Charging device for an electrically drivable motor vehicle, charging system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a charging device (1) for an electrically drivable motor vehicle, comprising a housing element (2), a charging socket (6) which has at least one connection device (7) to which a charging plug (8), which is formed separately from the charging device (1), is connectable for charging an electrical energy store of the motor vehicle, at least one locking element (11) which is movable between a locking position (9) and a release position (10), and at least one coupling device (18) which is movable between a first position (16) and a second position (17) and has at least one coupling element (19) which is formed separately from the locking element (11) and, when the coupling device (18) is moved from the first position (16) to the second position (17), is force-transmittingly coupled to the charging plug (8) connected to the connection device (7), as a result of which, when the locking element (11) is in the release position (10), the charging plug (8) is disconnected from the connection device (7) and the charging plug (8) is removed from the charging socket (6) by the coupling element (19).

Description

[0001] 24-2235 PIF

[0002] 1

[0003] Charging device for an electrically powered motor vehicle, charging system and method

[0004] The invention relates to a charging device for an electrically powered motor vehicle according to claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a charging system for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle with the features of claim 9. In addition, the invention relates to a method for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle comprising at least one charging device according to claim 10.

[0005] WO 2019 / 166212 A1 discloses a plug system for a wired charging process for charging an electrical energy storage device of an at least partially electrically operated device, wherein the plug system comprises a charging socket arranged on the electrically operated device, the plug system of a charging device with a charging plug that can be extended to the charging socket by a translational movement, the charging socket includes a cover to protect contact parts of the charging socket from environmental influences, and the charging plug is configured to create one or more resealable contact part openings in the cover by translational movement, through which contact parts of the charging plug can be guided during the translational movement to form galvanically conductive connections in pairs with the corresponding contact parts of the charging socket.

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a charging device for an electrically powered motor vehicle, a charging system for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle, and a method for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle, so that the electrical energy storage device of the motor vehicle can be charged with particularly little effort.

[0007] This problem is solved according to the invention by a charging device for an electrically powered motor vehicle with the features of claim 1, by a 24-2235 PIF

[0008] 2

[0009] A charging system for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle, comprising the features of claim 9, and a method for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle comprising at least one charging device, comprising the features of claim 10, are solved. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

[0010] A first aspect of the invention relates to a charging device, particularly one integrated into the vehicle, for an electrically powered motor vehicle. The motor vehicle is, for example, a car, in particular a passenger car or a commercial vehicle. Preferably, the motor vehicle, particularly in its fully manufactured state, includes the charging device.

[0011] The term "electrically powered motor vehicle" is understood to mean, in particular, that the motor vehicle has at least one electric machine by means of which the motor vehicle can be propelled, especially purely electrically. The electric machine can therefore be referred to as an electric traction machine. Thus, the term "motor vehicle" is understood to mean, in particular, a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

[0012] The charging device comprises at least one housing element, which can also simply be referred to as a housing. The housing element comprises at least one retaining device by which the charging device can be held, in particular at least indirectly or directly, preferably on an outer surface of the vehicle, on at least one component of the vehicle, which is specifically designed separately from the charging device. In other words, the charging device can be attached, in particular at least indirectly or directly, to the component by means of the retaining device. In particular, the charging device is located on the outer surface, facing outwards, for example in the transverse direction of the vehicle, when the charging device is held on the component by the retaining device. Thus, the charging device can be arranged, or is arranged, in particular on its outer surface facing outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle.The component is designed, for example, as a body component of the motor vehicle. For example, the housing element defines at least a receiving space, at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely. In other words, the housing element forms, for example, the receiving space. For example, the charging device has at least one opening, which is defined, in particular, by the 24-2235 PIF.

[0013] 3

[0014] The housing element is limited or formed. For example, the receiving space opens into the surroundings of the vehicle, for example, outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle.

[0015] The charging device has at least one charging socket, which can be understood to be, in particular, a charging port. For example, the charging socket is at least partially formed by the housing element. For example, the charging socket forms the receiving space. In other words, the charging socket has, for example, a receiving space. For example, the charging socket forms the opening. In other words, the charging socket has, for example, an opening. The charging socket has at least one connection device, in particular an electrical one, which is arranged, for example, in the receiving space. A charging plug, designed separately from the charging device and in particular external to the vehicle, for charging an electrical energy storage device of the motor vehicle can be connected to or is connected to the connection device, for example, directly. "Connecting" in this context refers in particular to an electrical and / or mechanical connection.In other words, the charging plug, in particular electrically and / or mechanically, can be connected to or is connected to the connection device in order to charge the electrical energy storage device via the charging plug, in particular through the connection device. Connecting the charging plug to the connection device means, for example, plugging the charging plug into the connection device. For example, it is provided that the charging plug, in order to connect to the connection device, in particular through the opening, is to be moved, or is moved, at least partially into the receiving space. Charging the electrical energy storage device, which can also be referred to as recharging, means in particular that the electrical energy storage device is supplied with electrical energy, in particular via the charging plug and the connection device.When the charging plug is connected to the connection device, particularly directly, it is in a first position, which can be described as the charging position. This first position is defined as the charging plug relative to the charging device, for example, relative to the charging socket and / or relative to the housing element. In particular, in this first position, the charging plug is located at least partially within the receiving space.

[0016] The fact that the charging plug is external to the vehicle is understood in particular to mean that the charging plug, for example, is part of a separate system designed from the motor vehicle, 24-2235 PIF

[0017] 4

[0018] and is therefore, in particular, an external energy supply device, such as a charging station, a wallbox or the like.

[0019] Furthermore, the charging device has at least one locking element that is movable between a locking position and at least one release position relative to the housing element, in particular along a first direction of movement, for example translationally and / or rotationally. In other words, the locking element is displaceable between the locking position and the release position. Moving the locking element between the locking position and the release position is understood to mean, in particular, moving the locking element from the locking position to the release position and / or from the release position to the locking position. The first direction of movement is, for example, perpendicular to an axial direction of the charging socket and / or the charging plug, which is connected, in particular, to the connection device.In the locked position, the locking element can be positively connected to the charging plug, for example, directly. In other words, in the locked position, the locking element can be coupled to the charging plug by forming at least one positive connection, in particular directly. To form the positive connection, the locking element is, for example, received in a receiving opening of the charging plug, and is thereby positively connected to the charging plug.Because the locking element can be positively connected to the charging plug in the locked position, the charging plug is secured against any, especially unintentional, disconnection from the connection to the connection device by means of the locking element. In other words, and specifically with regard to the locked and release positions, the locking element, for example, which is held in the receiving opening, prevents the connection between the charging plug and the connection device from being disconnected, thus preventing the connection between the charging plug and the connection device from being disconnected.This means that, in the locked position, it is not possible to remove the charging plug from the locking device, and especially from the charging socket. In other words, in the locked position, moving the charging plug from the first position is prevented or prevented. (See also: Disconnecting connection 24-2235 PIF.)

[0020] 5

[0021] In particular, this refers to the release of the connection between the charging plug and the connection device. In the release position, the locking mechanism is omitted, meaning the charging plug is not secured against disconnection from the connection device by means of the locking element. In other words, in the release position, the charging plug is released from the locking element, which means that the charging plug can, for example, be moved from the first position and / or the connection between the charging plug and the connection device can be released or disconnected.

