideally, the driver can link such a contract to a customer account (of the vehicle), for example, the driver can link such a contract to their Volkswagen account, and characteristic data for this purpose is preferably stored on the vehicle's backend.

[0024] In a preferred method, a contract certificate is created upon conclusion of a contract for the use of the PnC function at one, and preferably at a large number of, charging stations of the CPO. This contract certificate is preferably stored in a central contract certificate pool.

[0025] In a preferred method, the contract certificate is downloaded from the contract certificate pool, specifically by the vehicle backend. Preferably, the vehicle downloads the contract certificate directly from the contract certificate pool. Alternatively, the vehicle backend can preferably download the contract certificate via the (first) communication link. Preferably, the downloaded contract certificate is stored in a storage device within the vehicle.

[0026] In an advantageous method, the stored contract certificate is installed in the vehicle. In this advantageous method, a mode for automatically authorizing the vehicle to use a charging station is activated. Preferably, this mode is activated automatically upon installation of the contract certificate. It would also be conceivable that the driver or user of the vehicle could activate the mode manually. Preferably, this mode can also be manually deactivated by the driver. In this case, it would be conceivable that the driver receives a notification (automatically) after the installation of the contract certificate, asking whether the mode should be activated. Preferably, the driver can activate the mode by confirming the notification. Preferably, this mode activates a PnC function or unlocks the use of the PnC function of a charging station in the vehicle.

[0027] After activating the PnC function in the vehicle (activating the aforementioned mode), the driver can now go to a suitable charging station.

[0028] In a preferred method, an authorization process is initiated by establishing a connection between the vehicle and the charging station. Preferably, this connection is made via a charging cable from the charging station or wirelessly. A wireless connection is preferred when the vehicle is to be charged inductively, i.e., without a cable. In a preferred method, an authorization process can be initiated upon arrival at the charging station. Preferably, the authorization process is automatically initiated when the vehicle stops at the charging station.

[0029] In a preferred method, the authorization process is initiated by connecting the vehicle to the charging station, preferably via a cable, in particular the charging cable of the charging station, or via a wireless connection. In a preferred method, the authorization process comprises at least one, and preferably a plurality, of the steps described below. It is conceivable that the authorization process includes all of the steps mentioned below, or only a subset thereof. In a preferred method, the authorization process includes all steps from establishing the connection between the vehicle and the charging station to determining the authorization level and authorizing the start of a charging process.

[0030] Preferably, the authorization process includes, in one step, establishing a connection between the vehicle and the charging station, and preferably, this step starts or initializes the authorization process. Preferably, in a further step, the authorization process includes acquiring charging station data and, more preferably, transmitting the acquired charging station data to the vehicle backend.

[0031] Preferably, the authorization process includes, in a further step, the identification of an operator of the charging station based on the transmitted charging station data, and preferably, in a further step, the submission of a request to start an authorization setup (authorization setup request) or to start an authorization process, wherein preferably the request to start the authorization process is made by the vehicle backend and preferably directed to the operator backend.

[0032] Preferably, the authorization process further includes the transmission of an authorization setup response, preferably from the operator backend to the vehicle backend. Preferably, the authorization process is initiated by transmitting the authorization setup response, which preferably includes vehicle authentication, specifically challenge-response authentication. In a preferred method, a cryptographic challenge is transmitted with the authorization setup response. Preferably, the authorization process further includes submitting a request to initiate an authorization process, preferably by the vehicle backend and directed to the operator backend.Preferably, the request to initiate an authorization process includes the transmission of data relating to the authentication of the vehicle or data characteristic of and / or derived therefrom.

[0033] In a preferred method, a challenge, particularly a cryptographic one, is transmitted from the vehicle backend to the vehicle, or from the operator backend first to the vehicle backend and then to the vehicle, for vehicle authentication.

[0034] Preferably, this challenge is signed by the vehicle and, in particular, transmitted to the vehicle backend together with the contract certificate stored in the vehicle's memory. Preferably, the transmitted signed challenge and, even more preferably, the transmitted contract certificate are then transmitted to the operator backend.

