DE102019108666A1 - Charging station for charging electric vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

The application relates to a charging station (100, 200, 300) for charging electric vehicles (116), comprising at least one camera (102, 202), set up to record at least one image data set from at least part of the surroundings of the charging station (100, 200, 300 ), at least one security data memory (104, 204) connected to the camera (102, 202), set up to store the at least one recorded image data set, at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7), set up to monitor the internal integrity of the charging station (100 , 200, 300), and at least one control module (108, 208) set up to effect the recording of at least one image data set and the storage of the recorded at least one image data set upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300).

Description

The application relates to a charging station for charging electric vehicles. The application also relates to a charging system and a method for operating a charging station.

The development of the charging infrastructure is of crucial importance for the widespread establishment of electromobility. To this end, it is particularly necessary to install charging stations for charging electric vehicles on a large scale in both public and partially public spaces.

In public spaces in particular, charging stations are repeatedly damaged, for example in the form of vandalism and / or vehicle accidents, which makes it difficult to establish them across the board. The fact that charging stations are subject to a particular risk of damage is due, among other things, to the fact that there is generally no person in the vicinity of a charging station to monitor the charging station and / or that there are charging stations in places that are difficult to see. Therefore, the risk of vandalism and / or misuse of charging stations is increased.

Damage always entails high costs due to the downtime of a charging station and the repair costs incurred for restoring the functionality of the charging station. In an exemplary scenario, a charging station can be approached by a motor vehicle and the driver of the motor vehicle runs away from the driver after the accident. After such an accident, the charging station may be so damaged that it can no longer be used as intended. It can happen that the driver of the accident cannot be determined afterwards and the operator / owner of the charging station has to pay for the failure and repair of the charging station himself.

The application is therefore based on the object of providing a charging station for charging electric vehicles, in which the risk of damage to a charging station, in particular through vandalism, is at least reduced and, in particular, consequential costs of damage to a charging station for the operator / owner of the charging station are reduced will.

According to a first aspect of the application, the object is achieved by a charging station for charging electric vehicles according to claim 1. The charging station comprises at least one camera configured to record at least one image data set of at least part of the surroundings of the charging station. The charging station comprises at least one security data memory connected to the camera, set up to store the at least one recorded image data record. The charging station comprises at least one condition monitoring sensor, set up to monitor the internal integrity of the charging station. The charging station comprises at least one control module set up to effect the recording of at least one image data record and the storage of the recorded at least one image data record upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station.

In that, in contrast to the prior art, when a violation of the internal integrity of the charging station is detected, an image recording of at least part of the environment is triggered, the risk of damage to a charging station, in particular due to vandalism, is at least reduced and, in particular, consequential costs of damage to the charging station for the Operator / owner of the charging station reduced. This increases the likelihood that someone who caused the damage can be identified. This in turn leads to an increased deterrent and thus to a lower risk of vandalism.

The charging station according to the registration is set up for charging electric vehicles. For this purpose, the charging station can include at least one charging point, set up to deliver electrical power (or energy or current). The charging point can preferably also be set up to receive electrical power. The charging point can in particular be an electrical interface, for example in the form of a firmly attached charging cable with a charging connection (e.g. charging plug) and / or a charging connection for connecting a charging cable (e.g. a charging plug receptacle, e.g. in the form of a charging plug socket). A firmly attached charging cable is to be understood in particular to mean that a user cannot separate the charging cable from the charging device without destroying it.

The charging station can include a charging device that can have components in a conventional manner to enable a current flow from an energy source (e.g. a public energy supply network, energy generator, etc.) via the charging point and a charging cable. In this way, an electrically operated vehicle or its electrical energy store can be charged (or discharged).

In the present case, an electric vehicle is to be understood as meaning a vehicle which can be operated at least partially electrically and which includes a rechargeable electrical storage device.

The charging device can be integrated in the charging station (eg a charging station) or designed as a “wallbox”. In particular, the charging device can be part of the charging station. The charging device, in particular the components or the charging technology, can also be integrated in a wall or a floor. It goes without saying that a bidirectional current or power transmission can take place via the charging cable and the charging technology of the charging device.

The charging station according to the application has at least one camera. The camera can be arranged on a housing of the charging station, in particular on a housing wall of the charging station. This includes the at least partial integration of the at least one camera in the housing wall. It goes without saying that a charging station can have two or more cameras.

The at least one camera is set up to record at least one image data set or an image file. An image file that is recorded by at least one camera can, for example, be a single photo (of the surroundings of the charging station). In the present case, an image file can also comprise a plurality of recorded individual photos (series of images) taken in parallel by several cameras and / or chronologically serial. In addition, an image file can also be a video sequence.

Particularly preferably, an image data set or an image file can include further data in addition to the image data or the at least one photo. The further data can include, for example, a (one-to-one) charging station identifier and / or a time stamp. The charging station identifier can be used to assign a generated image data record (unambiguously) to the charging station whose camera recorded the image data record. In other words, the optional charging station identifier makes it possible to prove in which charging station the image file was recorded or saved.

