EP3230118A1

EP3230118A1 - Modular vehicle system with an increased level of operational reliability

Info

Publication number: EP3230118A1
Application number: EP15813753.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Johannes Dörndorfer; Hannes Neupert
Original assignee: Energybus eV
Current assignee: Energybus eV
Priority date: 2014-12-12
Filing date: 2015-12-12
Publication date: 2017-10-18
Also published as: PL3031659T3; PL3031659T4; CN107223092A; JP2018507679A; EP3031659B1; WO2016092110A1; US20180126861A1; DK3031659T3; ES2711834T3; EP3031659A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular vehicle system comprising an electric vehicle (2) and a module (16) which can be connected to the electric vehicle (2) by means of a plug connection, wherein the electric vehicle (2) at least has an on-board power supply system (3) for supplying power to an electric drive unit (6) of the electric vehicle (2), a control device (9) for communicating with the module (16), and an interface (15), which is connected to the on-board power supply system (3) and the control device (9), for connection to the module (16), which interface (15) forms a first element of the plug connection, wherein the module (16) at least has an electrical arrangement, a module controller (23) for communicating with the control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2), and a connection element (17) which is connected to the electrical arrangement and the module controller (23) and which forms a second element of the plug connection, wherein the interface (15) of the electric vehicle (2) is connected in a detachable manner to the connection element (17) of the module (16) in order to connect the electrical arrangement of the module (16) to the on-board power supply system (3) of the electric vehicle (2), and wherein the interface (15) has a first NFC device (43) and the connection element (17) has a second NFC device (104), which NFC devices are designed for near-field communication with one another, in order to connect the control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2) to the module controller (23). The invention further relates to an electric vehicle and to a module for a modular system of this kind, and also to a method for connecting said electric vehicle and module.

Description

description

Modular vehicle system with increased operational safety

The invention relates to a modular vehicle system, an electric vehicle and a module for connection to an electric vehicle.

Electrically powered vehicles have been gaining in importance for some time, especially for local passenger transport in view of rising energy costs and the demand for reduced emissions of traffic. Especially in the field of electric light vehicles, in which, for example, electric bicycles, pedelecs and scooters, but also wheelchairs and quads fall, numerous types of vehicles are now commercially available.

All such vehicles have an electric motor, which is used for sole or supportive drive and is powered by one or more batteries with electrical energy. It is therefore necessary to design the electrical system of electric vehicles in such a way that a safe and trouble-free power supply of the electric motor is provided.

In such vehicles, all or a large portion of the drive power must be provided via the vehicle's electrical system. Amperage and / or operating voltage are therefore regularly higher than in known motor vehicles. When intervening in the electrical system, therefore, there is a relatively high risk of damage, especially the drive system of the vehicle, for example. If a non-compatible battery installed or an inappropriate charger is connected to the vehicle. Unlike conventional motor vehicles, intervention in the electrical system by untrained personnel in electric vehicles can not be completely avoided. Due to the limited battery capacity and thus limited range is, for example, required that a user can connect a charger to the vehicle or easily replace a battery. One Electric vehicle, which allows easy and safe replacement of electrical modules, in particular by a vehicle user, is known from WO2011 / 135036 A2.

Inadvertent disconnection or connection of individual components, such as. A charger or a battery, may cause interference or in the worst case, damage to the electrical system of the electric vehicle. Especially in the public sector, such as at public stationary charging stations or, in the case of rental offers, to the public freely accessible self-service stations, there is no control whether a proper connection between the charging station or station and the vehicle takes place. In addition, the known connection systems do not ensure safe protection against interference by third parties in the connection between the charging station and the battery. A modular vehicle system with increased operational safety, in which the connection to a module can be particularly easy, safe and protected against the intervention of unauthorized persons by means of a lock, for example, from WO2012 / 107448 Ai known.

In both aforementioned publications communication between the electric vehicle and the module, inter alia to ensure the compatibility of this. In the case of a charging module, in particular during the compatibility check, electrical operating parameters of the components can be checked in order to ensure that a battery arranged on the part of the electric vehicle can be safely charged by means of the charging module. For this purpose, in one exemplary embodiment, a control device of the electric vehicle is connected to a module control of the module via a separable bus system.

The problem with this connection can be the contact reliability, in particular if the components mentioned above are exposed to the weather. If communication is not reliable, the functionality can be severely limited. In the above-mentioned example of a charging module charging the battery of the electric vehicle is then not possible.

It is therefore an object to provide a modular vehicle system in which the mentioned disadvantages of the prior art are avoided, in particular a more reliable communication between the vehicle and the module is provided.

The object is achieved by a modular vehicle system according to claim 1 with an electric vehicle and a connectable to the electric vehicle by means of a plug-in module, an electric vehicle according to claim 13, a module according to claim 14 and a method according to claim 15. Preferred embodiments of the invention are in the Subclaims described.

A key aspect of the invention is the use of near-field or short-range communication, hereinafter also referred to as "NFC" (Near Field Communication), in the plug connection between the electric vehicle and the module, at least to a control device of the electric vehicle with a module control of the module for data exchange In addition to reliable communication, even when exposed to weathering components, the embodiment of the invention further provides a galvanic isolation between control device and module control, which avoids damage to the respective other component in case of malfunctions of a component.The use of NFC in the connector, ie wireless communication, which does not create a significant far-field, unlike RFID technology, also reduces any data security concerns due to the limited range of communication.

In the context of the invention, an electric vehicle is understood to mean a single-track or multi-track electrically driven vehicle and in particular a road vehicle. Preferably, the electric vehicle is an electric light vehicle, such as an electric two- or three-wheeler or an electric bicycle, pedelec, scooter, wheelchair, quad or kart. Particularly preferred is an electric light vehicle with a curb weight of not more than 500 kg, more preferably not more than 350 kg, each without accessories, such as batteries.

According to the invention, the electric vehicle has at least one power supply network for supplying energy to an electric drive unit of the electric vehicle, a control device for communicating with a module, and at least one interface connected to the power on-board network and the control device for connection to the module, which interface is a first element of a connector. formation.

The module has at least one electrical arrangement, a module control for communication with the control device of the electric vehicle, and a connection element connected to the electrical arrangement and the module control, which forms a second element of the plug connection. The interface of the electric vehicle is separably connectable to the connection element of the module, in particular mechanically connectable to connect the electrical arrangement of the module with the power board network of the electric vehicle. Vehicle and module may of course have other components, in particular one or more switching units, which switch the connection between on-board power supply and module, to which, however, will not be discussed in detail.

The interface of the electric vehicle according to the invention comprises a first NFC device and the connection element of the module to a second NFC device, which are formed at least for short-range communication with each other to connect the controller of the electric vehicle with the module control.

The power electrical system of the electric vehicle according to the invention is designed for supplying energy to the electric drive unit and connects at least the drive unit to the at least one interface. Naturally, the on-board power supply system can in principle connect further appropriately designed interfaces, electrical components or assemblies of the vehicle, such as, for example, one or more internal batteries, generators, fuel cells, DC / DC converters, motors or other components.

Due to the requirement regarding a power supply of the electric drive unit, the power electrical system is preferably designed for an electric current of at least 3A, in particular at least 5A, expediently 100A. The voltage may be suitably selected and be an AC voltage or a DC voltage. It is useful to have a voltage of 10V - 200V, especially 24V - 120V, and especially between 60-120V. According to one embodiment, the onboard power system is a DC power grid, in particular a 60V DC power grid (peak voltage). Depending on the design and type of the vehicle, a separate auxiliary power supply can be provided in addition to the power electrical system according to a further embodiment, which supplies electrical components such as controls, fittings, controls and / or lighting devices. Particularly preferably, the auxiliary electrical system is designed for a voltage of 12V or 14V. The auxiliary on-board network can have its own power supply, for example a battery, or can be supplied, for example, by means of a converter from the on-board power supply network. In addition or as an alternative, the on-board power supply system can be designed for a plurality of voltage levels, for example 60 V and 120 V peak voltage or 48 V and 96 V nominal voltage, in order, for example, to enable rapid charging of a battery.

In the context of the present invention, a battery naturally means a rechargeable energy store, such as, for example, one or more accumulators.