[0035] It would also be conceivable to transmit data derived from the signed challenge instead of the challenge itself, with this derived data being characteristic of the vehicle's authentication. In this case, it would be conceivable that the contract certificate would be transmitted to the operator's backend along with information confirming that the vehicle has successfully authenticated itself to the vehicle's backend.

[0036] Preferably, the authorization process further includes determining the authorization value, preferably based on the transmitted data (regarding vehicle authentication) and preferably by verifying the transmitted contract certificate and / or the signed challenge. The authorization process further preferably includes transmitting an authorization response (authorization value), particularly to the vehicle backend and preferably subsequently to the vehicle. Preferably, a vehicle charging process is automatically initiated after the authorization value is transmitted.

[0037] In other words, the vehicle user installs a Plug & Charge contract certificate in their vehicle, and as soon as the user starts charging at a public charging point, the vehicle identifies the charging point and initiates the payment process by calling the payment API of the charging station operator or a roaming provider. With successful authorization via PnC messages, the charging process is authorized and starts. Alternatively, the user could also authorize charging manually, for example, by using an ad-hoc payment option, an RFID card, or a smartphone app from their electricity provider. The solution proposed within the scope of the present invention, however, offers the possibility of automatically activating the charging point instead of having to use a manual payment option, as is common at charging points without high-level communication.

[0038] Preferably, the wireless connection is a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection, or the like. In a preferred method, the type of connection (wired or wireless) depends on the type of charging process. Preferably, a wireless connection is used when the vehicle is to be charged inductively. Alternatively, a wired connection is preferably chosen when the vehicle is to be charged via a charging cable. Preferably, communication between the vehicle and the charging station takes place via the charging cable. It would also be conceivable to establish a wireless connection between the vehicle and the charging station (for data transmission) and a physical connection for charging the vehicle (charging cable).

[0039] In an advantageous method, charging station data is acquired by a charging station recognition device of the vehicle, and preferably the charging station data is retrieved by a charging station recognition device of the vehicle, wherein the charging station data is characteristic of at least one property of the charging station. In an advantageous method, the at least one property of the charging station is an identity of the charging station, a geographical position of the charging station, data relating to the CPO (operator of the charging station), or the like.

[0040] Regarding the currently and future available charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, there is a need for global standards, particularly for the use of charging stations and for the compatibility of the corresponding interfaces and networks. Standardized charging protocols are crucial for efficient and secure communication within the charging system for electric vehicles. Such protocols primarily benefit charging point operators (CPOs), e-mobility service providers (EMSPs), authorities, and drivers of electric vehicles.

[0041] When operating charging stations, tasks are typically divided between the CPO (Charging Point Operator) and the EMSP (Electric Vehicle Service Provider). An EMSP is a company that offers charging services to drivers of electric vehicles, while a CPO is the operator of the charging stations. In other words, a CPO is responsible for the charging infrastructure, and an EMSP connects this infrastructure with demand, i.e., with the drivers of electric vehicles. An EMSP can thus be understood as a bridge between the charging station and the vehicle. In an advantageous method, the charging station data is acquired using at least one communication protocol, particularly a standardized one. In a preferred method, the at least one communication protocol is an e-roaming protocol, specifically an EV (Electric Vehicle) charging roaming protocol.

[0042] E-roaming refers to a data exchange system that allows the authentication and payment systems of electric vehicle charging stations to be networked. EV charging roaming protocols primarily refer to communication protocols that define various operations between charge point operators (CPOs) and energy service providers (EMSPs). Examples include searching for charging stations operated by other providers, authorizing a user at a charging station, or controlling a charging session.

[0043] In a preferred method, the (Open) Intercharge Protocol (OICP) is used as at least one communication protocol. The (Open) Intercharge Protocol, or OICP, is an open e-roaming standard developed by Hubject. The OICP protocol preferably offers various services between CPOs and EMSPs, with a focus on bundling at hubs. Examples of possible services include eRoamingAuthorization, eRoamingChargeDetailRecord, eRoamingReservation, eRoamingEVSEData, eRoamingEVSEStatus, eRoamingDynamicPricing, and eRoamingChargingNotifications.