A charging station identifier can be, for example, an identification number of the charging station, an identification number of the camera installed in the charging station, etc. If, for example, it is registered in another database of a back-end system that a specific camera is installed in a specific charging station, the identification number of the camera can be used to infer the charging station. A one-to-one assignment of the camera and / or the charging station is possible.

As an alternative or in addition, a charging station identifier can be and / or include a geographical position of the installation site of the charging station. By means of such geographical information, a generated image data set can be assigned (unambiguously) to the charging station whose camera recorded the image data set. For example, all charging stations of a charging system can be registered in a database together with their respective installation location, that is to say the geographical information described above (address data, geographical coordinates and / or the like).

The time stamp can in particular indicate the point in time when an image data set was recorded (and / or stored). This time information can be used, for example, to determine a probable point in time of the ascertained anomaly of the integrity. In particular, the time information can indicate a probable point in time of damage to the charging station (e.g. a collision of a vehicle with a charging station).

The camera can preferably have a resolution of at least 480x340, in particular 1920x1080, particularly preferably at least 2 megapixels.

The charging station also has a security data memory. The security data memory is particularly integrated in the housing of the charging station. This physical protection can make unauthorized access to the stored data more difficult. The security data memory is in particular a non-volatile data memory. In this way it can advantageously be ensured that the recorded image files or data sets are not lost after the power supply to the charging station fails.

A direct communication link or an indirect communication link (e.g. via the control module) can be implemented between the security data memory and the at least one camera.

In addition, the charging station has at least one condition monitoring sensor. A plurality of condition monitoring sensors can preferably be provided. A condition monitoring sensor is arranged in particular within the charging station and in particular enclosed by the housing of the charging station. In the present case, a status monitoring sensor is in particular a sensor which (only) can monitor, in particular detect or measure, the internal status of the charging station (and possibly permanently connected peripherals such as a charging cable, display, camera, etc.). In particular, the monitoring of the internal integrity does not mean that an external state of the charging station is caused by an external Housing of the charging station (e.g. camera) attached condition sensor is monitored. By monitoring the internal condition, the integrity of the charging station can be recorded in a reliable and, at the same time, simple manner.

In particular, it has been recognized that the integrity or a violation of the integrity of the charging station can provide an indication of whether the internal state of the charging station has changed. An anomaly in the integrity of the charging station can be understood, for example, as a violation of the integrity of the charging station. An anomaly in the integrity of the charging station can arise, for example, as a result of a change in the state of the charging station. In particular, damage from vandalism and / or collisions with foreign bodies, such as e.g. Motor vehicles, lead to a change in the state of the charging station.

Integrity of the charging station can be understood in the sense that the integrity of the charging station or the maintenance of the energy supply to the charging station is monitored. The integrity of the charging station can be understood to mean that it is monitored whether the charging station has been damaged or not.

The charging station according to the application also has a (local) control module, which is communicatively connected in particular to the at least one condition monitoring sensor. The control module is set up to effect the recording of at least one image data record and the storage of the recorded at least one image data record, for example by a corresponding control of the at least one camera and / or the security memory, upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station (by the condition monitoring sensor). For example, the state monitoring sensor can communicate corresponding detection information to the control module and / or the control module can receive a sensor signal containing at least one recorded measured value from the sensor and then evaluate it. For example, it can be checked whether a measured value obtained lies in a (predetermined) permissible or impermissible range. The areas can for example be defined by a predetermined limit value. If it is determined that the measured value lies within the impermissible range, an anomaly has occurred or is detected. If it is determined that the measured value is within the allowable range, there is no abnormality or it is not detected.

This enables an event-triggered photo recording to be achieved.

The recording and storage of the at least one image data set is preferably triggered only when an anomaly is detected.

A plurality of condition monitoring sensors can particularly preferably be provided. The control module can be set up to effect the recording of at least one image data set and the storage of the recorded at least one image data set only when an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station is detected by at least two status monitoring sensors, the detection being able to take place in particular as described above.

According to a further embodiment of the charging station according to the application, the at least one camera can be set up to receive infrared rays. In other words, the at least one camera can be designed to detect an infrared component in the environment. In a variant of the application, at least two cameras can be provided, in which one camera is an infrared camera. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one camera can be assigned a flash device, for example a camera can have a corresponding device. Such cameras make it possible to record usable image files or data sets by means of the at least one camera even in poor weather conditions and / or in the dark.

According to a further embodiment of the application according to the application, the at least one camera can have at least a 180 ° field of view, preferably at least a 270 ° field of view, particularly preferably a 360 ° field of view. For example, the camera can have a fisheye lens. The field of view of the camera can, for example, be directed towards a parking lot arranged next to the charging station so that at least the parking lot is in the field of view of the camera. Additionally or alternatively, the field of view of the camera can also include a traffic road arranged next to the charging station. As a result, it is advantageously possible that approaching or departing vehicles are always in the field of view of the at least one camera. The entire surroundings (e.g. a radius of up to X m, e.g. 10 m) of the charging station can preferably be captured by at least one camera.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be a reed contact which is at least partially arranged on a housing of the charging station and is set up to detect a movement of the housing of the charging station with respect to the reed contact. In particular, a set of reed contacts can be provided in a charging station, for example. With the help of the reed contacts it is possible determine whether the housing of the charging station moves relative to the reed contacts, in which a distance between the housing and the reed contact can be measured with the aid of the reed contact. If, for example, in the manner described above, an impermissible movement is determined on the basis of a measured distance lying in a predetermined impermissible range, an anomaly can be detected.

