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[dorleco]

What is Bidirectional EV charging and How Does It Help Electric Vehicle Owners?

February 5, 2024

 by dorleco

with no comment

 Autonomous Vehicle Technology

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Introduction

To reduce the risk of wildfires, millions of Californians have been without electricity during power safety shutdowns. The inability to use the electricity in their car batteries to power their houses or other essential loads has irritated a lot of electric vehicle (EV) owners. Even though their EV batteries could store energy, they could only use the electricity to run their car and not benefit from Bidirectional EV charging.

More and more EV users can power important loads from their automobiles or by acquiring a wall box unit. Systems for bidirectional charging have many advantages for both homes and utility corporations. When prospective solar consumers have inquiries, it’s important to comprehend what bidirectional chargers are and how they operate. Without depending on a battery, Bidirectional EV charging is a great way to have emergency power during blackouts.

Bidirectional EV charging: What Is It?

Bidirectional EV charging, as the name implies, is EV charging that uses two sources of energy: the grid for battery charging and the battery for delivering electricity for other loads when needed. By adopting bidirectional charging, an EV can assist in powering a residence, place of business, the utility grid, another vehicle, or particular loads.

The Nissan Leaf can now charge in both directions, but to use this electricity for domestic purposes, a power supply center needs to be installed in the house. A home’s electrical panel can receive 9.6 kW of power from the Ford 150 Lightning for a few days. A 100-amp circuit and Ford’s Charge Station Pro are needed for this setup. In addition, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 6 have 3.6 kW of electrical capacity.

How does it operate?

In contrast to standard unidirectional EV chargers that charge using AC, a bidirectional charger is a sophisticated EV charger that can charge in both directions. While this may seem fairly straightforward, it involves a complex power conversion process from AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current).

Bidirectional EV charging functions similarly to an inverter, transforming AC to DC while charging and the other way around when discharging, in contrast to conventional EV chargers. Nevertheless, only automobiles that are capable of two-way DC charging can be used with bidirectional chargers. Regretfully, only a very limited number of EVs are available at this time that can charge in both directions; the most well-known example is the Nissan Leaf from later models. Since bidirectional chargers use sophisticated power conversion devices to regulate the energy flow to and from the car, they are also significantly more expensive than standard EV chargers due to their increased sophistication.

Bidirectional EV chargers include technology to control loads and separate a residence from the grid during an outage, a process known as an island, in addition to providing power to a dwelling. Bidirectional inverters, which have been utilized for backup power in residential battery storage systems for more than ten years, and bidirectional EV chargers have a very similar core operating concept.

What Is the Process of Bidirectional EV charging?

While the car is charging, direct current (DC) voltage is created from alternating current (AC) power from the grid. After that, electric vehicle (EV) drivers can use the battery’s energy to power a house or replenish the electrical grid. The electricity must be transformed from DC to AC for this to occur. This is done by a converter in the car or in the charger itself.

One such item is the Wallbox Quasar, a household bidirectional DC charger. It has an app with some energy management functions and a CHAdeMO or CCS Type 1 connector.

When available, V2G capabilities allow EV batteries to be charged using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Next, when not in use, the EV uses its batteries to supplement the grid’s power supply, thereby lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Vehicle To Home (V2H)

Using this method, an electric automobile can use its electrical panel to supply electricity to a house or business; this is particularly useful in the event of a power outage. Additionally, by utilizing their EV battery during periods of high energy demand and charging it during periods of cheaper electricity rates, households that pay time-of-use rates could save money.

Vehicle To Load (V2L)

A regular power outlet and an integrated DC-to-AC converter are features of vehicles equipped with V2L capability. It allows users to use the battery’s power by plugging in their loads. The Tesla Cybertruck, Hyundai Ioniq, Ford F150 Lightning, Kia EV6, and Rivian R1T are EVs that have these features.

Vehicle To Vehicle (V2V)

Sadly, the range of EVs limits how far they can go between charges. The range of the car is affected by the EV battery’s capacity, the vehicle’s efficiency, and the outside temperature. Because V2V charging allows one EV to supply some power to another, it can help alleviate range anxiety.

While several automakers are working on this functionality, it is currently limited to the Ford F150 Lightning and Lucid Air.

What Advantages Does Bidirectional Charging Offer?

Utility firms as well as EV drivers can benefit greatly from the ability to use the EV battery for other purposes. In reality, EVs may someday play a significant role in the decarbonization of the grid.

Possible Savings on Utility Bills

Should the nearby utility provide time-of-use rates, the cost of power varies throughout the day in response to demand. Energy costs are usually lowest in the middle of the night and greatest on weekday afternoons and early nights during the summer. Therefore, it is more cost-effective to supply power during periods of high demand and to charge during off-peak hours using solar panels or the grid.

