UBCS Vehicle Interface

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.

Due to its integration into the raod, the system basically requires no installation surface and is therefore especially well-suited for depots and other environments where space is critical.

In addition, it is a discreet solution for areas where no above-ground charging stations can be installed for reasons of urban planning (historical monument protection, sightlines). Because it is traversable, it cannot be crashed into.

The system is securely protected against vandalism and cable theft. Due to its automated character, it is especially well-suited for automated vehicle applications.

It is a safe investment into future applications because of its high potential charging capacity.

The system complies with the the newly published IEC 61851-26 standard. The electrical interface's capacity exceeds the requirements of a Megawatt charging system (MCS). The system is capable of carrying out charging scenarios with capacities of 22 kW to 4.5 MW and can be integrated in any vehicle.

The UBCS vehicle interface has a low height of 80 mm and can be integrated into existing vehicle designs without any problems. Interface integration will not restrict commercial vehicles' ramp angle and ground clearance. A variant with a height of only 44 mm is available for passenger cars. This component can be integrated directly into the vehicle underbody.

To prevent the accumulation of dirt and unauthorized manipulation, the UBCS vehicle interface is equipped with a sliding flap. It also features electric resistance heating to ensure its functionality even in winter conditions.

The UBCS vehicle interface is integrated into the vehicle's charging system, either instead of a conventional charging socket or in addition to it. All relevant safety standards (ISO 26262, ECE R100, DIN EN 61851) are taken into account.

Communication between vehicle and charging station is carried out in compliance with the safety standard DIN EN 61851-23-1 "Electric vehicle conductive charging system - Part 23-1: DC Charging with an automatic connection system".

The UBCS vehicle interface has a low height of 80 mm and can be integrated into existing vehicle designs without any problems. Interface integration will not restrict commercial vehicles' ramp angle and ground clearance. A variant with a height of only 44 mm is available for passenger cars. This component can be integrated directly into the vehicle underbody.

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.

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