The electric drive unit according to the invention serves to convert electrical energy into mechanical work and may, for example, have one or more electric motors. Here, the electric drive unit is preferably used as the main drive; Alternatively or additionally, however, it is likewise conceivable that the electric drive unit is used to assist the drive, for example in electric bicycles in support of a pedal drive.

The electric drive unit may be designed as a direct drive, i. as drive without gear, which is advantageous in terms of energy efficiency. In an electric vehicle, the electric drive unit is preferably a pancake motor. Particularly preferably, the drive unit is a geared motor. Depending on the configuration of the drive unit, a motor control is provided, which is designed to control the drive power, for example by means of current and / or voltage regulation and / or pulse width modulation (PWM).

The at least one interface of the vehicle is designed for connection to the connection element of the module. Interface and connection element can in this case have all suitable configurations that a secure electrical Provide connection between module and on-board network. Naturally, the interface and connection element should be designed to be mechanically matched to one another. The interface and the connection element are designed according to the invention as a plug connection. This achieves excellent operability and enables easy connection of modules to the vehicle. Preferably, the connection element and the interface are designed as matching plug-in elements. Preferably, the interface is designed as a plug and the connection element as a socket.

According to the invention, the vehicle-side interface is connected to at least the power electrical system and the control device, while the module-side connection element is connected at least to the electrical arrangement and the module control. These internal connections are based on a ladder and can be permanent, separable or switchable. It should follow without further ado that the connections should be adapted to the respective voltage and current.

In view of the possible operation by vehicle users, all current-carrying parts should preferably be suitably protected against contact, correspondingly also the interface and connecting element.

The electrical module according to the invention further comprises an electrical arrangement in addition to the connection element, as already mentioned. The electrical arrangement is designed for connection to the on-board power supply system and can have all suitable configurations. In the simplest case, this may be, for example, an electrical conductor arrangement which is designed to connect to the on-board power supply system via the connection element and, for example, connects the power on-board network, if appropriate by means of a further connector, to further components or to a further module. In particular, however, the electrical arrangement comprises one or more electrical or electronic components and / or circuits.

Suitably, the electrical arrangement is a power arrangement. In the context of the present invention, the term "power arrangement" encompasses all electrical circuit arrangements and components which are suitable for connection to the power supply. Onboard or the drive unit and in particular for supplying electrical energy to the drive unit or for discharging generated by the drive unit electrical energy are formed. The latter may in particular be the case when the drive unit is used as a recuperation brake or as a generator. The power arrangement is preferably designed for supplying or discharging an electric current of at least 1A, particularly preferably at least 5A and in particular 100A.

Suitably, the electrical arrangement is a voltage or current source, i. a power source, and has, for example, a battery, a charger, a solar panel, a fuel cell and / or a generator. The module can thus be used, in particular, as a charger or charging station, i. Alternatively or additionally, the electrical arrangement can also be designed as an electrical load, ie as an energy sink, and, for example, a braking resistor, a battery in charging mode, a converter or a power supply for the power grid, if necessary with an inverter for a " Vehicle-to-grid coupling.

For the purpose of communication with the at least one module, the control device may in particular have one or more microprocessors or a correspondingly configured computer unit with a corresponding programming stored in a memory.

The control device may be formed in one or more parts, wherein a central control device is preferred. The control device can also be integrated with other components of the vehicle, for example with a motor control of the electric drive unit. The control device preferably corresponds to an "Energy Bus Controller (EBC)".

The module controller may, for example, a microcontroller, microprocessor or other suitable electronic component, possibly with a corresponding programming, have, so that communication with the control device is possible.

As mentioned above, the interface of the electric vehicle further comprises a first NFC device and the connecting element to a second NFC device, which formed at least for short-range communication with each other to connect the controller of the electric vehicle with the module control.

In this context, a connection between the control device and the module control means a data connection which permits at least one unidirectional, and preferably one bidirectional, communication between the aforementioned components.

Both near-field communication devices are designed for short-range communication, and thus for wireless communication with one another. In this case, the term "short-range communication" is understood to mean a wireless communication in which no significant far-field arises.The communication can be effected inductively, capacitively or optically.The range of the communication is preferably less than 10 cm and in particular less than 2 cm In this case, devices can use for communication a suitable communication protocol, such as, for example, ISO 14443, 18092, 21481, ECMA 340, 352, 356, 362 or ETSI TS 102 190. Particularly preferably, the short-range communication has a frequency in the ISM band, particularly preferably of 13.56 MHz.

As already discussed, the use of the NFC devices can provide reliable communication between the control device of the vehicle and the module control. This in particular, when the connector is exposed to the weather, which can easily lead to contact corrosion or soiled contacts. While this is usually not a problem with the high currents occurring in the connection between on-board power supply system and electrical arrangement, contacts of electrically conductive data connections are far more sensitive. The invention avoids corresponding contact problems in an advantageous manner. At the same time, the use of short-range communication simultaneously increases the security of the communication, improves the immunity to interference and makes it easier to address against the use of, for example, Wi-Fi, WLAN or RFID. Also, as already mentioned, the invention provides an advantageous electrical isolation at least between the control device and the module control.

The first and second NFC devices may be any suitable embodiments to provide short-range communication with each other. According to an expedient embodiment, at least one of the two NFC devices is formed integrally with the interface or the connection element, which provides an extremely compact design. In this case, the respective NFC device can be arranged in a housing of the interface or of the connection element such that it is protected from the effects of weathering or damage.According to one embodiment, at least one of the NFC devices has an electromagnetically effective shield Communication can be safely limited to the range mentioned above, which further improves the security of the communication.

As mentioned above, the NFC devices allow at least one unidirectional communication. Preferably, the two NFC devices are designed for bidirectional communication. Particularly preferably, both NFC devices are actively formed. A power supply can be done here, for example, via the auxiliary power supply.

According to a further alternative or supplementary embodiment, the NFC devices may be additionally designed for the transmission of energy, in particular for the electrical power supply of the control unit of the electric vehicle and / or the module control.

According to the present embodiment, besides providing a communication connection, the NFC devices simultaneously allow the transmission of electric power, which is particularly advantageous. In this case, on the one hand, the electrical power supply of the control unit in the vehicle by the module is possible, for example, if the internal battery should be completely emptied, or else the electrical power supply of the module control by a voltage source present on the vehicle. Accordingly, the present embodiment allows communication between the controller and the module controller, even with a completely depleted vehicle battery and maintaining a galvanic isolation.

In the context of the present embodiment, the transmission of an electrical power of min. at least 1 watt to, for example, a maximum of 24 watts understood.

As mentioned above, the electric vehicle may further comprise an auxiliary power supply, which supplies other electrical components, such as controls, fittings, controls and / or lighting devices with electrical energy. In particular, the auxiliary vehicle electrical system can be designed for the electrical power supply of the control device.

According to a further embodiment, the NFC devices are designed to transmit electrical energy between the vehicle's auxiliary power supply and the module. In particular, a connection between the auxiliary vehicle network and an auxiliary module network of the module can take place here. The auxiliary module network can in this case be connected, for example, to the module controller, so that the module controller can be supplied with electrical energy from the auxiliary vehicle network accordingly. Alternatively or additionally, for example in the case of a "charge module" as mentioned above, the auxiliary module network can be connected to a voltage source, for example a 12V or i4V power supply, to possibly the module control and the control device of the electric vehicle with the proper Operation of these components to supply necessary electrical energy.

For electrical energy transmission, the NFC devices may have all suitable configurations. The energy transfer can be capacitive or inductive.

According to one embodiment, the first and the second NFC device each have an NFC coil whose coil axis are arranged orthogonal to the plug-in direction and at the intended connection of the interface and the connection element parallel to each other. This ensures a particularly good transmission of signals on the one hand and possibly efficient energy transmission on the other hand by means of the NFC devices.

The first and the second NFC device may in particular be designed in such a way that their coil axes are essentially completely connected when the plug connection is properly connected, ie, for example, with possibly + - 2 mm tolerance, overdec. ken.

Appropriately interface and connection element for galvanic connection of the electrical arrangement of the module are formed with the power board network of the electric vehicle, while the control device and module control are galvanically isolated. In this way, high voltages and / or currents between the electrical arrangement of the module can be transmitted to the power board network of the electric vehicle, while a (accidental) transmission to high voltages and / or currents between the controller and the module control can be excluded. Accordingly, the risk of incorrect operation is further reduced.