Reserve Power for Outages

In the past year or so, there have been a few significant power outages, such as the Texas Power Crisis in 2021 and the public safety power shutdowns in California that left millions of people without power. During a utility outage, a complete home can be powered by EVs equipped with V2H capabilities. How many loads and how long an electric vehicle (EV) can power a home depends on its battery’s capacity and state of charge.

Energy Not Found in the Grid

EVs with V2L capabilities can plug into an outlet and power designated loads. When camping or in a place without utility electricity, this option might be quite helpful. On job sites, for instance, craftsmen can use power tools.

What Drawbacks Do Bidirectional EV Chargers Have?

Bidirectional EV charging has certain drawbacks in addition to its many benefits. Ongoing research can assist in overcoming these obstacles, though.

How EV Batteries Degrade:

Bidirectional EV charging’s frequent cycles of charge and discharge might hasten battery deterioration and shorten the batteries’ total life in electric vehicles.

The Price and Complexity:

Bidirectional EV charging adds complexity and expense to both the electric car and the charging station since it necessitates certain equipment and infrastructure.

Limited Interoperability of Vehicles:

Grid Stability Concerns:

The electric grid is more unpredictable when vehicles are charging in both directions since they can draw or return electricity at any time. Grid operators may find it difficult to maintain stability and dependability as a result.

Regulatory and Standardization Issues:

The broad adoption of electric vehicles may be slowed down by a lack of established protocols and standards for bidirectional charging, which can impair interoperability across various charging stations.

Energy Dissipations:

There are energy losses during the conversion and transfer of energy between the electric vehicle and the grid. When compared to unidirectional charging, this lowers the overall efficiency of bidirectional charging.

Which Electric Vehicles Can Be Charged Both Ways?

Bidirectional EV charging is a characteristic that only a tiny number of EVs on the US market offer; vehicle-to-grid is the most common. These cars are equipped with two-way charging:

Ford Lightning (models V2G, V2H, and V2V)

Genesis GV60 (V2L)

V2L Hyundai Ioniq 5

V2L Hyundai Ioniq 6

Kia EV6 (V2L)

Kia Niro (V2L)

Air Lucid (V2V)

The V2L Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Leaf from Nissan (V2H, V2G)

V2L Tesla Cybertruck

VW ID.4 (V2H)

FAQs Regarding Two-Way Charging

Discover the answers to some of the most frequently asked concerns concerning EV two-way charging by reading on.

What are the advantages for EV drivers of bi-directional charging?

Owners of electric vehicles gain power from bidirectional charging, which transforms their cars into adaptable energy sources. Beyond traditional charging, this technology allows owners to sell excess energy back to the grid, providing potential revenue. Bidirectional EV charging also makes it possible for electric cars to temporarily powerhouses or other EVs during emergencies.

Are bi-directional EV chargers installed in all-electric cars?

No, not every electric car on the road today has a Bidirectional EV charging capability. The design of the car and whether or not it has the required hardware and software for two-way energy transfer determine compatibility.

What problems do EV batteries have with bi-directional charging?

Because bidirectional charging increases the frequency of charge and discharge cycles, it may shorten the overall lifespan of batteries used in electric vehicles by accelerating battery degradation. The longevity of an EV battery will only be significantly impacted by heavy, frequent use, while battery degradation is negligible otherwise.

Can solar batteries be replaced by bi-directional EV chargers?

Although bidirectional charging gives electric cars a way to store extra energy for use at home, solar batteries are still necessary in some situations. The vehicle’s battery is the main component used in bidirectional charging, and it might not have enough capacity for large-scale energy storage. Because they are made to be stationary, solar batteries have greater storage capacity and are therefore more appropriate for storing solar panel energy to provide a steady and dependable power source. Additionally, because it can reduce their mobility, EV drivers might be reluctant to fully drain their batteries during blackouts.

Regarding bidirectional charging, what is true?

Bidirectional EV chargers allow power to flow in two directions, in contrast to standard EV charging systems, which only allow power to flow from a power source to the vehicle’s battery. It makes it possible for electric cars to transmit and receive energy, sharing electricity with other gadgets or even the utility grid.

Two-way Charging Could Revolutionize the Clean Energy Sector

The ability of electric vehicles to transfer excess energy to the grid, other vehicles, or residences could bring about a radical change in how energy is used. The interplay between electric vehicles and the energy ecosystem presents a dynamic and decentralized approach that can enhance grid management efficiency, increase resilience in the event of an outage, and potentially utilize electric vehicles as distributed energy resources, thereby contributing to the development of a more sustainable and adaptable energy landscape.

[workliteunifoms]

"Aspects to Assess When Selecting a Hospitality Uniform."

Hospital uniforms serve an essential purpose in healthcare settings. They help identifyhealthcare professionals, provide a professional appearance, and promote hygiene and safety.When choosing a proper Hospitality Uniform, there are several aspects to consider, such asfabric, design, and color.

