Charging system for an accumulator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a charging system for charging at least one accumulator for a mobile power tool, in particular a portable power tool, comprising: a charger having at least one interface which is configured for coupling an accumulator and for electrically charging an accumulator coupled thereto, and a shield which is spatially adjustable between at least two positions, wherein in one position the shield exposes the interface such that an accumulator can be coupled thereto, and in another position the shield is configured to shield the interface on all sides against splash water when in a coupled state in which an accumulator is coupled to the interface.

Description

[0001] 2024ID00239 / 2025ID00025

[0002] Hilti Aktiengesellschaft in Schaan

[0003] Principality of Liechtenstein

[0004] Charging system for a battery

[0005] AREA OF INVENTION

[0006] The present invention relates to a charging system for charging at least one accumulator for a mobile machine tool.

[0007] Mobile machine tools can be broadly divided into three main groups: quasi-stationary machine tools (e.g., core drilling machines or portable table saws), portable machine tools (e.g., rotary hammers, circular saws, or hedge trimmers), and pushable machine tools (e.g., lawnmowers or polishing machines). Hybrid forms and other machine tools, such as construction robots, can also exist. In principle, all such machine tools can be powered by batteries, and for reasons of flexibility, it is advisable to use standardized batteries, such as manufacturer-specified batteries.

[0008] In known chargers, an interface for connecting and charging a battery, or a battery connected to it for charging, is located above the charger or accessible from above on the side of the charger.

[0009] Charging such batteries near their place of use is advantageous to save walking distances. However, if the place of use is outdoors, the battery, the charger, and especially its interface are exposed to rain and splashes of water, depending on the weather. The same applies to locations such as buildings under construction.

[0010] One object of the present invention is therefore to provide a means for charging a battery outdoors.

[0011] REVELATION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Accordingly, a charging system for charging at least one battery for a mobile machine tool, in particular a portable machine tool, is proposed. The charging system has at least one charger and shielding. The charger has at least one interface or charging interface. The interface is at least for- 2 - 2024ID00239

[0013] The device is designed for coupling a battery and for electrically charging a connected battery. The shielding is spatially adjustable between at least two layers. In one layer, the shielding provides an interface for coupling a battery. In another layer, the shielding is designed to completely protect the interface from splashing water, at least when coupled. In the coupled state, a battery is connected to the interface.

[0014] The spatial adjustability of the shielding allows switching between a state in which the charger's interface can be accessed and a state in which the interface is protected against splashing water when charging a connected battery. Therefore, the charging system is a means of charging a battery outdoors.

[0015] The term "accumulator" can be understood as a storage device for electrical energy that is designed and intended for repeated, even partial, charging and discharging. The term "accumulator for a mobile machine tool" can be understood as an accumulator dimensioned for operating a machine tool with a nominal power of up to 10 kW, preferably up to 5 kW and more preferably up to 2.5 kW. The term "accumulator for a mobile machine tool" can also be understood as an accumulator with a capacity of up to 50 Ah, and more preferably up to 20 Ah. The accumulator has a mating interface that is complementary to the interface of the charger; one can also speak of interfaces that are opposite and / or functionally or geometrically negative to each other.

[0016] An accumulator is, for example, an accumulator device comprising at least one or more accumulator cells, a housing surrounding the accumulator cells, and a mating interface arranged on the housing. The accumulator device may include a ventilation channel for ventilating the interior of the housing to cool and / or heat the accumulator cells. The accumulator device may have a control unit configured, for example, to control the charging and / or discharging of the accumulator cells, such as to prevent deep discharge of individual accumulator cells and / or to control the temperature distribution during charging and / or discharging. The control unit may be connected to at least one sensor in the accumulator device for data retrieval, such as a voltage sensor and / or a temperature sensor.It is possible that the ventilation duct is designed to circulate at least one- 3 - 2024ID00239.

[0017] Part of the accumulator cell is arranged. The ventilation channel preferably has one opening and more preferably both openings in the area of ​​the opposite interface.

[0018] The term "mobile machine tool" may include a manipulator, in particular a multi-axis manipulator. The mobile machine tool may have a drive device for powering a tool, such as a drill, chisel, suction cup, or the like. The mobile machine tool may be equipped, for example, for processing stone, such as concrete, and / or metal and / or wood. It may be designed, for example, for drilling, chiseling, sawing, and / or grinding. Generally, the mobile machine tool may be equipped for use in horticulture, building construction, and / or civil engineering. It is conceivable that it is not designed for use in mining. The mobile machine tool may be portable; for example, it may weigh less than 50 kg, in particular less than 25 kg.

[0019] The term "charging system" refers to a system in which the charger and the shielding are at least compatible. The charger and shielding may be detachable or permanently connected. The charger may be integrated into or built into the shielding. A battery may be part of the charging system, but each battery must be detachable from the system as needed. The charging system may also include other components, such as a power cord or an interface for mechanical connection to a stacking system, like those found in modular tool cases.

[0020] The term "charger" can be understood as an electrical device designed to charge at least one accumulator. The term "interface" can be understood as a standardized and / or proprietary interface. "Coupling" can generally be understood as a connection of a mechanical, electrical, fluidic, and / or control-related nature. In the specific case of the charger's interface, "coupling" refers to a connection of at least a mechanical and electrical nature. The "coupled state of the interface" can be understood as an accumulator being connected to the charger via the charger's interface and preferably the corresponding interface of the accumulator. It is possible that the accumulator is being charged by the charger in the "coupled state of the interface." - 4 - 2024ID00239

[0021] The term "shielding" can be understood as a device suitable for protecting against splashing water. One could say that the shielding provides mechanical protection, meaning that its shape blocks water from splashing into the interface. One can speak of a shielding device. There may be multiple shielding devices and / or the shielding may have multiple parts or (functionally speaking) multiple stages.