According to a further embodiment, the interface and connection element for the galvanic connection of the electrical arrangement of the module with the on-board power supply system of the electric vehicle can be formed on a plurality of voltage levels. As discussed at the beginning, this may, for example, be expedient for a quick charge of a battery. The power electrical system and / or the electrical arrangement of the module preferably has two voltage levels on separate conductors.

Expediently, the interface and connection element have at least one first contact element for connecting the power on-board network to the electrical arrangement on a first voltage level and at least one second contact element for connecting the power on-board network of the electric vehicle to the electrical arrangement on a second, different voltage level. The second voltage level may correspond to a fast charge line. In the case of a "charging module", the electrical arrangement can correspondingly have a voltage supply which provides at least two voltages.

According to a further alternative or supplementary embodiment, the first and / or the second NFC device may have an NFC control. This can be designed in particular for communication with the control device and thus allow identification of the respective NFC device. The present embodiment may be particularly useful when the electric vehicle is designed with more than one interface. In this case, it can be determined which module is connected to which interface, so that an assignment of these is possible. It is of particular advantage if the NFC control is logically addressable. This allows an analysis of the current paths and possibly the data paths or communication.

Suitably, the NFC control is designed for current and / or voltage measurement on the Leistungsbordnets or the auxiliary on-board network, eg. With a corresponding measuring unit. This embodiment allows a monitoring of the electrical connection, for example. A charging process. Alternatively or additionally, the NFC control is designed to control a switching unit and / or a locking drive, as explained below.

The NFC controller may be integral with the respective NFC device or provided as a separate controller. According to one embodiment, the NFC control of the second NFC device is formed integrally with the module controller, for example in a microprocessor.

According to a further alternative or supplementary embodiment of the invention, a first locking means is arranged on the interface. On the connection element, a second locking means is arranged, which is designed to engage with the first locking means.

At least one of the locking means may be movable between a free position (unlocked) and a locking position (locked). In the free position, the connection element is separable from the interface. In the locking position, the connection element is mechanically locked to the interface. In this embodiment, in addition to an electrical connection between the vehicle and the module in the connected operating state simultaneously a mechanical locking of the components can be accomplished.

The present embodiment thus enables a secure connection between the vehicle and the module, which increases the reliability and reduces the risk of interference by unauthorized persons. It is particularly advantageous that both the electrical connection as well as the mechanical locking via the at least one interface of the vehicle and the connection element of the module takes place. The system is therefore very user-friendly and can be operated quickly and easily.

The locking means provided in accordance with the present embodiment may have any suitable configuration for locking the terminal and the interface together in the locking position, i. mechanically to fix each other, so that accidental disconnection of the module is avoided by the bike. Thus, it is possible, for example, to avoid disconnecting the vehicle and the module "under load", which considerably increases the operational safety. [0009] Furthermore, depending on the configuration, unauthorized removal of the module from the vehicle can also be prevented, whereby certain theft protection is provided ,

Preferably, the locking means are designed as corresponding elements. In this case, one of the locking elements, for example, be designed as a bracket, groove, recess or opening, in which engages the respective other locking element, which is preferably designed as a pin, bolt or locking cam. Particularly preferably, the second locking means is designed for positive engagement with the first locking means.

The locking means may be formed in one or more parts, wherein the first locking means is preferably formed integrally with the interface.

Suitably, the second locking means is formed integrally with the connecting element.

If the vehicle has multiple interfaces, preferably each of the interfaces should have an associated locking means.

As discussed above, at least one of the first and second locking means may be movable from a free position to a locking position and vice versa. However, both locking means may be designed to be movable. Preferably, at least the second, ie the module-side locking means is designed to be movable, where advantageous particularly simple by the vehicle-side interface and can be made compact.

The respective locking means may, for example, be designed so that it can be moved linearly or rotationally from the free position into the locking position. However, depending on the application, the corresponding locking means can here also be several superimposed movements, for example alternatively or additionally pivotable or rotatable, the locking means preferably being movable from the free position to the locking position by a movement which is particularly easy to implement. Preferably, at least one locking means is movable in one direction, perpendicular to a connecting or disconnecting direction of interface and connecting element, d. H. perpendicular to the direction in which to move interface or terminal to engage with each other or to disconnect the connection.

In the context of the present invention, a "free position" or "unlocking position" is understood to mean a position of the locking means which fundamentally permits separation of the connecting element from the interface. Naturally, a further safety device or a closure can be arranged on the vehicle and / or module which, even in the free position, prevents an independent separation of the connection element from the interface, such as an additional mechanical and / or magnetic detent or fixation.

In the locking position, as already discussed, the connection element and the interface are locked together, ie mechanically fixed in such a way that inadvertent separation of the module from the vehicle is avoided. The two locking means are in this position in engagement with each other, that a separation of the connection element and interface, ie, a greater movement of these components relative to each other in the separation direction is blocked. The holding force of the connection between the connection element and the interface through the lock is preferably such that in the locked state, a balancing of interface and connection element in normal use is not possible, but using the body weight of a person this is possible and that is the elements of the interface not be damaged. For this purpose, the locked connection between connection element and interface should preferably be for a holding force of 500 N and preferably 730 N be formed. However, an independent release of the lock can additionally be provided in one exemplary embodiment in order to avoid damage to the components, for example when a maximum safety holding force is exceeded. This serves to further improve the operational safety of the present vehicle system. The predetermined safety holding force may be, for example, 500 N, and especially 730 N.

In a supplementary or alternative embodiment, the interface and connection element are designed such that an independent release occurs when exceeding the safety holding force in a train in the axial direction of the connector.

Alternatively or additionally, in another embodiment, a predetermined breaking point may be provided on the interface and / or connecting element which, when a predetermined vertical safety holding force, i. in one direction, perpendicular to the axial direction of the connector, all contacts and thus also vehicle and module separated from each other. The predetermined vertical safety holding force can be, for example, 600 N, and in particular 800 N.

The locking means may be movably formed with a motor locking drive between the free position and the locking position, such as by means of one or more springs and / or a pneumatic, hydraulic or other motor locking drive.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first and / or second locking means are provided with an electrically actuatable locking drive which is adapted to carry at least one, i. move the first and / or the second of the locking means between the free position and the locking position.

The electrically actuated locking drive can for this purpose have all suitable configurations and, for example, be designed as an electric motor. The locking drive can either directly or via a further mechanical system, such as. A drive screw or a gear system, with the respective locking be connected means for moving it between the free position and the locking position.

The drive for the locking means can be arranged both on the electric vehicle and on the module. If both locking means are designed to be movable, in each case an associated locking drive can be arranged both on the electric vehicle and on the module.

Particularly preferably, the locking drive is arranged on the module-side connection element. This allows a particularly simple and compact vehicle-side interface. Furthermore, in the case of a loading module mechanically movable parts are not arranged on the vehicle side, whereby a particularly advantageous protection against external influences such as. Moisture and mechanical damage is provided by vibrations during operation of the vehicle. In addition, can be accessed, for example, in the event of disturbances, regardless of the electric vehicle on the locking drive to easily separate, for example, for repairs or maintenance vehicle and module from each other.

The activation of the locking drive can be done by any suitable means. For example. It is conceivable to provide a switching contact which actuates the locking drive when connecting the connecting element to the interface in order to lock the components. As a switching contact, for example, a mechanical sensor or a non-contact sensor, such as, for example, an acoustic or optical sensor can be used.

According to one embodiment, the module controller is designed to determine the position of the second locking means and to control the locking drive accordingly.

Thus, for example, it is conceivable that in the case of a loading module, the module control activates the locking drive when connecting the interface with the connection element and locks the locking means. After completion of charging the existing battery in the vehicle, the locking drive can turn through the User activated and interface and connector unlocked accordingly. In this way it can be prevented that the charging process is interrupted prematurely, which can be disadvantageous for conventional batteries.

Alternatively or additionally, the module control can be connected to a control panel, so that the locking and / or unlocking takes place only after entering a PIN code. Thus, in particular in public areas unauthorized removal of a module or the vehicle can be prevented.