.Fabric

Fabric is one of the most important factors when choosing hospital uniforms. Healthcareprofessionals spend long hours in their uniforms, so the material needs to be comfortable,breathable, and easy to move in. Cotton and cotton-blend fabrics are popular because they aresoft, absorbent, and durable.Polyester and polyester-blend fabrics are also commonly used as they are lightweight, quick-drying, and resistant to wrinkles and shrinkage. However, choosing a material that is easy toclean and sanitize is crucial, as healthcare settings require high cleanliness levels.

.Design

Design is another crucial factor to consider when choosing hospital uniforms. The design shouldbe functional, comfortable, and practical. In addition, it should allow for ease of movement andnot restrict any activities necessary for job duties.The design should also have pockets or storage options for carrying essential tools orequipment. Additionally, the design should be gender-neutral to promote inclusivity and equalityin the workplace.

.Color

Color is another factor to consider when choosing hospital uniforms. The color of the uniformcan affect the mood and perception of healthcare professionals and patients. Blue and greenare popular choices as they are calming colors promoting trust and safety.White is also commonly used as it gives the impression of cleanliness and sterility. However,choosing a color that is also easy to maintain and clean is crucial, as healthcare settings requirefrequent washing and sanitizing of uniforms.

.Particular needs and requirements

In addition to fabric, design, and color, it's essential to consider the specific needs andrequirements of the healthcare setting when choosing hospital uniforms. For example, supposethe healthcare setting requires healthcare professionals to work in areas with high radiationlevels.

In that case, the uniforms may need to be made of specialized materials that can protect againstradiation exposure. Similarly, the healthcare setting requires professionals to work withimmunocompromised patients. In that case, the uniforms may need to be made ofhypoallergenic materials that do not shed fibers.

.How can Worklite Professional Uniforms Help with Customizing hospital uniforms?

Customizing hospital uniforms with logos, embroidery, or other branding elements can helphealthcare organizations promote a cohesive brand image and foster a sense of unity amongstaff members.Worklite Professional Uniforms is a company that specializes in providing high-quality andcustomizable uniforms for healthcare professionals. With our expertise and comprehensivecustomization options, we can help hospitals and other healthcare facilities create a unique andrecognizable brand image that reflects their values and commitment to patient care.

● Add logos to uniforms: One of the critical benefits of Worklite's customization servicesis the ability to add logos to uniforms. A hospital logo is a powerful symbol that cancommunicate a sense of professionalism, trustworthiness, and expertise to patients andvisitors. By adding a logo to staff uniforms, hospitals can create a strong visual identitythat sets them apart from other healthcare providers in the area.Worklite offers a variety of logo placement options, including chest, sleeve, and backplacements, as well as embroidery and screen printing techniques to ensure aprofessional and long-lasting finish.

● Add company slogans: Besides logos, we can add other branding elements touniforms, such as slogans, mission statements, or images that reflect the hospital;svalues and mission.As a result, it can reinforce the hospital's brand message and create a sense of prideand unity among staff members. Customizing uniforms can also promote a positive workculture, as staff members feel part of a larger team with a shared purpose.

● Color matching: Worklite can also help customize hospital uniforms through colormatching. Hospitals often have specific colors associated with their brand, and Worklitecan match those colors precisely to ensure a cohesive look across all uniforms. Thisattention to detail can help to create a professional and polished impression that inspiresconfidence and trust in patients and visitors.

● Customization options: Finally, Worklite offers a range of customization options fordifferent types of uniforms, including scrubs, lab coats, and jackets. As a result, hospitals can create a consistent brand image across all uniforms, ensuring staff members lookprofessional and put-together.Worklite also offers a variety of styles and sizes to accommodate different body typesand preferences, ensuring that all staff members feel comfortable and confident in theiruniforms.In conclusion, customizing hospital uniforms with logos, embroidery, or other branding elementseffectively promotes a cohesive healthcare brand and creates a positive work culture amongstaff members.Worklite Professional Uniforms offers various customization options and expertise to helphospitals create a unique and recognizable brand image that reflects their values andcommitment to patient care.With their attention to detail and commitment to quality, Worklite is the perfect partner forhealthcare organizations looking to create a polished and professional look for their staffuniforms.

Therefore, contact the Best UNIFORMS Manufacture DUBAI, Worklite Professional Uniforms,today!

[dorleco]

Things to know about Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)

January 24, 2024

 by dorleco

with no comment

 Autonomous Vehicle Technology

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Introduction

Unknown to you, even when not in use, electric vehicles (EVs) can benefit both their drivers and the environment. This is due to the advancement of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology.

One element of the larger endeavor to attain a zero-carbon future is V2G technology. A problem with a lot of renewable energy sources is that the energy they generate needs to be stored or used right away. By allowing our energy system to balance more renewable energy, V2G helps reduce the effects of climate change.