Alternatively or preferably in addition, the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be a vibration sensor, set up to detect a vibration of the charging station. The shock sensor or vibration sensor can in particular be set up to detect whether the charging station is / has been moved. A shock sensor can be implemented, for example, with the aid of an acceleration sensor. If, for example, in the manner described above, an impermissible movement is detected due to a measured vibration value (e.g. acceleration value) lying in a predetermined impermissible range, an anomaly can be detected.

Alternatively or preferably in addition, the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be a light sensor, set up to detect light penetrating into the interior of the housing of the charging station. With the aid of a light sensor or photosensor, it is particularly possible to determine whether light is entering the interior of the housing of the charging station. Light can penetrate into the housing, for example, if the housing of the charging station is damaged and / or is / has been opened. If the housing is opened, it can be assumed that the charging station has been tampered with. A crack or the like can also be traced back to damage to the housing as a result of forceful action (e.g. collision with a vehicle). Accordingly, when light (with a predetermined intensity) is detected in the interior of the charging station, an anomaly can be inferred.

Alternatively or preferably in addition, the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be an inclination sensor, set up at least to detect an inclination of the charging station. An inclination sensor can be used to determine whether a housing of a charging station is (still) aligned vertically or at an angle (i.e. at an angle not equal to 90 ° (possibly with a specified tolerance)) to a horizontal reference surface, for example the floor. In other words, it can be detected whether the housing is in a vertical, ie normal operating position, or at an angle on a floor. This makes it possible, for example, to determine whether the housing of the charging station is / has been tilted, for example due to a collision with a vehicle.

Alternatively or preferably in addition, the at least one status monitoring sensor can be a current sensor and / or voltage sensor, set up to detect a disconnection of the charging station from an energy source, in particular an energy supply network. In particular, the current sensor and / or voltage sensor can be arranged at the electrical connection between the energy source, in particular the energy supply network, and the electrical components of the charging station, for example a charging device. The electrical connection between the charging station and the energy source can be monitored by a current sensor and / or voltage sensor and, in particular, a disconnection (or failure of the energy source), for example due to damage to the charging station, can be detected.

Alternatively or preferably in addition, the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be a component condition sensor, set up to detect a condition of a component of the charging station, in particular a connected charging cable. A current and / or voltage sensor can preferably be set up to monitor a component of the charging station. For example, a corresponding sensor can detect whether a charging cable is / has been damaged or violently cut. This can be the case, for example, when an unexpected voltage drop or current increase at a charging interface or charging socket of the charging station is measured by the current or voltage sensor.

It is also possible that failure of a condition monitoring sensor or failure of another component of the charging station can lead to a detection of an anomaly in the integrity of the charging station. Another component can be, for example, a touch display of a charging station. For example, if a person damages the touch display (forcibly using a pointed object), the touch display can fail. This can be detected, for example, by a further current and / or voltage sensor.

Alternatively or preferably in addition, the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be a position sensor, set up at least to detect a current geographical position of the charging station. The position sensor can be, for example, a GPS sensor, Galileo sensor or the like. Using the geographical position of the charging station, it can be detected, for example, whether the charging station is / has been moved. For example, the geographical position measured when the charging station was put into operation (which is registered in a previously described database, for example) can be compared with a currently recorded geographical position. If a (specified minimum) If a discrepancy is found, an anomaly can be detected. In such a case, the charging station may, for example, have been stolen from one location and be used again at another location.

The measured values of the at least one condition monitoring sensor can be monitored, in particular evaluated, for example by the (local) control module of the charging station.

According to a further embodiment of the charging station according to the application, the control module can be set up to cause the at least one image data record stored in the security data memory to be deleted after a certain period of time. This also makes it possible to use data memories with a relatively small storage capacity. The security data memory can be set up (for example upon receipt of a corresponding activation by the control module) to delete the at least one stored image data set after a predetermined period of time. The deletion process can in particular be initiated by the control module after the specified period of time has elapsed. This automatic deletion also has the advantage that the personal rights of the people who may be in an image data record can be preserved. The specified period of time can be used to ensure that the recorded image files are deleted after a possible use. A data retention is not possible. The specified period of time can be dimensioned in such a way that if an anomaly in the integrity of the charging station is detected, the data memory can be read out (e.g. by an operator / owner of the charging station). The specified period of time can be X days (for example a week or a month).