[0022] The term "spatial change between at least two layers" can be understood as meaning that a space occupied by the entire shielding or at least a part of it is modifiable. For example, the shielding may be wholly or partially deformable, pivotable, movable, extendable and / or retractable, bendable, enlargeable and / or shrinkable. A "layer" can be understood as the spatial position and / or orientation of a section of the shielding.

[0023] The term "position in which the interface is shielded against splashing water on all sides, at least in a coupled state" can refer to a position in which the interface is shielded only in a coupled state, i.e., in conjunction with the accumulator coupled to the interface, as well as a position in which the interface is shielded even without a coupled accumulator.

[0024] "Clearing the interface" can be understood as not obstructing or blocking a path for the battery and / or guiding the battery to connect it to the charger's interface. In other words, a path for the battery to connect to the interface is now clear.

[0025] The term "protection against splashing water" can be understood as a protection class IPX4 or higher according to DIN EN 60529 and / or according to ISO 20653 and / or compliance with a corresponding requirement.

[0026] The charging system may have an elastic cuff as shielding, which can be clamped in an elastically sealing manner between the charger and a battery connected to the interface. For example, the cuff may be entirely elastic, perhaps made of an elastomer. It may have a base body and one or two elastic collars for a sealing fit against the battery and / or the charger. The cuff may have a side shaped opposite or complementary to the charger. For example, the cuff- 5 - 2024ID00239

[0027] The cuff has a side shaped opposite or complementary to an accumulator that fits the interface. For example, the cuff may have an elastic base body and a stiffening element. It may, for example, be ring-shaped; "ring-shaped" preferably means a continuously closed form around a passage and need not be an annular shape. It may, for example, be strip-shaped with an end closure for subsequent closure around the interface in a coupled state.

[0028] For example, the charger may have multiple interfaces for connecting individual batteries. In this case, a sleeve may be provided for at least one interface. If a separate sleeve is provided for several and / or all interfaces, multiple batteries can be connected and charged independently. If a common sleeve is provided for several and / or all interfaces, preferably with a through-hole for each of the multiple interfaces, the multiple batteries can be connected and charged independently. If batteries of different shapes can be connected to the same interface, it is advantageous for flexibility to have different sleeves that fit or are identical to at least one of the different battery shapes.

[0029] The interface may have at least one ventilation opening designed to ventilate the internal volume of a battery equipped with a corresponding ventilation opening, with the sleeve also enclosing these ventilation openings, preferably airtight. The sleeve prevents the escape of any airflow generated for temperature control (i.e., setting / controlling / regulating the battery's temperature) through a leak between the interface and the mating interface. This improves the overall charging efficiency.

[0030] The charging system may have an enclosure as its shielding, wherein the enclosure has a flap, and wherein the enclosure is designed, when the flap is closed, to tightly or at least splash-proof enclose the interface along with any accumulator connected to the interface, and wherein the flap can be opened to connect an accumulator to the interface. Such an enclosure can protect the interface both in a connected state (i.e., accumulator connected to interface), and- 6 - 2024ID00239

[0031] Protect the charging system from splashing water when it is in a decoupled state (i.e., no battery connected to the interface). This simplifies handling the charging system.

[0032] It's possible that the charger can be operated without its housing to charge a connected battery. This can also be described as a separately operable or stand-alone charger. Therefore, for example, the charger can be conveniently used without its housing in a workshop or similar environment, and reliably outdoors with the housing in place.

[0033] The housing may be attached to the charger, or attachable to it, preferably without tools. The charger, together with the housing, encloses the interface and a space intended for a connected battery. For example, one could describe the housing as being able to be placed over, attached to, or connected to the charger. In other words, the housing partially houses the charger. This is a space-saving solution.

[0034] Furthermore, such a housing can be purchased separately as an accessory for the charger if needed. It is possible that operating elements such as a button, a switch, or a display will remain outside the housing and thus easily visible and accessible.

[0035] The enclosure may surround the charger. It can also be said that the enclosure completely contains, spatially encloses, or surrounds the charger on all sides. For example, the charger is inserted into the enclosure. This protects the entire charger from splashing water. Preferably, the charger is attached or mounted in the enclosure to secure it during transport.

[0036] The enclosure may have a splash-proof cable entry for the charger's power cable. This is useful, for example, for separate chargers with a power cable that cannot be disconnected without tools.

[0037] The charger may have a connector profile for connecting a power cable. In this case, it is preferred that the housing has an outer connector profile identical to that of the charger and an inner connector profile complementary to that of the charger, with the outer connector profile being electrically connected to the inner connector profile. The connection of the connector profiles can be achieved, for example, by means of a feedthrough through the housing. 7 - 2024ID00239

[0038] be encased in a plastic, which is very reliably splash-proof (IPX4) to high-pressure cleaner-protected / steam jet-protected (IPX9 or IPX9K).

