CN113395895B

CN113395895B - Autonomous working tool

Info

Publication number: CN113395895B
Application number: CN202080011764.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: G·B·阿姆斯特朗; L·米特罗
Original assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
Current assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date: 2019-01-30
Filing date: 2020-01-20
Publication date: 2023-10-31
Anticipated expiration: 2040-01-20
Also published as: EP3917305A1; CN113395895A; DE102019201143A1; WO2020156851A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an autonomous working implement, in particular a mowing robot, comprising at least one housing unit (12) and comprising at least one coupling unit (14), in particular a push-button-free coupling unit, which is arranged on the housing unit (12), in particular at least partially within the housing unit, for mechanically and/or electrically coupling with at least one energy storage unit (16), in particular a battery pack. According to the invention, the coupling unit (14), in particular at least one coupling receptacle (18) of the coupling unit (14), is mounted on the housing unit (12) so as to be movable, in particular pivotable, at least between a receiving position and a blocking position.

Description

Autonomous working tool

Background

An autonomous working implement, in particular a mowing robot, has been proposed, which has at least one housing unit and has at least one coupling unit, in particular a push-button-free coupling unit, which is arranged on the housing unit, in particular at least partially in the housing unit, for mechanical and/or electrical coupling with at least one energy storage unit, in particular a battery pack.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention relates to an autonomous working implement, in particular a mowing robot, having at least one housing unit and having at least one coupling unit, in particular a push button-free coupling unit, which is arranged on the housing unit, in particular at least partially in the housing unit, for mechanically and/or electrically coupling with at least one energy storage unit, in particular a battery pack.

The invention proposes that the coupling unit, in particular at least one coupling receptacle of the coupling unit, is mounted on the housing unit so as to be movable, in particular pivotable, at least between a receiving position and a blocking position (staupposition).

The invention proposes that the coupling unit and the energy storage unit mechanically and/or electrically coupled thereto be mounted on the housing unit in a movable, in particular pivotable manner between a receiving position and a blocking position. In the mechanically and/or electrically coupled state of the energy storage unit and the coupling unit, the two units are thus configured to be jointly movable, in particular pivotable, movable, displaceable, etc., relative to the housing unit. In this state, they are mounted on the housing unit so as to be movable between a receiving position and a blocking position.

Autonomous working implements are provided in particular for autonomous advancement, in particular on the ground. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the autonomous working implement to be configured as a suction robot, a lawn mowing robot, a floor cleaning robot, a snow removing robot, a cleaning robot, a work drone or another autonomous working implement which would seem to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the autonomous working implement is arranged for handling the ground during advancement over the ground. Autonomous working implements are provided in particular for trimming floors constructed as lawns, for sucking and/or sweeping floors constructed as floors, etc. Preferably, the autonomous working implement comprises at least one ground handling unit, in particular a cutting unit or a trimming unit, for handling the ground. Preferably, the ground handling unit is arranged on the underside of the housing unit of the autonomous working implement that faces the ground in the normal operating state of the autonomous working implement. Preferably, the autonomous working implement comprises at least one drive unit, in particular a drive unit with at least one electric motor, which drive unit is provided for driving at least one drive wheel unit of the autonomous working implement for advancing on the ground. Preferably, the autonomous working device has further components that can be operated with electrical energy, for example a control and/or regulating unit for controlling and/or regulating the drive unit. A "control and/or regulation unit" is understood to mean in particular a unit having at least one control electronics. "control electronics" is understood to mean, in particular, a unit having a processor unit and a memory unit, and having an operating program stored in the memory unit. "arranged" is to be understood in particular as specially programmed, specially designed and/or specially equipped. "object is provided as a function for determination" is understood to mean in particular: the object fulfills and/or performs the determined function in at least one application state and/or operating state.

The energy storage unit is preferably arranged for storing and providing electrical energy. Preferably, the energy storage unit is provided for supplying electrical energy to components of the autonomous working device that can be operated with electrical energy, in particular the drive unit and the control and/or regulation unit. Preferably, the energy storage cells are designed as batteries, in particular lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, etc. The energy storage unit is preferably suitable for use in a further tool, in particular a power tool, which is configured differently from the autonomous working tool. The coupling unit is preferably provided for arranging the energy storage unit on the housing unit, in particular at least partially received therein. In particular, the coupling unit may be provided for arranging a plurality of energy storage units on the housing unit, in particular at least partially received therein. Preferably, the coupling unit is constructed without an actuating button, in particular without a push button. The coupling unit is preferably provided for electrically connecting the electrically coupled energy storage unit to an electrically operable component of the autonomous working device, in particular by means of an electrical line element, for example a cable, a wire, a contact or the like. Preferably, the coupling unit, in particular the coupling receptacle, is provided for detachable mechanical and/or electrical coupling with the energy storage unit, in particular for enabling replacement of the energy storage unit, for example as a function of the charge state of the energy storage unit or as a function of the end of life of the energy storage unit.