[0044] In a preferred method, charging station data is acquired by capturing an EVSE ID (Electronic Vehicle Supply Equipment). Preferably, the EVSE ID is acquired via a communication link between the vehicle and the charging station, and preferably using a communication protocol. This is preferably a high-level communication protocol.

[0045] Preferably, this communication protocol is a protocol relating to Power Line Communication (PLC), Signal Level Attenuation Characterization (SLAC), or a Controller Area Network (CAN).

[0046] In Power Line Communication (PLC), IP-based protocols are preferably used for communication between the charging station and the vehicle. In this system, a data stream is modulated onto a PWM (pulse width modulation) signal. Signal Level Attenuation Characterization (SLAC) is a communication protocol that includes challenge-response authentication. Controller Area Network (CAN) is a preferred communication protocol with a message-oriented, multi-master protocol that enables fast serial data exchange between electronic control units.

[0047] In an alternative embodiment, the EVSE ID is detected by a sensor device on the vehicle. In a preferred method, the EVSE ID is located on the charging station, for example in the form of a small plaque or a sticker (e.g., as a QR code). In this case, it would be conceivable that the EVSE ID is detected by a camera on the vehicle or determined by processing the data captured by the camera.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the charging station data is determined based on navigation data or data derived therefrom. Preferably, so-called POI (Point of Interest) data from route planning is used for this purpose. Preferably, the POI data relates to nearby charging stations or other amenities that are particularly relevant for drivers of electric vehicles. In a preferred method, such POI data is retrieved from the vehicle's navigation system.

[0049] It would also be conceivable for charging station data to be collected by a sensor on the vehicle. Typically, charging stations display a QR code, an ID, or something similar, which a driver can scan with their smartphone. Preferably, a sensor, especially a camera on the vehicle, optically detects the charging station's QR code. It would also be conceivable for a sensor on the vehicle to detect an RFID tag or similar transponder. Finally, it would be conceivable for charging station data to be transmitted wirelessly between the vehicle and the charging station.

[0050] In an advantageous method, the acquired charging station data and / or data derived therefrom are transmitted to a vehicle backend via a data transmission device in the vehicle using a (first) communication link. In this advantageous method, a charging station operator (CPO) is determined based on the transmitted charging station data. In a preferred embodiment, it would also be conceivable to determine a CPO in the vehicle before transmission to the vehicle backend and to transmit the data derived from the charging station data to the vehicle backend. In this case, it would be conceivable that the CPO's identity is already evident from the acquired charging station data. For example, the acquired EVSE ID already contains information about the CPO. Similarly, it would be conceivable that a name or logo of the CPO is captured, particularly by an optical detection device.Preferably, the CPO is determined based on the recorded charging station data (in the vehicle) and preferably data relating to the CPO is transferred to the vehicle backend.

[0051] In an advantageous method, a (second) communication connection is established with the operator backend. Preferably, a (second) communication connection is established between the vehicle backend and the operator backend. It would also be conceivable to establish a (second) communication connection between the vehicle and the operator backend. Preferably, establishing the (second) communication connection involves calling a payment API of the CPO or a roaming provider (EMSP) and preferably a request to initiate an authorization process. In other words, a connection is established to a payment interface of the CPO or the roaming provider (EMSP). In a preferred method, the vehicle backend and / or the vehicle transmits a request or a demand to the operator backend to initiate an authorization sequence.

[0052] In a preferred method, an authorization parameter is determined that indicates whether the vehicle is authorized to use the charging station or not. Preferably, the vehicle must authenticate itself for this purpose. In an advantageous method, the authentication (of the vehicle) is a challenge-response authentication. Challenge-response authentication is a method in which one participant (here, the operator backend or vehicle backend) poses a task (challenge) that another participant (here, the vehicle backend or vehicle) must solve to prove that it knows a certain piece of information (shared secret) without revealing this information itself.

[0053] Such an authentication procedure is based on the following fundamental principle: When one party (usually called Alice in cryptography) wants to authenticate itself to another party (usually called Bob), Bob sends a random number N (nonce) to Alice (Bob thus presents the challenge). Alice adds her password to this number N, applies a cryptographic hash function or encryption to this combination, and sends the result to Bob (thus providing the response). Bob, who knows both the random number and the shared secret (= Alice's password) as well as the hash function or encryption used, performs the same calculation and compares his result with the response he receives from Alice. If both pieces of data are identical, Alice has successfully authenticated.

