Control device for a charging system of an electric vehicle, charging device, charging station, and method for controlling a charging process

Abstract

The invention relates to a signaling of information, in particular a signaling of system states between a charging station (10) and an electric vehicle (20), on the basis of a voltage value. For this purpose, the value ranges (B1, B2) for the voltage values are dynamically adjusted in order to signal system states. In particular, the value ranges can be adjusted on the basis of the value of an electric voltage during an initialization phase, for example when connecting the charging station (10) to the electric vehicle (20).

Description

[0001] R. 414678

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] Description

[0004] title

[0005] Control device for a charging system of an electric vehicle, charging device, charging station and method for controlling a charging process

[0006] Technical field

[0007] The present invention relates to a control device for a charging system of an electric vehicle and to a method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle. The present invention further relates to a charging device and a charging station for an electric vehicle.

[0008] background

[0009] Vehicles that are fully or partially electrically powered have an electrical energy storage device, such as a traction battery. This electrical energy storage device can be recharged from an external energy source when the vehicle is stationary. For this purpose, the electric vehicle can be connected to a charging station via a charging port. For example, a galvanic connection can be established between the charging port and the electrical energy source in the charging station to charge the energy storage device. After this connection is established, the vehicle and / or the charging station can signal that it is ready to charge. If both the charging station and the electric vehicle are ready, the charging station can supply an electrical voltage at the charging port to recharge the energy storage device in the electric vehicle. R. 414678

[0010] - 2 -

[0011] For example, the publication DE 10 2014 221 211 A1 describes a method for charging a traction battery in an electric vehicle, wherein communication first takes place between the charging device of the electric vehicle and the charging station during a communication phase, and then electrical energy is transferred during the charging phase.

[0012] Disclosure of the invention

[0013] The present invention provides a control device for a charging system of an electric vehicle, a charging device, a charging station, and a method for controlling a charging process, comprising the features of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0014] Accordingly, the following is planned:

[0015] A control device for an electric vehicle charging system, comprising a signal connector and a control unit. The signal connector is designed to be coupled to a connection point for signaling at a charging port of the electric vehicle. The control unit is designed to detect when the charging port is connected to a charging station. Furthermore, the control unit is designed to detect an initial voltage value at the signal connector after such detection. The control unit is also designed to determine at least one voltage range for signaling a system state. In particular, this voltage range for signaling a system state can be determined using the detected initial voltage value at the signal connector. Finally, the control unit is designed to detect a system state signal.System status signal R. 414678.

[0016] - 3 - can be detected in particular using the determined at least one voltage range.

[0017] Furthermore, the following is planned:

[0018] A charging device for an electric vehicle comprising a charging port and a control device according to the invention. The charging port is designed to be electrically coupled to a charging station for an electric vehicle. In particular, the charging port includes a connection point for signaling.

[0019] Furthermore, the following is planned:

[0020] A charging station for an electric vehicle comprising a power supply connection and a control device according to the invention. The power supply connection is designed to be electrically coupled to the charging port of an electric vehicle. In particular, the power supply connection includes a connection point for signaling.

[0021] Finally, the following is planned:

[0022] A method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle. The method comprises a step for detecting a connection between a charging station and a charging port of an electric vehicle. The charging port includes, in particular, a connection point for signaling. Furthermore, the method comprises a step for acquiring an initial value of an electrical voltage at the connection point for signaling. The method also comprises a step for determining at least one voltage range for signaling. R. 414678

[0023] - 4 -

[0024] System state. The voltage range can be determined, in particular, using the first recorded value of the electrical voltage. Finally, the method includes a step for detecting a signal indicating a system state. The system state can be detected, in particular, using the determined at least one voltage range.

[0025] Advantages of the invention

[0026] The present invention is based on the finding that, in charging systems for the energy storage of an electric vehicle, a simple form of communication, for example for signaling charging readiness, can be achieved using a voltage signal with a variable voltage level. For example, a specific system state, such as charging readiness, can be signaled by providing an electrical voltage with a predetermined value or within a predetermined range. If such an electrical voltage within the predetermined range is detected by the receiving device, further actions can then be initiated, such as starting the charging process. However, it is essential that an electrical voltage within the predetermined range is actually detected by the receiving device.However, due to numerous influences, such as component tolerances, aging effects, or similar factors, there is a possibility that the signaling by providing a predetermined electrical voltage on the receiving side cannot be correctly recognized.