The coupling receptacle is preferably provided for the force-locking and/or form-locking reception of the energy storage unit. Preferably, the coupling receptacle is configured as a coupling rail into which the energy storage unit can be pushed, in particular at least in sections. The coupling receptacle has, in particular, a guide surface for positioning the energy storage unit. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the coupling receptacle to be configured to receive a shaft (aufnaheschacht), a plug-in position, etc. The coupling receptacle is preferably supported on the housing unit pivotably about a pivot axis. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the coupling receptacle to be mounted movably, in particular linearly, or movably on the housing unit in other ways which would seem expedient to a person skilled in the art. The receiving position and the blocking position of the coupling receptacle preferably correspond to two different maximum deflections of the coupling receptacle along a movement curve passed by the coupling receptacle during a pivoting process. Preferably, the orientation of the coupling receptacle in the receiving position relative to the housing unit differs from the orientation of the coupling receptacle in the blocking position relative to the housing unit. In particular, the coupling receptacle is provided in the receiving position for coupling to or decoupling from the energy storage unit. In particular, in the receiving position of the coupling receptacle, the energy storage unit can be inserted, in particular pushed into the coupling receptacle or removed from the coupling receptacle by an operator of the autonomous working device. Preferably, the coupling receptacle, in particular the energy storage unit coupled to the coupling receptacle, extends at least in sections outside the housing unit in the receiving position. In particular, the coupling receptacle is provided in the blocking position for at least substantially fixedly fastening the energy storage unit to the housing unit. Preferably, the coupling receptacle is coupled with the energy storage unit in the blocking position. In particular, in the blocking position of the coupling receptacle, the energy storage unit cannot be inserted, in particular pushed into the coupling receptacle, or removed from the coupling receptacle, in particular by an operator of the autonomous working device. In particular, the coupling receptacle is arranged at least partially within the housing unit at least in the blocking position. Preferably, the coupling receptacle, in particular the energy storage unit coupled to the coupling receptacle, extends at least substantially completely within the housing unit in the blocking position.

By means of the configuration according to the invention of the autonomous working apparatus, it is advantageously possible to provide an autonomous working apparatus with a coupling unit that can be operated simply and intuitively. Advantageously, the energy storage unit can be replaced comfortably during operation of the autonomous working device while reliably receiving the energy storage unit at the same time. The present invention may provide an autonomous working implement that is advantageously operator friendly.

It is furthermore proposed that the coupling unit, in particular the coupling receptacle, is designed to be lockable in the receiving position and in the blocking position, in particular by: the coupling unit has at least one latching element, which is arranged in particular on the coupling receptacle and is provided for interaction with a counter latching element arranged on the housing unit. Preferably, the latching element is provided for interacting, in particular latching or unlocking, with a counterpart latching element in response to a pressure, in particular exerted by an operator, on the coupling receptacle. The coupling unit may preferably have a plurality of latching elements. In particular, the coupling unit is configured to be bistable in the receiving position and in the blocking position. In particular, the pivoting mechanism of the coupling unit can be mounted in a sprung manner, in particular for auxiliary locking. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the latching element and the counter latching element to be formed as a lockable, in particular lockable, pivot mechanism of the coupling unit. For example, the coupling unit, in particular the coupling receptacle, can be designed to be lockable in the blocking position by the interaction of the locking element with the counter locking element and in the receiving position by a locking, in particular a locking, of the pivot mechanism of the coupling unit. Advantageously, the coupling unit, in particular the coupling receptacle, can be fixed in the receiving position and in the blocking position. Advantageously, a reliable and comfortable operation of the coupling unit can be achieved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the coupling unit is provided for providing at least one acoustic feedback and/or haptic feedback to the operator in dependence of the locking, in particular in the blocking position. The acoustic feedback may in particular be configured as sound, for example as a click, etc. Preferably, the latching of the coupling unit, in particular of the latching element with the counterpart latching element, produces a sound which can be heard by an operator actuating the coupling unit. The haptic feedback can be configured in particular as a vibration, in particular as a vibration of the coupling receptacle. Preferably, an operator actuating the coupling receptacle can feel the vibration of the coupling receptacle in a tactile manner as a function of the latching of the coupling unit, in particular of the latching element and the counter latching element. Advantageously, feedback on the state of the coupling unit can be provided comfortably for the operator.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the coupling unit has at least one closing element which is provided for closing at least one opening delimited by the housing unit, in which opening the coupling receptacle of the coupling unit, in particular the coupling rail, is arranged. Preferably, the opening has a size, in particular a diameter, through which the energy storage unit can pass. Preferably, the closing element is provided for completely covering the energy storage unit coupled to the coupling receptacle in the state of being arranged on the opening. In particular, the closing element is provided for closing the opening when the coupling receptacle is in the blocking position. Preferably, the closing element is configured as a closing cap. The closing element is preferably composed of the same material as the housing unit, in particular of plastic. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the closure element to be composed of a composite material, of a metal or of another material which would seem to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. In particular, the closing element is shaped at least substantially like the opening, in particular such that, in the state of being arranged on the opening, the closing element rests flush against the housing unit, in particular ends flush with the outside of the housing unit, in particular the underside of the housing unit. The closing element can be fastened to the housing unit by means of at least one fastening element, preferably by means of a plurality of fastening elements, in particular screws. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the closing element can be fastened to the housing unit without tools, for example by means of a latching element arranged on the closing element. The closing element is preferably formed separately from the coupling receptacle, in particular can be fastened to the housing unit independently of the coupling receptacle. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the closure element to be arranged on the coupling receptacle, in particular to be constructed in one piece with the coupling receptacle, and to be provided for closing the opening in accordance with a pivoting movement of the coupling receptacle, in particular into the blocking position. "one-piece" is to be understood in particular as being formed as one piece. Preferably, the whole is produced from a single blank, mass and/or cast part, particularly preferably by injection molding, in particular by single-component and/or multicomponent injection molding. Advantageously, an operator-friendly attachable and detachable covering of the opening, in particular of the energy storage unit arranged in the opening, can be achieved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the coupling unit has at least one sealing element arranged circumferentially on the closing element, which sealing element is provided for sealing the opening at least substantially in a fluid-tight, in particular watertight and/or dustproof, manner. Preferably, the sealing element is connected to the closing element in a material-locking manner. In particular, the sealing element is vulcanized cured, sprayed, cast or the like onto the closure element. Preferably, the sealing element extends along at least substantially the complete maximum perimeter of the closure element. In particular, the sealing element is arranged on the side of the closing element which faces the coupling receptacle in the state in which the closing element is arranged on the opening. In particular, the sealing element is designed as a sealing lip. Preferably, the sealing element is composed of an at least substantially fluid-tight and/or dust-proof material. Preferably, the sealing element is composed of a material which is compressible under the pressure exerted on the closure element, in particular by the fastening element. In particular, the sealing element is composed of a particularly compact foam material, of rubber or of another material which appears to be of interest to the person skilled in the art. In particular, the sealing element forms a seal for the opening in the state in which the opening is closed by the closing element at least in accordance with protection type IP66 according to standard DIN EN 60529, preferably at least in accordance with protection type IP67 according to standard DIN EN 60529 and particularly preferably at least in accordance with protection type IP68 according to standard DIN EN 60529. Advantageously, an autonomous working implement with a coupling unit that can be operated comfortably while being reliably sealed against fluids, in particular water and/or dust, can be provided.