[0054] In an advantageous method, a challenge, particularly a cryptographic one, is received. In a further advantageous step, the challenge is signed, particularly by the vehicle and preferably by the charging control device, and in a further preferred step, the signed challenge, together with the contract certificate, preferably stored in the vehicle's storage device or preferably with the contract certificate stored on the vehicle's backend, is transmitted (by the vehicle's data transmission device) as a response.

[0055] In a further preferred step, the authorization value is determined by evaluating the transmitted response, and in particular by evaluating the signed challenge and the transmitted contract certificate. Preferably, the determined authorization value is characteristic of a successful or unsuccessful authentication of the vehicle and preferably characteristic of the validity or invalidity of the contract certificate.

[0056] In a preferred method, an authorization setup request is transmitted from the vehicle backend to the operator backend. Preferably, an authorization setup response is transmitted from the operator backend to the vehicle backend. In a preferred method, an authorization process is initiated by transmitting the authorization setup response.

[0057] In a preferred method, the operator backend initiates the authorization process. Preferably, a characteristic signal for this purpose is transmitted to the vehicle backend. In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle backend transmits a cryptographic challenge to the vehicle, or the vehicle receives a cryptographic challenge from the vehicle backend. It would also be conceivable for the cryptographic challenge to be transmitted from the operator backend to the vehicle backend and preferably subsequently transmitted to the vehicle.

[0058] In a further step of a preferred method, the vehicle or a charging control device of the vehicle signs the (received) challenge and sends this signed challenge, together with the contract certificate stored in the vehicle's memory, back to the vehicle backend. In a preferred method, the transmitted signed challenge and the transmitted contract certificate are evaluated by the vehicle backend. Preferably, the vehicle has thereby successfully authenticated itself to the vehicle backend.

[0059] In a further step of a preferred method, the contract certificate and / or data characteristic of authenticating the vehicle to the vehicle backend are transferred to the operator backend. Preferably, this involves the transmission of an authorization request. It would also be conceivable to transfer the contract certificate and the challenge and / or the signed challenge to the operator backend for verification. In a further step of a preferred method, an authorization parameter is determined and preferably transmitted as an authorization response from the operator backend to the vehicle backend. Preferably, the authorization parameter is then transmitted to the vehicle, and the charging process can begin.

[0060] In an alternative embodiment, the authentication process could also take place between the vehicle backend and the operator backend. In this case, the vehicle would no longer need to authenticate itself to the vehicle backend, as a secure connection between the vehicle and the vehicle backend already exists. In this embodiment, the vehicle backend could authenticate itself to the operator backend. Here, the operator backend could transmit a cryptographic challenge to the vehicle backend, which would then sign the challenge and transmit the signed challenge, along with the contract certificate (preferably stored on the vehicle backend), back to the operator backend.

[0061] In a preferred method, the determined authorization parameter is transmitted to the vehicle backend and / or to the vehicle itself. Preferably, the transmitted authorization parameter includes an authorization for, in particular, the automatic initiation of a charging process.

[0062] In an advantageous method, a loading process is automatically started depending on the transmitted authorization parameter. It would be conceivable for the transmitted authorization parameter to include a control parameter that triggers the automatic start of the loading process. Preferably, the transmitted authorization parameter includes data relating to the authentication process and / or data relating to the result of a verification of the transmitted contract certificate.

[0063] In a preferred method, the driver is notified that the vehicle has successfully authenticated, and preferably, a notification is given that the charging process has started automatically. This notification can be given to the driver via a display in the vehicle. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the driver receives this notification audibly, preferably via an external loudspeaker system in the vehicle.

[0064] This offers the advantage that the driver, who is outside the vehicle and has connected it to the charging station, can receive this notification without having to be inside the vehicle and look at a display. In a preferred embodiment, such a notification can be displayed to the driver via the HMI. It would also be conceivable for the driver to receive such a notification via their smartphone, for example, via the app they used to conclude a contract with the CPO.