[0022] Furthermore, the charging device has at least one coupling device that is movable between at least one first position and at least one second position, which differs from the first position, relative to the housing element, particularly along a second direction of movement, for example, translationally. In other words, the coupling device is displaceable between the first position and the second position. Moving the coupling device between the first position and the second position is understood to mean, in particular, moving the coupling device from the first position to the second position and / or from the second position to the first position. The coupling device has at least one coupling element that is designed separately from the locking element and is therefore movable between the first position and the second position, for example, by moving with the coupling device.It is provided that, when the coupling device is moved from the first position to the second position, the coupling element can be coupled, or is coupled, to the charging plug connected to the connection device in a force-transmitting manner, in particular at least indirectly or directly. In other words, it is provided that, when the coupling device is moved from the first position to the second position, the charging plug connected to the connection device, i.e., in particular the one located in the first position, can be mechanically acted upon by the coupling element, or is acted upon by the coupling element, for example, at least indirectly or directly. In other words, the act of the coupling element acting upon the charging plug occurs when the coupling device is moved from the first position to the second position.This results in the disconnection of the charging plug from the connection device by the coupling element, which is coupled to the charging plug in a force-transmitting manner, and the removal of the charging plug from the charging socket by the coupling element, which is coupled to the charging plug in a force-transmitting manner. In other words, the disconnection occurs when the locking element is in the release position.

[0023] 6

[0024] The coupling element causes the charging plug to be disconnected from the charging device and removed from the charging socket, for example, by striking the charging plug from its housing. This means that striking the charging plug with the coupling element can, or does, disconnect the charging plug from the charging socket. In other words, it is intended that striking the charging plug with the coupling element disconnects the charging plug from the charging device and allows the charging plug to be removed from the charging socket.By disconnecting the charging plug from the connection device and / or by removing the charging plug from the charging socket, the charging plug is moved, for example, from the first position to a second position different from the first, in which the charging plug is, for example, located outside the receiving area and, in particular, at a distance from the charging socket. Removing the charging plug specifically means unplugging the charging plug from the charging socket and / or ejecting the charging plug.

[0025] The feature "disconnecting the charging plug from the connection device" refers in particular to the disconnection of the charging plug from the connection device caused by the coupling element. The act of the coupling element acting on the charging plug refers in particular to the application of a force, for example, a compressive force, whereby the coupling element exerts at least a force on the charging plug that, in particular, disconnects the charging plug from the connection device and removes the charging plug from the charging socket. The second direction of movement is, for example, oblique or perpendicular to the first direction of movement. For example, the second direction of movement is at least substantially parallel to the axial direction of the charging socket and / or parallel to the axial direction of the charging plug, particularly when the charging plug is connected to the connection device.

[0026] Furthermore, the charging device has at least one drive unit, which in particular has at least one motor, which is designed, for example, as an electric machine, that is, in particular as an electric motor. It is provided that the locking element is moved between the locking position and the 24-2235 PIF by means of the drive unit, in particular by means of the motor.

[0027] 7

[0028] The release position can be driven, or is driven, and the coupling device, and in particular the coupling element, can be driven, or is driven, to move between the first position and the second position. This means that the locking element can be driven, or is driven, by means of the drive device to effect the movement of the locking element between the locking position and the release position, and that the coupling device, in particular the coupling element, can be driven, or is driven, by means of the drive device to effect the movement of the coupling device or the coupling element between the first position and the second position.In other words, it is provided that the locking element can be moved, or is moved, between the locking position and the release position by means of the drive device, and that the coupling device can be moved, or is moved, between the first position and the second position by means of the drive device.

[0029] The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: A charging plug connected to a conventional charging device of a motor vehicle can typically prevent the vehicle from being driven, meaning that a vehicle occupant, also referred to as a customer, such as the driver, is forced to manually unplug the charging plug from the charging socket. This can negatively impact charging convenience and, consequently, the overall comfort of the vehicle. Furthermore, this can lead to dangerous situations if the vehicle occupant has to leave their secure, and especially securely locked, vehicle to unplug the charging plug in order to drive away. One such dangerous situation is, for example, an attack, particularly an armed robbery.Conventional charging sockets for electric vehicles typically cannot offer a solution to this problem. Common charging sockets, for example, only offer an automatic unlocking mechanism, allowing manual disconnection. This is achieved, for instance, by using a locking pin that engages in corresponding openings on the charging plug, preventing it from being disconnected when prohibited. This is the case, for example, while charging current is flowing. However, even after the unlocking mechanism has been activated, the plug must still be disconnected manually, requiring the vehicle occupant to exit the vehicle. 24-2235 PIF.

[0030] 8

[0031] In contrast, the charging device according to the invention avoids the aforementioned disadvantages and problems. By moving the coupling device from the first position to the second position, and in particular by pressing the coupling element against the charging plug, the charging plug can be removed from the charging socket, especially automatically, thus enabling automated disconnection of the charging plug from the charging socket. It is particularly possible for both the unlocking of the charging plug, i.e., in particular the release of the charging plug from the locking element, and the disconnection, in particular the ejection, of the charging plug to be automated.The core of the invention is, in particular, to use one drive, or more specifically, one and the same drive, for both locking and / or unlocking the charging plug, as well as for disconnecting or extending the charging plug. This drive is the aforementioned drive unit. Accordingly, both the locking element and the coupling device can be driven by means of the same drive unit, thus eliminating the need for separate drive units. This significantly reduces the manufacturing costs of the locking device and, consequently, of the vehicle. Furthermore, the charging device can be designed to be particularly space-efficient, and in particular, space-neutral.A conventional locking element or actuator can be used as the locking element, particularly as the locking actuator. By extending or ejecting the charging plug, it can be automatically removed from the charging socket, especially without the vehicle occupant having to leave the vehicle. This significantly increases vehicle comfort, particularly charging comfort. Consequently, the electrical energy storage system can be charged with exceptional ease. Furthermore, the ejection of the charging plug by the drive unit can be extremely fast, for example, in less than one second. This enables an escape function, allowing the vehicle to move off quickly in an emergency and thus, for example, leave a potentially dangerous location.Overall, it is evident that the charging device according to the invention can significantly increase safety and privacy when charging the electrical energy storage device.24-2235 PIF.

[0032] 9

[0033] In order to make charging the electrical energy storage device particularly convenient, it is further provided that the charging plug, which is arranged at the charging socket and is separate from the connection device, can be acted upon by the locking element, which is in the locking position, to move the charging plug relative to the connection device in the direction of the connection device, for example directly, in particular mechanically.This means that if the charging plug is located at the charging socket, for example in the receiving compartment, but is electrically separated from the connection device, it can be acted upon by the locking element in its locked position, thereby allowing the charging plug to move, particularly along the second direction of movement, relative to the connection device. The actuation of the charging plug by the locking element, or the movement of the charging plug towards the connection device, results in the electrical connection of the charging plug to the connection device.This means that by pressing the locking element against the charging plug and / or by moving the charging plug towards the connection device, the connection of the charging plug to the connection device, particularly the electrical connection, can be effected or is effected. In other words, it is intended that pressing the locking element against the charging plug allows the charging plug to be connected to the connection device or that this connection is effected. This allows the locking element to be used to connect the charging plug to the connection device, thereby automating, for example, the insertion of the charging plug, particularly into the connection device. Thus, the charging device, in particular the charging socket, enables, for example, insertion, in particular a convenient insertion, and ejection, in particular a convenient ejection, of the charging plug.In other words, the insertion and ejection of the charging plug can be implemented automatically, for example as a convenience feature. Accordingly, the charging socket is specifically designed as an automatic charging socket with insertion and ejection of the charging plug.