It is furthermore proposed that the opening is delimited by a lower side of the housing unit, on which lower side at least one cutting unit is arranged. Preferably, the opening is arranged in the vicinity of the cutting unit of the autonomous working implement. The cutting unit is preferably configured as a mowing tool. The term "region in the vicinity of the cutting unit" is understood to mean, in particular, a region having a maximum distance from the cutting unit of at most 15cm, preferably at most 10cm, and particularly preferably at most 5 cm. Preferably, at least one cutting blade of the cutting unit, in particular all cutting blades of the cutting unit, is pivotally supported, in particular in order to achieve accessibility of the opening. Preferably, the opening, in particular the coupling unit, is arranged between at least two wheels, in particular support wheels, of the autonomous working implement. Preferably, an opening, in particular a coupling unit, is arranged between the two wheels, in particular the support wheel, and the cutting unit. Preferably, the sealing element is provided for sealing the opening against dirt, in particular cuttings, lifted during a mowing process of the autonomous working implement. Advantageously, a comfortably accessible coupling unit may be provided.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the coupling unit has at least one electrical contact unit, in particular arranged on a coupling receptacle of the coupling unit, for electrical coupling with the energy storage unit. Preferably, the electrical contact unit has at least one contact element fastened to the coupling receptacle, which is provided for electrical coupling with the energy storage unit, in particular with at least one counter contact element of the energy storage unit. In particular, the electrical contact unit has at least one contact element, preferably at least two contact elements, particularly preferably at least three contact elements and very particularly preferably at least four contact elements. Preferably, the electrical contact unit comprises an electrical conductor element, such as a cable harness. In particular, the electrical contact unit is provided for electrically connecting the energy storage unit, in particular via the contact element and the electrical conductor element, to the components of the autonomous working device that can be operated with electrical energy, in particular to the drive unit and to the control and/or regulation unit. Preferably, the contact element is arranged on an end face of the coupling receptacle, against which end face the energy storage unit rests in the coupled state with the coupling receptacle. Advantageously, an operator-friendly automatic electrical coupling can be achieved by pushing the energy storage unit into the coupling receptacle.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the coupling unit has at least one further latching element, in particular arranged on the coupling receptacle of the coupling unit, for latching with the energy storage unit. Preferably, the further latching element is formed in one piece with the coupling receptacle. Preferably, the further latching element is arranged on the end of the coupling receptacle facing away from the end face of the coupling receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for at least a part of the contact element to be formed as a further latching element. The further latching element is provided in particular for mechanically fastening the energy storage unit to the coupling receptacle. Preferably, the further latching element is provided for automatically latching with the energy storage unit, in particular with at least one counterpart latching element of the energy storage unit, as a result of the pushing of the energy storage unit into the coupling receptacle. Preferably, the further latching element is provided for releasable latching with the energy storage unit. Advantageously, a reliable fixing of the energy storage unit on the coupling receptacle can be achieved.

The invention further relates to a system having at least one autonomous working device, in particular an autonomous working device according to the invention, and having at least one energy storage unit (in particular a battery), in particular the energy storage unit described above.