[0039] The enclosure may contain a cable for supplying power to at least one charger and possibly other electrical devices, which is routed through the enclosure in a secure and splash-proof (preferably submersible) manner. Such a cable entry may, for example, be potted and / or designed as a closable collar. The enclosure may have an externally accessible, preferably inaccessible from the inside, and / or inwardly splash-proof (preferably submersible) section for storing the cable. This section of the enclosure may contain a cable reel. The enclosure section may be located at the bottom during operation.The cable reel can be configured in various ways: for unwinding by pulling the cable, for winding and / or unwinding using a crank, and / or for winding by a mechanism pre-tensioned by pulling the cable through the housing section. If the cable is permanently attached to the housing, it doesn't need to be transported separately, and the entry point is most reliably sealed. Storing the cable on / inside the housing reduces the risk of tripping.

[0040] Preferably, the housing has an internal receptacle that is oriented in the opposite direction to at least one section of the charger, in order to reinforce the assembly by means of a positive fit. This receptacle can be called an interface. Preferably, there is a mounting device for securing several chargers to each other and to the housing, thus simplifying assembly. The receptacle is preferably designed for plugging in a charger.

[0041] If the housing is attached to the charger and / or partially or completely surrounds it, the housing can also be used, for example, for storing and / or transporting the charger and the battery. This effect is all the more pronounced the more charging interfaces the charger(s) of a charging system have.

[0042] The flap may be lockable. This can prevent batteries from being mixed up or stolen.

[0043] Another challenge when charging batteries outdoors can be that a range of battery temperatures is necessary for safe and / or efficient charging and / or- 8 - 2024ID00239

[0044] Rapid charging of a battery is narrower / different from the temperature range that occurs. The temperature range can be influenced, for example, by:

[0045] Ambient temperature, for example, battery temperatures near and / or below freezing and / or above, for example, 40°C during charging or at the start of charging, may be undesirable.

[0046] solar radiation, which is particularly undesirable as an additional heat input during charging,

[0047] a storage temperature of the battery, for example in a vehicle, and / or residual heat of the battery as a result of a discharge operation.

[0048] Therefore, there is a desire for a way to cool and / or heat (i.e., to regulate the temperature) of the battery. In the case of the charging system, which has an enclosure to shield against splashing water, the shielding may also impede air exchange with the ambient air.

[0049] The enclosure may contain at least one heat exchanger for transferring heat energy between the air inside and the air outside the enclosure. The heat exchanger may be configured to cool the air inside the enclosure, to heat the air inside the enclosure, or to selectively cool or heat the air inside the enclosure. The heat exchanger can also be called a temperature control unit. The heat exchanger is an active device that preferably transfers heat using electrical energy. For example, the heat exchanger could be a Peltier element, a compressor cooling device, a heat pipe device, a radiator device, a combination thereof, and / or another type of cooling device.A Peltier device is preferred because it does not have any mechanical parts and is therefore comparatively insensitive to vibrations (transport, improper handling).

[0050] The enclosure may contain a heater or heating element. A heater is defined as a device whose primary function is to convert a source energy, such as electrical energy, into heat energy. The heater may, for example, be integrated into the charger to create a simple, manageable unit. The charger may be configured to sense and / or read the temperature of a connected battery and control the heater based on that temperature. - 9 - 2024ID00239

[0051] The enclosure may have at least one splash-proof ventilation opening. This ventilation opening is designed to allow air exchange between the inside and outside of the enclosure. A ventilation opening does not require energy to operate. The ventilation opening preferably opens in a side wall of the enclosure and / or the flap. Preferably, the enclosure has at least one pair of splash-proof ventilation openings, which are preferably arranged opposite each other.

[0052] One proposed design of the ventilation opening features a ventilation duct that, in its operating position, runs upwards from the opening. The "operating position" is defined, for example, by the design of the housing and / or the entire loading system, such as a base structure, the position of the flap and / or the interface, and / or the course of the ventilation duct or a common course of the ventilation ducts. As a further development, it is proposed that the ventilation duct, or one of the multiple ventilation ducts, runs both upwards and downwards in its operating position. This can be described as an angled shape for the ventilation duct.

[0053] As a further suggestion, the ventilation duct is designed to allow water to drain downwards in the operating position.

[0054] The enclosure may have at least two ventilation openings, with at least one of these openings connected in series to a fan. This allows for a directed airflow.

[0055] The blower may be configured to be connected in series with a battery's ventilation duct if the battery is connected to the interface. The battery's ventilation duct is a duct formed within the battery itself. This duct serves to cool and / or heat an internal part of the battery. This cooling / heating process is highly efficient, raising and / or lowering a significant temperature inside the battery relatively quickly.

[0056] The charger may contain a fan unit, and the charger's interface may have at least one ventilation opening connected in series with this fan unit, designed to ventilate the internal volume of a battery equipped with a corresponding ventilation opening. In other words, the charger's interface may have a ventilation opening connected in series with the charger's fan unit. 10 - 2024ID00239

[0057] has a ventilation opening for the interior of an accumulator, specifically via a ventilation opening of a mating interface of a mating accumulator. This allows, for example, a compact design.

[0058] To actively cool a coupled accumulator, for example, a fan can be installed and connected to ventilate the accumulator's interior with cooler ambient air (i.e., cooler than the accumulator itself). Similarly, to actively cool an accumulator, a fan can be installed and connected to ventilate the enclosure's interior with cooler ambient air. Finally, a heat exchanger can be installed inside the enclosure to transfer heat to the outside, preferably connected upstream of a fan for ventilating the accumulator's interior and / or in series with a fan for circulating air within the enclosure. This list is not exhaustive.