[0034] The fact that the charging plug is arranged at the charging socket and separated from the connection device, particularly electrically, is understood to mean, in particular, that the charging plug is in an intermediate position different from the first and second positions, which can also be referred to as the third position. The charging plug is located in this intermediate position, for example, 24-2235 PIF

[0035] 10

[0036] at least partially within the receiving space. For example, in the intermediate position, the charging plug is already touching the charging socket, but there is still no electrical connection between the charging plug and the connection device, so the electrical energy storage device cannot be charged. In order to enable the charging plug to move relative to the connection device towards the connection device, and thus, for example, from the intermediate position to the first position, it is provided, for example, that the locking element is to be moved, or is moved, along the second direction of movement.

[0037] To enable particularly convenient and effortless charging of the electrical energy storage device, a further embodiment provides that the locking element, especially between the locked and unlocked positions, is movable, for example, directly, on the coupling device. This allows the locking element to move along with the coupling device when the latter is moved between its first and second positions. In other words, the locking element is coupled, particularly directly, to the coupling device so that when the coupling device is moved between its first and second positions, the locking element moves along with the coupling device.In other words, when the coupling device is moved between the first and second positions, the locking element moves along with the coupling device. This allows the locking element to act on the charging plug, causing it to move relative to the connection device towards the connection device, and thus, in particular, to retract the charging plug.

[0038] To enable particularly convenient and effortless charging of the electrical energy storage device, a further embodiment provides that when the coupling device is moved from the first position to the second position, the locking element is simultaneously moved from the locked position to the release position, in particular automatically. This means that the locking element and the coupling device are coupled in such a way that when the coupling device is moved from the first position to the second position, the locking element is automatically moved from the locked position to the release position. Specifically, it is provided that by moving the coupling device from the first position to the second position, the locking element is automatically moved from the locked position to the release position.

[0039] 11

[0040] The movement of the locking element from the locked position to the released position can be effected or is effected. This allows the movement of the locking element to be effected in a particularly cost-effective manner, especially at the desired time, so that the coupling device and the locking element can be driven by one and the same drive unit. Preferably, it is provided that when the coupling device moves from the second position to the first position, the movement of the locking element from the released position to the locked position occurs simultaneously, especially automatically.

[0041] In a further embodiment, the loading device has at least one cam, in particular at least indirectly or directly, connected to the housing. In other words, the cam is designed as a housing-fixed cam. This means, in particular, that relative movements between the cam and the housing element are prevented. The cam has a first guide section in which the coupling device, in particular between the first and second positions, is movably guided. In other words, the coupling device, in particular between the first and second positions, is movably mounted by means of the first guide section of the cam.Furthermore, the cam has a second guide section extending obliquely or perpendicularly to the first guide section, in which the locking element is movably guided, particularly between the locking position and the release position. In other words, the locking element is movably mounted by means of the second guide section of the cam, particularly between the locking position and the release position. Preferably, when the locking element moves with the coupling device between the first and second positions, the movement of the locking element between the locking position and the release position is achieved by the second guide section guiding the locking element.This means that the cam mechanism allows the movement of the coupling device from the first position to the second position to coincide with the movement of the locking element from the locked position to the release position, particularly automatically. This enables the movement of the locking element to be carried out in a particularly cost-effective manner, especially by means of one and the same drive unit that also moves the coupling device. 24-2235 PIF.

[0042] 12

[0043] In a further embodiment, the charging device has at least one shaft with at least one toothed section, rotatable about a shaft axis relative to the housing element. In other words, the shaft is rotatably mounted relative to the housing element, for example, on the housing element. Preferably, the coupling device and the locking element, that is, in particular the locking element via the coupling device, can be driven by the drive device via the shaft, or are driven by it. In other words, the coupling device and the locking element can be kinematically coupled to the drive device, in particular to the motor, via the shaft.Thus, the drive unit, for example the electric machine, can generate or provide at least one drive torque by means of which the shaft can be driven, and is thereby rotated about its axis of rotation. This rotation of the shaft can be used, or is used, to drive the coupling element and the locking device, that is, in particular to move the coupling device between the first and second positions and the locking device between the release position and the locked position. The shaft is, for example, part of a transmission unit, which can also simply be called a transmission.The shaft can thus enable the coupling device and the locking element to be kinematically coupled to the drive unit, especially the motor, in a particularly advantageous manner via the gearbox. This gearbox allows, in particular, the conversion of a rotational movement of the shaft, that is, a rotational movement of the shaft about its axis of rotation, into a translational movement of the coupling device. For example, when the drive unit is de-energized, the gearbox acts in a self-locking, or more specifically, self-locking, manner, preventing the locking element from being moved from the locked position to the released position, especially when the drive unit is not energized. In other words, the locking element is locked when de-energized, that is, when de-energized relative to the drive unit.

[0044] In a further embodiment, the loading device has at least one bearing assembly, which can also simply be referred to as a bearing. The shaft is rotatable about its axis of rotation via the bearing assembly, and in particular, is held at least indirectly or directly against the housing element. In other words, the shaft 24-2235 PIF

[0045] 13

[0046] The bearing assembly is rotatably mounted about the shaft's axis of rotation. Preferably, the bearing assembly is supported in the axial direction of the charging socket, and particularly in the axial direction of the charging plug when the charging plug is connected to the connection device, for example, at least indirectly or directly, on at least one force sensor element. In other words, the bearing assembly can be coupled or is coupled to the force sensor element in a force-transmitting manner in the axial direction of the charging socket. It is provided that at least one force applied to the force sensor element via the bearing assembly and extending in the axial direction of the charging socket, and particularly in the axial direction of the charging plug, can be detected or is detected. Detection is understood to mean, in particular, sensing, for example, measuring. The force is, for example, a compressive force or a tensile force.The phrase "the force is applied to the force sensor element via the bearing device" means, in particular, that the force sensor element is subjected to, or is subjected to, the force with the assistance of the bearing device, for example, via the bearing device. The force results, for example, from a person manually applying force to the charging plug, such as by pushing on or pulling on it. This force indicates a person's intention to remove the charging plug from the charging socket, i.e., to unplug it, or to insert the charging plug into the charging socket, i.e., to connect it to the charging device.Accordingly, the force sensor element can be used to detect this desire, which means that the drive unit can be automatically controlled when the force is detected, for example to effect the movement of the coupling device and the locking element.

[0047] To enable particularly convenient charging of the electrical energy storage device, the charging device, in a further embodiment, includes at least one electronic computing unit, which is designed, for example, as a control unit. It is provided that, upon detection of a change, in particular a change in force, in the force detected by the force sensor element, the electronic computing unit can control, or is controlled, the drive unit, in particular the motor, to drive the coupling device, and in particular to drive the locking element. This means that, upon detection of the change in the force detected by the force sensor element, at least one control signal can be transmitted, or is transmitted, to the drive unit by the electronic computing unit to drive the coupling device, thereby enabling the 24-2235 PIF

[0048] 14

[0049] The coupling device, for example, is moved between the first and second positions, and in particular the locking element is moved between the locked and released positions. The change in force is caused, in particular, by the aforementioned manual application of force to the charging plug by the person. Therefore, the person's stated preference can be determined in a particularly effortless manner.