[0027] Based on this finding, the present invention aims to create a concept that can improve signaling by means of a voltage level at a signal terminal. In particular, R. 414678

[0028] - 5 - the concept according to the invention enables signaling based on a voltage level to be correctly detected with higher reliability.

[0029] For this purpose, it is planned to adjust one or more voltage ranges for signal detection after an electric vehicle is connected to a charging station. This adjustment of the voltage range(s) can be based on the voltage present at the corresponding terminal at the start of the connection. The at least one voltage range can, for example, include at least one voltage range in which a predefined system state, such as charging readiness, is to be signaled. Depending on the application, however, several voltage ranges can also be determined for different predefined system states. In this way, even more detailed communication is possible, if necessary. In principle, the system state(s) can include any state related to a charging process.In particular, system states can include the charging readiness status of the vehicle and / or charging station, information about the charging process (e.g., single-phase or multi-phase, maximum charging current), or similar information. Depending on the application, other properties that can be communicated as system states are also possible.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the control unit is designed to enable a charging process for the electric vehicle if the voltage at the signal terminal is within a previously determined voltage range. In particular, the previously determined voltage range can be one calculated using the initial voltage reading. In this way, charging readiness can be easily established by applying a predetermined voltage to the signal terminal. Optionally, the charging process for the R. 414678

[0031] - 6 -

[0032] The electric vehicle may also be aborted or terminated if the value of the electrical voltage at the signal connection is no longer within the determined voltage range.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the control unit is designed to detect a fault condition if a voltage value outside the determined voltage ranges is detected at the signal terminal. Upon detection of such a fault condition, a signal can be sent to a user and / or a corresponding entry can be made in a fault memory. In this way, a potential fault condition can be identified very easily. Such a fault condition can be caused, for example, by increased contact resistance or faulty components in the charging station or charging device.

[0034] According to one embodiment, at least one first voltage range and one second voltage range can be determined. The first voltage range can, for example, include a range encompassing the first value of the electrical voltage at the signal terminal. The second voltage range can, for example, define a voltage range that does not overlap the first voltage range. In particular, a gap can be provided between the first voltage range and the second voltage range.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the control device may include a voltage source. The voltage source may be designed to provide an electrical voltage that is supplied to the signal terminal when the charging port is connected to the charging station. Preferably, such a control device with a voltage source may be implemented in a charging station. R. 414678

[0036] - 7 -

[0037] According to an alternative embodiment, the control device does not include an active voltage source. Accordingly, the electrical voltage is driven by the remote device or communication partner. Such a control device can preferably be provided in the charging circuit of the electric vehicle.

[0038] According to one embodiment, a charging process can be enabled if a predetermined signal has been detected at the connection point for signaling. This can, in particular, be a signal within a previously determined voltage range.

[0039] According to a further embodiment, the charging process can be terminated if a predetermined further signal is detected at the connection point for signaling. This further signal can, in particular, be the value of a voltage within a further voltage range.

[0040] The above embodiments and further developments can be combined with one another as appropriate. Further embodiments, further developments, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In particular, those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic forms of the invention.

[0041] Brief description of the drawings

[0042] Further features and advantages of the invention are explained below with reference to the figures. Figure 414678 shows:

[0043] - 8 -

[0044] Fig. 1 : a schematic representation of a principle diagram of a system for charging an electric vehicle with a charging device and a charging station according to one embodiment;

[0045] Fig. 2: a schematic representation of a basic circuit diagram for signaling system states as it may underlie a control device for a charging system according to one embodiment;

[0046] Fig. 3: a schematic representation of the voltage ranges for signaling a system state, as may underlie an embodiment; and

[0047] Fig. 4: a flowchart as it may form the basis of a method for controlling a charging process according to one embodiment.