[0059] The charging system may be configured to actively cool a coupled battery at ambient air temperatures above 40°C, preferably above 35°C, and even more preferably above 30°C. This improves charging efficiency.

[0060] To actively heat a coupled accumulator, a fan can be installed and connected to ventilate the accumulator's interior with warmer ambient air (i.e., warmer than the accumulator itself). Similarly, to actively heat an accumulator, a fan can be installed and connected to ventilate the enclosure's interior with warmer ambient air. A heat exchanger can also be installed within the enclosure to transfer heat, preferably upstream of a fan for ventilating the accumulator's interior and / or in series with a fan for circulating air within the enclosure. Additionally, a heating device, such as a resistance heater, can be installed within the enclosure and / or in series with the fan. This can be described as active pre-heating / heating to a charging start temperature and / or active heating.The list is not exhaustive. The charging system may be configured to actively heat and / or preheat a coupled accumulator at an ambient air temperature of up to 10°C, and preferably up to 5°C. - 11 - 2024ID00239.

[0061] It is possible that the ventilation opening and / or each opening can be selectively and / or manually locked and unlocked, for example by means of a driven damper and / or a driven baffle. This allows, for example, switching between ventilation with outside air and recirculation of (heated and / or cooled) indoor air.

[0062] The charging system may include a coupling element designed for electrically connecting another charging system. This can be an electrical coupling element, such as a coupling cable and / or a coupling plug. It can also be a mechanical coupling element, such as a clamping device and / or a stacking device. This allows a user to spatially and electrically combine multiple charging systems. This helps maintain order on a construction site and reduces potential accidents. Finally, it can be a thermal coupling element, such as a hose connection or a plug-in connection for exchanging temperature-controlled air, or a heat exchanger coupling. This enables operating modes where individual batteries can be brought to a desired temperature very quickly or maintained at a desired temperature despite very rapid charging.It can also be any combination of an electrical, a mechanical and / or a thermal coupling means.

[0063] The charging system may have a control unit. This allows, for example, the use of an uncontrolled charger and / or coordination between chargers.

[0064] The charging system's control unit may have at least one interface to control or instruct a controller integrated into the charger. This allows, for example, the charger to be used, while the charging system's control unit can be limited to overarching or higher-level control tasks. In this way, existing chargers can be integrated into the charging system.

[0065] The control unit may have a communication device to send a message to a user's terminal device and / or to respond to a query from the terminal device to the terminal device. The control unit's communication device may be a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC (near-field communication), and / or cellular network device. This enables, for example, device management and / or improved overview. - 12 - 2024ID00239

[0066] The control unit may be configured to output a charge level indicator for at least one and / or each battery connected to the charger and / or at least one of the chargers. The control unit may also be configured to output a current draw indicator for the charging system. This output may be located on the control unit itself, on an external surface of the housing, and / or on an end device connected or connectable via a communication device. The indicator may be a visual signal, an audible signal, and / or a haptic signal. The charge level of a battery and the current draw of the charging system can provide a user with an overview of the readiness and operation of the charging system and the connected battery(ies).

[0067] The control unit may be configured to control the charging of a battery connected to the charger. This allows for more efficient charging compared to uncontrolled charging. The control unit is preferably configured to control charging based on an ambient temperature, an internal temperature of the housing, and / or the temperature of the battery itself. This ensures optimal charging even in thermally demanding conditions.

[0068] The control unit may be configured to control the charging sequence of multiple batteries connected to the charger and / or one of the chargers and / or a charger of an electrically coupled additional charging system, depending on an outside temperature, an inside temperature of the enclosure(s), battery temperatures, an available amount of electrical energy, or energy convertible into electrical energy. In this way, a charged battery can be made available to a user as quickly as possible.

[0069] The control unit may be configured to monitor the internal temperature of the enclosure and / or the internal temperature of an enclosure of an electrically connected additional charging system and / or the temperature of one or each battery connected to the charger, and to issue a warning signal based on a comparison of the respective monitored temperature(s) and / or their progression with a threshold value designed to prevent exceeding a maximum charging temperature and / or a maximum storage temperature. This can, for example, increase operational safety. - 13 - 2024ID00239

[0070] The control unit may be configured to adjust the input current below a predefined value. It may also be configured to communicate with the control unit of another charging system, ensuring that the combined input current of all charging systems does not exceed the predefined value. This prevents, for example, an overload of a construction site power supply.

[0071] The control unit may be located in the flap. Alternatively, it may be located on the base of the housing. In both cases, a cross-sectional area is kept free for the battery(ies), allowing for optimal use of this space.

[0072] The control unit may be designed separately from the charging system and electronically connectable to it. Preferably, the control unit can be electronically connected to multiple charging systems. This allows, for example, the control unit to be used as a distributor of electrical current to potentially multiple charging systems. This reduces, for instance, the wiring effort. The separately designed control unit also constitutes an independent aspect of the invention and can, for example, be claimed independently.

[0073] Other possible implementations of the invention also include combinations of features or embodiments described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In such cases, a person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the invention.