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the charging station according to the application, the control module and / or the at least one camera and / or the security data memory can have at least one signing module set up to sign the at least one recorded image data record. This means that an image data record can be provided with an electronic signature. In the present case, an electronic signature is to be understood as unambiguous electronic information that can be invariably linked to an image data set, with the unambiguous electronic information being used to clearly identify the signatory or signature creator (e.g. camera and / or control module (or charging station) and the integrity of the signed electronic image dataset. The further advantage is that the at least one recorded and signed image dataset can be better used in legal proceedings. The signature of the recorded image files can prevent subsequent falsification of the image files. The credibility of the recorded image files is ensured by improved a signature.

At least the security data memory can preferably be an encapsulated security data memory. For example, the security data memory can be integrated in a lockable metal and / or plastic housing. This reduces the risk of damage to the security data memory in the course of damage to the charging station and / or unauthorized access to the security data memory.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the charging station according to the application, the charging station can have at least one energy source independent of the energy supply network, in particular a battery, set up to supply at least one camera, the security data memory and the control module with electrical energy (at least when an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station is detected by the condition monitoring sensor). This can ensure that the at least one camera, the security data memory and the control module can be operated even if the electrical connection between the energy source and the charging station is disconnected. The energy supply network-independent energy source or separate energy storage unit can be set up so that an evaluation of a sensor signal, recording and / or storage of at least one image data record can take place even if the power supply to the charging station is completely lost. The energy source that is independent of the energy supply network can be at least one capacitor, at least one battery and / or at least one accumulator.

In addition, according to a further embodiment, upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station, the control module can be configured to cause a plurality of image data sets to be recorded during a specific period of time after the anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station has been detected. A first recording of a first image data set can preferably take place immediately after an anomaly has been detected. At least one further recording of at least one further image data set can then preferably also take place, for example after a predetermined time interval has elapsed.

This can occur in the event of a possible collision between a vehicle and a charging station be beneficial. If a vehicle collides with a charging station and an anomaly in the integrity of the charging station is detected by means of a condition monitoring sensor, only a close-up of part of the vehicle causing the collision can be recorded in a one-time and immediately executed recording of a single image. The vehicle can be on the housing of the charging station immediately after a collision with a charging station. In one case, the registration number of the vehicle (or similar identification features) cannot be recognized on such an image. It is not possible to draw any clear conclusions about the vehicle causing the collision. If a predetermined time interval is now preferably also waited for until a (further) recording of a further image data set takes place, the vehicle causing the collision can move away from the charging station. This advantageously means that when the further image data set is recorded, the license plate number (or similar identification features) of the vehicle causing the collision can be visually detected. The at least one predetermined time interval can include, for example, 5 to 30 seconds. The at least one predetermined time interval can be implemented in the control module using a timer. A timer can be started, for example, when an anomaly is detected in the integrity of the charging station. The timer can be set in such a way that it expires after the at least one time interval (and is started again, for example). After the timer has expired, another image data set can be recorded.

If, for example, the image data set to be recorded, as already mentioned, comprises a plurality of recorded individual photos (series of images), then the time intervals between the individual photos can be several seconds and be constant. It is also possible that the time intervals are variable. This means that, for example, a first photo is taken. A second photo can be taken two seconds after the first photo. A third photo cannot be taken until five seconds after the second photo. As has already been described, an almost continuous recording of image data in the form of a video can alternatively take place.

Recording a large number of image data sets is understood here to mean that a large number of images / photos are recorded, which are then available and can be stored in the form of multiple image data sets or image files or in a single final image data set or a single final image file.

According to a further embodiment of the charging station according to the application, the at least one camera can be set up to record a large number of image data sets at predetermined times. The charging station can have at least one parking space monitoring module, set up to determine whether at least one parking space is available at the charging station (or not) based on the respective recorded image data set.

Parking lot monitoring can advantageously also be carried out by means of the at least one camera. An essential advantage of this embodiment is that the at least one camera can be used both for parking lot monitoring and for protection against vandalism. The parking space monitoring can for example be carried out using a parking space monitoring module, for example a software module that can be executed by a processor of the charging station. Image data sets can preferably be recorded with the camera at regular intervals. The respective image data sets can then be evaluated by the parking space monitoring module as to whether the parking space recorded in an image is occupied or free. This can be done using a machine learning algorithm. The recorded images can then be deleted.

According to a further embodiment of the charging station according to the application, the charging station can have at least one communication module connected to the security data memory, set up to enable the at least one stored image data set to be read out. The at least one communication module or the at least one communication interface can be a long-distance network communication module, wireless near-field communication module (Bluetooth, RFID, NFC etc.) and / or a physical communication module such as a USB or CAN interface. It goes without saying that a plurality of (different) communication modules can be provided.

Furthermore, an encryption module can be provided in order to provide image data sets only encrypted via the at least one communication module. At least in the case of a long-distance network communication module, encrypted transmission can take place. The encryption module can be part of the communication module, for example.

Another aspect of the registration is a charging system. The charging system comprises at least one previously described charging station. The charging system includes at least one remote from the charging station arranged back-end system with at least one readout module, set up to read out the at least one image data set stored in the security data memory of the charging station upon detection of the anomaly of the internal integrity of the charging station.