[0065] In a preferred method, at least one piece of authorization information is determined based on the transmitted authorization parameter and output to the driver via an output device in the vehicle. Preferably, this at least one piece of output information indicates whether the vehicle authentication was successful or not. Preferably, the output information relates to the transmitted contract certificate, for example, its validity, expiration date, or similar details. It would be conceivable for the driver to be notified audibly or visually that the authorization to use the charging station was successful, and preferably that the charging process starts or has started automatically.

[0066] It would also be conceivable to provide the driver with information if the authorization process is unsuccessful. Possible reasons could include a connection interruption, an invalid contract certificate, or the PnC function not yet being activated in the vehicle. In this case, the driver could be informed that, for example, their contract certificate is outdated or invalid.

[0067] The present invention further relates to a charging control device for a vehicle, in particular an electrically powered vehicle, for the automatic authorization of the vehicle, in particular an electrically powered vehicle, to use a charging station for charging an energy storage device of the vehicle, wherein the charging control device is suitable and intended to retrieve charging station data from a charging station recognition device of the vehicle and to transmit the retrieved charging station data and / or data derived therefrom to a vehicle backend by means of a data transmission device of the vehicle, in particular via a (first) communication link, wherein an operator of the charging station can be determined on the basis of the transmitted charging station data.

[0068] According to the invention, the charging control device is configured to receive an authorization parameter through the vehicle's data transmission device, wherein the authorization parameter is characteristic of the vehicle's authorization to use the charging station.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the charging control device is configured to retrieve charging station data from the charging station detection device. Preferably, the charging station detection device is a sensor device of the vehicle (e.g., camera, radio receiver, etc.). Preferably, the charging control device is configured to retrieve data from the sensor device.

[0070] Preferably, the charging control device is configured to retrieve POI data from a navigation device of the vehicle and preferably to determine an operator of the charging station based on the retrieved POI data.

[0071] In an advantageous method, the charging control device is configured to authenticate the vehicle to the vehicle backend. In an advantageous embodiment, the charging control device is configured to receive a challenge from the vehicle backend via the vehicle's data transmission device and to sign the received challenge for vehicle authentication, wherein the charging control device is configured to transmit the signed challenge and a contract certificate stored in a memory device of the vehicle as a response to the vehicle backend via the vehicle's data transmission device.

[0072] Preferably, the charging control device is configured, suitable, and / or designed to execute the above-described method for the particularly automatic authorization of an electrically powered vehicle to use a charging station for charging the vehicle's energy storage device, as well as all the process steps already described above in connection with the method, individually or in combination. Conversely, the method can be equipped with all the features described within the charging control device, individually or in combination.

[0073] The present invention is further directed to a system for the particularly automatic authorization of a particularly electrically powered vehicle for the use of a charging station for charging an energy storage device of the vehicle, comprising a charging control device as described above according to one embodiment, a storage device, a vehicle backend, a charging station recognition device for acquiring charging station data, and a data transmission device, wherein the data transmission device is configured to transmit the acquired charging station data to the vehicle backend and is configured to receive a cryptographic challenge from the vehicle backend and to transmit a challenge signed by the charging control device and a contract certificate stored in the storage device to the vehicle backend, wherein the vehicle backend is configured toto submit a request to start an authorization process and to receive an authorization amount.

[0074] Preferably, the vehicle backend is configured to receive charging station data from the data transmission device and is preferably configured to determine the operator of the charging station based on the received charging station data. Preferably, the vehicle backend is configured to establish a (second) communication connection with the operator backend and preferably transmit an authorization setup request (a request to start an authorization sequence or process) to the operator backend. Preferably, the vehicle backend is configured to receive an authorization setup response from the operator backend, thereby initiating an authorization process.

[0075] Preferably, the vehicle backend is configured to transmit a cryptographic challenge to the vehicle and preferably to the data transmission device, and to receive a signed challenge and preferably the transmitted contract certificate from the vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle backend is configured to transmit the signed challenge and / or the contract certificate and / or characteristic data to the operator backend.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a charging station and / or an operator backend.

[0077] The present invention further relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a charging control device as described above, according to one embodiment. Preferably, the charging control device is a (fixed, in particular non-detachable) component of the vehicle.

