A modified manufacturing process for electric vehicle batteries, developed by University of Michigan engineers, could enable high ranges and fast charging in cold weather, solving problems that are turning potential EV buyers away.“We envision this approach as something that EV battery manufacturers could adopt without major changes to existing factories,” said <a href="https://me.engin.umich.edu/people/faculty/neil-dasgupta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neil Dasgupta</a>, U-M associate professor of mechanical engineering and materials science and engineering, and corresponding author of the study published in Joule.“For the first time, we’ve shown a pathway to simultaneously achieve extreme fast charging at low temperatures, without sacrificing the energy density of the lithium-ion battery.”Lithium-ion EV batteries made this way can charge 500% faster at temperatures as low as 14 F (-10 C). The structure and coating demonstrated by the team prevented the formation of performance-hindering lithium plating on the battery’s electrodes. As a result, batteries with these modifications keep 97% of their capacity even after being fast-charged 100 times at very cold temperatures.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1744070040526-cold-ev-charging-featured.jpg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Engineering student Chloe Acosta plugs in an EV for charging in snowy weather on the University of Michigan’s North Campus. EV charging becomes less efficient in colder weather, but a new strategy for manufacturing battery electrodes could enable charging in 10 minutes in temperatures as cold as -10C. Photo: Marcin Szczepanski, Michigan EngineeringCurrent EV batteries store and release power through the movement of lithium ions back and forth between electrodes via a liquid electrolyte. In cold temperatures, this movement of the ions slows, reducing both battery power as well as the charging rate. To extend range, automakers have increased the thickness of the electrodes they use in battery cells. While that has allowed them to promise longer drives between charges, it makes some of the lithium hard to access, resulting in slower charging and less power for a given battery weight.Previously, Dasgupta’s team improved battery charging capability by <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378775320307795">creating pathways—roughly 40 microns in size—in the anode</a>, the electrode that receives lithium ions during charging. Drilling through the graphite by blasting it with lasers enabled the lithium ions to find places to lodge faster, even deep within the electrode, ensuring more uniform charging.This sped up room-temperature charging significantly, but cold charging was still inefficient. The team identified the problem: the chemical layer that forms on the surface of the electrode from reacting with the electrolyte. Dasgupta compares this behavior to butter: you can get a knife through it whether it’s warm or cold, but it’s a lot harder when it’s cold. If you try to fast charge through that layer, lithium metal will build up on the anode like a traffic jam.“That plating prevents the entire electrode from being charged, once again reducing the battery’s energy capacity,” Manoj Jangid, U-M senior research fellow in mechanical engineering, and co-author of the study. The team needed to prevent that surface layer from forming. They did this by coating the battery with a glassy material made of lithium borate-carbonate, approximately 20 nanometers thick. The addition of this coating sped up cold charging significantly, and when combined with the channels, the team’s test cells were 500% faster to charge in subfreezing temperatures. “By the synergy between the 3-D architectures and artificial interface, this work can simultaneously address the trilemma of fast charging at low temperature for long-range driving,” said Tae Cho, a recent Ph.D. graduate in mechanical engineering and first author of the study.In the past two decades, EVs have become more commonplace on roadways as consumers look for better environmental options, but <a href="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2024/06/is-the-ev-hype-over" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AAA survey results</a> showed that the momentum is hard to maintain. From 2023 to 2024, the number of U.S. adults who would be “likely” or “very likely” to buy a new or used EV dropped from 23% to 18%. And 63% said they would be “unlikely” or “very unlikely” to make an EV their next vehicle purchase. Part of the concerns are <a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/cold-weather-can-cut-electric-vehicle-range-and-make-charging-tough-heres-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">range drops over the winter, combined with slower charging</a>, which was widely reported during the January 2024 cold snap.“Charging an EV battery takes 30 to 40 minutes even for aggressive fast charging, and that time increases to over an hour in the winter. This is the pain point we want to address,” Dasgupta said.Follow-on work to develop factory-ready processes is funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation through the <a href="https://innovationpartnerships.umich.edu/resource/mtrac-innovation-hub-for-advanced-transportation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization (MTRAC) Advanced Transportation Innovation Hub</a>.The devices were built in the <a href="https://umbatterylab.engin.umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U-M Battery Lab</a> and studied at the <a href="https://mc2.engin.umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan Center for Materials Characterization</a>.The team has applied for patent protection with the assistance of U-M Innovation Partnerships. Arbor Battery Innovations has licensed and is working to commercialize the channel technology. Dasgupta and the University of Michigan have a financial interest in Arbor Battery Innovations.