[0074] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the invention described below. The invention is further explained below with reference to preferred embodiments and the accompanying figures. - 14 - 2024ID00239

[0075] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0076] The following description explains the invention with reference to exemplary embodiments and figures. The figures show:

[0077] Fig. 1 schematically shows in a side view a charging system of a first embodiment comprising a charger and a sleeve, wherein an accumulator is coupled to an interface of the charger, and wherein the sleeve shields the interface;

[0078] Fig. 2 schematically shows in a side view the charging system of the first embodiment, wherein no accumulator is coupled to the charger, so that the cuff is relaxed;

[0079] Fig. 3 schematically shows in a side view the charging system of the first embodiment, in which, although no accumulator is coupled to the charger, the cuff is compressed more strongly than in Fig. 1 to enable / facilitate the insertion of the accumulator into the cuff;

[0080] Fig. 4 schematically shows a perspective view of a charging system of a second embodiment comprising a charger and an enclosure which is designed to surround the charger alone or with a connected accumulator on all sides and thereby shield it against splashing water;

[0081] Fig. 5 schematically shows a perspective view of a charging system of a third embodiment comprising a charger integrated into an enclosure which is designed to surround an interface of the charger with or without an accumulator coupled to it on all sides and thereby shield it against splashing water;

[0082] Fig. 6 schematically shows a side, partially cutaway view of a charging system of a fourth embodiment comprising a charger that is partially enclosed by a housing designed to completely surround an interface of the charger, with or without a connected accumulator, and thereby shield it against splashing water;- 15 - 2024ID00239

[0083] Fig. 7 schematically shows a perspective partial section view of a charging system of a fifth embodiment comprising an enclosure and chargers arranged therein, wherein the enclosure is designed to shield the chargers against splashing water with or without batteries coupled to them;

[0084] Fig. 8 shows an enlarged section of Fig. 7 to show a ventilation opening with a ventilation duct extending upwards from it;

[0085] Fig. 9 schematically shows a perspective view of part of a charging system of a sixth embodiment comprising an enclosure and a charger arranged therein, wherein the enclosure is designed to shield the charger against splashing water with or without batteries coupled to it;

[0086] Fig. 10 schematically shows a sectional view of part of a charging system of a seventh embodiment, wherein an enclosure and a charger arranged therein are shown, the enclosure having a ventilation opening and thereafter an upwardly leading ventilation duct which has an internal ventilation opening which covers a ventilation opening of the charger; and

[0087] Fig. 11 schematically shows a perspective view of an enclosure of a charging system of an eighth embodiment, on which a cable and a display are arranged.

[0088] Identical or functionally equivalent elements are indicated by the same reference symbols in the figures, unless otherwise specified. - 16 - 2024ID00239

[0089] FORMS OF EXECUTION OF THE INVENTION

[0090] Figures 1 to 3 show a charging system 100 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The charging system 100 comprises a charger 101 and a shield 102.

[0091] The shield 102 is exemplified as a two-part cuff 103. The cuff 103 has an elastic ring 104 and a clamp 105 surrounding it. This cuff 103 is thus an assembly. The ring 104, for example, has a rounded rectangular shape. The elastic cuff 104 is made of a plastic, preferably an elastomer. The cuff 104 can, for example, be made of a solid material or a closed-cell material. The clamp 105 can, for example, be made of a metal or a slightly flexible to non-flexible plastic. The clamp 105 can, for example, be adjustable so that the circumference of the cuff 103 can be adapted.

[0092] Due to the elasticity of the elastic ring 104 of the cuff 103, the ring 104 as a whole is deformable; its shape can therefore be spatially changed between several layers. In Figures 1 to 3, a lower end face 106 of the cuff 103 rests against the charger 101.

[0093] Fig. 2 shows the ring 104 in a relaxed state. Due to the relaxed state of the ring 104, one position of an upper end face 107 of the cuff 103 is further away from the charger 101 than in the states of Figs. 1 and 3.

[0094] Figure 3 shows the ring 104 in a highly compressed state. In this highly compressed state, the upper end face 107 of the sleeve is positioned closer to the charger 101 than in the states shown in Figures 1 and 2. In this position, a battery 108 can be connected particularly easily to an interface 109 of the charger 101. The sleeve 103 thus exposes the interface 109 for connecting a battery 108 in this position.

[0095] Fig. 1 shows the accumulator 108 coupled to the interface 109 of the charger 101. The ring 104 is less compressed than in the state of Fig. 3 and more compressed than in the state of Fig. 2. One can say that the ring 104 in Fig. 1 is in a partially relaxed state. The position of the upper end face 107 is accordingly closer to the charger 101 than in the state of Fig. 2 and further away than in the state of Fig. 3. Because of the compression of the ring 104, this- 17 - 2024ID00239

[0096] The sleeve 103 is pre-tensioned and connected to the charger 101 and the accumulator 108. It thus forms a shield that protects the interface 109 of the charger 101 and a concealed counterpart interface of the accumulator 108 from splashing water when connected. This also protects the charging contacts from dust and dirt.

[0097] The ring 104 is elastic, and therefore flexible, and adapts to the shapes of the charger 101 and the accumulator 108. The clamp 105 secures the ring 104.

[0098] Such chargers 101 and accumulators 108 are also available with a ventilation function, which primarily serves to reduce the heating of the cells of the accumulator 108 by drawing in air, flowing it through the accumulator, and releasing it into the environment. For weight reasons, it is preferable to house a fan in the charger 101 and blow air from there into the accumulator 108 via at least one ventilation opening (outlet) of the charger 101 and a corresponding ventilation opening (inlet) of the accumulator 108. From there, the air can then be released directly, or, for example, flow back into the charger 101 via another pair of ventilation openings and finally released from there. In these cases, the sleeve 103 acts as a seal, preventing cooling air from escaping from the area of ​​the interface 109 into the environment.This improves the charging process efficiency in two ways: through better cooling and reduced power consumption for airflow. The same applies if the ventilation function is suction-based.