[0078] The vehicle in question can be, in particular, a (motorized) road vehicle. Furthermore, the vehicle can also be an air taxi, an aircraft, or another means of transport or vehicle type, such as an aircraft, watercraft, or rail vehicle.

[0079] A vehicle can be a motor vehicle, which in particular is a driver-operated vehicle ("driver only"), a semi-autonomous vehicle, an autonomous vehicle (for example, of autonomy level 3, 4, or 5 (according to the SAE J3016 standard)), or a self-driving vehicle. Autonomy level 5 refers to fully automated vehicles.

[0080] The present invention is further directed to an external server, in particular a backend (preferably as described above).

[0081] The present invention further relates to a computer program or computer program product comprising program means, in particular a program code, which represents or encodes at least one or more process steps of the method according to the invention, individually or in combination with one another and preferably one of the described preferred embodiments, and is designed for execution by a processor device.

[0082] The present invention further relates to a non-volatile memory, in particular a data memory, on which at least one embodiment of the computer program according to the invention or a preferred embodiment of the computer program is stored.

[0083] Further advantages and embodiments can be seen from the attached drawings.

[0084] It shows:

[0085] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle with a charging control device according to one embodiment;

[0086] Fig. 2 shows the application of an embodiment of the method according to the invention;

[0087] Fig. 3 shows a flowchart for part of an embodiment of a preferred method;

[0088] Fig. 4 shows a flowchart for part of an embodiment of the method according to the invention; and

[0089] Fig. 5. A summary of the flowcharts of Figures 3 and 4.

[0090] Figure 1 shows a vehicle 1 with a charging control device 10 and other components according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 1 has a charging control device 10 according to the invention, as described in one of the embodiments. Furthermore, the vehicle 1 has an energy storage device 12, which is preferably configured as a battery. A data transmission device 14 is also provided, which is preferably configured to send data, in particular to a vehicle backend 30, and preferably to receive data from it. Preferably, the data transmission device 14 is configured to transmit acquired charging station data (see below) to the vehicle backend and to receive an authorization value.

[0091] Vehicle 1 preferably includes a position detection device 16, which is configured to record the vehicle's position, particularly via GPS. Vehicle 1 also includes a charging station detection device 18, which is configured to record charging station data. The charging station detection device 18 may include a camera configured to optically capture an EVSE ID of the charging station or a name or character of the CPO. Alternatively, the charging station detection device may wirelessly determine an EVSE ID, for example, by detecting an RFID tag or via radio communication (WLAN, Bluetooth, etc.). Furthermore, the charging station data may be determined using at least one communication protocol.Reference digit 20 indicates a contract certificate stored in the vehicle and in particular on a storage device of the vehicle, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0092] Figure 2 shows a vehicle 1 using an embodiment of the method according to the invention with a charging control device 10. The driver of the vehicle 1 wants to charge the vehicle 1 and approaches a charging station 22 for this purpose. Before using the charging station 22, the driver must first have concluded a contract for the use of a Plug & Charge function with the operator of the charging station 22 (CPO, Charge Point Operator) and have installed a characteristic contract certificate 20 in his vehicle 1 (see Fig. 3).

[0093] First, a connection 50 is established between the vehicle 1 and the charging station 22. This connection can be wired (via the charging station's charging cable) or wireless (in the case of inductive charging of the energy storage device). Subsequently, a charging station recognition device 18 acquires the charging station data. The acquired charging station data is characteristic of the charging station 22's identity. It is possible that the charging station's EVSE ID is acquired by an optical sensor on the vehicle 1 or via a communication protocol. It is also conceivable that the charging station's EVSE ID is acquired via the charging cable or wirelessly. Alternatively, the charging station data could be acquired via Intercharge protocols or determined from POI data in the route planning.The collected charging station data is transmitted to the vehicle backend 30 via a (first) communication link 52. In the subsequent process, a (second) communication link 54 is established between the vehicle backend 30 and the operator backend 40. Data for authenticating the vehicle 1 and authorizing the vehicle 1 to use the charging station 22 is exchanged via the (first) communication link 52, as described in more detail below in connection with Figure 4.