Large power banks, or stationary energy storage, are becoming more and more popular. They are an excellent means of storing energy produced by massive solar power plants. Pump stations, where water is pumped up and down to store energy, are also frequently seen. Since EV batteries don’t require any additional hardware, they are thought to be the most economical kind of energy storage.

Here are ten V2G-related facts you should be aware of :

1. What does V2G technology entail?

Through the use of vehicle-to-grid technology, extra energy from an EV battery is fed into the national grid. Not only may V2G assist in increasing grid supply during periods of high demand, but it can also generate income for EV owners.

DC smart chargers that are specifically designed for two-way transmission are required for EV owners. Bypassing the automobile’s unidirectional onboard charger, they can either sell their stored electrical energy back to the grid or charge their car from the grid. At predetermined periods that work best for the owner and the grid, the charger chooses when to import and export electricity from the EV.

The maximum V2G charging power is around 10 kW, which is sufficient for charging at home or work. More complete charging options will be used in the future.

2. What is meant by “grid balancing”?

Grid balancing ensures that when power is needed, it is available from the power grid. Utilities must buy electricity on the open market or experience power outages when the grid is unbalanced.

In a conventional grid balancing scenario, power facilities that rely mostly on fossil fuels are ramped up. Emissions and fuel consumption rise as a result. In terms of expenses and environmental effects, using energy from batteries is a significantly better option.

America’s electrical grid is undergoing more frequent surges, shortages, brownouts, and blackouts; these events are predicted to persist because of EV charging, among other factors. The number of EVs in the US will reach up to 35 million by 2030. That is a significant demand on the electrical grid and a significant amount of battery power that could be used to reduce the frequency of blackouts and brownouts on the grid.

3. How is V2G operated?

When it comes to driving, electric vehicle (EV) owners desire to have sufficient energy in their car batteries; nevertheless, the typical automobile is parked approximately 90% of the time. V2G makes effective use of the wasted power.

An EV owner can take part in grid balancing while their car is parked by leaving it hooked into a smart charger that supports V2G. When demand is at its highest during the day, their EV can sell electricity to the grid while parked at work, and it can recharge at home overnight when prices are often at their lowest.

4. What Kinds of V2G Are There?

Three kinds or types of V2G exist: bidirectional local, bidirectional, and unidirectional.

The only energy flow in unidirectional V2G (sometimes called V1G) is from the grid to your electric vehicle. Only when there is an excess of electricity generated in renewable energy power plants can you change your battery. The grid frequency is balanced and energy stability is increased by using EVs.

Your home or business building’s local energy demands are only supplied by bidirectional local V2G. The two types of bidirectional local V2G are vehicle-to-building (V2B) and vehicle-to-home (V2H).

When most people talk about V2G technology, they are referring to bidirectional V2G, which addresses the entire grid. This type saves energy in your EV battery and uses it as needed.

5. What are V2G’s main advantages?

V2G has the potential to significantly impact the EV market in several ways.

Increases grid stability and lowers grid stress

Reduces carbon emissions through the production of clean, green energy

Enables EV owners to drive more cheaply and efficiently

Sells extra energy to provide EV owners additional value.

lowers the fleet’s overall cost of ownership

A cleaner, more intelligent, reliable, and adaptable grid facilitated by vehicle-to-grid technology (V2G) can expedite the reduction of reliance on fossil fuels.

6. Is vehicle battery life impacted by V2G?

V2G technology’s detractors contend that it shortens the life of EV batteries. The majority of specialists think that V2G discharge, which occurs only a few minutes a day, has little effect on battery life. Nonetheless, researchers are always looking at how V2G affects the EV battery lifecycle.

7. What is the integration of a vehicle with the grid?

The idea of vehicle-to-grid integration, or VGI, expands on vehicle-to-grid technology. Fully integrated systems that link EVs, charging infrastructure, buildings, power grids, renewable energy sources, and behind-the-meter storage solutions are being developed and evaluated by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

8. What is the price of V2G?

It is expected that having V2G functionality will increase the vehicle’s cost by $200–$400. An additional $4,500–$5,500 can be spent on a 10-kW (Level 2) DC bi-directional EVSE unit, which the commercial charging station (or, in the case of private chargers, the individual EV owner or business) is responsible for paying.

9. V2X: What is it?

With the use of bidirectional charging technology called V2X, you may use your car’s batteries to power any product or gadget. An average home using less than 30 kWh of energy per day (the U.S. average) may run on an EV battery for about three days straight.

10. How Does Technology Connect Vehicles to the Grid?

EVs can interface with the grid through V2G technology to either draw power for charging or release excess energy back into the system. These cars can serve as a decentralized power source by supplying stored energy during periods of high demand. On the other hand, they charge when there is a surplus of electricity during off-peak hours. Smart technology is needed to implement V2G, which allows an electric car to connect to the electrical grid and add power using a specific bidirectional charger. These cutting-edge gadgets, which have power converters built in, may be programmed to return power to the grid or charge the EV’s battery.