[0048] Description of embodiments

[0049] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a principle diagram illustrating a configuration for a system for charging the electrical energy storage device 24 in an electric vehicle 20. For charging the electrical energy storage device 24 in the electric vehicle 20, electrical energy can be supplied, for example, by a charging station 10. For this purpose, an electrical energy source 12 can be provided in the charging station 10, which, after the charging station 10 is connected to the electric vehicle 20, can supply electrical energy in the form of a single-phase or multi-phase alternating voltage or a direct voltage. The supply of the charging voltage in the charging station 10 can be controlled, for example, by a control device 11. R. 414678

[0050] - 9 -

[0051] The electric vehicle 20 includes a charging port 22, at which the electric vehicle 20 can be galvanically connected to the charging station 10. In addition to the contacts for energy transfer, the charging port 22 can also have one or more contacts for communication, in particular for signaling system states. This principle of signaling system states will be explained in more detail below. Furthermore, the vehicle 20 can be equipped with a charging circuit 23, which converts the electrical voltage provided at the charging port 22 into a voltage suitable for charging the electrical energy storage device 24. The charging process within the vehicle 20 can be controlled, for example, by a control device 21.

[0052] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a basic circuit diagram of a possible configuration for communication or signaling of system states between a charging station 10 and a vehicle 20. The embodiment shown here is merely exemplary and does not represent a limitation of the present invention. Rather, any other configuration is also possible. In particular, alternative configurations are possible which, through suitable switching elements, allow for variation of the voltage conditions, especially at the interface between the charging station and the vehicle.

[0053] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the control unit 11 in the charging station 10 comprises a voltage source U with a first resistor R1 connected in series. A switching element M1 and a second resistor R2 are arranged in parallel. In this way, an electrical voltage U1 can be provided between a reference potential PE and a connection point CTR for signaling purposes.

[0054] In the control unit 21 of the vehicle 20, a resistor R3 R is located between the reference potential PE and the connection point CTR for signaling. 414678

[0055] - 10 - provided. Parallel to this resistor R3, a series circuit consisting of another resistor R4 and a switching element M2 is arranged. The control unit 21 in the vehicle 20 monitors the electrical voltage U2 between the reference potential PE and the connection point CTR for signaling.

[0056] By opening or closing the switching elements M1 and M2, the electrical voltage U1 and U2, respectively, can be influenced. In this way, the charging station 10 and the vehicle 20 can each transmit information to the other side, in particular a signal indicating a specific system state.

[0057] The described concept for signaling information or system states by varying the electrical voltage at a corresponding connection point between the charging station 10 and the vehicle 20 can, for example, be implemented using discrete components, as shown in Figure 2. Alternatively, it is also possible to implement this concept wholly or at least partially using integrated circuits, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or similar.

[0058] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation illustrating the voltage relationships for signaling operating states, as may be the basis of one embodiment. For example, a first system state can be signaled when the electrical voltage U1 or U2 is in a first region B1. For this purpose, the switching elements M1 and M2 can be open, for example, according to the embodiment in Figure 2. If at least one of the two switching elements M1 or M2 is closed, the electrical voltage drops, for example, to a value within a further region B2. In this way, a change in the system state can be detected. Preferably, there is a separation between the first region B1 and the R. 414678

[0059] - 11 - A gap is provided for the second area B2. In principle, use cases are also conceivable in which, for example, several system states or information can be realized through several different voltage ranges B1, B2, etc.

[0060] To correctly detect a signal indicating a specific system state, it is necessary to detect that the electrical voltage at the connection point CTR lies within a predefined voltage range, for example B1, B2. According to the invention, at least one of the voltage ranges B1, B2 is dynamically adjusted for this purpose.

[0061] For this adjustment of the voltage ranges B1 and B2, the electrical voltage at the connection point CTR can be determined for signaling purposes, for example, during an initialization phase, such as immediately after the detection of an electrical connection between the charging station 10 and the electric vehicle 20. Based on this determined voltage, one or more voltage ranges B1 and B2 can then be adjusted. For the adjustment of the voltage ranges, a minimum and maximum value can be defined for each, which characterizes the respective voltage range B1 and B2. These values ​​can be determined absolutely or relative to the measured voltage.

[0062] By dynamically adjusting the voltage ranges for signaling in this way, it is possible to at least partially compensate for possible fluctuations due to component tolerances, aging effects or other influences, and thus increase the reliability for correct signaling.