In another embodiment, the controller is configured to send an enable signal to the at least one lock driver to lock the connector to the interface. Furthermore or alternatively, the control device is designed to send a deactivation signal to the at least one locking drive and to unlock the connection element and the interface.

For this purpose, the control device may, for example, be connected to a corresponding control panel, so that the deactivation signal is sent in accordance with a user input, for example when the user requires the separation of the module from the vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the control device may be configured to automatically transmit the deactivation signal, for example when the user releases the locking by a mobile terminal (smartphone, or similar devices).

The activation signal can in this case be sent directly from the control device or indirectly, for example, via the module control to the locking drive. The activation signal may in this case be a correspondingly suitable, preferably electrical signal; Particularly preferably, the activation signal is a digital signal. The signal can also be transmitted over the Internet and so the unlocking via a mobile Internet device (mobile phone) are sent by the user when he is on-site or even carried out by the authorized remotely.

According to a further alternative or supplementary embodiment, the module control is in particular designed to send an identification signal to the control device when connecting the connection element to the interface. In this case, the control device can additionally be designed to receive the identification signal, to compare it with at least one compatibility parameter, and to carry out one or more of the subsequent method steps if the identification signal matches the compatibility parameter.

Such a method step may include, for example, sending an activation signal to at least one switching unit in order to connect the electrical arrangement to the onboard power supply network. Another example of such an additional method step is the implementation of a lock by means of the locking drive described above. In other words, if the identification signal matches the compatibility parameter, for example, a first activation signal can be sent to the at least one locking drive to lock the connection element to the interface and / or send a second activation signal to the at least one switching unit connect the electrical system to the on-board power supply. The timing of the first and second activation signals may be selected according to the application. In this case, the first activation signal can be transmitted before, at the same time or after the second activation signal.

Advantageously, it is thus provided according to the present embodiment, that the interface of the electric vehicle is locked only with the connection element of the module, if, for example, the compatibility or authorization is ensured for this purpose. It is thus possible, for example, to ensure that only compatible or authorized vehicles can be used and locked to modules such as, for example, a charging station or only compatible or authorized modules, such as, for example, original batteries, with the vehicle. The present compatibility check further increases the operational safety.

The module control can, as mentioned above, be designed so that at least when connecting the connection element of the module with the interface of the electric vehicle, shortly before or shortly thereafter, the identification signal is sent to the control device. The identification signal enables the control device to compare with at least one compatibility parameter and thus make a decision with regard to the compatibility or authorization for the operation of the module with the vehicle. For example. the identification signal of the control device can make a decision as to the compatibility of the electrical arrangement of the module with the on-board power network, ie a check as to whether the arrangement can be securely connected to the on-board power supply system. Preferably, the identification signal is a digital signal, which is particularly advantageous in terms of reliability.

In the simplest case, the identification signal allows identification of the module, so that, if necessary after requesting a corresponding provided in the control unit memory unit, a test is possible, whether the module may be connected to the electric vehicle or if the module with the on-board electrical system and thus compatible with the vehicle. Thus, the identification signal to an identification parameter, such as, for example, an access or PIN code, a serial number and / or a type ID, possibly with H create er-ID correspond. Alternatively or additionally, the identification signal may correspond to a function ID with regard to the functionality of the electrical component, such as, for example, "energy source" or "energy sink" or "battery", "charger" or "solar panel".

The at least one compatibility parameter may, for example, comprise one or more comparison values and / or one or more threshold values. Naturally, the control device can also be designed to compare a plurality of compatibility parameters. The at least one compatibility parameter can be predefined in the control device or can preferably be queried from a memory unit by the control unit. Alternatively or additionally, a measuring unit may be connected to the control unit in order to measure an electrical size of the power on-board network, such as, for example, voltage or current flow, and to determine one or more compatibility parameters accordingly. The measuring unit can be queried here, for example, via one of the NFC facilities.

As mentioned at the outset, the control device according to an exemplary embodiment can, after the compatibility check has been carried out, thus in the event that the identification signal gnal with the compatibility parameter, send a second activation signal to the at least one switching unit to connect the electrical arrangement to the on-board power supply.

The switching unit provides a switchable, separable connection of the electrical arrangement of the module with the on-board power supply. In principle, the switching unit should be designed such that before the activation of the switching unit by the control device, the electrical arrangement is safely separated from the on-board power supply, thus also in the period between the connection of the connection element with the interface and the activation of the switching unit by the controller.

The present training thus ensures a safe electrical isolation of the electrical arrangement of the module from the on-board power system before the compatibility check. In the event that the identification signal agrees with the compatibility parameter, for example, the above-described interlocking of the interface and the connection element can be carried out by transmitting the first activation signal and then establishing the electrical connection between the power supply network and the electrical arrangement of the module. Thus, the reliability is further increased by first ensuring the proper connection and locking of the module to the vehicle before the electrical connection between power on-board network and electrical arrangement of the module is made.

The control device is therefore preferably designed to first send the first activation signal to the locking drive and then the second activation signal to the switching unit.

For actuation of the switching unit, this is suitably connected to the control device for receiving the second activation signal, wherein, of course, in addition to a direct connection and an indirect connection, eg. Via other components of the vehicle or the module, such as. Via one of the NFC devices or Module control is possible.

The switching unit can be used for single or multi-pole switching of the connection between be designed electrical arrangement and power board network, as long as it is ensured that no significant electrical current flows between the arrangement and the on-board power supply before activation by the control device. Preferably, the switching unit is designed for the all-pole switching of the connection between the electrical arrangement and the power supply network, which further advantageously increases the operational reliability. The switching unit may be formed discretely, for example as a relay or contactor, as well as an integrated circuit, for example as a MOSFET.

The switching unit can be formed in one or more parts and basically arranged in the vehicle, which is advantageous in terms of weight and size of the module. Preferably, however, the switching unit is provided in the at least one module. As a result, the power on-board network can be expanded in a simple manner by adding further interfaces, similar to a bus system. In the case of several modules, of course, each module should have a corresponding switching unit.

Preferably, the switching unit is integrally formed with the connection element, whereby a particularly compact design is achieved. Particularly preferably, the module control is formed integrally with the connection element and in particular integrally with the switching unit. Suitably, an optical indicator, such as. An LED, connected to the switching unit for displaying the connection state.

According to a preferred development of the invention, the control device is designed to determine at least one electrical operating parameter of the arrangement from the identification signal and to compare the operating parameter with at least one electrical compatibility parameter of the on-board power supply system.

As a result, an advantageous compatibility test based on the electrical properties of the networks to be connected is possible, which further increases the security of the system. The electrical operating parameter of the arrangement and the electrical compatibility parameters of the on-board power network can hereby be any electrical variable or range suitable for the comparison, such as, for example, voltage, current, power and / or battery capacity. Naturally it can be provided to compare several electrical operating parameters of the arrangement with corresponding compatibility parameters.

The module control can be designed, for example, to interrogate the at least one electrical operating parameter from a module-side memory and then to send a corresponding identification signal to the control unit of the vehicle. This is particularly advantageous if the electrical operating parameter corresponds to a working range of the electrical arrangement of the module, for example the permissible voltage range and / or a maximum permissible current of the arrangement.

As an alternative or in addition, the module controller may have at least one measuring unit or be connected to such a measuring unit in order to determine the electrical operating parameter by measurement. In the case of a voltage source, such as a battery or a charger, it is thus possible to determine the current voltage and to send a corresponding identification signal to the control device.

In the same way, as discussed at the beginning, the control device can determine the at least one electrical compatibility parameter of the on-board power supply system from the storage unit or a measuring unit provided in the vehicle or at the plug connection.

Particularly preferably, both the module control has at least one measuring unit for measuring the voltage of the electrical arrangement and the control device has a vehicle-side measuring unit for measuring the voltage of the power on-board network. The module controller may expediently have a second measuring unit in order to determine, after the connection with one of the interfaces, whether the on-board power supply system is at all supplied with power.