[0050] A second aspect of the invention relates to a charging system for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be considered as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa. The charging system comprises at least one charging device according to the first aspect of the invention. Furthermore, the charging system comprises at least one charging plug, which is connectable to, or connected to, the connection device of the charging socket of the charging device. The charging plug is designed separately from the charging device.

[0051] A third aspect of the invention relates to a method for charging, in particular electrically, an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle comprising at least one charging device, particularly according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0052] The charging device comprises a housing element which includes a holding device by which the charging device is to be held or attached to a component of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the charging device comprises a charging socket which has at least one connection device to which a charging plug, designed separately from the charging device and in particular external to the vehicle, is connected for charging the electrical energy storage device.Furthermore, the charging device has at least one locking element that is movable or movable between a locking position and a release position relative to the housing element, wherein in the locking position the locking element is positively connected to the charging plug, whereby in the locking position the charging plug is secured against disconnection of the connection of the charging plug with the connection device by means of the locking element, and in the release position the securing is omitted, whereby the charging plug in particular 24-2235 PIF.

[0053] 15

[0054] The charging device is released or is released by the locking element. Furthermore, the charging device has at least one coupling device that is movable or movable between a first position and a second position relative to the housing element. This coupling device has at least one coupling element designed separately from the locking element. When the coupling device is moved from the first position to the second position, this coupling element is forcefully coupled to the charging plug connected to the connection device. This results in the charging plug being disconnected from the connection device and removed from the charging socket by the coupling element when the locking element is in the release position. In addition, the charging device has at least one drive unit, which in particular includes a motor, for example, exactly one motor.

[0055] To enable particularly efficient charging of the electrical energy storage device, the locking element and the coupling device are driven by the drive unit. This drive unit moves the locking element between the locked and unlocked positions, and the coupling device between the first and second positions. In other words, the drive unit moves the locking element between the locked and unlocked positions, and the coupling device between the first and second positions. The locking element and the coupling device are driven, for example, by the aforementioned motor.

[0056] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown in the figures alone, are not only usable in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0057] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a preferred embodiment and the drawings. The drawings show:

[0058] Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a charging device according to the invention; and24-2235 PIF

[0059] 16

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a charging device according to the invention; and

[0061] Fig. 3 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a charging system according to the invention, wherein a coupling device of a charging device according to the invention is in a first position; and

[0062] Fig. 4 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a charging system according to the invention, wherein a coupling device of a charging device according to the invention is in a second position; and

[0063] Fig. 5 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a charging system according to a further embodiment of the invention, wherein a coupling device of a charging device according to the invention is in a first position; and

[0064] Fig. 6 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a charging device according to a further embodiment of the invention, wherein a locking element is in a release position; and

[0065] Fig. 7 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a charging device according to a further embodiment of the invention, wherein a locking element is in a locked position; and

[0066] Fig. 8 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a charging device according to the invention.

[0067] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are labelled with the same reference symbols. 24-2235 PIF

[0068] 17

[0069] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a charging device 1 for an electrically powered motor vehicle. Preferably, the charging device 1 is part of the motor vehicle, so that Fig. 1 shows a partial view of the motor vehicle.

[0070] The charging device 1 has at least one housing element 2, which has at least one holding device 3 by means of which the charging device 1 is held or is held on a component of the motor vehicle that is formed separately from the charging device 1, for example by means of at least one screw connection. The housing element 2 can be formed in one piece or in multiple parts. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the housing element 2 is formed in multiple parts, for example in two parts. Accordingly, the housing element 2 has, for example, at least one first housing part 4, which, for example, has or forms the holding device 3. Furthermore, the housing element 2 has, for example, at least one second housing part 5, which is formed separately from the first housing part 4 and, for example, in particular, directly connected to the first housing part 4.

[0071] Furthermore, the charging device 1 has a charging socket 6, which is formed, for example, by the housing element 2, in particular by the first housing part 4. The charging socket 6 has at least one, in particular electrical, connection device 7, with which a charging plug 8, which is separate from the charging device 1 and not shown in Fig. 1, can be connected or is connected for charging, in particular electrically, an electrical energy storage device of the motor vehicle. For example, the charging plug 8 is part of a charging system 1a, which comprises the charging device 1 and the charging plug 8.

[0072] The charging device 1 further comprises at least one locking element 11 movable between a locking position 9 and a release position 10 relative to the housing element 2, which is particularly visible in Figs. 2 and 3. Fig. 2 shows the charging device 1 in a schematic and perspective partial view. Fig. 3 shows the charging system 1a in a schematic and perspective partial view. In Figs. 2 and 3, the at least one locking element 11 is in the locking position 9.24-2235 PIF

[0073] 18

[0074] As can be seen particularly well in Fig. 3, in the locking position 9, the locking element 11 can be positively connected, in particular directly, to the charging plug 8, thereby securing the charging plug 8 against disconnection from the connection device 7 in the locking position 9. In other words, in the locking position 9, the charging plug 8 is secured by the locking element 11 before the connection between the charging plug 8 and the connection device 7 is disconnected, i.e., before the connection between the charging plug 8 and the connection device 7 is broken. In this case, the positive connection in the locking position 9 is achieved by the locking element 11 being received, at least partially, in a receiving opening 12 of the charging plug 8, i.e., engaging positively in the receiving opening 12.In release position 10, this securing action is omitted, whereby the charging plug 8 is released, in particular from the locking element 11. In the present case, in release position 10, the locking element 11 is located outside the receiving opening 12, which in particular prevents the aforementioned positive locking connection.

[0075] Fig. 4 also shows the loading system 1a in a schematic and perspective partial view, with the locking element 11 in the release position 10 in Fig. 4.

[0076] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the movement of the locking element 11 between the locking position 9 and the release position 10 occurs along a first direction of movement 13a, which is in particular a translational direction of movement. The first direction of movement 13a runs, for example, obliquely or perpendicular to an axial direction 15 of the charging socket 6 and / or perpendicular to an axial direction 15 of the charging plug 8. For example, the first direction of movement 13a runs at least substantially parallel to a radial direction of the charging socket 6 and / or parallel to a radial direction of the charging plug 8.

[0077] The charging device 1 further comprises at least one coupling device 18 movable between at least one first position 16 and at least one second position 17 relative to the housing element 2. The movement of the coupling device 18 occurs in particular in a second direction of movement 13b, which, for example, runs obliquely or perpendicularly to the first direction of movement 13a. For example, the second direction of movement 13b runs at least substantially parallel to the axial direction 15 of the charging socket 6. The coupling device 18 comprises at least one separately from 24-2235 PIF.