[0099] The cuff 103 is preferably detachable from the charger 101, for example for cleaning or maintenance.

[0100] Figure 4 shows a charging system 200 according to a second embodiment of the invention. This charging system 200 has a charger 201 and a shield 202. The shield 202 is designed as an enclosure 203. The charger 201 has an interface 209, which is configured for the mechanical and electrical coupling of a battery 208.

[0101] The enclosure 203 has a flap 204 and a housing part 205. The housing part 205 has side walls of varying heights and a base, giving it a tub-like shape (up to the top edge of the lowest side wall). The flap 204 is attached to the housing part 205 by means of a hinge or similar device and can pivot about the hinge. The flap 204 can thus pivot between a closed position and a fully open position. In the closed position of the flap 204- 18 - 2024ID00239

[0102] The housing 203 completely encloses the charger 210 and the accumulator 208. Thus, in this position, the charger 201, the accumulator 208, and the interface 209 are protected by the housing 203 against splashing water and other adverse environmental influences. With the flap 204 fully open, the interface 209 can be accessed, for example, for cleaning or for connecting or disconnecting the accumulator 208.

[0103] To improve the tightness of the closed flap 204, a seal is attached to an upper edge of the housing part 205 and / or to a lower edge of the flap 204, for example a bead seal made of an elastomer.

[0104] As can be seen in Fig. 4, the charger 201 is inserted into the housing 203 or the housing part 205. For example, the charger 201 can be screwed into the housing 203. However, the charger 201 can also be removed and operated separately.

[0105] The charging system 200 also includes a power cord 210. The power cord 201 has a cable section 211 outside the housing 203 and a cable section 212 inside the housing 203. The cable section 211 outside the housing 203 has a power plug (not shown). The cable section 212 inside the housing 203 has a charger plug (not shown). The power cord 201 is potted in a feedthrough (not shown) through the housing 203. The power cord 201 is, for example, plugged into the charger 201.

[0106] In this example, the enclosure 203 has a ventilation opening 213 on one front side and another ventilation opening (not shown) on one rear side. The charger can, for example, draw air from the front ventilation opening 213 through a double bottom of the enclosure 203 and blow it through the battery 208. The air can then exit through the rear ventilation opening. Thus, the battery 208 can be cooled by directed, ventilated ambient air during charging in warm ambient conditions or when the cells are still warm.

[0107] It is also possible that no ventilation opening is present. In this case, air exchange for cooling the accumulator 208 cannot take place when the flap 204 is closed. On the contrary, the accumulator 208 is reliably heated by charging in the housing 203. This improves the efficiency of the accumulator 208 under winter ambient conditions. This can be described as air circulation. - 19 - 2024ID00239

[0108] It is also possible that the enclosure 203 has a temperature control device. For example, a Peltier element can be provided in a rear wall of the enclosure, which is designed and arranged for heat transfer between the air inside the enclosure 203 and the air outside the enclosure 203.

[0109] The enclosure 203 can be made of a fire-retardant material and / or lined with it on the inside to increase safety.

[0110] The enclosure 203 can be wholly or partially provided with a reflective coating on the outside and / or be made of a reflective material. For example, reflective paint can be used. Thus, an accumulator 208 can be protected from overheating or excessive heating due to sunlight when charging / storing in the enclosure. For further details, please refer to the embodiment described above.

[0111] Figure 5 shows a charging system 300 of a third embodiment of the invention. The charging system 300 has a charger 301, which is integrated into a shield 302. The shield 302 is otherwise designed as an enclosure 303 containing a flap 304 and a housing part 305; reference is made to the description of the second embodiment.

[0112] Fig. 6 shows a charging system 400 of a fourth embodiment of the invention. The charging system 400 has a charger 401 and a shield 402. The shield 402 is mounted on the charger 401. It can also be said that the charger 401 is partially enclosed within the shield 402. An interface 409 of the charger 401 for connecting a battery 408 is located within the shield 402. The interface 409 is surrounded on all sides by the charger 401 and the shield 402. The shield 402 is designed as an enclosure 403 containing a flap 404 and a housing part 405. The housing part 405 has no bottom; otherwise, reference is made to the description of the second and third embodiments.

[0113] Fig. 7 shows a section of a charging system 500 of a fifth embodiment of the invention. The charging system 500 has several chargers 501 and a shield 502. The shield 502 is formed as an enclosure 503 in the form of a box. The enclosure 503 has a tray 505 and a lid (not shown). - 20 - 2024ID00239

[0114] Inside the tub 505, several recesses 514 are formed, each for a charger 501. The recesses 514 are each formed as the negative or complementary form of a part of the respective charger 501.

[0115] A charger 501 inserted, plugged, or placed in the respective receptacle 514 is oriented such that an interface 509 of the respective charger 501 is aligned to allow connection to a battery (not shown) inserted into the housing from above. This effect is independent of the number of chargers 501 and / or interfaces 509.

[0116] When the cover is closed, it therefore shields the interfaces 509 from splashing water and the like. Thus, the cover of the enclosure 503 can be spatially changed (pivoted) between two positions: an open position for accessing the interfaces 509 and a closed position to shield the interfaces 509 from splashing water.