• - Überwachen, durch mindestens einen Zustandsüberwachungssensor, der inneren Integrität der Ladestation,
• - Bewirken, durch ein Steuermodul, bei Detektion einer Anomalie der inneren Integrität der Ladestation, ein Aufnehmen mindestens eines Bilddatensatzes durch mindestens eine Kamera der Ladestation, und
• - Speichern des aufgenommenen mindestens einen Bilddatensatzes in einem Sicherheitsdatenspeicher der Ladestation.

Yet another aspect of the application is a method for operating a charging station for charging electric vehicles, in particular a previously described charging station. The procedure includes:

• - Monitoring, by at least one condition monitoring sensor, the internal integrity of the charging station,
• Causing, by a control module, upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station, at least one image data set to be recorded by at least one camera of the charging station, and
• - Storing the recorded at least one image data set in a security data memory of the charging station.

The above-described charging station and / or the above-described charging system can in particular be operated using the method described above. The charging system can preferably have a large number of charging stations that can be temporarily connected to the backend system. The charging station and backend system can each have one or more suitable communication devices in the form of hardware (processors, antennas, memory, etc.) and / or software modules for transmitting the data and / or for checking the data.

The characteristics of the charging stations, charging systems and processes can be freely combined with one another. In particular, features of the description and / or the dependent claims can be independently inventive on their own or freely combined with one another, even with complete or partial circumvention of features of the independent claims.

• 1 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer Ladestation gemäß der vorliegenden Anmeldung,
• 2 eine schematische Ansicht eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels einer Ladestation gemäß der vorliegenden Anmeldung,
• 3 eine schematische Ansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Ladesystems gemäß der vorliegenden Anmeldung, und
• 4 ein Diagramm eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Verfahrens gemäß der vorliegenden Anmeldung.

There are now a large number of possibilities for designing and further developing the charging station according to the application, the method according to the application and the charging system according to the application. For this purpose, reference is made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to the independent claims, and, on the other hand, to the description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. In the drawing shows:

• 1 a schematic view of an embodiment of a charging station according to the present application,
• 2 a schematic view of a further embodiment of a charging station according to the present application,
• 3 a schematic view of an embodiment of a charging system according to the present application, and
• 4th a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application.

In the figures, the same reference symbols are used for the same elements.

The 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a charging station 100 according to the present application. The charging station 100 is set up for charging electric vehicles 116 . The charging station is for this purpose 100 electrically with an energy source 120 connected, in this case a power supply network 120 .

The charging station also has 100 via a loading device 118 , including (conventional) charging technology, safety technology, etc., and at least one charging point 112 , for example a charging socket 112 for connecting a charging cable 114 . Via the charging cable 114 can in a conventional manner electrical power between the charging station 100 and the electric vehicle 116 be replaced.

The present charging station 100 is particularly useful as a charging station 100 formed and includes an interior 124 enclosing housing 122 , which is formed, for example, by a circumferential housing wall. The charging station shown 100 is characterized in particular by the fact that it has at least one camera 102 , a security data store 104 , at least one condition monitoring sensor 106 and a (local) control module 108 includes. The at least one camera 102 can on an outside wall of the charging station 100 be attached or integrated in this.

The security data store 104 , the at least one condition monitoring sensor 106 and the control module 108 is in the case 122 the charging station 100 integrated.

The at least one camera 102 is set up to record at least one image data set from at least part of the surroundings of the charging station 100 . As can be seen, the security data store is 104 with the at least one camera 102 via a communication link 110 connected. The security data store 104 (eg a non-volatile memory) is set up to store the at least one recorded image data set, preferably a plurality of image data sets or image files.

The at least one condition monitoring sensor 106 is set up to monitor the internal integrity of the charging station 100 , i.e. to monitor the internal condition of the charging station 100 . In particular, it can be monitored whether the internal condition of the charging station 100 is intact or injured or has damage that can be traced back to vandalism, a collision with a vehicle (or the like), etc.

The control module 108 is set up to effect the recording of at least one image data record and the storage of the recorded at least one image data record in the security data memory 104 (Immediately) upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station 100 , in particular by the at least one condition monitoring sensor 106 (and, if necessary, after an evaluation by the condition monitoring sensor 106 measured value, by the control module 108 and / or the condition monitoring sensor 106 ).

The 2 shows a further embodiment of a charging station 200 for charging electric vehicles. To avoid repetition, only the differences from the exemplary embodiment are described below 1 and otherwise to the embodiment described above 1 referenced.

The at least one camera 202 In the present case, it has a 360 ° field of view and is presently on the upper end of the charging station 200 attached. The camera 202 can in particular comprise a fisheye lens to provide a 360 ° image of the (entire) surroundings of the charging station 200 to enable.

The security data store 204 in the present case has a signature module 232 set up to sign a saved image data set (before storage). In other variants of the registration, the camera and / or the control module can alternatively or additionally have a signing module.

The security data store shown 204 is an encapsulated, non-volatile data memory 204 . In particular, the data store 204 in a (lockable) housing 230 integrated, i.e. encapsulated.