The module controller preferably transmits the identification signal, which corresponds at least to the voltage of the electrical arrangement. The control device determines the voltage of the electrical arrangement from the identification signal and compares the voltage of the electrical arrangement with the voltage of the power electrical system. The controller sends in this case the activation or deactivation If the two voltages do not differ substantially, ie preferably by not more than ± 0.5 V, in particular not more than ± 0.15 V and particularly preferably not more than ± 0.05 V. In the case that the Plug connection for galvanic connection of the electrical arrangement of the module with the vehicle power supply network is formed on several voltage levels, as mentioned above, the control device may be formed in a further alternative or complementary embodiment, the one voltage level connected to the power electrical system, which of the voltage corresponds to the power supply system (current voltage and / or rated voltage). The present selection allows a very flexible use of the connector.

Naturally, depending on the application, it is not excluded that the identification signal corresponds to a plurality of operating parameters and / or identification parameters, and the control device is designed to compare it with corresponding compatibility parameters.

As mentioned above, electric vehicle and module according to the present invention can be connected via a plug connection. In this context, a plug connection or a plug connector is understood to mean a separable component which is to be connected to a corresponding component and provides a galvanic, that is to say a conductor-based, separable connection between the power supply network and the electrical arrangement.

The plug connection should preferably be designed such that a secure connection between the on-board power supply system of the vehicle and the electrical arrangement of the module is possible. In particular, the connector should be adapted to the electrical requirements of the particular arrangement, especially in terms of current and voltage. The plug-in connection is expediently designed for an electrical current of at least 3A, in particular at least 5A, or at least 60-100A, at a voltage of 10V-200V, in particular 12V-120V (peak voltage).

Usual plug connectors or plug connections are, for example, sockets which are designed as receptacles for plugs. It is possible here to carry out the connection element or the interface as a socket or plug. Advantageous, since especially maintenance- poor and easy to clean, the module-side connection element is designed as a socket. In this case, the interface may be formed as a socket corresponding connector.

Preferably, the connector has at least two electrical contact elements, so that the power electrical system can be connected to the electrical arrangement. Particularly preferably, the connector has three electrical Kontaktelmente, eg. For the connection of + 60V, -120V and a ground connection between power onboard and electrical arrangement. Contact elements for the transmission of a communication signal, such as, for example, a CAN bus system, and possibly for the electrical connection of the initially discussed auxiliary vehicle network with the module are not necessary.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a flexible connection means is arranged between the interface and the electric vehicle and / or the connection element and the module. This further simplifies the operability of the vehicle system and further facilitates connecting the module to the vehicle.

The connecting means may be formed in one or more parts. Preferably, the connecting means is constructed hose or cable-like and has, in addition to corresponding electrical conductors for connecting the power electrical system with the electrical arrangement of the module a fuse element made of a material resistant to mechanical stress material, such as. A metallic reinforcement or a steel cable on. Preferably, the securing element is embodied integrally with the interface or with the connecting element or fastened with an interface or connecting element or one of the locking means such that these components can not be separated from one another without destruction.

The flexible connection means results in improved connection possibilities between the module and the electric vehicle for the vehicle user. For example, bicycles can be parked at a loading station and connected and locked with it. It is also possible, for example, to connect and lock modules to the vehicle, but the modules are flexible, eg on the handlebars of the vehicle. tool, can be positioned. Furthermore, the vehicle can, for example. With the connecting means particularly simple connected to an object such as a bicycle stand and additionally connected to the module.

Particularly preferred is an embodiment in which an additional receptacle with a locking means for the interface is present on the vehicle, so that the flexible connecting means can be inserted and locked with the interface in the receptacle. This makes it possible to use the interface with the flexible connection means as a "cable lock" if no module is currently connected to the vehicle.

According to a further preferred embodiment, a magnetic fixing is provided in order to fix the interface and the connection element to each other and to position loosely. The magnetic fixation can be arranged both on the connection element and / or on the interface. It allows a precise positioning of the interface and the connection element to each other to allow a trouble-free and accurate locking. Furthermore, as a result, even after unlocking the connection element remains at the interface, so that this, for example. In a training with a flexible connecting means, not uncontrolled leaves its position and is inadvertently damaged.

Suitably, the electric vehicle is designed to connect two or more modules. In particular, the compatibility test offers clear advantages here. Naturally, the electric vehicle should preferably have two or more interfaces.

In this case, the switching unit can be designed for the separate connection of the two or more modules to the on-board power supply network, so that in the case of incompatibility the corresponding module is not connected to the power on-board network, but a connection of the further modules is possible.

Alternatively or additionally, in the case of the connection of two or more modules, the control unit may expediently have a priority control in order to additionally To determine the compatibility check based on the priority, whether the respective module can be connected to the on-board power network. For this purpose, the control unit may preferably be designed to compare the identification signal with one or more priority parameters, so that the activation signal is only sent to the switching unit or the locking drive when the identification signal coincides with the at least one priority parameter.

For example. In the case of the connection of several battery modules, it is conceivable to prioritize based on the current power requirement of the electric drive unit. It is likewise possible to provide a prioritization on the basis of the module type, so that, for example, first the energy of a solar panel is used to drive and a battery module is only switched on if the solar panel does not provide sufficient electrical power. Of course, even a module not switched on can nevertheless remain locked on the vehicle.

Furthermore, the electric vehicle can have a communication network which is separate from the on-board power supply network and connects the control device to the at least one interface. The communication network serves to transmit at least the identification signal from the module controller after the module has been connected to the interface of the vehicle. Naturally, the communication network can be designed to connect further assemblies of the vehicle or of the module, such as, for example, the locking drive, the switching unit, an instrument panel, an operating device and / or a motor control. In this case, the communication network may, for example, have electrical signal lines and / or wireless communication links; The communication network is expediently an optical network, ie a transmission network designed correspondingly with optical signal lines and transmitter / receiver arrangements. In this case, the interface and connector have optical transmitter / receiver assemblies which are connected at least to the respective NFC device. Preferably, the communication network is designed as a bus system with a suitable protocol, particularly preferably, the communication network is a CAN bus system (CAN high, CAN low). Control unit and module control are particularly preferably designed for communication via the CAN-open protocol. The NFC devices are here for the conversion of the CAN (high / low) signal in one for the Nahbereichskommunika- tion suitable protocol, and in turn on the receiver side in a CAN (high / low) signal formed. Suitable protocols for short-range communication are discussed in the beginning.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method of connecting an electric vehicle to a module is disclosed.

In this case, the electric vehicle has an on-board power supply network for supplying power to an electric drive unit of the electric vehicle, an interface connected to the power on-board network for connection to a module, and a control device for communication with the module.

The module has an electrical arrangement for connection to the power supply system of the electric vehicle, a connection element that can be connected to the interface of the electric vehicle, and a module controller for communication with the control device of the electric vehicle.

According to the present aspect, the interface and the terminal for wireless short-range communication are formed with each other so that after connecting the interface and the terminal, the module controller and the controller of the electric vehicle wirelessly communicate with each other via the interface and the terminal.

In the method according to the present aspect, in particular when connecting the connection element to the interface, an identification signal can be sent to the control device and the identification signal can be received by the control device, compared with at least one compatibility parameter, and if the identification signal matches the compatibility parameter, a subsequent process step is performed be, for example, the locking and / or switching described above. In the method, in particular, the first and / or the second locking means can be brought from a free position to a locking position in order to lock the connection element at the interface. With regard to the construction of the individual components and possible embodiments, reference is made to the above description of the modular vehicle system.

The above-described short-range communication between an electric vehicle and a module can also be advantageously used in the context of a modular charging system. Another aspect of the present invention therefore relates to a modular charging system with a charging unit and at least one module.

The charging unit has a charging line and one or more interfaces connected to the charging line for connecting at least one rechargeable module. Furthermore, a control device is provided for communication with the module.

The at least one rechargeable module may have a connectable to the interface connectable connection element and an electrical arrangement for connection to the charging line. The module may further include a module controller for communicating with the controller.

Here, the interface of the charging unit can be separably connected to the connection element of the module to connect the electrical arrangement of the module with the charging line. Furthermore, the interface may comprise a first NFC device and the connection element a second NFC device, which are designed for short-range communication with one another in order to connect the control device of the charging unit to the module controller (for data communication).

The embodiment according to the present aspect therefore also allows for the connection of a rechargeable module with a charging unit advantageously increased reliability by the Nahfeldkommunikation invention.

