Fraunhofer Institute for Transportation and Infrastructure Systems IVIFlexible Charging Unit
for industrial applications, parking lots and private garages
Flexible charging solution for home garages.
The flexible charging unit is a so-called Automated Charging Device - Underbody (ACD-U). Fraunhofer IVI offers a cost-efficient and simple solution for charging vehicles in both private garages and public parking lots, and for flexible applications in industrial scenarios.
The device is simply placed on the road surface. The maximum charging capacity that can be achieved in this case is restricted by the typical limitations of home connections:
- Charging in non-public space
- 600 km range achieved within 5 hours
- Easy installation
- Dimensions of garage unit:
- 641 mm x 504 mm
- Construction height 60 mm
The option of charging in private areas allows using this newly developed technology even before the widespread implementation of the automated fast-charging system.
FAQ
What is the core technology behind the system and how does the energy transmission work?
The system is a conductive energy transmission system. This means that electrical contacts are physically connected to each other. The Underbody Charging System (UBCS) uses the front-end contacting principle. By way of this principle, the electrical contacts are pressed together with great force. To ensure that this electric connection is maintained throughout the entire charging process, an electromagnetic locking mechanism between the charging unit's road component and the UBCS vehicle interface is activated.
This innovative technology significantly reduces transmission losses, which allows much more current to be transmitted via a contact point without active cooling.
What performance specifications and electrical standards does the system meet? What options are available for adapting it to different vehicle types or charging capacities?
The system complies with the the newly published IEC 61851-26 standard. The system is capable of carrying out charging scenarios with capacities of 22 kW to 300 kW and can be integrated in any vehicle.
What are the requirements for the installation surface and the integration environment?
The installation surface should be flat and level. Concrete, asphalt, or tile floors are suitable as surfaces.
How is the electrical connection to the charging infrastructure established?
The charging interface connects directly to a wallbox. This means that conventional charging cables are not needed.
Can I step on or drive over the system with my vehicle?
Yes. The system is designed so that persons can step on it and cars can traverse it.
How is the system protected against environmental factors? Was passiert bei einer Verschmutzung der Fahrbahn?
The system is designed for outdoor use and can be operated on dirty road surfaces. However, we advise that you clean the installation surface regularly.
With how much precision do I need to position my vehicle above the charging system? Can I access the system from different directions? How about vehicles with different ground clearance?
The system will independently adjust to the right postion underneath the vehicle. As aprerequisite, the vehicle must be parked so that the UBCS vehicle interface lies within a 50 x 50 cm area surrounding the charging unit.
Vehicles with ground clearances of 80 to 320 mm can be charged, which includes all vehicle classes from sports cars to trucks.
Which requirements must be met in order for the charging process to start?
Vehicles must be in the correct position above the charging system and the parking brake must be engaged.
Wireless communication between vehicles and charging station will initiate the charging process. The communication can either be carried out fully automatically or via the push of a button located inside the vehicle or on the charging station.
What happens if the charging process is aborted due to an emergency shutdown or a blackout?
If the charging process is aborted, the charging contactors open automatically and the electromagnetic lock is disengaged.
The flexible charging interface will retract into its initial position so that the vehicles can evacuate the charging area. During this process, the prescribed sequence for disconnecting the electrical contacts is observed.
Can passengers enter or exit the vehicle, can cargo be loaded into or unloaded from the vehicle during the electric charging process?
Yes. The flexible charging interface stays connected to the UBCS vehicle interface via the electromagnetic locking mechanism. The system will compensate for all dynamic movements of the vehicle that occur during the charging process.
What development and cooperation options does Fraunhofer IVI offer industry partners?
Fraunhofer IVI offers their industry partners diverse development and cooperation options. This includes:
- Joint research projects: Development of innovative technology in the fields of transport engineering, mobility and automation.
- Technology transfer: Support for the transfer of research findings into industrial application, including attractive licensing plans for our patented technologies.
- Access to an expert network: We promote synergies and cooperation through our access to a broad network of experts and other enterprises.
Please contact us to find the proper solutions for your challenges.