[0063] Furthermore, it is also possible, for example, to detect potential error states. For instance, an error state can be detected if R. 414678

[0064] - 12 - A voltage value is detected at the CTR connection point for signaling that does not fall within any of the determined voltage ranges B1, B2. Upon detection of such a fault, a signal can be issued, for example, in the form of a visual, audible, or haptic signal. In this way, a user can be alerted to a potential malfunction or problem during the charging process. Additionally or alternatively, an entry can be made in an electronic fault memory or similar system. Furthermore, upon detection of such a fault condition, a charging process that may have already begun can also be terminated. Depending on the application, any other measures are also possible upon detection of such a fault.

[0065] Finally, Figure 4 shows a flowchart of how a method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle can be based on one embodiment.

[0066] In step S1, the connection between a charging station 10 and a charging port 22 of an electric vehicle 20 is detected. The charging port 22 on the electric vehicle can, in particular, include a connection point CTR for signaling.

[0067] In step S2, a first value of an electrical voltage is recorded at the connection point CTR for signaling.

[0068] In step S3, at least one voltage range B1, B2 is determined for signaling a system state. The voltage range B1, B2 can be determined, in particular, using the measured value of the electrical voltage. R. 414678

[0069] - 13 -

[0070] Subsequently, in step S4, a signal indicating a system state can be detected. This signaling can be implemented, in particular, using the determined voltage range B1, B2.

[0071] Based on the detected signal, a charging process can be enabled, for example. In particular, the charging process can be enabled if a predetermined signal is detected at the CTR connection point. Furthermore, the charging process can be terminated if another predetermined signal is detected at the CTR connection point.

[0072] In summary, the present invention relates to the signaling of information, in particular system states, between a charging station and an electric vehicle based on a voltage value. For this purpose, it is provided that the value ranges for the voltage values ​​used to signal system states are dynamically adjusted. In particular, the value ranges can be adjusted based on the value of an electrical voltage during an initialization phase, for example, when connecting the charging station to the electric vehicle.

Claims

R. 414678 - 14 - Claims 1. Control device for a charging system of an electric vehicle (20), comprising: a signal terminal (CTR) designed to be coupled to a connection point for signaling at a charging terminal (22) for the electric vehicle (20); and a control unit (11, 21) designed to detect a first value of an electrical voltage at the signal terminal (CTR) after the charging terminal (22) has been connected to a charging station (10), to determine at least one voltage range (B1, B2) for signaling a system state using the detected first value of the electrical voltage at the signal terminal (CTR), and to detect a signaling of a system state using the determined at least one voltage range (B1, B2).

2. Control device according to claim 1, wherein the control device (11, 21) is designed to enable a charging process for the electric vehicle (20) if the value of the electrical voltage at the signal terminal (CTR) is within a voltage range (B1, B2) determined using the detected first value of the electrical voltage at the signal terminal (CTR).

3. Control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control device (11 , 21) is designed to detect a fault condition if a value is detected at the signal terminal (CTR) which is outside the determined voltage ranges (B1 , B2). R. 414678 - 15 - 4. Control device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the determined voltage ranges (B1 , B2) comprise a first voltage range (B1) and a second voltage range (B2), and wherein the first voltage range (B1) comprises the first value of the determined voltage and the second voltage range (B2) does not overlap the first voltage range.

5. Control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device comprises a voltage source (U) which is electrically coupled to the signal terminal (CTR) and which is designed to provide an electrical voltage.

6. Control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device does not include an active voltage source.

7. Charging device (20) for an electric vehicle, comprising: a charging port (22) designed to be electrically coupled to a charging station (11) for an electric vehicle (20), wherein the charging port (22) includes a connection point (CTR) for signaling, and a control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. Charging station (10) for an electric vehicle, comprising: a power supply connection designed to be electrically coupled to the charging port (22) of an electric vehicle (20), wherein the power supply connection includes a connection point (CTR) for signaling, and a control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. R. 414678 - 16 - 9. Method for controlling a charging process for an electric vehicle (20), comprising the steps: Detecting (S1) a connection between a charging station (10) and a charging port (22) of an electric vehicle (20), wherein the charging port (22) includes a connection point (CTR) for signaling; Acquiring (S2) a first value of an electrical voltage at the connection point (CTR) for signaling; Determine (S3) at least one voltage range (B1, B2) for signaling a system state using the detected first value of the electrical voltage; and Detecting (S4) a signal for a system state using the determined at least one voltage range.

10. Method according to claim 9, comprising a step to release a charging process if a predetermined signaling has been detected at the connection point (CTR) for signaling.

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