Before an EV can be connected to a bidirectional charger to supply power to the grid, the grid operator must give their approval. A Virtual Power Plant program (VPP) allows for remote management by the grid operator, allowing control over the injected energy.

Applications of V2G Technology:

1) Electric Vehicle Fleet Management: Companies can use V2G to plan charging and discharge, lower operating costs, and assist with sustainability programs to effectively manage their EV fleets.

2) Grid Ancillary Services: V2G technology facilitates the provision of grid ancillary services, such as reactive power support, voltage regulation, and improved grid stability.

3) Integration of Smart houses: EVs equipped with V2G can supply electricity to houses during peak hours, lowering electricity bills and facilitating energy management in the home.

4) Intelligent Energy Trading: By enabling energy trading between EVs and other EVs or the grid, vehicle-to-grid technology promotes a vibrant energy exchange market.

11. How Can V2G Get EV Adoption Off the Ground?

Regulatory support and the establishment of defined protocols are essential to bringing V2G technology to the general public. By establishing defined tariff structures and grid access restrictions, these initiatives encourage V2G integration and guarantee compatibility among various cars and charging infrastructure. The expansion of V2G-capable charging infrastructure into residences, public areas, and workplaces makes it easier for EV owners to participate in V2G. Stakeholder cooperation advances technology, and large-scale demonstration projects highlight the benefits of V2G, which encourages broader use. To perfect V2G technology, maximize energy management, and guarantee grid stability for widespread use, ongoing research, and development are still essential.

12. Can Vehicles Be Connected to India’s Grid?

The electricity grid in India depends heavily on V2G. By 2030, 500 GW of renewable energy will be produced in India; during that time, about 40% of new cars sold there are anticipated to be electric. Interestingly, markets for two- and three-wheelers may see over 75% EV adoption, underscoring the significant potential to use EV batteries to advance V2G technology throughout India’s energy industry.

India is a country that has the potential to implement Vehicle-to-Grid technology, but it is not currently ready due to a few key factors. The foundation is being laid by the developing EV infrastructure, but faster deployment is required due to the lack of bi-directional chargers, which are necessary for V2G. Regulations that define grid access and encourage consumer participation must be in line with V2G integration. It becomes imperative to strengthen the grid infrastructure, requiring modifications to control the flow of electricity in both directions. Increased public knowledge of V2G’s advantages is crucial, emphasizing its contribution to sustainability and grid support. To successfully integrate V2G in India, extensive initiatives including grid improvements, infrastructure development, regulatory clarity, and awareness campaigns are required.

13. Possibilities and Difficulties

Because they are parked for a large amount of their lives, electric vehicles (EVs) present an appealing and adaptable option for the power system due to their built-in battery storage capacity. The EV fleets’ enormous storage capacity is produced by this special feature. To support power system operations, these EVs serve as dispersed storage resources and flexible loads. When paired with renewable energy sources, V2G can reduce the impact of additional load on the power system and maximize the synergies between EVs and renewables. This makes V2G especially important for solar-based systems. By using smart EV charging, carbon-intensive fossil fuel facilities are used less often to balance renewable energy sources.  Investments in the distribution grid may be unnecessary when V2G is implemented.

Before India can fully realize the potential of V2G, there are a few obstacles to overcome.  The number of EVs that must be combined to form a storage network is higher since the adoption of EVs is predicted to accelerate in smaller car segments. Huge potential can be unlocked by a device that connects these tiny cars, or even simply the batteries in them. The development of bidirectional charging stations, which allow the combined network of batteries to function as an energy storage system, presents another difficulty. without this essential infrastructure.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are limited to receiving energy; they cannot return it to the grid. To meet its targets for 2030 and beyond, India needs to take advantage of the potential presented by V2G, which offers a solution for zero carbon emissions in energy and mobility.

Conclusion

With its revolutionary connection between electric vehicles and energy grids, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology promises increased sustainability and stability for the grid. Although India appears to be prepared for V2G integration, overcoming infrastructure obstacles and encouraging regulatory coherence are essential to advancing this innovation in the direction of a sustainable energy future.

[dorleco]

Comprehending The Infrastructure Of Electric Vehicles

January 19, 2024

 by dorleco

with no comment

 Autonomous Vehicle Technology

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Introduction

We have covered the most recent developments in Electric Vehicles technology as well as the infrastructure that will be required to enable EVs to become the norm for personal mobility in the future in this post.

Since their initial introduction, electric cars (EVs) have advanced significantly and are currently enjoying greater popularity than ever. However, some motorists are still apprehensive about giving up their conventional gas-powered internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. While there has been a noticeable performance improvement, long-distance charging capabilities remain a significant worry.