To at least the security data store 204 , in particular to read out the data stored therein, if necessary, at least one communication module 234 or communication interface 234 provided, such as a long distance network communication module, wireless near field communication module or a physical communication module. It goes without saying that two or more (different) communication modules can be provided.

As can also be seen, is shown in the charging station 200 at least one energy source independent of the energy supply network 236 integrated, in particular at least one battery 236 , set up to supply at least the at least one camera 202 , the security data store 204 and the control module 208 with electrical energy, even if damage or disconnection of the electrical connection to the energy supply network 220 eg due to damage.

There is also a parking space monitoring module 238 integrated in the charging station, in particular one from a processor of the charging station 200 executable image evaluation software module 238 configured to determine whether at least one parking space is available at the charging station based on by the camera 202 recorded image data sets. This makes it possible, in particular, to also use the camera for monitoring parking spaces.

It is also in the interior 224 of the housing 222 the charging station 200 a variety of condition monitoring sensors 206.1 to 206.7 integrated to monitor the integrity of the charging station 200 get hurt. In particular, an immediate detection of a violation of the integrity can be detected. The condition monitoring sensors 206.1 to 206.7 are communicative with the local control module 208 connected in order to detect an anomaly and / or to transmit a recorded measured value to the control module as well as to effect a subsequent recording of an image data set and its storage.

So can in the charging station 200 for example a set of reed contacts 206.1 be provided. With the help of the reed contacts 206.1 is it possible to determine whether the housing 222 the charging station 200 opposite the reed contacts 206.1 moved, in which a distance between the housing and the reed contact 206.1 with the help of the (additional) reed contact 206.1 is measured.

Furthermore, a shock sensor 206.2 connected to the control module. The shock sensor 206.2 can be used to detect whether the charging station 200 Experiences vibrations that are in an impermissible range and can be traced back to (potential) vandalism or a (potential) vehicle collision, for example.

In addition, at least one light or photo sensor 206.3 in the housing 222 be integrated. If the charging station is damaged 200 due to a collision or due to vandalism, it may be in the housing 222 one or more cracks occur through which light enters the housing 222 can penetrate. Accordingly, there is light (with a predetermined minimum intensity) through the at least one light or photosensor 206.3 is detected, an anomaly in the integrity of the charging station can be detected.

Next are two current sensors 206.4 , 206.6 and a voltage sensor 206.5 in the case 222 arranged. The current sensor 206.4 and the voltage sensor 206.5 are set up in particular to monitor the integrity of the electrical connection between the charging station 200 and the power supply network 220 . As a result of a voltage drop or an increase in current, a disconnection of the electrical connection, for example caused by a collision with a vehicle, can be detected. In a similar manner, the current sensor can detect damage to a charging cable.

In addition, there is a tilt sensor in the present case 206.7 in the charging station 200 integrated. The tilt sensor 206.7 can in particular be a protractor and in particular the angle between the vertical axis of the charging station 200 and a specifiable reference area (e.g. the floor area 228 ) measure up. If an angle that deviates from the normal operating position is measured (e.g. unequal 89 ° to 91 °), a violation of the integrity can be detected.

In addition, a position sensor can preferably 206.8 (eg GPS sensor) can be provided. With the position sensor 206.8 In particular, it can be detected whether a charging station is / has been moved to another installation location.

As described above, the control module is set up to effect the recording of at least one image data record and the storage of the recorded at least one image data record upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station 200 , by at least one previously described sensor 206.1 to 206.7 .

Preferably, an anomaly is only detected when at least two of the sensors described above 206.1 to 206.7 Detect a violation of the integrity (and / or transmit a sensor signal with at least one corresponding measured value in each case) in order to avoid false detections.

The 3 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a charging system 350 according to the present application. The charging system 350 has two charging stations as an example 300 , for example according to the 1 or 2 , on. It goes without saying that three or more charging stations (or only one charging station) can be provided. For a better overview, details have not been shown in the charging station.

It also has the charging system 350 a jaw system 354 on, for example formed by one or more (distributed) servers. Via a communication network 352 can between the backend system 354 and the charging stations 300 Data are exchanged.

The jaw system 354 can be a readout module 356 which can be set up to read stored image data sets from a security data memory, at least after a reported detection of a previously described anomaly of the corresponding charging station 300 . The backend system 300 may have a database (not shown) in which all charging stations 300 of the charging system 350 can be registered. For example, the respective charging station IDs, installation position, built-in components (camera, sensors, etc.) etc. can be stored. Based on this data, when image data is received as a result of a detected anomaly of a specific charging station, suitable measures, in particular for eliminating the anomaly and its consequences, can be initiated (automatically) by the backend system.

The 4th FIG. 10 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a method for operating a charging station, such as a charging station according to FIG 1 or 2 .

In step 401 the internal integrity of the charging station can be monitored (at least almost continuously) by at least one condition monitoring sensor, as described above.