The electrical arrangement preferably has an electrical energy store and in particular preferably a battery arrangement, such as, for example, one or more accumulators. Suitably, the rechargeable module is therefore a battery module.

The charging unit is preferably designed for connection to a supply network, eg a 220V or 110V power supply network. Expediently, the charging unit has a power supply which connects the supply network to the charging line and is designed for adaptation and possibly monitoring of current and / or voltage. In this case, the charging line can also be designed with a plurality of voltage levels (60V, 120V, 180V peak voltage) and corresponding separate conductors, in accordance with the above-described power supply network. It is also possible that corresponding embodiments are carried out for different performance classes, for example 5 A, 15 A. 30 A, 40 A, 60 A)

With regard to the configuration of the individual components of the charging unit and of the rechargeable module, reference is made to the above description of the modular vehicle system, wherein the configuration of the components of the charging unit corresponds to the corresponding components of the vehicle.

The invention will be described below with reference to exemplary embodiments. It shows:

1 shows an embodiment of an electrical system of an electric vehicle in a schematic view.

2 shows an embodiment of a module in a schematic view;

3 shows a detailed view of a connection element of the module according to FIG. 2;

4 shows the embodiment of the electrical system according to FIG. 1 with a connected module according to FIG. 2, FIG.

5 shows an exemplary embodiment of the communication when connecting a module to an electric vehicle in a schematic flow diagram,

6 shows an exemplary embodiment of a connection element and an interface in a perspective view with a schematic circuit diagram, FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of the interface according to FIG. 6 in a partially cutaway perspective view with a schematic circuit diagram, and FIG

Fig. 8, the connection element of Fig. 6 in an exploded perspective view.

FIG. 1 shows an electrical system 1 of a vehicle 2 according to the invention with a total of three on-board network systems, namely an on-board power supply system 3, a CAN The power electrical system 3 is used here primarily for the electrical power supply of an electric drive unit 6 of the vehicle 2. The power electrical system 3 is a DC network with multiple voltage levels, namely +60 V DC and -120V DC peak voltage and + 48V DC -96V nominal voltage designed for a current of about 20 A - 100 A. It is powered by an internal, rechargeable vehicle battery 7 with electrical energy. In the following, the individual voltage levels of the power electrical system 3 are referred to in relation to the peak voltage mentioned above, even if the nominal voltage deviates from this.

The auxiliary power supply 5 is designed for an operating voltage of +12 V DC and is used to power other vehicle components, such as. A control unit 8 and a control device 9. Here, the auxiliary power supply 5 via the battery 7 and an intermediate 60V / 12V converter 10 with electric Energy supplied.

The CAN bus system 4 is used for the control and communication of the vehicle components, as explained in detail below. The CAN bus system 4 is presently formed with electrical signal lines; the communication protocol complies with the "CAN-open" protocol according to specification CiA 454 (LEV).

According to the present embodiment, the power on-board network 3 thus comprises three conductors, namely + 60V DC, -120V DC and ground. The auxiliary electrical system 5 has a total of two conductors, namely + 12V DC and ground, while the CAN bus system 4 has CAN-high and CAN-low conductor. For a better overview, the individual conductors of the networks discussed above are not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The electric drive unit 6 comprises an electric motor 11, which is connected via a motor controller 12 to the power on-board network 3. The motor controller 12 is further connected to the CAN bus 4 for receiving control commands and modulates the voltage supplied to the motor from the on-board power supply 3 by means of pulse width modulation (PWM) to enable control of the drive power. For controlling the electric vehicle, the already mentioned central control device 9 is provided, which is also connected to the CAN bus 4 and to the power supply to the auxiliary on-board network 5. The control device 9 is a microprocessor control, which is controlled via a stored in a connected and variable memory unit 13 program. In this case, the control unit 9 serves, for example, to control the engine control 12 for the driving operation in accordance with a control command of the vehicle user entered via the operating unit 8.

The control unit 9 further monitors the power on-board network 3 and is connected to a measuring unit 14, which detects voltage and current on the on-board power supply system and supplies corresponding digital measured values to the control device 9. The storage unit 13 has compatibility parameters in a database, which is explained in detail below.

The electrical system 1 of the electric vehicle 2 also has two interfaces 15, which are designed as connectors for connection to corresponding modules 16 and the power on-board network 3, the auxiliary electrical system 5 and the communication network 4 correspondingly connected to connected to the interfaces 15 modules 16 separable. The electrical system 1 of the electric vehicle 2 and in particular the vehicle electrical system 3, 4 and 5 may naturally have further components and components or connect, as indicated by the dashed lines.

An exemplary embodiment of a module 16 provided for connection to an interface 15 is shown in a schematic view in FIG. 2. The module 16 has a connection element 17, which in the present case is designed as a socket for engagement with one of the interfaces 15. The module 16 further comprises an electrical arrangement, namely a 6oV battery 18, which is connected to supply electrical energy in the power on-board network 3 via a supply line 19 to the connection element 17. Alternatively, the module 16 may be designed in particular as a charging station or charger, that is, with a corresponding power supply.

Interface 15 and connecting element 17 are designed as mechanically matched connector. In particular, the connection element 17 can be an electrical tromotorisch driven latch (not shown in Fig. 2), which engages in a arranged in the interface 15 bracket (not shown in Fig. 2) for locking.

A schematic view of the connection element 17 in FIG. 3 is shown. As can be seen from FIG. 3, the connection element 17 has a total of three contact elements 30 in order to connect the module 16 galvanically to the power supply system 3 (+ 60V, -120V, GND).

The connecting element 17 has an integrated first switching unit 20, with which the connection between the + 60V supply line 19 and consequently the battery 18 can be switched to the power on-board network 3. A second switching unit 21 is provided to switchably connect the -120V line of the power electrical system 3 to the module 16. As shown, this connection is not used in the present "battery module" 16 with the 6oV battery 18, but this can be used in the case of a "charging module" with a corresponding power supply, for example, for fast charging of the vehicle battery 7. The ground line (GND) is not switched.

The switching units 20 and 21 are formed here with MOSFET switches and are controlled by a microprocessor module controller 23 which is connected to the CAN bus system 4 via a wireless near field connection. For this purpose, a second NFC device 104 is provided on the module side, which is in contact with a vehicle-side first NFC device 43 (not shown in FIG. 3) via a near-field connection according to ISO 14443 at 13.56 MHz.

The vehicle-side NFC device 43 is designed to be integrated with the interface 15, as explained in more detail below. The NFC devices 43, 104 are furthermore used for the transmission of energy, namely for connecting the auxiliary cabinet 5 to the module 16 or a module-side auxiliary module network (not shown in FIG. 3) and for supplying power to the module controller 23 and an electric motor 114 (FIG. also not shown in Fig. 3) with about 20W.

The interface 15 and the connection element 17 thus provide for a galvanic (conductive) connection of the module 16 to the power on-board network 3, while the CAN bus system 4 and the auxiliary power supply 5 from the module 16 and the module controller 23 are electrically isolated.

A sensor 27 is provided to measure the voltage on the supply line 19 and thus the voltage provided by the battery 18 and to provide a corresponding measurement value to the module controller 23.

Furthermore, a monitoring unit 28 is provided, which monitors the maximum permissible current between module 16 and power supply network 3 and the maximum permissible voltages, so that, for example, in the event of a short circuit, the battery 18 can be safely separated from the electrical system 1 of the vehicle 2. For this purpose, the monitoring unit 28 regularly transmits corresponding measured values to the module controller 23, which actuates the switching units 20 and 21 accordingly.

In the present example, a current of 100 A between supply line 19 and on-board power supply system 3 should not be exceeded.

The monitoring unit 28, the switching units 20, 21 and the sensor 27 are naturally connected to the module controller 23 via suitable communication lines (not shown) and optionally designed with this integrated in an electronic unit.

In addition, an electric motor 114 (not shown in Fig. 3) is provided which drives the previously described latch (also not shown). The electric motor 114 is driven by the module controller 23 and supplied via the NFC device 104 with electrical energy, as mentioned above.