A stabilizing coating on an electrode, combined with microscale channels, helps solve the trade-off between range and charging speed, even in cold temperatures.

Charging electric vehicles 5x faster in subfreezing temps

The risks associated with high-voltage DC fast charging are reduced by essential high-quality components, ensuring that electric vehicles are not only a cleaner option but also a safe and reliable choice.


High Voltage Protection in DC Fast Charging

The safety and efficiency of EV charging systems can be enhanced by integrating advanced protection and sensing technologies.

Enhancing EV Charging Safety and Efficiency: Integrating Advanced Protection and Sensing Technologies

<html><head></head><body>&nbsp;The Challenge: Addressing E-Mobility’s Compact Performance Challenge&nbsp;As e-mobility infrastructure expands, the need for advanced charging stations has introduced new technical requirements for size, reliability, and flexibility. When <a href="https://abinsula.com/" target="_blank">Abinsula</a> – an innovative company in the embedded systems and IoT solutions space – was tasked with creating a POC for a smart, wall-mounted EV charger, the company’s priority was to balance high-performance with a compact design that could be customized for future functionality.Abinsula’s experience in embedded systems positioned them well to tackle this project, but they quickly realized that most existing market solutions were either too bulky or limited in flexibility. After evaluating several options, they selected the <a href="https://www.arduino.cc/pro/hardware-product-portenta-x8/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Portenta X8</a> from Arduino’s Pro line and combined it with the <a href="https://www.arduino.cc/pro/hardware-product-portenta-breakout/" target="_blank">Portenta Breakout</a> to create a powerful yet compact solution that could be optimized for rapid development.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMxOTM5MDQyMDc4LTE3MzE5MzkwNDIwNzgucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" id="isPasted" class="fr-fic fr-dii">Developing a Customizable Solution with Portenta X8Using Yocto for software customization, Abinsula was able to adapt the microcontroller to meet specific application needs while maintaining efficiency and scalability. As Paolo Doz, co-founder and CTO of Abinsula, explained, “The primary challenge was optimizing the resources of the microprocessor while planning for future functionality expansions. We were able to offload some functionalities to the Portenta X8’s onboard real-time microcontroller, ensuring the system could support additional smart features as needed, such as remote communication via 4G/Wi-Fi®.”This approach allowed Abinsula to also integrate a full human-machine interface (HMI) and control software within just one month, a major accomplishment in a field where time-to-market can provide a decisive edge.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMxOTM5MDY0NDgxLUFCWDAwMDQ5XzAyLnVuYm94LmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Efficiency, Reliability, and Scalability for Future Innovation &nbsp;<iframe id="635a948941249700089f8799" width="250" class="specs-iframe" height="440" src="https://wevolver.com/iframe/specs/arduino-portenta-x8?iframe=true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>Abinsula’s success in delivering a complete, compact POC highlights the benefits of leveraging high-performance microcontrollers for e-mobility applications. The <a href="https://www.arduino.cc/pro/hardware-product-portenta-x8/" target="_blank">Portenta X8</a>’s design offered Abinsula access to a powerful processing-to-size ratio, enabling the development of a fully operational charger that met the client’s standards for both functionality and flexibility. The project also benefited from Arduino’s Board Support Package (BSP), which allowed Abinsula to focus on application development without having to start from scratch.&nbsp;Curious to find out more?&nbsp;Read the <a href="https://www.arduino.cc/pro/case-studies-abinsula/" target="_blank">full case study on the Arduino website</a>.</body></html>

The Arduino Portenta X8 combines high performance and compact form factor.