[0078] 19

[0079] The coupling element 19 is formed by at least one locking element 11. In Figures 1 to 3, the coupling device 18 is shown in the first position 16. In Figure 4, the coupling device 18 is shown in the second position 17. It is provided that, by means of the coupling element 19, when the coupling device 18 is moved from the first position 16 to the second position 17, the charging plug connected to the connection device 7 can be actuated, in particular mechanically, or is actuated, whereby, with the locking element 11 in the release position 10, the connection of the charging plug 8 to the connection device 7, in particular electrical, is disconnected and the charging plug 8 is removed, i.e., in particular moved away, from the charging socket 6 by the coupling element 19 acting on the charging plug 8.In other words, when the coupling device 18 is moved from the first position 16 to the second position 17, the coupling element 19 can be coupled or connected to the charging plug 8 connected to the connection device 7 in a force-transmitting manner, whereby, when the locking element 11 is in the release position 10, the charging plug 8 is disconnected from the connection device 7, i.e., the connection of the charging plug 8 to the connection device 7 is disconnected, and the charging plug 8 is removed from the charging socket 6 by the coupling element 19, which is coupled to the charging plug 8 in a force-transmitting manner.

[0080] In other words, the coupling element 19 is designed to disconnect the charging plug 8 from the connection device 7 and remove it from the charging socket 6 when the coupling device 18 is moved from the first to the second position 16, 17. Removing the charging plug 8 refers in particular to, especially automatically, unplugging, and in particular ejecting, the charging plug 8 from the charging socket 6.

[0081] To enable particularly efficient, and especially automatic, charging of the vehicle's electrical energy storage device, the charging device 1 has a drive unit 20, in particular exactly one, by means of which the locking element 11 can be driven, in particular automatically, to move between the locked position 9 and the released position 10, and the coupling device 18 can be driven, in particular automatically, to move between the first and second positions 16, 17. By means of the drive unit 20, the locking element 11 can thus be moved from the locked position 9 to the released position 10, in particular to unlock or release the charging plug 8. Furthermore, by means of the drive unit 20, the coupling device 18 can be moved from the first position 16 to the second position 17, thereby enabling the 24-2235 PIF

[0082] 20

[0083] The coupling element 19 applies pressure to the charging plug 8, particularly after it has been released by the locking element 11, thereby disconnecting the charging plug 8 from the connection device 7 and removing the charging plug 8, specifically ejecting it from the charging socket 6. This allows not only the automatic unlocking or release of the charging plug 8, but also its automatic ejection by means of the drive device 20, enabling, for example, the removal or disconnection of the charging plug 8 from the charging socket 6 without requiring any manual intervention.

[0084] By applying pressure to the charging plug 8 from the coupling element 19, the charging plug 8 is subjected to a compressive force which can push the charging plug 8 out of the charging socket 6. Accordingly, the compressive force can be understood in particular as an ejection force, especially a pull-out or ejection force. Preferably, the compressive force acts parallel to the axial direction of the charging socket 6.

[0085] The charging plug 8 is, for example, designed as an AC charging plug, in particular as a Type 2 plug. This is illustrated in Figs. 3 and 4. Alternatively, the charging plug 8 is, for example, designed as a CCS charging plug, which can also be referred to as a combo charging plug. CCS is an abbreviation that stands for "Combined Charging System". This is illustrated in Fig. 5, in which the charging system 1a is shown in a schematic and perspective partial view. Thus, the connection device 7 is, for example, designed as an AC connection device, in particular a Type 2 connection device, and / or as a CCS connection device. The latter is illustrated by way of example in Fig. 1.

[0086] For example, the charging device 1 has several, for example two or three, such coupling devices 18 and / or several, for example two or three, locking elements 11. Thus, the charging device 1 has, for example, locking elements 11 that are movable between a respective locking position 9 and a respective release position 10 relative to the housing element 2, wherein in the respective locking position 9 the respective locking element 11 can be positively connected to or is connected to the charging plug 8, whereby in the respective locking position 9 the charging plug 8 is secured against disconnection from the connection with the connecting device 7, and in the24-2235 PIF

[0087] 21

[0088] In the respective release position 10, securing or this securing is omitted. Furthermore, the charging device 1 has coupling devices 18 that are movable between a respective first position 16 and a respective second position 17 relative to the housing element 2, each of which has at least one coupling element 19 that is formed separately from the respective locking element 11, by means of which, when the respective coupling device 18 is moved from the respective first position 16 to the respective second position 17, the charging plug 8 connected to the connection device 7 can be actuated or is actuated, whereby, when the locking element 11 is in the respective release position 10, the connection of the charging plug 8 with the connection device 7 is disconnected and the charging plug 8 is removed from the charging socket 6 by the respective coupling element 19 acting on the charging plug 8.In particular, it is provided that the respective locking element 11 can be driven, or is driven, by means of the drive device 20 to move between the respective locking position 9 and the respective release position 10, and that the respective coupling device 18 or the respective coupling element 19 can be driven, or is driven, to move between the respective first and the respective second positions 16, 17. For example, the coupling devices 18, and in particular the coupling element 19, are identical in construction. For example, the locking elements 11 are identical in construction.

[0089] Two of the coupling devices 18a, 18b are, for example, spaced apart from each other in a first direction 21. Equivalently, two of the locking elements 11a, 11b are spaced apart from each other in the first direction 21. The coupling device 18a can be referred to as the first coupling device 18a. The coupling device 18b can be referred to as the second coupling device. Equivalently, the locking element 11a can be referred to as the first locking element 11a and the locking element 11b as the second locking element 11b. The first direction 21 runs, for example, at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. For example, the coupling elements 19 of the coupling devices 18a, 18b are designed for two-sided, that is, in particular, for bilateral, contact with the charging plug 8.This bilateral application refers in particular to two sides of the vehicle that differ in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Thus, for example, when the charging plug 8 is arranged on the connection device 7, and in particular is connected to the connection device 7, the first coupling device 18a is arranged on a side of the charging plug 8 that points forward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and 24-2235 PIF.

[0090] 22

[0091] The second coupling device 18b is, for example, arranged on a side of the charging plug 8 that points towards the rear in the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle.

[0092] The locking elements 11a and 11b are designed, in particular, for locking the charging plug 8 on both sides. Thus, for example, when the charging plug 8 is arranged on the connection device 7, and in particular when it is connected to the connection device 7, the first locking element 11a is arranged on the side of the charging plug 8 facing forward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and the second locking element 11b is arranged, for example, on the side of the charging plug 8 facing rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0093] For example, a third coupling device 18c is spaced apart in a second direction 22 from the first and / or the second coupling device 18a, 18b. The second direction 22 runs, for example, obliquely or perpendicularly to the first direction 21. For example, the second direction 22 runs at least substantially parallel to a vertical direction of the vehicle. Equivalently, for example, a third locking element 11c is spaced apart in the second direction 22 from the first and / or the second locking element 11a, 11b. For example, the coupling element 19 of the third coupling device 18c is configured to engage the CCS charging plug 8. In particular, the locking element 11c is configured to lock the CCS charging plug 8.This means that the charging device 1 is designed or intended for use with both AC charging plugs, in particular Type 2 charging plugs, and CCS charging plugs.

[0094] It is possible that the charging device 1 has only one or two of the coupling devices 18a, 18b, 18c, or, with respect to the locking elements 11a, 11b, 11c, only one or two of the locking elements 11a, 11b, 11c. Therefore, when the respective coupling device 18 or the respective locking element 11 is mentioned below, this may refer to one, two, or all of the coupling devices 18a, 18b, 18c or locking elements 11a, 11b, 11c, respectively.