[0094] Figure 3 illustrates the first part of the steps of an embodiment of a preferred method. For the method to be applied, the first step requires that the driver of vehicle 1 concludes a contract with the charging station operator and that the corresponding contract data is stored and / or provided. In step S1, the driver opens a Managed Service Provider (MSP) app of the charging station operator (CPO, Charge Point Operator) or a roaming provider (EMSP). Alternatively, the driver could also access the CPO or EMSP's website. In a further step S2, contract data 60 is retrieved, and the driver can conclude a contract with the CPO or EMSP by entering the relevant data (e.g., personal data, payment methods, etc.). Preferably, this is a contract for the use of the CPO's charging stations in the form of a Plug & Charge procedure, i.e.,The use of the charging stations is such that the driver does not have to manually authenticate at the charging station. In a further step S3, a contract certificate 20 characteristic of the contract is stored in a contract certificate pool 62.

[0095] In a further step, S4, the contract certificate is downloaded from contract certificate pool 62 to the vehicle backend 30 and stored. In a further step, S5, the contract certificate is stored and installed on a storage device of the vehicle 1. In a further step, S6, a Plug & Charge function is activated. It is conceivable that the activation of the PnC function occurs automatically with the installation of the contract certificate or subsequently manually by the driver, for example, by prompting the driver to confirm the activation.

[0096] Figure 4 shows a second part of an embodiment of the method according to the invention. Preferably, steps S1 to S6 (see Figure 3) have already been carried out. In step S7, the driver selects a suitable charging station 22. In step S8, the authorization process is started. In step S9, the vehicle 1 is connected to the charging station 22 by the charging cable, preferably initiating an authorization process. It would also be conceivable that the vehicle is charged inductively, in which case the connection to the charging station is established wirelessly. In this case, it would be conceivable that the vehicle is positioned in a suitable position relative to the charging station.

[0097] In a further step S10, charging station data is acquired by the charging station recognition device 18 of the vehicle 1. In other words, data for identifying the charging station 22 is acquired. It is conceivable that the charging station's identity is acquired using an EVSE ID (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment), via Intercharge protocols, or via POI (Point of Interest) data from the vehicle's navigation system. In this step, the acquired charging station data is then transmitted to the vehicle backend 30.

[0098] In a further step S11, a charging point operator (CPO) is determined based on the charging station data. In a further step S12, a (second) communication connection 54 is established between the vehicle backend 30 and the operator backend 40. Preferably, a payment interface (CPO payment API (Application Programming Interface)) of the CPO or the EMSP is called, and a request to start an authorization process (authorization setup request) is transmitted to the operator backend 40. In a step S13, an authorization setup response is transmitted from the operator backend 40 to the vehicle backend 30, thereby starting the authorization process. Preferably, the authorization process includes vehicle authentication, and in particular, in the form of challenge-response authentication.

[0099] In a further step S14, the authorization process is initiated. For this purpose, the vehicle backend 30 transmits a challenge, specifically a cryptographic challenge, to the vehicle 1. The vehicle 1, or rather the charging control device 10, signs the challenge and transmits the signed challenge, together with the contract certificate 20 stored in the vehicle 1's memory, to the vehicle backend 30. After successful authentication of the vehicle, an authorization parameter is determined and transmitted in a step S15, thereby authorizing the vehicle to use the charging station. In a further step S16, the charging process can be started, in particular automatically.

[0100] Figure 5 shows an overview of process steps S1 to S16, as described in detail above in connection with Figures 3 and 4. Figure 5 also shows which process steps involve the vehicle driver and which steps are preferably performed by which components (vehicle backend 30, operator backend 40, vehicle 1 / charging control device 10). The applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the application documents as essential to the invention, provided they are novel, individually or in combination, compared to the prior art. It should also be noted that the individual figures also describe features that may be advantageous on their own. A person skilled in the art will immediately recognize that a particular feature described in a figure may be advantageous even without incorporating other features from that figure.Furthermore, the expert recognizes that advantages can also arise from a combination of several features shown in individual or different figures.