The growth of e-mobility demands versatile, reliable charging solutions that meet high standards in compact formats. Using Arduino, Abinsula developed a proof of concept (POC) for a wall-mounted, smart EV charger within a remarkable timeframe.

Abinsula: Rapid Development of a Compact EV Charger

As the demand for sustainable energy solutions intensifies, the role of electric vehicles (EVs) extends beyond transportation. The concept of bidirectional charging is becoming increasingly important as it allows electric vehicles (EVs) to not only receive power but also to supply it back to the grid or other connected systems when needed. This technology is significant because it helps ensure grid stability and sustainability by effectively turning EVs into mobile energy resources.In this article, we explore bidirectional charging, detailing its integration with modern EVs, and introduce the <a href="https://components.omron.com/us-en/products/relays/G9KB" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Omron G9KB-E high-capacity power relay.</a><h1 dir="ltr">Foundations of bidirectional charging</h1>bidirectional charging is a technology that equips EVs with the capability to both receive and supply electrical energy. This system integrates into the vehicle's charging infrastructure, allowing the EV battery to act as a dynamic energy storage unit. Unlike traditional charging, which is a one-way flow of electricity from the grid to the vehicle, bidirectional charging facilitates a reversible flow, where energy can be returned to the grid or directed elsewhere as needed.The mechanics of bidirectional charging involve several key components: an inverter, a bidirectional charger, and intelligent software that manages the flow of electricity. The inverter is crucial as it converts the DC power stored in the EV’s battery into AC power that can be fed back into the grid. Conversely, it also handles the conversion of AC from the grid into DC to charge the vehicle’s battery.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE4MTk1NTQyNjA2LWltYWdlNy5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="EV-bidirectional-charging-block-diagram-concept">Block diagram illustrating the concept of bidirectional charging for EVsA critical aspect of this technology is regulating power flow, which is controlled by sophisticated software algorithms. These systems ensure that energy transfer is efficient and occurs at optimal times, such as during periods of low demand when energy prices are lower and the grid is less strained. This capability requires a seamless and continued interaction between the vehicle, charging station, and the broader power grid, necessitating robust communication protocols to maintain synchronization and ensure safety. Bidirectional technology broadens the functionality of EVs and enhances the overall resilience and efficiency of the electrical grid. The following sections will explore these aspects in more detail.<h2 dir="ltr">Bidirectional charging applications</h2>Integrating bidirectional charging with EVs is a complex process that enhances the vehicle's ability to manage energy. This integration can be configured for many applications, each serving different needs.&nbsp;The core bidirectional power applications include:<ul><li dir="ltr">Vehicle to Load (V2L):&nbsp;Allows EVs to power external devices, useful for camping or emergencies, utilizing the EV's battery as a portable power source.</li><li dir="ltr">Vehicle to Home (V2H): Enables EVs to power homes during peak hours, reducing electricity costs by storing energy during off-peak times.</li><li dir="ltr">Vehicle to Building (V2B): Similar to V2H but powers entire buildings, offering emergency backup during outages.</li><li dir="ltr">Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V): Allows one EV to charge another, useful in emergencies when no charging stations are available.</li><li dir="ltr">Vehicle to Grid (V2G): Allows EVs to feed energy back into the grid, stabilizing it during peak demand or sudden spikes. Standardized under ISO 15118, V2G enables secure, efficient interaction between EVs and the grid.[1]</li></ul>Each of these methods leverages EVs' inherent storage capability to distribute electricity where it's needed most, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of our energy use. As these technologies mature, they promise to make EVs not just consumers of power but critical components of our energy infrastructure.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE4MTk0MzQyOTA2LWltYWdlMy5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="V2H-V2B-commercial-EVs">V2H &amp; V2B tech can enable even commercial EVs to become mobile powerhouses, potentially providing power sources for buildings during high demand/power outages. Image credit: Heliox Energy<h2 dir="ltr">Benefits of Bidirectional Charging</h2>Bidirectional charging offers a multitude of advantages that contribute to both individual cost savings and broader environmental benefits:Cost Savings: By utilizing bidirectional charging, EV owners can operate their vehicles more economically. Charging an EV during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower and then using that energy during peak hours can significantly reduce electricity bills. Some estimates suggest that users of this technology can save approximately $150 annually.