The invention proposes that the energy storage unit has at least one unlocking element which can be actuated for releasing a latching connection of the energy storage unit to at least one coupling unit of the autonomous working device. The unlocking element can preferably be actuated for releasing the latching connection of the energy storage unit, in particular of a counterpart latching element of the energy storage unit, with a further latching element of the coupling unit. In particular, the unlocking element can be manipulated by an operator of the autonomous working implement. Preferably, the unlocking element can be actuated when the energy storage unit is coupled to the coupling receptacle when the coupling receptacle is in the receiving position. In particular, when the coupling receptacle is in the blocking position, the unlocking element is at least partially covered by the housing unit in the coupled state of the energy storage unit and the coupling receptacle. The unlocking element is preferably configured as a push-button switch. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the unlocking element to be configured as a rotary switch, a slide switch, a flip switch or another unlocking element which would seem to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. Advantageously, a comfortable removal of the energy storage unit from the coupling unit can be achieved. Advantageously, an operator friendly system of autonomous working implements and energy storage units may be provided.

The invention further relates to a method for operating the system according to the invention, in particular for mounting an energy storage unit, in particular the aforementioned energy storage unit, on an autonomous working device, in particular the aforementioned autonomous working device.

The invention proposes that, in at least one method step, at least one coupling unit of the autonomous working tool, which is coupled to the energy storage unit, is pivoted from the receiving position into the blocking position and locked in the blocking position. Preferably, the coupling unit is coupled to the energy storage unit by inserting, in particular pushing, the energy storage unit into a coupling receptacle of the coupling unit. In particular, the coupling unit, in particular the coupling receptacle, is pivoted from the receiving position into the blocking position by an operator of the autonomous working device, in particular by applying pressure to an energy storage unit coupled to the coupling unit, and is locked in the blocking position. Preferably, the coupling unit, in particular the coupling receptacle, is locked in the blocking position by the interaction of the latching element of the coupling unit with a counter latching element of the housing unit, in particular by the latching of the latching element with the counter latching element. Preferably, the coupling unit provides acoustic feedback and/or haptic feedback as a function of the locking of the coupling unit, in particular of the coupling receptacle. Advantageously, the energy storage unit can be mounted on the autonomous working tool in an operator-friendly manner.

Here, the autonomous working apparatus according to the invention, the system according to the invention and/or the method according to the invention should not be limited to the above-described applications and embodiments. In particular, the autonomous working tool according to the invention, the system according to the invention and/or the method according to the invention may have a number deviating from the number of individual elements, components and units and method steps described here in order to achieve the working mode described here. Furthermore, within the value ranges given in the present disclosure, values lying within the mentioned limit values should also be regarded as being disclosed and can be used arbitrarily.

Drawings

Further advantages result from the following description of the drawings. Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The drawings, description and claims contain features of multiple combinations. Those skilled in the art can also expediently consider the features individually and summarize them into other combinations of interest.

The drawings show:

figure 1 is a perspective view of an autonomous working implement according to the present invention,

fig. 2 has a perspective view of the inventive system of autonomous working implements according to the invention shown in fig. 1, with the coupling receptacle in the arresting position,

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the system of fig. 2, with the coupling receptacle in a receiving position,

fig. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the autonomous working apparatus according to the present invention shown in fig. 1, with the coupling receptacle in a receiving position,

figure 5 is a perspective view of a coupling receptacle of the autonomous working implement according to the present invention shown in figure 1,

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an autonomous working implement according to the present invention shown in FIG. 1, an

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a closure element of the autonomous working apparatus according to the present invention shown in fig. 1.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows an autonomous working implement 10, in particular a mowing robot, in a perspective view. Autonomous working device 10 comprises at least one housing unit 12 and at least one, in particular button-free, coupling unit 14 arranged on housing unit 12, in particular at least partially within housing unit 12, for mechanically and/or electrically coupling with at least one energy storage unit 16, in particular a battery pack (see fig. 4). The autonomous working apparatus 10 is provided in particular for autonomous advance, in particular on the ground. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the autonomous working implement 10 to be configured as a suction robot, a lawn mowing robot, a floor sweeping robot, a snow removing robot, a cleaning robot, a work drone or another autonomous working implement 10 which would seem to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the autonomous working apparatus 10 is provided for treating the ground (not further shown here) during advancement over the ground. The autonomous working apparatus 10 is provided in particular for trimming floors constructed as lawns, sucking and/or sweeping floors constructed as floors, etc. Preferably, the autonomous working apparatus 10 comprises at least one ground handling unit, in particular a cutting unit 34 or a trimming unit (see fig. 6), for the purpose of handling the ground. The floor treatment unit is preferably arranged on the underside 32 of the housing unit 12 of the autonomous working tool 10 which faces the floor in the normal operating state of the autonomous working tool 10. Preferably, the autonomous working apparatus 10 comprises at least one drive unit 44, in particular a drive unit with at least one electric motor, which drive unit is provided for driving at least one drive wheel unit 46 of the autonomous working apparatus 10 for advancing on the ground. Preferably, the autonomous working device 10 has further components that can be operated with electrical energy, for example a control and/or regulating unit 48 for controlling and/or regulating the drive unit 44.

Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a system 40 having at least one autonomous working device, in particular the autonomous working device 10 of fig. 1, and having at least one energy storage unit 16, in particular a battery pack. Preferably, the coupling unit 14, in particular at least one coupling receptacle 18 of the coupling unit 14, is mounted on the housing unit 12 in a movable, in particular pivotable manner, at least between a receiving position and a blocking position (see fig. 4). In the state shown in fig. 2, the coupling receptacle 18 is in the arresting position. The coupling unit 14 is mounted on the housing unit 12 in a movable, in particular pivotable manner, between a receiving position and a blocking position with the energy storage unit 16 mechanically and/or electrically coupled thereto (see fig. 2 and 3). In the mechanically and/or electrically coupled state of the energy storage unit 16 and the coupling unit 14, the two units are thus jointly movably, in particular pivotably mounted or mounted relative to the housing unit 12. They are mounted on the housing unit 12 so as to be movable between a receiving position and a blocking position.

The energy storage unit 16 is preferably arranged for storing and providing electrical energy. Preferably, the energy storage unit 16 is provided for supplying electrical energy to components of the autonomous working tool 10 that can be operated with electrical energy, in particular the drive unit 44 and the control and/or regulation unit 48. The energy storage unit 16 is preferably designed as a battery, in particular a lithium ion battery, a lithium polymer battery, a nickel cadmium battery or the like. Preferably, the energy storage unit 16 is suitable for use in a further tool, in particular a power tool, which is configured differently from the autonomous working tool 10. The coupling unit 14 is preferably provided for arranging the energy storage unit 16 on the housing unit 12, in particular at least partially received in the housing unit 12. The coupling unit 14 may in particular be provided for arranging a plurality of energy storage units 16 on the housing unit 12, in particular at least partially received therein. In the present exemplary embodiment, the coupling unit 14 is provided, for example, for arranging the individual energy storage units 16 on the housing unit 12, in particular at least partially received in the housing unit 12. Preferably, the coupling unit 14 is constructed without a manipulation knob, in particular without a push button. The coupling unit 14 is preferably provided for electrically connecting the electrically coupled energy storage unit 16 to components of the autonomous working device 10 that can be operated with electrical energy, in particular by means of electrical line elements, for example cables, wires, contacts, etc. (not shown further here). Preferably, the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling receptacle 18, is provided for detachable mechanical and/or electrical coupling with the energy storage unit 16, in particular for enabling replacement of the energy storage unit 16, for example, as a function of the charge state of the energy storage unit 16 or as a function of the end of the life of the energy storage unit 16.

Fig. 3 shows the system 40 of fig. 2 in a perspective view with the coupling receptacle 18 in the receiving position. Preferably, the energy storage unit 16 has at least one unlocking element 42 which can be actuated for releasing the latching connection of the energy storage unit 16 to at least one coupling unit of the autonomous working device 10, in particular to the aforementioned coupling unit 14. Preferably, the unlocking element 42 can be actuated for releasing the latching connection of the energy storage unit 16, in particular of at least one mating latching element of the energy storage unit 16, with at least one further latching element 38 of the coupling unit 14 (see fig. 4). Unlocking element 42 is particularly capable of being manipulated by an operator of autonomous working tool 10. Preferably, the unlocking element 42 can be actuated when the energy storage unit 16 is coupled to the coupling receptacle 18 when the coupling receptacle 18 is in the receiving position. In particular, when the coupling receptacle 18 is in the blocking position, the unlocking element 42 is at least partially covered by the housing unit 12 (see fig. 2) in the coupled state of the energy storage unit 16 and the coupling receptacle 18. Unlocking element 42 is preferably configured as a push-button switch. Alternatively, it is conceivable for unlocking element 42 to be configured as a rotary switch, a slide switch, a flip switch or another unlocking element which would seem to be of interest to a person skilled in the art.

Fig. 4 shows a portion of the autonomous working tool 10 of fig. 1 in a perspective view, with the coupling receptacle 18 in the receiving position. The coupling receiver 18 is shown in a decoupled state from the energy storage unit 16. The coupling receptacle 18 is preferably provided for the force-locking and/or form-locking reception of the energy storage unit 16. The coupling receptacle 18 is preferably designed as a coupling rail into which the energy storage unit 16 can be pushed, in particular, at least in sections. The coupling receptacle 18 has, in particular, a guide surface 50 for positioning the energy storage unit 16. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the coupling receptacle 18 to be configured to receive a shaft, a plug-in position, etc. The coupling receptacle 18 is preferably pivotally supported on the housing unit 12 about a pivot axis 52. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the coupling receptacle 18 to be mounted on the housing unit 12 in a movable, in particular linearly movable, or in other ways which would seem expedient to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the receiving position and the blocking position of the coupling reception 18 correspond to two different maximum deflections of the coupling reception 18 along a movement curve passed by the coupling reception 18 during a pivoting process. Preferably, the orientation of the coupling receptacle 18 in the receiving position relative to the housing unit 12 is different from the orientation of the coupling receptacle 18 in the blocking position relative to the housing unit 12. In particular, the coupling receptacle 18 is provided in the receiving position for coupling to or decoupling from the energy storage unit 16. In particular, in the receiving position of the coupling receptacle 18, the energy storage unit 16 can be inserted, in particular pushed, into the coupling receptacle 18 by an operator of the autonomous working device 10, or removed from the coupling receptacle 18. Preferably, the coupling receptacle 18, in particular the energy storage unit 16 coupled to the coupling receptacle 18, extends at least in sections outside the housing unit 12 in the receiving position (see fig. 3). In particular, the coupling receptacle 18 is provided in the blocking position for at least substantially fixedly fastening the energy storage unit 16 to the housing unit 12. Preferably, the coupling receptacle 18 is coupled with the energy storage unit 16 in the arresting position. In particular, in the blocking position of the coupling receptacle 18, the energy storage unit 16 cannot be inserted, in particular pushed, into the coupling receptacle 18 by an operator of the autonomous working device 10, or removed from the coupling receptacle 18. In particular, the coupling receptacle 18 is at least partially arranged within the housing unit 12 at least in the blocking position. Preferably, the coupling receptacle 18, in particular the energy storage unit 16 coupled to the coupling receptacle 18, extends at least substantially completely within the housing unit 12 in the blocking position (see fig. 2).