This introduction of EV technology covers the increasing need for a national charging network and the upgrades to the national electricity system required to make EV ownership feasible. Planning and collaboration from all parties, including governmental organizations, utility companies, private charging networks, and customers, will be necessary to ensure a seamless transition from the use of fossil fuels to entirely EVs.

The early days of electric vehicles

Henry Ford’s mass-produced Model T was the reason behind the decline in interest in electric vehicles. When the Model T was introduced in 1908, gasoline-powered cars were more accessible and reasonably priced. In 1912, an electric roadster sold for almost three times the price of a gasoline car, which cost only $650. By 1935, gasoline-powered automobiles had become more and more popular, and EVs had virtually vanished.

The scarcity of gas has rekindled interest in electric vehicles.

Rising oil costs and gasoline shortages in the late 1960s and early 1970s sparked a rising movement to locate domestic fuel sources and reduce the nation’s reliance on foreign oil. After taking notice, Congress authorized the Energy Department to assist research and development of electric and hybrid vehicles in 1976 by passing the Electric Vehicle Research, Development, and Demonstration Act. Many big and small automakers started looking into alternative fuel vehicle possibilities, such as electric cars, around the same time.

Concern for the environment propelled the development of electric automobiles.

Before new federal and state rules started to change things, interest in electric vehicles had been declining for two decades following the lengthy gas lines of the 1970s. The approval of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendment and the 1992 Energy Policy Act, plus new transportation emissions restrictions imposed by the California Air Resources Board, helped stimulate a revived interest in electric vehicles in the United States. Manufacturers started converting several of their best-selling car types into electric cars, or EVs as they are now called.

Several people were unconcerned with fuel-efficient cars in the late 1990s due to a flourishing economy, a developing middle class, and low gas prices. The public wasn’t interested in EVs at the time, but engineers and scientists were striving to advance the technology of EVs, particularly batteries, with help from the Energy Department.

Many automakers accelerated their entry into the EV market

The Toyota Prius, which debuted in 1997 in Japan, was the first hybrid electric car ever built in large quantities worldwide. Toyota employed nickel metal hydride batteries, a technology backed by studies conducted by the US Energy Department. Furthermore, something else happened in 2006 that had a role in changing the market for electric cars. A game-changing innovation that helped redefine the EV market was the production of a luxury electric sports car with a range of more than 200 miles on a single charge by a small Silicon Valley business called Tesla Motors.

In late 2010, the Chevy Volt and the Nissan LEAF were both released in the US market. The first plug-in hybrid car to be sold commercially was the Volt, which has a gasoline engine to augment its electric drive when the battery runs out. The LEAF could only be propelled by an electric motor since it was an all-electric car. Other US automakers started producing electric cars during the following few years, but the issue of where to charge them while driving remained.

EV charging stations started to proliferate.

More than 18,000 public, business, and home chargers were installed around the nation in 2009 thanks to funding provided by the Energy Department and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, totaling more than $115 million. Today, there are more than 8,000 distinct places with more than 20,000 charging outlets for public electric vehicle chargers thanks to the installation of private companies and automakers’ chargers in strategic US locations.

Infrastructure for EV charging is required nationwide due to rising EV sales.

Given the increasing number of EVs on the road, a national network of charging stations is now essential. Everyone will need to plan and work together, including consumers, government organizations, utility companies, and private charging networks. The problem of the power grid being overloaded cannot be resolved by a varied private network of charging networks on its own. As communities start sharing energy, everyone has to be more conscious of the demand for the power system and make proactive plans.

EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) is the technical term for the equipment used to charge electric cars; it is often referred to as a charging station. An electric safety system for the user and the electrical infrastructure during the charging process is the main purpose of a plug-in vehicle charging station; in particular, it reduces the risk of electric shock and fire.

Networks for charging electric vehicles

A network of separate infrastructure stations that serve as access points for electric car recharging is known as an electric vehicle charging network. Currently, a large number of federal, state, and local governments, automakers, and suppliers of charging infrastructure are building these networks. State-by-state working agreements between these various institutions will be necessary to aid in the further development of a national infrastructure.

These days, several producers and providers of charging networks offer hardware-agnostic app solutions like Amp Up, EV Connect, and Green Lots, or proprietary solutions like Charge Point. While proprietary vendors prevent consumers from making changes, hardware-agnostic vendors let them swap out their existing charging stations and/or network providers.

Growth of the US electric vehicle charging infrastructure market

In 2020, the US market for electric vehicle charging infrastructure was estimated to be worth USD 2.08 billion. From 2021 to 2028, its compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is predicted to be close to 39%. The market for electric car charging infrastructure is anticipated to see substantial growth over the next ten years due to the growing popularity of electric vehicles and their advantages, which include energy efficiency and cheaper fuel and maintenance costs.