An embodiment of the electrical system 1 of the modular vehicle 2 with connected module 16 is shown in FIG. The connection of an additional battery 18 may, for example, be necessary if the internal vehicle battery 7 is exhausted or the range of the vehicle is to be increased. For this purpose, the user connects the module 16 to the interface 15, after which the control device 9 and the module control 23 communicate with each other in a compatibility mode via the CAN bus 4 and the two NFC devices 43, 104 in order, on the one hand, to control the authorization. check for the connection of the module 16 and on the other to check the compatibility of the module 16 and more specifically the battery 18 of the module 16 before connecting and locking this with the onboard power supply 3.

The method of connecting the module 16 to the interface 15 will be explained below with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 5, which illustrates the individual steps with reference to a flow chart.

According to step 50, the connection element 17 of the module 16 is first connected to one of the interfaces 15 by a user. The switching units 20 and 21 are initially opened in this state, so that the battery 18 is not connected to the power on-board network 3. However, the connection element 17 ensures a connection of the monitoring unit 28 with the on-board power supply system 3.

As soon as the monitoring unit 28 detects a voltage on the power supply system 3, it sends a signal to the module controller 23, which in step 51 queries the sensor 27 with regard to the current battery voltage on the supply line 19. Furthermore, the module controller 23 determines in parallel from an internal memory a plurality of identification parameters which characterize the module 16 in terms of type and manufacturer. In step 52, the module controller 23 sends an identification signal to the control device 9 via the two NFC devices 43, 104 and correspondingly the CAN bus system 4. The identification signal in the present example contains the following information:

Manufacturer ID: 005

Type ID: 125

Battery voltage: 49.5V

In this case, the manufacturer ID corresponds to a specific manufacturer of the module assigned according to the ID. The type ID corresponds to the "energy source - battery" functionality.

The control device 9 receives the identification signal in step 53 and queries the compatibility parameters of the vehicle from the data stored in the memory unit 13. database. In this example, the database includes the following parameters:

Permitted manufacturers: 002-008, 057, 062, 118-255

Allowed module types: 014-042,48,87,125, 144

Max. Voltage onboard power supply (lower voltage level): 60.0 V min. Voltage on-board power supply (lower voltage level): 30.0 V

In step 54, the control device 9 first compares the parameters obtained in the identification signal with the compatibility parameter obtained from the database. As follows from the above tables, the module 16 is basically compatible with the vehicle and authorized for connection. The control device 9 sends according to step 55, an activation signal to the module controller 23, which controls the electric motor 114 of the bolt in step 56 and the module 16 is locked to the vehicle. Accordingly, the control device 9 in section 57 then queries the measuring unit 14 with respect to the current voltage of the power electrical system 3 from.

The query of the measuring unit 14 in step 57 is required because the vehicle also has an internal vehicle battery 7 and the voltage of the battery 7 should therefore differ only insignificantly from the voltage of the battery 18. In the present example, the voltage on the power supply system 3 is 49.5 V.

The control device 9 compares this value with the battery voltage from the identification signal in step 58 and checks whether the battery voltage of the module 16 differs by not more than ± 0.05 V from the voltage of the power on-board network 3.

Since this is the case in the present example, the control device 9 sends a second activation signal to the switching units 20 and 21 connected to the module control 23 in step 59, whereupon the supply line 19 and thus the battery 18 are connected to the power on-board network 3. The compatibility check or the "compatibility mode" ends in step 60. The successful connection is indicated to the user by a green indicator lamp (see FIG. 8), such as an LED disposed in connector 17. Otherwise, a red indicator lamp (see FIG. 8) in the connection element 17 shows that a connection of the module 16 to the vehicle is not possible due to a lack of compatibility. In this case, the electric motor 114 of the bolt (both not shown) is again actuated to unlock module 16 from the interface 15.

During operation, the monitoring unit 28 remains active. If the predetermined maximum values for current or voltage are exceeded, the monitoring unit 28 sends a signal to the module controller 23, so that the switching unit 20 disconnects the connection between the battery 18 and the vehicle's electrical system 1 in order to avoid damage.

Naturally, the present invention is not limited to applications in which a module 16 is connected to the vehicle 2. The connection of a first module, for example, a charging station or charging unit and a second module, for example. A rechargeable module with battery is conceivable.

FIG. 6 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a vehicle-side interface 15 together with a corresponding module-side connecting element 17. In the present example, the module 16 is a charging module with a mains connection (not shown). The charging module has a power supply (also not shown) which provides several voltages, namely -120V DC, + 60V DC on the one hand for connection to the on-board power supply 3, and + 12V DC for wireless connection to the auxiliary power supply 5. The module-side + 12V DC Lines are also referred to below as "auxiliary module supply" (Module auxiliary power supply).

As shown, the connection element 17 has three contact pins 101, 102, 103 for the connection between the module 16 and the power supply system 3, which are arranged in a socket housing 100 designed as an insulator. The NFC device 104 already discussed at the beginning is concealed in the lower region of the female housing 100, as explained in detail below with reference to FIG.

As the schematic diagram shown in the lower part of FIG. 6 shows, bind the contact pins 101, 102, 103 via corresponding plug contacts 46, 47, 48 of the vehicle-side interface 15, the module 16 with the power electrical system 3 of the vehicle 1 when the plug 15 and socket 17 are connected together. This connection between interface 15 and connection element 17 is electrically conductive, that is galvanic. As discussed initially with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 3, the - 120V DC connection is optional according to the particular application. The connection of the CAN bus system 4 and the auxiliary vehicle network 5, however, is wireless and thus galvanically separated from the module 16. As a result, in particular contact problems are avoided in the low currents on these networks.

According to the embodiment of FIG. 3, the terminal 17 further includes the module controller 23, the second NFC device 104 and the electric motor 114 of the latch (not shown) which constitute an electronic unit 105. The NFC device 104 is driven by the module controller 23 for communication. The sensor 27 discussed at the outset with reference to FIG. 3, the monitoring unit 28 and the switching units 20 and 21 are not shown in FIGS. 6-8 for improved clarity, but could also form part of the electronics unit 105. Alternatively, these components may also be arranged outside the connection element 17 in the module 16. While the module-side -120V DC shown, + 60V DC and + 12V DC lines are connected to the initially discussed power supply (not shown), the module-side CAN-low 106 and CAN-high 107 lines are used to connect the vehicle 2 with a central data acquisition device (not shown) to charge the charge or collect diagnostic or usage information. However, the CAN bus lines 106, 107 are optional.

A partially cutaway perspective view of the interface 15 with a schematic circuit diagram is shown in FIG. For improved clarity, the electrical plug contacts 46, 47, 48 of the interface 15 in Figure 7 are not shown.

The interface 15 shown in Fig. 7 is designed as a lockable plug. It has a housing 33, which is shown transparent in the figure for better illustration, into which a flexible connecting means 34, for example in the form of a preferably 5 mm thick steel cable, opens. The connecting means 34 is fixed to a locking means 35. The locking means 35 is designed as a closed circumferential steel strap formed and partially protrudes on the connecting means 34 opposite side of the interface 15 from the housing 33, so that outside of the housing 33, a substantially C-shaped closed bracket 30 is formed, which is provided with a transverse to the plug direction opening 36 ,

Parallel to the connecting means 34 extend the lines of the CAN bus system 4 and the auxiliary power supply 5 (cable cross-section AWG24, total cable 12mm). These are connected in the housing 33 via a connector 46 to another electronics unit 41, which has the first NFC device 43 with NFC coil 45 and a microprocessor 42 (both not shown in the lower part of Fig. 7). In this case, the microprocessor 42 controls the NFC device 43 and possibly further measuring units arranged in the interface.

The NFC coil 45 is used for wireless communication and the transmission of electrical energy and in particular for connecting the auxiliary electrical system 5 with the auxiliary module network, i. with at least the power supply of the charging module. The NFC coil 45 is arranged such that its coil axis is arranged transversely to the direction of insertion.

The connection to the on-board power supply system 3, which is not shown here, can of course run parallel to the connection means 34 in the same way.

8 shows details of the above-described connecting element 17 in an exploded view, together with the previously explained interface 15. As already mentioned, the connecting element 17 has a housing 100, contact pins 101, 102, 103, for example in the form of 6 mm pins , the second NFC device 104 and a locking means 105.