Preferably, the coupling unit 14 has at least one electrical contact unit 36, which is arranged in particular on the coupling receptacle 18 of the coupling unit 14, for electrical coupling with the energy storage unit 16. Preferably, the electrical contact unit 36 has at least one contact element 54, which is fastened to the coupling receptacle 18 and is provided for electrical coupling with the energy storage unit 16, in particular with at least one counter contact element of the energy storage unit 16. In particular, the electrical contact unit 36 has at least one contact element 54, preferably at least two contact elements 54, particularly preferably at least three contact elements 54 and very particularly preferably at least four contact elements 54. In the present exemplary embodiment, the electrical contact unit 36 has, for example, four contact elements 54. Preferably, the electrical contact unit 36 comprises an electrical lead element, such as a cable bundle (not shown here). In particular, the electrical contact unit 36 is provided for electrically connecting the energy storage unit 16, in particular via the contact element 54 and the electrical conductor element, to the components of the autonomous working device 10 that can be operated with electrical energy, in particular to the drive unit 44 and to the control and/or regulation unit 48. Preferably, the contact element 54 is arranged on an end face 56 of the coupling receptacle 18, against which end face the energy storage unit 16 rests in the coupled state with the coupling receptacle 18.

Preferably, the coupling unit 14 has at least one further latching element 38, which is arranged in particular on the coupling receptacle 18 of the coupling unit 14, for latching with the energy storage unit 16. Preferably, the further latching element 38 is formed in one piece with the coupling receptacle 18. Preferably, the further latching element 38 is arranged at the end of the coupling receptacle 18 facing away from the end face 56 of the coupling receptacle 18. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for at least a part of the contact element 54 to be formed as a further latching element 38. The further latching element 38 is provided in particular for mechanically fastening the energy storage unit 16 to the coupling receptacle 18. Preferably, the further latching element 38 is provided for automatically latching with the energy storage unit 16, in particular with at least one counterpart latching element of the energy storage unit 16, as a result of the pushing of the energy storage unit 16 into the coupling receptacle 18.

Fig. 5 illustrates in perspective view the coupling receptacle 18 of the autonomous working tool 10 of fig. 1. Preferably, the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling receptacle 18, is configured to lock in the receiving position and in the blocking position, in particular by: the coupling unit 14 has at least one latching element 20, 22, which is arranged in particular on the coupling receptacle 18 and is provided for interaction with a counter latching element 24 arranged on the housing unit 12. In the present exemplary embodiment, coupling unit 14 has, for example, two latching elements 20 which are provided for co-acting with mating latching elements 24 arranged on housing unit 12 in the blocking position of coupling receptacle 18. The counter latching element 24 is embodied in this exemplary embodiment as a recess in the housing unit 12 (see fig. 4). In the present exemplary embodiment, coupling unit 14 has, for example, two additional latching elements 22 which are provided for co-operation with at least one additional counter latching element (not shown here) arranged on housing unit 12 in the receiving position of counter-receptacle 18. Preferably, the latching elements 20, 22 are provided for co-acting, in particular latching or unlocking, with the counter latching element 24, in particular as a function of a pressure force exerted on the coupling receptacle 18, in particular by an operator. In particular, the coupling unit 14 is configured to be able to be locked bistable in the receiving position and in the blocking position. In particular, the pivot mechanism 58 of the coupling unit 14 can be mounted in a sprung manner, in particular for auxiliary locking. Alternatively or additionally to latching elements 20, 22 and counter latching element 24, it is conceivable for pivot mechanism 58 of coupling unit 14 to be embodied as lockable, in particular lockable. For example, the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling receptacle 18, can be designed to be lockable in the blocking position by the interaction of the locking element 20 with the counter locking element 24 and in the receiving position by the locking, in particular the locking, of the pivot mechanism 58 of the coupling unit 14.

Preferably, the coupling unit 14 is arranged for providing at least one acoustic feedback and/or tactile feedback to the operator in dependence of the locking, in particular in the arresting position. The acoustic feedback may in particular be configured as sound, for example as a click sound, etc. Preferably, the latching of coupling unit 14, in particular latching elements 20, 22, with counter latching element 24 produces a sound that can be heard by an operator operating coupling unit 14. The haptic feedback can be configured in particular as a vibration, in particular as a vibration of the coupling receptacle 18. Preferably, an operator operating the coupling receptacle 18 can feel the vibrations of the coupling receptacle 18 in a tactile manner as a function of the latching of the coupling unit 14, in particular of the latching elements 20, 22, with the counter latching element 24.