[2] The amount may seem very modest at present, but as the technology matures, these savings are very likely to increase.Emergency Power:&nbsp;In the event of a power outage, bidirectional charging allows EVs to supply power back to the home or grid, serving as a backup power source. This can be crucial for maintaining critical functions in residential and commercial settings during emergencies.Grid Stability:&nbsp;This technology plays a crucial role in stabilizing the electrical grid by providing energy back during demand peaks. Instead of solely relying on grid-supplied electricity during high-demand periods, energy can be sourced from EVs, which act as mobile storage units. This reduces the risk of grid overload and enhances the reliability of the power supply.Renewable Energy Integration: Bidirectional charging facilitates greater use of renewable energy by storing excess generated energy in EV batteries during peak production times. This stored energy can then be used when solar or wind production is low, smoothing out the fluctuations in renewable energy availability.Reduced Emissions: By improving energy efficiency and promoting the use of renewables, bidirectional charging may help reduce a grid's overall carbon footprint. As more renewable energy sources are integrated into the grid, the reliance on fossil fuels decreases, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.These benefits showcase how bidirectional charging supports individual EV owners and contributes significantly to creating a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy ecosystem.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE4MTk0MzcxNjU0LWltYWdlNC5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="bidirectional-charging-for-V2H">Bidirectional charging revolutionizes energy management by providing cost savings, enhancing grid stability, and integrating renewable energy sources. Image credit: EVbox<h1 dir="ltr">Bidirectional Charging with Omron G9KB-E High-Capacity Power Relay</h1>Bidirectional relays play a crucial role in managing power flow in charging systems, enabling efficient energy transfer between electric vehicles and the grid or home. This capability allows EVs to charge from the grid and supply stored energy back, unlocking a range of V2X applications. Notably, relays like the Omron G9KB-E can replace two unidirectional relays, simplifying system design, reducing components, and enhancing reliability.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE4MTk0Mzg3MTM0LWltYWdlMi5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="unidirectional-relays-vs-omron-bidirectional-relay">The Omron G9KB-E relay can replace two unidirectional relays, simplifying design and enhancing reliability. Image credit: OmronBy managing both incoming and outgoing power flow with a single relay, the G9KB-E ensures a more streamlined and effective control mechanism. Through precise control of power flow, the relay helps maintain stability and efficiency within the energy system, preventing overloading and ensuring desired power distribution.<h2 dir="ltr">Benefits of Using Bidirectional Relays in EV Charging Stations</h2>In bidirectional charging systems, maintaining safe and efficient energy flow is critical. Relays are crucial components in managing power flow and safeguarding the charging system. Their functionality is integral to the system's overall reliability, ensuring the safety of both the vehicles and users. Here are some ways in which relays enable the charging process:<ul><li dir="ltr">Bidirectional Power Flow Control:&nbsp;Relays can potentially manage the flow of power in both directions during bidirectional charging (EV to grid or home) by selectively switching circuits.</li><li dir="ltr">Component Reduction: Bidirectional relays can replace two unidirectional relays, streamlining system design and lowering costs.</li><li dir="ltr">Safe Connection/Disconnection: Relays act as a physical switch, allowing the charger to safely connect and disconnect the EV's battery. This ensures no power flows when the car is not plugged in or during emergencies.</li><li dir="ltr">Isolation and Switching: In chargers with variable voltage outputs for different EV types (e.g., high-voltage for trucks and low-voltage for cars), relays provide isolation between these outputs, preventing accidental mixing of voltages.</li><li dir="ltr">Emergency Shutdown: In case of fault conditions like ground faults, current surges, overheating, overcharging, or short circuits, relays can quickly interrupt the power flow, protecting the charger, EV battery, and users.</li></ul><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE4MTk0NDAxMDQ2LWltYWdlMS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="block-diagram-EV-charging-station">Block diagram of an EV charging station highlighting the critical function of Omron G9KB-E relays in managing the power supply to the EV battery, ensuring safe and efficient charging.<h2 dir="ltr">Omron G9KB-E High-Capacity Bidirectional Power Relay</h2>The G9KB is a family of high-capacity power relays by Omron that are vital components in enhancing energy management for bidirectional charging systems. The G9KB relays are designed for both standard and high-power applications, making them a versatile choice for various energy systems.