[0117] Figure 8 shows an enlarged section of Figure 7. A side wall 515 of the tub 505 is visible. A ventilation opening 513 is provided in the side wall 515. The ventilation opening 513 is designed, for example, as a through-hole through the side wall 515. A ventilation duct 516 connects to an inner surface of the side wall 515. The ventilation duct 516 extends upwards from the ventilation opening 513. It thus reliably protects the interfaces 509 from splashing water that might strike the ventilation opening 513.

[0118] As can be seen in Fig. 8, the (lowest) upper edge of the ventilation duct 516 is more than one ventilation duct width (direction perpendicular to the side wall 515) higher than the (uppermost) upper edge of the ventilation opening 513. This significantly improves the splash-proof effect of the ventilation duct 516. For further details, please refer to the embodiments described above.

[0119] Fig. 9 shows a charging system 600 according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. The charging system 600 has a charger 601 and a shield 602. The charger 601 has several interfaces 609 for connecting individual accumulators (not shown). The shield 602 is designed as an enclosure 603. The enclosure 603 is provided in a box form and has a tray 605 and a lid. The lid is spatially pivotable or foldable, as described above, between a position in which a user can access the interfaces 609 and a position in which the- 21 - 2024ID00239

[0120] Interfaces 609 are protected against splashing water. Note should be drawn to the lateral ventilation openings 613 and the adjoining upward-running ventilation channels 616. For further details, please refer to the embodiments described above.

[0121] Fig. 10 shows a sectional view of parts of a charging system 700 according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. The charging system 700 has a charger 701 and a shield 702. The shield 702 is a box-shaped enclosure 703, and it has a lid (not shown) and a tray 705. In a side wall 715 of the tray 705 is a ventilation opening 713, to which a ventilation duct 716 extends upwards from the ventilation opening 713.

[0122] The charger 701 has a bottom air inlet 717 (a ventilation opening), a fan unit 718, and an air outlet 719 (a ventilation opening) located in the area of ​​an interface 709 for connecting a battery (not shown). The charger 701 is mounted upright next to the side wall 715, rather than lying down, so that the air inlet 717 and air outlet 719 open to the side of the charger 701.

[0123] The charger 701 is arranged in the housing 705 such that the air inlet 717 is aligned with or covers the opening 720 of the ventilation duct 716. In this way, the blower 718 can draw in fresh air for cooling a battery through the ventilation opening 713, the ventilation duct 716 and its opening 720 in the housing 705, and then through the air inlet 717 and discharge it through the air outlet 719. This allows a connected battery to be cooled with ambient fresh air.

[0124] A wall of the opening 720 rests flush against a housing 721 of the charger 701 around its air inlet 717. This creates a seal, ensuring reliable intake of ambient air. For further details, please refer to the embodiments described above.

[0125] Finally, Fig. 11 shows a charging system 800 of an eighth embodiment. The charging system 800 has a charger and a shield 802, which is designed as a box-shaped enclosure 803 containing a lid 804 and a tray 805. A control unit (not shown) and a temperature control unit (not shown) controlled by the control unit are housed in the lid 804. The temperature control unit is based, for example, on at least one Peltier element to cool and / or maintain the interior of the enclosure 803.

[0126] To enable heating without requiring an opening in the housing 803 that cannot be tightly closed. The control unit reads the charger's charge level and displays it on an external display 822, so that the housing does not need to be opened to check the charge level. The charging system 800 also has a connection cable 810 for connecting to a power supply. For further details, please refer to the embodiments described above.

[0127] Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it can be modified in many ways. - 23 - 20241 D00239

[0128] REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0129] 100 charging system

[0130] 101 charger

[0131] 102 Shielding

[0132] 103 Cuff

[0133] 104 Ring

[0134] 105 bell

[0135] 106 lower forehead

[0136] 107 upper forehead

[0137] 108 Accumulator

[0138] 109 Interface

[0139] 200 charging system

[0140] 201 charger

[0141] 202 Shielding

[0142] 203 Enclosure

[0143] 204 flap

[0144] 205 Housing part

[0145] 208 Accumulator

[0146] 209 Interface

[0147] 210 power cables

[0148] 211 Cable section outside the enclosure 212 Cable section inside the enclosure 213 Ventilation opening