[0095] Preferably, it is provided that the charging plug 8, which is arranged at the charging socket 6 and is separate from the connection device 7, i.e., in particular, is not yet electrically connected to the connection device 7, is separated from the one located in the 24-2235 PIF

[0096] 23

[0097] The locking element 11 in its respective locking position 9 can be actuated to move the charging plug 8 relative to the connection device 7 in the direction of the connection device 7, or is actuated, thereby connecting the charging plug 8 to the connection device 7, i.e., in particular, causing it. This allows the charging plug 8 to be automatically retracted, thus automatically connecting the charging plug 8 electrically to the connection device 7, for example.

[0098] For example, the respective locking element 11 is held, in particular directly, on the respective coupling device 18, whereby the respective locking element 11 can be moved, or is moved, with the respective coupling device 18 when the respective coupling device 18 is moved between the respective first and the respective second position 16, 17. Thus, the respective locking element 11 acts on the charging plug 8 to move the charging plug 8 towards the connection device 7, in this case by moving the respective coupling device 18 from the respective second position 17 to the respective first position 16, thereby moving the respective locking element 11 with the respective coupling device 18.Since the respective locking element 11 is in engagement with the charging plug 8, the charging plug 8 can be moved along with the respective coupling device 18 and thereby retracted, i.e., connected to the connection device 7. Accordingly, when the charging plug 8 is engaged, the respective locking element 11 is in the respective locking position 9, which is received by the respective locking element 11, in particular in a respective receiving opening 12. Thus, the respective locking element 11 is designed, for example, both as a locking element 11 and as a respective retraction or insertion element for the charging plug 8. For example, the respective locking element 11 is designed as a pin, which can be described as a retraction and locking pin.The respective coupling element 19 is designed, for example, as a pin, which can be referred to as an extension pin. Thus, in the first position 16, the charging plug 8 is in its retracted position, particularly at the charging socket 6. Furthermore, in the second position 17, the charging plug 8 is in its extended position.

[0099] The loading device 1 has at least one shaft 23 which is rotatable or rotated about a shaft rotation axis 24 relative to the housing element 2. The24-2235 PIF

[0100] 24

[0101] The axis of rotation 24 of the shaft runs, for example, at least substantially parallel to the first direction 21. The respective coupling device 18 can be driven by the drive device 20 via the shaft 23, whereby, for example, the respective coupling device 18 can be moved between the respective first and the respective second positions 16, 17 by means of the shaft 23. The shaft 23 has at least one toothed section 25, 26, 27, in this case three toothed sections 25, 26, 27.

[0102] For example, the drive device 20 has an output shaft 28 rotatable about an output shaft axis. Furthermore, the loading device 1 has, for example, a second shaft 29, which is formed separately from the shaft 23 and separately from the output shaft 28, and which is rotatable about a second shaft axis, which is, for example, inclined or perpendicular to the output shaft axis. For example, the output shaft 28 and the second shaft 29 are coupled to each other for torque transmission. For this purpose, a fourth tooth 30 is arranged on the output shaft 28 and a fifth tooth 31 is arranged on the second shaft 29, wherein the fourth and fifth tooth 30, 31 are coupled to each other and, in particular, mesh with each other. In particular, the fourth tooth 30 is non-rotatably connected to the output shaft 28. In particular, the fifth tooth 31 is non-rotatably connected to the second shaft 29.Furthermore, a worm gear 32 is arranged on the second shaft 29, which is connected to the second shaft 29 in a rotationally fixed manner. The worm gear 32 and the first toothed section 25 are in mesh with each other, thus coupling the second shaft 29 and the shaft 23 via the worm gear 32 and the first toothed section 25. The second axis of rotation of the second shaft 29 extends obliquely or perpendicularly to the axis of rotation 24. In particular, the first toothed section 25 is connected to the shaft 23 in a rotationally fixed manner. The first toothed section 25 is, for example, designed as a roller gear or formed by a roller gear, which is arranged, in particular, on the first shaft 23. The first toothed section 25 is, for example, arranged between the second and third toothed sections 26, 27. The second and third toothed sections 26, 27 are, for example, designed as pinions, respectively.

[0103] For example, the loading device 1 has two bevel gears 33 rotatable about a respective bevel gear axis, with each bevel gear 33 being in engagement with one of the respective teeth 26, 27, whereby the respective bevel gear 33 meshes with the respective teeth 26, 27. Thus, in the present case, the output shaft 28 of the drive unit 20 can be used to drive the PIF via the gears 30, 24-2235.

[0104] 25

[0105] 31 drives the second shaft 29, which in turn drives the shaft 23 via the worm gear 32 and the first toothed section 25. The respective bevel gear 33 can then be driven from the shaft 23 via the respective toothed sections 26 and 27, and thus, for example, rotated about the respective bevel gear axis relative to the housing element 2. In this way, an output can be achieved, in particular, by means of the drive device 20, on the respective bevel gear 33.

[0106] In this case, each bevel gear 33 is coupled to the respective coupling device 18a, 18b, such that when the respective bevel gear 33 is rotated about its respective axis of rotation, a translational movement of the respective coupling device 18a, 18b relative to the housing element 2 occurs, particularly between the respective first and second positions 16, 17. For this purpose, the respective coupling device 18a, 18b has, for example, a toothed element 35 with a sixth tooth 34, which is designed, for example, as a rack. This can be seen particularly well in Figures 2 and 5. In this case, the respective bevel gear 33 is engaged with the respective sixth tooth 34 of the respective toothed element 35.This allows the respective bevel gear 33 to drive the respective toothed element 35, thereby enabling the respective coupling device 18a, 18b to be moved, for example, in the second direction of movement 13b, that is, in particular, to be moved translationally between the respective positions 16, 17. In particular, the respective bevel gear 33 meshes with the respective toothed element 34.

[0107] For example, the first coupling device 18a and the third coupling device 18c are coupled to each other such that when the first coupling device 18a is moved between positions 16 and 17, the third coupling device 18c is moved between positions 16 and 17. This means that when the first coupling device 18a is moved, particularly in the second direction of movement 13b, the third coupling device 18c is moved, particularly in the second direction of movement 13b. For this purpose, the loading device 1 has, for example, a third shaft 36 rotatable about a third axis of rotation. In this case, the first coupling device 18a, in particular the toothed element 35, has a seventh tooth 37. Furthermore, an eighth tooth 38 is arranged on the third shaft 36, which is in particular rotationally fixed to the third shaft 36.The seventh and eighth gear teeth 37, 38 engage with each other, whereby the first coupling device 18a, in particular the gear element 35, is coupled to the third shaft 36 via the gear teeth 37, 38. This results in the 24-2235 PIF.

[0108] 26

[0109] The third shaft 36 can be driven by the first coupling device 18a, thereby allowing the third shaft 36 to rotate about its third axis of rotation. Thus, the translational movement of the first coupling device 18a can be converted into a rotational movement of the third shaft 36. Furthermore, a ninth toothed section 39 is arranged on the third shaft 36, which is rotationally connected to the third shaft 36.

[0110] For example, the third coupling device 18c, for instance a second toothed element 40 of the third coupling device 18c, has a tenth toothed element 41. In this case, the ninth and tenth toothed elements 39, 41 are in engagement with each other. This couples the third shaft 36 to the third coupling device 18c, in particular to the second toothed element 40, via the toothed elements 39, 41. As a result, the third coupling device 18c can be driven by the third shaft 36, thereby converting the rotary motion of the third shaft 36, also referred to as rotational motion, into the translational motion of the third coupling device 18c, in particular along the second direction of motion 13b. This allows the third coupling device 18c to move translationally, for example, between positions 16, 17.