In addition to the annual growth forecast, the $1.85 trillion Build Back Better Act invests $7.5 billion to create a state-wide network of plug-in EV chargers, according to the draft structure. A further $7.5 billion is allocated for buses and ferries with zero or low emissions, to provide thousands of electric school vehicles to school districts all around the nation. The proposal would allocate $65 billion to strengthen the nation’s power grid’s dependability and resilience, which is essential for the smooth transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and guard against the extensive power outages that have been more frequent in recent years.

Expanding the market reach of plug-in electric vehicles, new battery technology is being introduced with support from the Department of Energy Vehicle Technologies Office. The DOE’s research also helped develop the lithium-ion battery technology utilized in the Chevrolet Volt. Lately, the DOE’s research and development expenditures on batteries have contributed to a 50% reduction in the cost of electric vehicle batteries, all the while enhancing the batteries’ power, energy, and lifespan. Since the price of EVs has decreased as a result of all these advancements, people can now afford them.

EVs driving towards the future

President Obama established the EVs Everywhere Grand Challenge in 2012, an Energy Department project that unites the nation’s top scientists, engineers, and companies to get plug-in electric vehicles down to the same price as gas-powered vehicles by 2022.

It remains to be seen what the final result will be for EVs this time around, but it seems certain that most drivers will be using EVs in the future as the infrastructure of charging stations expands and the power grid stabilizes to supply the extra electrical power required.

Components of an EV charging station

An essential component of the technology utilized to construct EV charging stations is the electrical controls used in their production. These could consist of the following:

Overload and short circuit protection is provided by miniature circuit breakers or MCBs.

Residual Current Circuit Breakers offer weather protection against extreme temperatures.

Disconnect switches are necessary when an installation must adhere to current specifications for a disconnecting procedure.

Surge protection devices shield delicate parts from overvoltages and lightning-induced surges.

Contactors, which have a 115A general-purpose current rating, are used to turn on and off the EV’s power.

Energy meters are required if the station is going to be used for commercial charging since the amount of energy used needs to be measured to determine how much consumers should be charged. For this, a digital energy meter with a maximum 80A capacity is utilized.

In charging stations, terminal blocks, wire ducts, and DIN rails would also be utilized to facilitate wiring during assembly.

To power the entire network, a networked charging station would require high-tech devices like controllers and gateways. Additionally, a DC power supply that requires a single or three-phase input voltage would be included.

[dorleco]

CAN Bus Vs RS 485

January 18, 2024

 by dorleco

with no comment

 Autonomous Vehicle Technology

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INTRODUCTION

Communication protocols are essential for establishing connections between devices and for effective data interchange in industrial and automation applications. The Recommended Standard 485 (RS485) and the Controller Area Network (CAN) are two of the most widely used protocols in this industry. With the help of the straightforward chart below, you can rapidly learn how CAN Bus VS RS 485 vary from one another.

We will examine the distinctions between these two techniques as well as their benefits and drawbacks in this post.

 What CAN Protocol be?

Robert Bosch GmbH created the CAN protocol for use in automotive applications in the 1980s. It has since gained widespread acceptance in other industries as well. Since CAN is a bus-based protocol, a single communication line can be used to facilitate communication between numerous devices. High dependability, fault tolerance, and real-time communication capabilities are well-known attributes of CAN.

Benefits of the CAN bus:

Fast Speed and Bandwidth: The CAN bus is perfect for real-time communication between several devices since it can transfer data at a fast rate of up to 1 Mbps.

Multiple devices can send and receive data on the same communication line thanks to CAN bus support for multi-master/multi-slave communication, which facilitates effective communication between devices.

Fault Tolerance: The high fault tolerance of the CAN bus is a result of its error detection and correction capabilities, which provide dependable data transfer even in noisy surroundings.

Robustness: The CAN bus can function in temperatures between -40°C and +85°C because it is made for severe settings.

Scalability: The CAN bus is flexible and adaptive to changing requirements since it can be readily scaled up or down based on the size and complexity of the system.

Constraints on the CAN bus:

Greater Cost and Complexity: Because of its advanced features and higher data rate than other communication protocols, CAN bus implementation is more costly and difficult than other protocols.

Restricted Range: The 500-meter maximum range of the CAN bus may limit its applicability in scenarios where devices are dispersed widely.

Limited Power Delivery: Devices must have their power source because the CAN bus does not deliver electricity to linked devices.

CAN bus applications be included?

Automotive: The CAN bus is frequently utilized for diagnostics, engine control, and vehicle communication in automotive applications.

Aircraft: In aircraft applications, the Control and Navigation (CAN) bus facilitates communication between avionics systems, including control, guidance, and navigation systems.

Industrial Automation: Sensors, actuators, and controllers communicate with one another via the CAN bus in industrial automation and control systems.

Medical Devices: To communicate amongst devices like ventilators, infusion pumps, and patient monitoring, the CAN bus is utilized in medical devices.