[0101] Reference symbol list

[0102] 1 vehicle

[0103] 10 Charging control device

[0104] 12 Energy storage devices

[0105] 14 Data transmission device

[0106] 16 Position tracking device (GPS)

[0107] 18 Charging station detection device

[0108] 20 Contract Certificate

[0109] 22 charging stations

[0110] 30 Vehicle Backend

[0111] 40 Operator Backend

[0112] 50 connection vehicle charging station

[0113] 52 (first) communication link between vehicle and vehicle backend

[0114] 54 (second) communication link between vehicle backend and operator backend

[0115] 60 contract details

[0116] 62 Contract Certificate Pool

[0117] S1-S16 Procedure steps

Claims

- 24 - Patent claims 1. Method for the particularly automatic authorization of a particularly electrically powered vehicle (1) for the use of a charging station (22) for charging an energy storage device (12) of the vehicle (1) comprising the steps: Acquisition of charging station data by a charging station detection device (18) of the vehicle (1), wherein the charging station data are characteristic of at least one property of the charging station (22); Transfer of the recorded charging station data to a vehicle backend (30) by means of a data transmission device (14) of the vehicle (1); Identifying an operator of the charging station (22) based on the transmitted charging station data; Submitting a request to initiate an authorization process, wherein this request is transmitted from the vehicle backend to an operator backend; determining an authorization level by authenticating the vehicle (1), wherein the authorization level is characteristic of an authorization of the vehicle. (1) to use the charging station (22) is; Transferring the authorization parameter to the vehicle (1).

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that a contract certificate (20) is stored in a storage device of the vehicle (1), wherein the contract certificate (20) is characteristic of a contract between a user of the vehicle (1) and the operator of the charging station (22) regarding the use of a charging function of the charging station (22).

3. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the deposited contract certificate (20) is installed in the vehicle (1) and a mode for automatic authorization of the vehicle (1) for use of a charging station (22) is activated.

4. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recording of the charging station data is carried out using at least one communication protocol. This is carried out, with at least one communication protocol preferably being an e-roaming protocol.

5. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the authentication is a challenge-response authentication, which preferably comprises the steps: Receiving a challenge; Signing the challenge; Transmitting the signed challenge and preferably transmitting the contract certificate (22) stored in the vehicle's storage device as a response.

6. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a charging process is automatically started depending on the transmitted authorization value.

7. Charging control device (10) for a vehicle (1), in particular an electrically powered vehicle, for the particularly automatic authorization of the vehicle (1), in particular an electrically powered vehicle, for the use of a charging station (22) for charging an energy storage device (12) of the vehicle (1), wherein the charging control device (10) is suitable and intended to retrieve charging station data from a charging station recognition device (18) of the vehicle (1) and to transmit the retrieved charging station data to a vehicle backend (30) by means of a data transmission device (14) of the vehicle (1), wherein an operator of the charging station (22) can be determined on the basis of the transmitted charging station data, wherein a request to start an authorization process is made, wherein this request is transmitted from the vehicle backend to an operator backend, characterized in that the charging control device (10) is configured toto receive an authorization parameter through the data transmission device (14) of the vehicle (1).

8. Charging control device (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the charging control device (10) is configured to authenticate the vehicle (1) by sending a challenge from the vehicle backend (30) through the data transmission device (14) of the vehicle (1) to receive and sign the received challenge, wherein the charging control device (10) is configured to transmit the signed challenge and a contract certificate (20) stored in a storage device of the vehicle (1) as a response to the vehicle backend (30) through the data transmission device (14) of the vehicle (1).

9. System for the particularly automatic authorization of a particularly electrically powered vehicle (1) for the use of a charging station (22) for charging an energy storage device (12) of the vehicle (1) comprising a charging control device (10) according to one of the two preceding claims, a storage device, a vehicle backend (30), a charging station recognition device (18) for recording charging station data and a data transmission device (14), wherein the data transmission device (14) is configured to transmit the recorded charging station data to the vehicle backend (30) and is configured to receive a cryptographic challenge from the vehicle backend (30) and to transmit a challenge signed by the charging control device (10) and a contract certificate (20) stored in the storage device to the vehicle backend (30), wherein the vehicle backend (30) is configured toto submit a request to start an authorization process and to receive an authorization amount.

10. Vehicle (1) with a charging control device (10) according to one of the two preceding claims 7 or 8.

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