[0111] Thus, for example, a rotary movement generated by the drive unit 20, also referred to as the locking actuator, is converted into the respective translational movement of the respective coupling unit 18 or 18a, 18b, 18c.

[0112] Preferably, it is provided that when the respective coupling device 18 is moved from the respective first position 16 to the respective second position 17, the respective locking element 11 is moved from the respective locking position 9 to the respective release position 10 and / or that when the respective coupling device 18 is moved from the respective second position 17 to the respective first position 16, the respective locking element 11 is moved from the respective release position 10 to the respective locking position 9.In particular, the respective locking element 11 is in the respective locking position 9 when the coupling device 18 is in the respective first position 16, wherein preferably when or for moving the respective coupling device 18 from the respective first position 16 to the respective second position 17, the respective locking element 11 is moved from the respective locking position 9 to the respective release position 10. For example, the respective locking element 11 is, in particular initially, in the respective release position 10 when the respective coupling device 18 is in the 24-2235 PIF.

[0113] 27

[0114] respective second position 17, whereby, for example, the respective locking element 11 is moved from the respective release position 10 to the respective locking position 9, whereby when the respective coupling device 18 is moved from the respective second position 17 to the respective first position 16, the charging plug 8 can be acted upon by the respective locking element 11.

[0115] In this embodiment, each coupling device 18 is associated with a respective cam 42, which is connected to the respective housing element 2. This is particularly evident in Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of the loading device 1, with each coupling device 18 in its second position 17. Figure 7 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of the loading system 1a, with each coupling device 18 in its first position 16. In particular, each cam 42 is fixed to the housing. Each cam 42 has a first guide section 43, which is preferably designed as a groove. The coupling device 18 is movably guided in the first guide section 43, i.e., it is movably mounted there.For this purpose, the respective coupling device 18 has, for example, at least one guide element 44, which is movably guided, and in particular received, in the respective first guide section 43. Furthermore, the respective cam 42 has a respective second guide section 45 extending obliquely or perpendicularly to the respective first guide section 43, which is, for example, designed as a groove. The respective locking element 11 is movably guided, and in particular movably received, in the respective second guide section 45. For this purpose, the respective locking element 11 has, for example, a respective second guide element 46, which is movably guided, and in particular received, in the respective second guide section 45.Furthermore, each locking element 11 has, for example, a third guide element 47, which is movably guided, and in particular received, in the respective guide section 43. By guiding the respective coupling device 18, the respective translational movement of the respective coupling device 18 can be effected by means of the respective cam 42 when the respective coupling device 18 is driven, in particular by the respective bevel gear 33 or by the third shaft 36. By guiding the respective locking element 11, the respective movement of the respective locking element 11 can be effected by means of the respective cam 42 when the respective 24-2235 PIF.

[0116] 28

[0117] The coupling device 18 is moved translationally. This allows the respective locking element 11 to be moved from the respective locking position 9 to the respective release position 10 when the respective coupling device 18 is moved between the respective first or respective second position 16, 17, whereby the respective coupling device 18 can also be referred to as the respective locking slide.

[0118] Figure 8 shows a schematic partial sectional view of the loading device 1. As can be seen particularly well in Figure 8, the loading device 1 has at least one bearing assembly 48 by which the shaft 23, also referred to as the first shaft, is rotatably held about the shaft's axis of rotation 24, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on the housing element 2. The bearing assembly 48 is, for example, designed as a bearing block. The bearing assembly 48, which can also simply be referred to as a bearing, is, for example, preloaded. This preload is effected, for example, by at least one spring element 49, in this case by two spring elements 49. The spring element 49, or the respective spring element 49, is, for example, designed as a spring washer.To apply this preload to the bearing assembly 48, the spring element 49, or the respective spring element 49, is supported, for example, on a plate 50, or on a respective plate 50, in particular directly. The plate 50, or the respective plate 50, is designed, for example, as a distribution plate. In particular, the plate 50, or the respective plate 50, is designed as a sheet metal plate. For example, the spring element 49, or the respective spring element 49, is arranged between the bearing assembly 48 and the plate 50, or the respective plate 50. For example, the bearing assembly 48 is supported, in particular directly, in the axial direction 15 of the charging socket 6 on at least one force sensor element 51, which, for example, is in turn supported, for example, at least indirectly or directly, in the axial direction 15 of the charging socket 6 on the housing element 2.Thus, the force sensor element 51 is arranged, for example, in the axial direction 15 between the bearing assembly 48 and the housing element 2. The force sensor element 51 is designed, for example, as a thin-film force sensor.

[0119] Preferably, it is provided that a force 52 applied to the force sensor element 51 via the bearing device 48 and extending in the axial direction 15 of the charging socket 6 can be detected or is detected by means of the force sensor element 51. This force 52 preferably results, for example at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, from the preload of the bearing device 48. If the 24-2235 PIF

[0120] 29

[0121] When the charging device 1, for example via the charging plug 8, is subjected to an axial force 52 in the axial direction 15 of the charging socket 6, a change in this force 52 results. The change in force 52 is understood to mean, in particular, a pressure build-up and / or pressure drop acting on the force sensor element 51. The charging device 1 being subjected to the force 52 by the charging plug 8 results, for example, from a person manually pressing the charging plug 8 against the charging device 1, in particular the charging socket 6, or from the person manually pulling on the charging plug 8, which is connected, in particular, to the connection device 7.Thus, the change in this force 52 indicates, for example, a person's desire to insert the charging plug 8 into the charging socket 6, that is, to connect it to the connection device 7, or to unplug the charging plug 8 from the charging socket 6, that is, in particular, to remove it from the charging socket 6. Therefore, the charging device 1 has, for example, at least one electronic computing device 53, by means of which, upon detection of the change in the force 52 detected by the force sensor element 51, the drive device 20 can be controlled or is controlled to drive the respective coupling device 18.This means, for example, that if the person pulls on the charging plug 8 connected to the connection device 7, the drive device 20 can be controlled by the electronic computing device 53 in such a way that the respective coupling device is moved from the respective first position 16 to the respective second position 17, whereby the charging plug 8 can be released from the respective locking element 11 and the charging plug 8 can be extended by means of the respective coupling element 19, i.e. it can be automatically unplugged from the charging socket 6.Furthermore, when the person presses the charging plug 8 into the charging socket 6, the electronic control unit 53 can control the drive unit 20 such that the respective coupling device 18 can be moved from the respective second position 17 to the respective first position 16, whereby the charging plug 8 can be drawn in by the respective locking element 11 when the charging plug 8 is pressed against it, and in particular, automatically connected to the connection device 7. This enables, for example, a servo function, whereby the drive unit 20 can act as a servo drive to assist the person when plugging in and unplugging the charging plug 8. The electronic control unit 53 is illustrated schematically in Fig. 1.

[0122] For example, the force sensor element 51 is contacted by means of at least one FPC connector 54, in particular by spring contact. The FPC connector 54 is 24-2235 PIF

[0123] 30

[0124] In particular, a flexible printed circuit board. FPC is an abbreviation that means "Flexible Printed Circuit".