Fig. 6 schematically illustrates the autonomous working implement 10 of fig. 1. The underside 32 of the housing unit 12 of the autonomous working tool 10 is shown. Preferably, the coupling unit 14 has at least one closing element 26, which is provided for closing at least one opening 28 delimited by the housing unit 12, in which opening the coupling receptacle 18 of the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling rail, is arranged. Preferably, the opening 28 has a size, in particular a diameter, that enables the energy storage unit 16 to pass through (see fig. 3). Preferably, the closing element 26 is provided for completely covering the energy storage unit 16 coupled to the coupling receptacle 18 in the state of being arranged on the opening 28. In particular, the closing element 26 is provided for closing the opening 28 when the coupling receptacle 18 is in the blocking position. Preferably, the closing element 26 is configured as a closing cap. The closing element 26 is preferably composed of the same material as the housing unit 12, in particular of plastic. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the closure element 26 is constructed of a composite material, of a metal, or of other materials that would seem to be of interest to one skilled in the art. In particular, the closing element 26 is shaped at least substantially like the opening 28, in particular such that the closing element 26, in the state of being arranged on the opening 28, rests flush against the housing unit 12, in particular ends flush with the outer side 60, in particular the lower side 32, of the housing unit 12. Preferably, the closing element 26 can be fastened to the housing unit 12 by means of at least one fastening element 62, preferably by means of a plurality of fastening elements 62, in particular screws. In the present exemplary embodiment, the closing element 26 is fastened to the housing unit 12, for example, by means of five fastening elements 62, in particular screws. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the closing element 26 can be fastened to the housing unit 12 without tools, for example by means of latching elements arranged on the closing element 26. The closing element 26 is preferably formed separately from the coupling receptacle 18, in particular can be fastened to the housing unit 12 independently of the coupling receptacle 18. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the closing element 26 to be arranged on the coupling receptacle 18, in particular to be constructed in one piece with the coupling receptacle 18, and to be provided for closing the opening 28 in accordance with a pivoting movement of the coupling receptacle 18, in particular into the blocking position.

Preferably, the opening 28 is delimited by an underside 32 of the housing unit 12, on which underside at least one cutting unit 34 is arranged. Preferably, the opening 28 is arranged in the vicinity of the cutting unit 34 of the autonomous working tool 10. The cutting unit 34 is preferably configured as a mowing tool. Preferably, at least one cutting blade 64 of the cutting unit 34, in particular all cutting blades 64 of the cutting unit 34, are pivotally supported, in particular in order to achieve accessibility of the opening 28. Preferably, the opening 28, in particular the coupling unit 14, is arranged between at least two wheels 66, in particular the support wheels, of the autonomous working implement 10. Preferably, the opening 28, in particular the coupling unit 14, is arranged between the two wheels 66, in particular the support wheels, and the cutting unit 34. Preferably, the sealing element 30 of the coupling unit 14 is provided for sealing the opening 28 against dirt, in particular cuttings, lifted during a mowing process of the autonomous working implement 10.

Fig. 7 shows the closure element 26 of the autonomous working tool 10 of fig. 1 in a perspective view. Preferably, the coupling unit 14 has at least one sealing element 30 arranged circumferentially on the closing element 26, which is provided for sealing the opening 28 at least substantially fluid-tightly, in particular water-tightly and/or dust-tightly. Preferably, the sealing element 30 is connected to the closing element 26 in a material-locking manner. In particular, the sealing element 30 is vulcanization cured, sprayed, cast or similarly disposed onto the closure element 26. Preferably, the sealing element 30 extends along at least substantially the entire maximum perimeter of the closure element 26. In particular, the sealing element 30 is arranged on a side 68 of the closing element 26 which faces the coupling receptacle 18 in the state in which the closing element 26 is arranged on the opening 28. In particular, the sealing element 30 is designed as a sealing lip. Preferably, the sealing element 30 is composed of an at least substantially fluid-tight and/or dust-tight material. Preferably, the sealing element 30 is constructed of a material that is compressible under the pressure applied to the closure element 26, particularly via the securing element 62. In particular, the sealing element 30 is composed of a particularly compact foam material, of rubber or of another material which appears to be of interest to the person skilled in the art. In particular, the sealing element 30 forms a seal for the opening 28 in the closed state of the opening 28 by the closing element 26 at least in accordance with the protection type IP66 according to standard DIN EN 60529, preferably at least in accordance with the protection type IP67 according to standard DIN EN 60529 and particularly preferably at least in accordance with the protection type IP68 according to standard DIN EN 60529. In particular, the closing element 26 comprises a plurality of projections 70 through which the fixing element 62 can be guided.