Railway Systems: Signalling, traction, and braking systems are just a few of the control systems that railway systems employ CAN buses to communicate with one another.

FeatureCAN BusRS485Communication MethodBus-BasedPoint-to-PointSpeed and BandwidthHigh Speed (up to 1Mbps)Lower Speed (up to 10Mbps)Distance and TopologyShorter Distance (up to 40m) and Star or Daisy Chain TopologyLonger Distance (up to 1200m) and Daisy Chain TopologyFault Tolerance and ReliabilityHigh Fault Tolerance and ReliabilityModerate Fault Tolerance and ReliabilityCost and ComplexityHigher Cost and ComplexityLower Cost and SimplerApplicationsDistributed Control Systems, Automotive, AerospaceIndustrial Automation and Control Systems

Explain the RS485 Protocol.

Two devices can connect across a great distance using the point-to-point RS485 protocol. Sensors, actuators, controllers, and other devices are connected via RS485 in industrial automation and control systems. RS485 is noted for its ruggedness, long-distance communication capabilities, and noise immunity.

Due to the differential signal used by the RS485 protocol, the communication line is made up of two wires with opposing voltages. As a result, RS485 can function across extended distances of up to 1200 meters. RS485 also employs a master-slave communication paradigm, where one device acts as the master and initiates communication with one or more slave devices.

Benefits of RS485:

Long-Distance Communication: RS485 is perfect for industrial and automation applications where devices may be dispersed over a wide region because it can carry data over long distances of up to 1200 meters.

Multi-Point Communication: The RS485 protocol facilitates multi-point communication, enabling numerous devices to share a communication connection and facilitating effective device-to-device communication.

Noise Immunity: Noise immunity is the ability of RS485 to transmit data reliably over noisy settings by utilizing differential signaling, which lessens the effect of noise and interference on the communication line.

Minimal Cost: The straightforward cabling and inexpensive component cost of RS485 make it an affordable option for automation and industrial applications.

Simple to implement: RS485 is a common option for basic industrial and automation applications since it is simple to implement and doesn’t require complicated hardware or software.

Restrictions on RS485:

Reduced Data Rate: When compared to other communication protocols, RS485 has a lower data rate, which makes it less suitable for applications requiring high-speed data transfer.

Restricted Bandwidth: The quantity of data that may be sent over the communication line may be limited due to RS485’s limited bandwidth.

Half-Duplex Communication: Only half-duplex communication is supported by RS485 devices, which implies that data cannot be sent and received simultaneously, possibly slowing down the connection.

Limited Power Delivery: Since RS485 cannot deliver power to linked devices, each device needs to have its power source.

The uses of RS485:

Industrial Automation: RS485 is frequently utilized in control systems and industrial automation, allowing sensors, actuators, and controllers to be connected.

Building Automation: Lighting, HVAC systems, and other building operations can be controlled by RS485 systems.

Security Systems: Access control systems, security cameras, and other security-related equipment can be connected via RS485 in security systems.

Transportation: RS485 is used to manage and monitor equipment including ticket machines, information displays, and passenger information systems in transportation systems like trains, subways, and airports.

Energy Management: To monitor and regulate the amount of energy consumed in factories, buildings, and other facilities, RS485 can be included in energy management systems.

A comparison of CAN Bus VS RS 485

The communication method, speed and bandwidth, topology and distance, fault tolerance and dependability, cost and complexity, and applications are where CAN Bus VS RS 485 diverge most.

Physical Layer: The data that is carried over a CAN bus is represented by the voltage difference between two wires, which is a differential signal. In contrast, RS485 employs a balanced signal in which the information is sent as a voltage differential between two wires.

Maximum Cable Length: The maximum cable length supported by the CAN bus is 500 meters, however, the maximum cable length supported by RS485 is 1200 meters.

Data Transfer Rate: While RS485 allows up to 10 Mbps, CAN bus offers a greater 1 Mbps data transfer rate.

Network Topology: The bus topology used by the CAN bus connects several nodes to a single bus. Both bus and star topologies—in which several nodes are connected in a star configuration or a daisy chain—can be used with RS485 technology.

Error Handling: The CAN bus is more dependable than RS485 because it incorporates built-in error detection and correction techniques. Although error detection and correction are not built into RS485 itself, they can be accomplished with the use of extra hardware or software.

Cost: Because CAN bus requires specific hardware and software to deploy, it is typically more expensive than RS485 in general.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, each protocol has benefits and drawbacks, and the decision you make over which to use will rely on the particular needs of your application. CAN bus can be a preferable option if you require a real-time, high-speed communication protocol for an automotive or robotics application. RS485 can be a preferable option if you require a strong and dependable protocol for building automation or industrial automation. When choosing the best communication protocol for their application, engineers can make well-informed choices if they are aware of the distinctions between these two protocols.