[0125] Overall, the examples demonstrate how a charging socket 6 with convenient retraction and ejection for the charging plug 8 can be implemented. This solution allows, in particular, for optional, interchangeable automation with a known locking mechanism. The drive unit 20, also simply referred to as an actuator, is used, for example, to retract the charging plug 8 via at least one gear mechanism. When the drive unit 20 is de-energized, this gear mechanism, also simply referred to as a gearbox, becomes self-locking, thus preventing, for example, unauthorized disconnection of the charging plug 8 from the charging socket 6, and especially from the connection device 7. When a disconnection request is received, the charging plug 8 is automatically ejected.This allows not only for an emergency function (charging plug ejection) but also for the insertion and removal of the charging plug, which can be considered a convenience feature. The user, also referred to as the customer, simply inserts the charging plug 8 into the charging socket 6 or removes it from the charging socket 6, with the connection and disconnection process being handled by the charging socket 6, particularly if it is automated. Simultaneously, the charging socket 6 ensures that the charging plug 8 is correctly connected to the terminal 7. This also reduces the effort required by the user, especially when operating the device.

[0126] Numerals, such as "first," "second," "third," etc., are intended solely for differentiation and do not, in particular, denote an order. That is to say, the corresponding numerals can be interchanged at will.4-2235 PIF

[0127] 31

[0128] Reference symbol list

[0129] Charging device

[0130] a charging system housing element holding device

[0131] first housing part

[0132] second housing part charging socket connection device charging plug

[0133] Locking position

[0134] 0 Release position

[0135] 1 locking element

[0136] 1a first locking element 1b second locking element 1c third locking element 2 receiving opening

[0137] 3a first direction of movement 3b second direction of movement 5 axial direction of the charging socket 6 first position

[0138] 7 second position

[0139] 8 Coupling device

[0140] 8a first coupling device

[0141] 8b second coupling device

[0142] 8c third coupling device

[0143] 9 coupling element

[0144] 0 Drive unit

[0145] 1 first direction

[0146] 2 second direction

[0147] 3 first wave

[0148] 4 Shaft rotation axis

[0149] 5 first gearing

[0150] 6 second gearing

[0151] 7 third gear-2235 PIF

[0152] 32

[0153] Output shaft

[0154] second wave

[0155] fourth gear

[0156] fifth gear worm gear

[0157] bevel gear

[0158] sixth tooth gear element

[0159] third wave

[0160] seventh gear

[0161] eighth gear

[0162] ninth gear

[0163] second gear element, tenth gear

[0164] backdrop

[0165] first guide section, first guide element, second guide section, second guide element, third guide element, bearing device, spring element

[0166] plate

[0167] Force sensor element

[0168] Arrow

[0169] electronic computing device FPC connector

Claims

24-2235 PIF 33 Patent claims 1. Charging device (1) for an electrically powered motor vehicle, with • a housing element (2) which has a holding device (3) by means of which the charging device (1) is to be held on a component of the motor vehicle, • a charging socket (6) which has at least one connection device (7) with which a charging plug (8) designed separately from the charging device (1) can be connected for charging an electrical energy storage device of the motor vehicle, • at least one locking element (11) movable between a locking position (9) and a release position (10) relative to the housing element (2), wherein in the locking position (9) the locking element (11) can be positively connected to the charging plug (8), whereby in the locking position (9) the charging plug (8) is secured by means of the locking element (11) against disconnection of the connection of the charging plug (8) with the connection device (7), and in the release position (10) the securing is omitted, • at least one coupling device (18) movable between a first position (16) and a second position (17) relative to the housing element (2), which has at least one coupling element (19) designed separately from the locking element (11), which, when the coupling device (18) is moved from the first position (16) to the second position (17), can be coupled to the charging plug (8) connected to the connection device (7) in a force-transmitting manner, whereby, when the locking element (11) is in the release position (10), the coupling element (19) disconnects the charging plug (8) from the connection device (7) and removes the charging plug (8) from the charging socket (6), and • a drive device (20) by means of which the locking element (11) can be driven to move between the locking position (9) and the release position (10) and the coupling device (18) to the 24-2235 PIF 34 Movement between the first and second positions (16, 17) is possible.

2. Charging device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that The charging plug (8) arranged at the charging socket (6) and separated from the connection device (7) can be acted upon by the locking element (11) which is in the locking position (9) to move the charging plug (8) relative to the connection device (7) in the direction towards the connection device (7), thereby connecting the charging plug (8) to the connection device (7).

3. Charging device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the locking element (11) is held on the coupling device (18), whereby the locking element (11) can move together with the coupling device (18) when the coupling device (18) is moved between the first and second positions (16, 17).

4. Charging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that When moving the coupling device (18) from the first position (16) to the second position (17), the locking element (11) is moved from the locking position (9) to the release position (10).

5. Charging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a cam (42) connected to the housing element (2), which has a first guide section (43) in which the coupling device (18) is movably guided, and a second guide section (45) extending obliquely or perpendicularly to the first guide section (43) in which the locking element (11) is movably guided.

6. Charging device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by 24-2235 PIF 35 a shaft (23) having at least one toothed section (25, 26, 27) and rotatable about a shaft rotation axis (24) relative to the housing element (2), via which the coupling device (1) and the locking element (11) can be driven by the drive device (20).

7. Charging device (1) according to claim 6, characterized by a bearing device (48) by means of which the shaft (23) is rotatably held on the housing element (2) about the shaft rotation axis (24), wherein the bearing device (48) is supported in the axial direction (15) of the charging socket (6) on a force sensor element (51), by means of which a force (52) applied to the force sensor element (51) by means of the bearing device (48) and extending in the axial direction (15) of the charging socket (6) can be detected.

8. Charging device (1) according to claim 7, characterized by an electronic computing device (53) by means of which, when a change in the force (52) detected by means of the force sensor element (51) is detected, the drive device (20) can be controlled to drive the coupling device (18).

9. Charging system (1a) for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle, comprising at least one charging device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, and comprising a charging plug (8).

10. Method for charging an electrical energy storage device of an electrically powered motor vehicle having at least one charging device (1), wherein the charging device (1) comprises: • a housing element (2) which has a holding device (3) by means of which the charging device (1) is held on a component of the motor vehicle, • a charging socket (6) which has at least one connection device (7) to which a charging plug (8) designed separately from the charging device (1) is connected for charging the electrical energy storage of the motor vehicle,-2235 PIF 36 • at least one locking element (11) movable between a locking position (9) and a release position (10) relative to the housing element (2), wherein in the locking position (9) the locking element (11) is positively connected to the charging plug (8), whereby in the locking position (9) the charging plug (8) is secured against disconnection of the connection of the charging plug (8) with the connection device (7) by means of the locking element (11), and in the release position (10) the securing is omitted, • at least one coupling device (18) movable between a first position (16) and a second position (17) relative to the housing element (2), which has at least one coupling element (19) formed separately from the locking element (11), which, when the coupling device (18) is moved from the first position (16) to the second position (17), is coupled forcefully to the charging plug (8) connected to the connection device (7), whereby, when the locking element (11) is in the release position (10), the charging plug (8) is disconnected from the connection device (7) by the coupling element (9) and the charging plug (8) is removed from the charging socket (6) by the coupling element (19), and • a drive unit (20), wherein by means of the drive device (20) the locking element (11) and the coupling device (19) are driven, whereby by means of the drive device (20) the locking element (11) is moved between the locking position (9) and the release position (10) and the coupling device (18) is moved between the first and the second position (16, 17).

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