&nbsp;The Omron G9KB-E, a Single-Pole Single-Throw Normally-Open (SPST-NO) power relay, is the high-capacity model of the G9KB series. It can handle up to 800 VDC and 100 A, making it ideal for demanding energy management tasks.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE4MTk0NDEwNjE2LWltYWdlNS5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="omron-g9kb-e">Omron G9KB-E high-capacity power relay. Image credit: OmronHere are some key features of the Omron G9KB-E high-capacity power relay:<ul><li dir="ltr">Max Switching Voltage: Up to 800 VDC, making it suitable for high-voltage applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Max Switching Current:&nbsp;Capable of handling up to 100 A, ensuring it can manage substantial power loads.</li><li dir="ltr">Bidirectional switching: Bidirectional switching feature to replace two unidirectional relays with just one for bidirectional current applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Wide Operating Temperature Range: Operates efficiently from -40°C to 85°C, making it reliable in diverse environmental conditions.</li><li dir="ltr">Durability: The relay provides high electrical durability, guaranteeing at least 6,000 operations at 800 VDC and 18 A, 300 operations at 500 VDC and 100 A, 100 operations at 600 VDC and 100 A, and 10 operations at 800 VDC and 50 A (under specified measurement conditions of 1 second ON, 9 seconds OFF at 85°C and 25% to 75% relative humidity conforming to the conditions of JIS C 5442 test methods). This range of durability ensures reliable performance under a variety of load conditions.</li><li dir="ltr">Safety standard compliance:&nbsp;The relay meets safety standards such as UL 60947-4-1 and EN IEC 61810-10, designed for solar and energy storage system components.</li><li dir="ltr">Effortless PCB Installation: Safer and lighter than traditional gas-filled relays, with PCB mountings that eliminate the need for screw terminals and reduce manual labor costs.</li><li dir="ltr">Maximized efficiency: Low contact resistance for minimal voltage drop and heat generation to enhance system efficiency.&nbsp;<iframe id="6673055bd6d73867774c6178" width="250" class="specs-iframe" height="440" src="https://wevolver.com/iframe/specs/g9kb-e-pcb-power-relays-high-capacity-model?iframe=true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr">Further applications of the G9KB-E Relay</h2>The G9KB-E power relay is instrumental in the practical implementation of bidirectional charging, significantly enhancing these systems' overall efficiency and reliability. Its role in facilitating smoother and safer energy transitions makes it a key component in advancing smart energy management solutions.While we have focused on its critical function in EV bidirectional charging, the versatility of the G9KB-E Relay allows it to be used in various other settings, including:<ul><li dir="ltr">Energy Storage Systems: The relay is integral in systems that store and manage renewable energy.</li><li dir="ltr">V2X Applications:&nbsp;It supports various vehicle-to-everything (V2X) interactions, including V2H, V2B, etc.</li><li dir="ltr">DC Household Appliances: The relay can also be adapted for use in direct current appliances within a smart home environment.</li></ul>For more detailed information on the G9KB-E power relay or to inquire about purchasing options, interested parties are encouraged to visit the <a href="https://components.omron.com/us-en/products/relays/G9KB" target="_blank">product information page</a>.&nbsp;<h1 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h1>In conclusion, bidirectional charging represents a significant advancement in energy management, leveraging electric vehicles as mobile energy sources. Despite its challenges, such as technical complexity and battery wear, the benefits, including cost savings, reduced emissions, and increased grid stability, are substantial.&nbsp;Continued innovation and supportive regulations are essential for its advancement. The Omron G9KB-E high-capacity power relay plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and safety of bidirectional charging systems, making it a key component in the transition to a more sustainable energy future.<h1 dir="ltr">References</h1>[1] ISO 15118-1:2019, Road vehicles — Vehicle to grid communication interface, ISO, [Online], Available from: <a href="https://www.iso.org/standard/69113.html" target="_blank">https://www.iso.org/standard/69113.html</a>[2] City-Wide Modeling of Vehicle-to-Grid Economics to Understand Effects of Battery Performance, ACS Sustainable Chem. Eng. 2021, 9, 44, 14975–14985, Publication Date:October 26, 2021, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.1c05490" target="_blank">https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.1c05490</a>&nbsp;[3] OMRON Launches "G9KB" Relay for High Capacity Electricity Storage Systems, 11 May 2022, Omron, [Online], Available from: <a href="https://www.omron.com/global/en/media/2022/05/c0511.html" target="_blank">https://www.omron.com/global/en/media/2022/05/c0511.html</a>