The NFC device 104 is parallel to the plug-in direction and thus aligned with the inserted interface 15 parallel to the electronic unit 41 of the interface 15. It has an NFC coil, not shown in the figures, whose coil axis is aligned in the said case parallel to the coil axis of the NFC coil 45 of the interface 15 and at best covers it. The LEDs arranged on the front side of the NFC device 104 indicate the respective connection status, as already shown. discussed.

The contact pins 101, 102, 103 are received in the housing 100 and contact on the one hand with inserted interface 15 whose corresponding plug contacts 46, 47, 48. About the contact pins 101, 102, 103 and the associated plug contacts 46, 47, 48 is a transfer of Energy from / to the on-board power supply network 3, for example for charging the vehicle battery 7. As shown in Fig. 8, the conductors of the power electrical system 3 naturally have a larger cross-section than the conductors of the CAN bus system 4 and the auxiliary electrical system. 5

The locking means 105 of the connecting element 17 has a locking element 107 which can be positioned rotatably by means of the locking motor 114. This is designed to cooperate with the locking means 35 of the interface 15 and has a locking cam 108 which engages with appropriate radial positioning in the formed in the locking means 35 recess 36 of the bracket 30 and the inserted into the connection element 17 interface 15 locks.

The embodiments explained above allow numerous changes or additions. For example, it is conceivable for the control unit 9 to be integrated with the operating unit 8 and / or the motor control 12,

the switching units 20, 21 are formed on the vehicle side or on the side of a loading unit,

the switching units 20, 21 are formed integrally with the interface 15, the switching units 20, 21 are arranged in the module 16,

only one or more than two interfaces 15 are arranged for connection to corresponding modules 16 in the electrical system 1 of the vehicle or in a charging unit,

the internal vehicle battery 7 is detachably connected via a connecting element 17 to one of the interfaces 15,

the CAN bus system 4 comprises optical signal lines and / or wireless signal paths in addition to or as an alternative to the electrical signal lines shown, the indicator lamps or LEDs are arranged on the vehicle side or in a charging unit instead of in the connection element 17,

the power electrical system 3 has only one voltage level,

Interface 15 and connecting element 17 with more or less than the three contacts shown 101, 102, 103, and 46, 47, 48 are formed,

the switching unit 20 is designed for the separate switching of a supply line and a charging line, which are provided between the module 16 and the power supply system 3,

the control device 9 is designed to additionally connect that voltage plane to the power supply system 3 which corresponds to the voltage on the power supply system 3 (actual voltage and / or nominal voltage), an independent release of the locking is provided in order to avoid damage to the components a maximum safety holding force is exceeded when pulling in the axial direction of the plug connection,

a predetermined breaking point at interface 15 and / or connecting element 17 is provided which, when a predetermined vertical safety holding force, i. in one direction, perpendicular to the axial direction of the connector, all contacts and thus also vehicle 2 and module 16 separated from each other and / or

the module 16 as a passive component, i. For example, as an extension or jumper cable, is designed, and in addition to a connection element 17 has a further connector or an interface 15 for connecting to another module.

The use of the term "comprising" or "comprising" in the claims and the present description does not exclude the presence of further features. Also, the use of indefinite articles does not exclude a majority. The mere performance of individual features in different dependent claims or different embodiments does not indicate that a combination of these features can not be used in an advantageous embodiment of the invention. On the contrary, a variety of combinations are conceivable. The use of reference numbers is not intended to be limiting.

Claims

claims

1. Modular vehicle system comprising an electric vehicle (2) and a module (16) which can be connected to the electric vehicle (2) by means of a plug connection,

wherein the electric vehicle (2) has at least:

- An on-board power supply (3) for supplying power to an electric drive unit (6) of the electric vehicle (2),

- A control device (9) for communication with the module (16), and

- an interface (15) connected to the power on-board network (3) and the control device (9) for connection to the module (16), which interface (15) forms a first element of the plug-in connection,

wherein the module (16) comprises at least:

an electrical arrangement,

- A module controller (23) for communication with the control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2), and

- A connected to the electrical assembly and the module control (23) connecting element (17), which forms a second element of the connector, wherein

- The interface (15) of the electric vehicle (2) separable with the connection element (17) of the module (16) is connectable to connect the electrical arrangement of the module (16) with the power electrical system (3) of the electric vehicle (2), and in which

- The interface (15) comprises a first NFC device (43) and the connection element (17) comprises a second NFC device (104), which are designed for short-range communication with each other to the control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2) with the Module control (23) to connect.

2. Modular vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the NFC device en (43, 104) in addition to the transmission of energy are formed, in particular for the electrical power supply of the control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2) and / or the module control (23).

3. Modular vehicle system according to claim 2, wherein the electric vehicle (2) further comprises an auxiliary vehicle electrical system (5), the module (16) has an auxiliary module network and the NFC devices (43, 104) are designed to transmit energy between the auxiliary electrical system (5) and the auxiliary module network.

4. Modular vehicle system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first NFC device (43) and the second NFC device (104) each having an NFC coil (45) whose coil axis orthogonal to the plug-in direction and when properly connecting interface ( 15) and connecting element (17) are arranged parallel to each other.

5. Modular vehicle system according to claim 4, wherein the first NFC device (43) and the second NFC device (104) are formed such that cover their coil axes when fully intended connection of the connector substantially.

6. Modular vehicle system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at the interface (15) a first locking means (35) is arranged and on the connection element (17) a second locking means (105) is arranged, which for engagement with the first locking means (35 ) is trained.

7. Modular vehicle system according to claim 6, wherein on the first and / or second locking means (35, 105) an electrically actuable locking drive is arranged, which is adapted to at least one of the locking means (35, 105) between a free position and a locking position move.

8. Modular vehicle system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the module controller (23) is formed when connecting the connection element (17) with the interface (15) to send an identification signal to the control device (9) and the control device (9) is formed to receive the identification signal, to compare with at least one compatibility parameter and to transmit an activation signal to at least one switching unit (20, 21) if the identification signal matches the compatibility parameter, to connect the electrical arrangement to the onboard power supply (3) and to assert an activation signal to send the at least one locking drive in order to lock the connecting element (17) with the Schnnitt- site (15).

9. Modular vehicle system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the interface (15) and connection element (17) for electrically connecting the electrical arrangement of the module (16) with the power electrical system (3) of the electric vehicle (2) are formed on a plurality of voltage levels.

10. Modular vehicle system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first NFC device (43) and / or the second NFC device (104) comprises an NFC controller, which is for communication with the control device (9) or the module controller ( 23) is formed.

11. The modular vehicle system of claim 10, wherein the NFC controller is logically addressable.

12. Modular vehicle system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein between the interface (15) and the electric vehicle (2) and / or the connection element (17) and the module (16) a flexible connecting means (34) is arranged.

13. Electric vehicle (2) which can be connected to a module (16), wherein the electric vehicle (2) has at least:

- A control device (9) for communication with the module (16), and

- an interface (15) connected to the on-board power supply (3) for disconnectable connection to the module (16), wherein

- The interface (15) comprises an NFC device (43), which is designed for short-range communication with another NFC device (104) of the module (16).

14. Module (16) for connection to an electric vehicle (2), wherein the module (16) comprises:

an electrical arrangement,

- A module control (23) for communication with a control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2) and - A connected to the electrical arrangement connection element (17) for separable connection to an interface (15) of the electric vehicle (2), wherein

- The connection element (17) has an NFC device (104), which is designed for short-range communication with another NFC device (43) of the electric vehicle (2).

15. A method for connecting an electric vehicle (2) to a module (16), wherein the electric vehicle (2) an on-board power supply (3) for supplying power to an electric drive unit (6) of the electric vehicle (2), one connected to the power on-board network (3) Interface (15) for connection to a module (16), and a control device (9) for communication with the module (16) and wherein the module (16) has an electrical arrangement for connection to the power electrical system (3) of the electric vehicle (2 ), a connectable to the interface (15) of the electric vehicle (2) connectable connection element (17), and a module controller (23) for communication with the control device (9) of the electric vehicle (2), said interface (15) and connecting element ( 17) are designed for wireless short-range communication with each other, so that after the connection of the interface (15) and connection element (17), the module controller (23) and the control device (9) d Electric vehicle (2) via the interface (15) and the connection element (17) communicate wirelessly with each other.