[0149] 300 charging system

[0150] 301 charger

[0151] 302 Shielding

[0152] 303 Enclosure

[0153] 304 flap

[0154] 305 Housing part- 24 - 20241 D00239

[0155] 400 charging system

[0156] 401 charger

[0157] 402 Shielding

[0158] 403 Enclosure

[0159] 404 flap

[0160] 405 Housing part

[0161] 408 Accumulator

[0162] 409 Interface

[0163] 500 charging system

[0164] 501 charger

[0165] 502 Shielding

[0166] 503 Enclosure

[0167] 505 bathtub

[0168] 513 Ventilation opening

[0169] 514 Charger mount 515 Side panel

[0170] 516 Ventilation duct

[0171] 600 charging system

[0172] 601 charger

[0173] 602 Shielding

[0174] 603 Enclosure

[0175] 605 tub

[0176] 609 Interface

[0177] 613 Ventilation opening

[0178] 616 Ventilation duct

[0179] 700 charging system

[0180] 701 charger

[0181] 702 Shielding

[0182] 703 Enclosure- 25 - 20241 D00239

[0183] 705 bathtub

[0184] 709 Interface

[0185] 713 Ventilation opening 715 Side wall

[0186] 716 Ventilation opening 717 Air inlet

[0187] 718 Blower unit 719 Air outlet

[0188] 720 Mouth

[0189] 721 Housing

[0190] 800 charging system

[0191] 802 Shielding 803 Enclosure

[0192] 804 lids

[0193] 805 bathtub

[0194] 810 Connection cable 822 Display

Claims

- 26 - 2024ID00239 PATENT CLAIMS 1. Charging system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) for charging at least one accumulator (108, 208, 408) for a mobile machine tool, in particular a portable machine tool, comprising: a charger (101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701) that has at least one interface (109, 209, 409, 609, 709) that is set up for coupling an accumulator (108, 208, 408) and for electrically charging an accumulator (108, 208, 408) coupled to it, and a spatially variable shield (102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802) between at least two layers, wherein in one layer the shield (102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802) exposes the interface (109, 209, 409, 609, 709) for coupling an accumulator (108, 208, 408) and in another layer the shield (102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802) is configured to allow the interface (109, 209, 409, 609, 709) to be in at least a coupled state in which a The accumulator (108, 208, 408) is coupled to the interface (109, 209, 409, 609, 709) and is to be shielded on all sides against splashing water.

2. Charging system (100) according to claim 1, which has as the shielding (102) an elastic cuff (103) which can be clamped elastically sealingly between the charger (101) and an accumulator (109) coupled to the interface (109).

3. Charging system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the interface (109) has at least one ventilation opening which is prepared for ventilating an internal volume of an accumulator (108) equipped with a corresponding ventilation opening, and wherein the cuff (103) also encloses these ventilation openings.

4. Charging system (200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which has as the shield (202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802) an enclosure (203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803), wherein the enclosure (203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803) has a flap (204, 304, 404, 804), wherein the enclosure (203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803) is configured to allow, when the flap is closed, (204, 304, 404, 804) to enclose the interface (209, 409, 609, 709) together with an accumulator (208, 408) coupled to the interface (209, 409, 609, 709) in a splash-proof manner, and wherein the flap (204, 304, 404, 804) to- 27 - 2024ID00239 Coupling an accumulator (208, 408) to the interface (209, 409, 609, 709) is possible.

5. Charging system (200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) according to claim 4, wherein the charger (201, 401, 501, 601, 701) can be operated without the housing (203, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803) for charging a connected accumulator (208, 408).

6. Charging system (400) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the housing (403) is attached or attachable to the charger (401), preferably without tools.

7. Charging system (200, 300, 500, 600, 700, 800) according to one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the housing (203, 303, 503, 603, 703, 803) surrounds the charger (201, 301, 501, 601, 701), and a) the housing (203, 303, 503, 603, 703, 803) has a splash-proof cable entry for a power cable (210, 810) of the charger, or b) the charger (201, 301, 501, 601, 701) has a plug profile for connecting a power cable (210, 810), the housing (203, 303, 503, 603, 703, 803) has on the outside a plug profile identical to the charger (201, 301, 501, 601, 701) and thus electrically connected on the inside a plug profile complementary to the charger (201, 301, 501, 601, 701).

8. Charging system (200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) according to one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the flap (204, 304, 404, 804) is lockable.

9. Charging system (200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the enclosure (203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803) has a heat exchanger for transferring heat energy between an air inside the enclosure (203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803) and an air outside the enclosure (203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803).

10. Charging system (200, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the housing (203, 503, 603, 703) has at least one splash-proof ventilation opening (213, 513, 613, 713), wherein preferably a ventilation duct (516, 616, 716) extends upwards from the ventilation opening (513, 613, 713) in an operating position. - 28 - 2024ID00239 11. Charging system (700) according to claim 10, wherein at least two ventilation openings (713) are provided in the housing (703), and wherein at least one of the ventilation openings (713) is connected in series with a blower device (718).

12. Charging system (700) according to claim 11, wherein the blower device (718) is configured to be connected in series with a ventilation duct of an accumulator if the accumulator is coupled to the interface (709).

13. Charging system (700) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the charger (701) includes the or a blower device (718), and wherein the interface (709) has at least one ventilation opening (719) connected in series with this blower device (718), which is prepared for ventilating an internal volume of an accumulator equipped with a corresponding ventilation opening.

14. Charging system according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a coupling means for electrically coupling a further charging system.

15. Charging system (800) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a control unit configured in at least one of the following ways: for outputting an indicator for the charge level of a battery connected to the charger for charging and / or an indicator for the current consumption of the charging system at an output means (822), wherein the output means is preferably located on the control unit, on an outer surface of the housing (803) and / or on an end device connected or connectable by means of a communication device, and / or wherein the output is a light signal, a sound signal and / or a haptic signal, for controlling the charging of a battery connected to the charger, preferably depending on an outside temperature, an inside temperature of the housing and / or a temperature of this battery, for controlling a sequence of charging several batteries connected to the charger and / or one of the chargers and / or a charger of an electrically connected further charging system depending on an outside temperature,an internal temperature of the enclosure or internal temperatures of the enclosures, temperatures of the accumulators, an available quantity of electrical energy or energy convertible into electrical energy, and / or for monitoring an internal temperature of the enclosure and / or an internal temperature of an enclosure of an electrically coupled further2024ID00239, charging system and / or a temperature of one or each accumulator coupled to the charger and to issue a warning signal depending on a comparison of the respective monitored temperature or temperatures and / or its course or courses with a threshold value designed to prevent exceeding a maximum charging temperature and / or a maximum storage temperature.

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