A method for operating the system 40, in particular for mounting an energy storage unit, in particular the aforementioned energy storage unit 16, on an autonomous working device, in particular the aforementioned autonomous working device 10, is described below, in particular with reference to fig. 2 to 4. Preferably, in at least one method step, at least one coupling unit 14 of the autonomous working tool 10, which is coupled to the energy storage unit 16, is pivoted from the receiving position into the blocking position and locked in this blocking position. Preferably, the coupling unit 14 is coupled to the energy storage unit 16 by inserting, in particular pushing, the energy storage unit 16 into the coupling receptacle 18 of the coupling unit 14. In particular, the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling receptacle 18, is pivoted from the receiving position into the blocking position by an operator of the autonomous working device 10, in particular by applying pressure to the energy storage unit 16 coupled to the coupling unit 14, and is locked in this blocking position. Preferably, the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling receptacle 18, is locked in the blocking position by the interaction of the latching element 20 of the coupling unit 14 with the counter latching element 24 of the housing unit 12, in particular by the latching of the latching element 20 with the counter latching element 24. Preferably, acoustic feedback and/or haptic feedback is provided by the coupling unit 14 in accordance with the locking of the coupling unit 14, in particular the coupling receptacle 18.

With respect to further method steps of the method for operating the system 40, in particular for mounting the energy storage unit 16 on the autonomous working device 10, reference is made to the above description of the system 40 and/or the autonomous working device 10, since this description can likewise also be understood as a method and thus all features in terms of the system 40 and/or the autonomous working device 10 are also regarded as open with respect to the method for operating the system 40, in particular for mounting the energy storage unit 16 on the autonomous working device 10.

Claims

1. Autonomous working implement having at least one housing unit (12) and having at least one coupling unit (14) arranged at least partially within the housing unit for mechanical and/or electrical coupling with at least one energy storage unit (16) in the form of a battery pack, which is suitable for use in a power tool, characterized in that at least one coupling receptacle (18) of the coupling unit (14) is movably supported on the housing unit (12) at least between a receiving position and a blocking position.

2. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) is movably supported on the housing unit (12) between the receiving position and the blocking position with an energy storage unit (16) mechanically and/or electrically coupled thereto.

3. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said coupling unit (14) is configured to be lockable in said receiving position and in said blocking position.

4. An autonomous working implement according to claim 3, characterized in that said coupling unit (14) is arranged to: for providing at least one of acoustic feedback and/or tactile feedback to an operator in accordance with the locking.

5. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) has at least one closing element (26) provided for closing at least one opening (28) delimited by the housing unit (12), in which opening the coupling receptacle (18) of the coupling unit (14) is arranged.

6. Autonomous working implement according to claim 5, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) has at least one sealing element (30) arranged circumferentially on the closing element (26), which sealing element is provided for at least substantially fluid-tightly and/or dust-tightly sealing the opening (28).

7. Autonomous working implement according to claim 5, characterized in that said opening (28) is delimited by an underside (32) of said housing unit (12), on which underside at least one cutting unit (34) is arranged.

8. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) has at least one electrical contact unit (36) for electrically coupling with the energy storage unit (16).

9. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) has at least one further latching element (38) for latching with the energy storage unit (16).

10. The autonomous working implement of claim 1, wherein the autonomous working implement is a lawn mowing robot.

11. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) is constructed button-free.

12. Autonomous working implement according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one coupling receptacle (18) is pivotably supported on the housing unit (12) at least between a receiving position and a blocking position.

13. Autonomous working implement according to claim 2, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) and the energy storage unit (16) are pivotably supported on the housing unit (12) between the receiving position and the blocking position.

14. An autonomous working implement according to claim 3, characterized in that said coupling unit (14) is configured to be lockable in said receiving position and in said blocking position by: the coupling unit (14) has at least one latching element (20, 22) which is provided for co-operation with a counter latching element (24) arranged on the housing unit (12).

15. Autonomous working implement according to claim 14, characterized in that the at least one latching element (20, 22) is arranged on the coupling receptacle (18).

16. An autonomous working implement according to claim 3, characterized in that said coupling unit (14) is arranged to: for providing at least one acoustic and/or tactile feedback to the operator in accordance with the locking in the arresting position.

17. Autonomous working implement according to claim 5, characterized in that the coupling receptacle (18) is configured as a coupling rail.

18. Autonomous working implement according to claim 8, characterized in that said at least one electrical contact unit (36) is arranged on a coupling receiving portion (18) of said coupling unit (14).

19. Autonomous working implement according to claim 9, characterized in that the at least one further latching element (38) is arranged on a coupling receptacle (18) of the coupling unit (14).

20. System with at least one autonomous working implement according to one of the preceding claims, with at least one energy storage unit (16) in the form of a battery pack, characterized in that the energy storage unit (16) has at least one unlocking element (42) which can be actuated for releasing a latching connection of the energy storage unit (16) with at least one coupling unit (14) of the autonomous working implement.

21. The system according to claim 20, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) is movably supported on the housing unit (12) between a receiving position and a blocking position with an energy storage unit (16) mechanically and/or electrically coupled thereto.

22. The system according to claim 21, characterized in that the coupling unit (14) and the energy storage unit (16) are pivotably supported on the housing unit (12) between a receiving position and a blocking position.

23. Method for operating a system according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that in at least one method step at least one coupling unit (14) of the autonomous working implement, which is coupled with the energy storage unit (16), is pivoted from a receiving position into a blocking position and locked in the blocking position.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the method is used for mounting an energy storage unit (16) on an autonomous working implement.