In step 402 If an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station is detected (by the condition monitoring sensor), a control module can record at least one image data set by at least one camera of the charging station, as described above. The camera can therefore be controlled in such a way that at least one photo and / or at least one video is taken.

Then in step 403 the at least one recorded image data set are stored in a security data memory of the charging station. In an optional step, the at least one stored image data set can be made available for reading and, in particular, can be read out.

• Szenario 1:
  • Ein Fahrzeug kollidiert mit einer oben beschriebenen Ladestation (z.B. Ladestation 200). Die Kollision wird durch einen Erschütterungssensor bzw. einen Beschleunigungssensor erfasst. Diese Erfassung kann beispielsweise in dem Steuermodul dadurch registriert werden, dass der Messwert des Erschütterungssensor (beispielsweise ein gemessener Beschleunigungswert) einen bestimmten Schwellenwert unter- bzw. überschreitet, also insbesondere in einem unzulässigen Bereich (beispielsweise Beschleunigungsbereich) liegt. Hierdurch wird in dem Steuermodul eine Anomalie in der Integrität der Ladestation und damit die Kollision festgestellt. Daraufhin triggert das Steuermodul eine Aufnahme und Abspeicherung einer Bilddatei bzw. eines Bilddatensatzes an, insbesondere durch eine entsprechende Ansteuerung der mindestens einen Kamera und des Sicherheitsdatenspeichers.
  • Die mindestens eine aufgenommene Bilddatei wird vorzugsweise in der Kamera signiert. Die Bilddatei weist vorzugsweise eine Mehrzahl von Fotoaufnahmen auf. Zusätzlich beinhaltet die Bilddatei vorliegend eine Ladestationskennung und einen Zeitstempel. Nach der Kollision begeht der Fahrer der Fahrzeugs z.B. Fahrerflucht. Die festgestellte Anomalie in der Integrität der Ladestation kann, beispielsweise bei einem Ladesystem nach 3, über eine Kommunikationsverbindung an ein Backendsystem gemeldet werden.
  • Daraufhin kann das Backendsystem Maßnahmen in automatischer Weise veranlassen. Beispielsweise veranlasst das Backendsystem, dass (beispielsweise am gleichen Tag) ein Techniker des Ladestationsbetreibers zur Ladestation, um auch den Zustand der Ladestation zu überprüfen. Die Sicherheit für einen Kunden beim Verwenden der Ladestation muss schließlich sichergestellt werden. Der Techniker liest z.B. über eine physikalische Kommunikationsschnittstelle oder über eine drahtlose Nahfeldkommunikationsschnittstelle den Sicherheitsdatenspeicher, insbesondere die mindestens eine abgespeicherte Bilddatei aus. Durch die abgespeicherte Bilddatei kann z.B. das kollidierende Fahrzeug und der Fahrzeughalter ermittelt werden. Eine Strafanzeige kann gestellt werden. Durch die Signatur der Bilddatei ist die Bilddatei insbesondere fälschungssicher.
• Szenario 2:
  • Durch einen Softwarefehler eines Touchdisplays einer oben beschriebenen Ladestation fällt das Touchdisplay kurzzeitig aus. Durch ein Steuermodul der Ladestation wird dadurch eine Anomalie in der Integrität der Ladestation detektiert. Daraufhin triggert das Steuermodul eine Aufnahme und Abspeicherung einer Bilddatei. Nach einem durch das Backensystem bewirkten Neustart der Ladestation ist das Touchdisplay wieder einsatzfähig. Nach dem durchgeführten Neustart der Ladestation befindet sich ebenfalls die Bilddatei ebenfalls in dem Sicherheitsdatenspeicher, da es sich um einen nichtflüchtigen Sicherheitsdatenspeicher handelt. Seitens des Backendsystems kann festgestellt werden, dass die Ladestation keinen Fehler mehr aufweist. Ein Techniker sieht sich demnach nicht zwingend die Ladestation naher an. Auf dem Foto der aufgenommen Bilddatei ist ein zufällig vorbeilaufender Passant abgebildet. Nach einer festgelegten Zeitspanne wird die Bilddatei aus dem Sicherheitsdatenspeicher wieder entfernt, insbesondere gelöscht.

Finally, the above-described exemplary embodiments are explained in more detail using two exemplary scenarios:

• Scenario 1:
  • A vehicle collides with a charging station described above (e.g. charging station 200 ). The collision is detected by a shock sensor or an acceleration sensor. This detection can be registered in the control module, for example, in that the measured value of the shock sensor (for example a measured acceleration value) falls below or exceeds a certain threshold value, i.e. in particular lies in an impermissible range (for example acceleration range). As a result, an anomaly in the integrity of the charging station and thus the collision is detected in the control module. The control module then triggers the recording and storage of an image file or an image data set, in particular by appropriate control of the at least one camera and the security data memory.
  • The at least one recorded image file is preferably signed in the camera. The image file preferably has a plurality of photographs. The image file also contains a charging station identifier and a time stamp. After the collision, the driver of the vehicle, for example, commits an escape from the driver. The detected anomaly in the integrity of the charging station can, for example, after a charging system 3 , can be reported to a backend system via a communication link.
  • The backend system can then initiate measures in an automatic manner. For example, the backend system causes (for example on the same day) a technician from the charging station operator to go to the charging station to also check the status of the charging station. Ultimately, the safety for a customer when using the charging station must be ensured. The technician reads out the security data memory, in particular the at least one stored image file, for example via a physical communication interface or via a wireless near-field communication interface. The colliding vehicle and the vehicle owner, for example, can be determined from the stored image file. A criminal complaint can be filed. Due to the signature of the image file, the image file is in particular forgery-proof.
• Scenario 2:
  • The touch display fails for a short time due to a software error in a touch display of a charging station described above. An anomaly in the integrity of the charging station is thereby detected by a control module of the charging station. The control module then triggers the recording and storage of an image file. After the charging station has been restarted by the jaw system, the touch display is ready for use again. After the charging station has been restarted, the image file is also located in the security data memory, since it is a non-volatile security data memory. The backend system can determine that the charging station is no longer faulty. A technician does not necessarily have to take a closer look at the charging station. A passer-by randomly walking by is shown in the photo of the recorded image file. After a specified period of time, the image file is removed from the security data memory, in particular deleted.

Claims (10)

A charging station (100, 200, 300) for charging electric vehicles (116), comprising: - At least one camera (102, 202), set up to record at least one image data set from at least part of the surroundings of the charging station (100, 200, 300), - At least one security data memory (104, 204) connected to the camera (102, 202), set up to store the at least one recorded image data set, - At least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7), set up to monitor the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300), and - At least one control module (108, 208), set up to effect the recording of at least one image data record and the storage of the recorded at least one image data record upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300). Charging station (100, 200, 300) Claim 1 , characterized in that - the at least one camera (102, 202) is set up to receive infrared rays, and / or - the at least one camera (102, 202) has at least a 180 ° field of view, preferably at least a 270 ° field of view, in particular preferably a 360 ° field of view. Charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is a reed contact (106, 206.1) which is at least partially arranged on a housing (122, 222) of the charging station (100, 200, 300) and is set up to detect a movement of the housing ( 122, 222) of the charging station (100, 200, 300) opposite the reed contact (106, 206.1), and / or - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is a vibration sensor (106, 206.2), set up for Detecting a vibration of the charging station (100, 200, 300), and / or - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is a light sensor (106, 206.3), set up to detect in the interior (124, 224) of the Housing (122, 222) of the charging station (100, 200, 300) penetrating light, and / or - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is an inclination sensor (106, 206.7), set up at least to detect an inclination of the charging station (100, 200, 300), and / ode r - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is a current sensor (106, 206.4) and / or voltage sensor (106, 206.5), set up to detect a separation of the charging station (100, 200, 300) from an energy source (120 , 220), in particular an energy supply network (120, 220), and / or - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is a component condition sensor (106, 206.7), set up to detect a condition of a component of the charging station (100, 200 , 300), in particular a connected charging cable (114), and / or - the at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7) is a position sensor (104, 206.8), set up at least to detect a current geographical position of the charging station (100, 200 , 300). Charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the control module (108, 208) is set up to cause deletion of the at least one image data set stored in the security data memory (104, 204) after a certain Duration. Charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the control module (108, 208) and / or the camera (102, 202) and / or the security data memory (104, 204) at least one signing module ( 232), set up to sign the at least one recorded image data set, and / or. - At least the security data memory (104, 204) is an encapsulated security data memory (104, 204). Charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the charging station (100, 200, 300) has at least one energy source (236) independent of the energy supply network, in particular a battery (236), set up to supply at least the at least one camera (102, 202), the security data memory (104, 204) and the control module (108, 208) with electrical energy. The charging station (100, 200, 300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the at least one camera (102, 202) is set up, upon detection of an anomaly in the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300) the control module ( 108, 208) is set up to cause a multiplicity of image data sets to be recorded during a specific period of time after the anomaly of the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300) has been detected. Charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the at least one camera (102, 202) is set up to record a large number of image data records at predetermined times, and - the charging station (100, 200, 300) ) has at least one parking space monitoring module (238) set up to determine whether at least one parking space is available at the charging station (100, 200, 300), based on the respective recorded image data set. A charging system (350) comprising: - At least one charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims, and - At least one backend system (354) arranged remotely from the charging station (100, 200, 300) with at least one read-out module (356), set up to read out the at least one in the security data memory (104, 204) of the charging station (100, 200, 300) stored image data set upon detection of the anomaly of the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300). Method for operating a charging station (100, 200, 300) for charging electric vehicles (116), in particular a charging station (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding Claims 1 to 9 , comprising: - monitoring, by at least one condition monitoring sensor (106, 206.1 to 206.7), the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300), - causing, by a control module, upon detection of an anomaly of the internal integrity of the charging station (100, 200, 300), recording of at least one image data set by at least one camera of the charging station (100, 200, 300), and - storing the recorded at least one image data set in a security data memory (104, 204) of the charging station (100, 200, 300).

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