Bidirectional charging introduces exciting possibilities for EVs to power entire buildings but necessitates meticulous control of energy flow. Components like high-capacity relays play a critical role, ensuring safe and efficient power transfer through precise switching and circuit isolation.

Enabling bidirectional charging for electric vehicles with high-capacity power relays

Learn how EV charger manufacturers can bring connected products to market faster, adhere to strict security standards that meet regulatory requirements, future-proof their designs, and win over skeptical consumers.

How EV Charger Manufacturers Can Build Secure, Reliable Connected Products

It is no surprise that EV charging is at the foundation of the automotive industry&rsquo;s transformation to electric vehicles. Whether it is public charging stations or wall chargers in our garages, EV chargers are in increasingly high demand today, with more and more electric vehicles on the roads.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industries/industrial-products/library/electric-vehicle-charging-market-growth.html" target="_blank">PWC study</a> projected that the number of electric vehicles in the United States alone is to reach 27 million by 2030 and no less than 90 million ten years later. To accommodate that, PWC analysts estimated a 775% growth rate in the number of charge points to hit 35 million in 2030.Across the pond, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electric-vehicle-charging-market-study-final-report/final-report" target="_blank">2021 report</a> by the Competition and Markets Authority in the United Kingdom suggested a ten-fold increase in the number of public charge points by 2030 to reach at least 280 to 480,000 locations.But the trend is not merely about EV charger installation. The technology behind these chargers is also developing quite rapidly. Be it for charging speed, power consumption, connectivity, or portability, what lives inside the charging unit is what makes or breaks the adoption of electrification in the automotive industry.This brings us to the computing device inside the charger, otherwise known as a Single-Board Computer (SBC). An SBC is a full-functioning computer mounted onto a single circuit board. It includes the microprocessor(s), memory, input/output&nbsp;peripherals, and other elements. It is an embedded device that is preferred for a wide array of applications, one of which is EV chargers.<h2>Why are SBCs so important for EV charging? </h2>While EV charging is a demanding application, SBCs provide several important benefits that indicate significant potential in this market. From computing power to low design effort, portability, and supply chain minimisation, the technological and commercial advantages brought forth by SBCs are what push the adoption of EV chargers forward.Certainly, the most important attribute that underlies all the others is reliability. These embedded controllers have a long track record of steadfast performance, which is crucial to the functionality of EV chargers. Whereas desktop computers, for instance, are promoted for their adaptability based on user preferences, SBCs&rsquo; simple and robust structure results in much fewer issues and minimal downtime, rendering them the preferred option for devices that require constant activity and reliability.Here are the top 5 advantages of SBCs that EV chargers can make use of:<ol><li dir="ltr"><h3 dir="ltr">Portability and customizability</h3></li></ol>SBCs are compact in size. They are ready-to-use controllers that are embedded in and integrated with any EV charger system no matter how limited the space is.&nbsp;As EV charger designs vary in size based on where and how they are used, the space inside can be quite confined. SBCs&rsquo; compactness can help solve a lot of design challenges as they can fit in almost any functional design.In addition, SBCs can be customised to fit not only any design but also any functionality. With a fully configurable design, a user can choose what components to have on the board, how small the SBC should be, and how they connect to the end application.<ol start="2"><li dir="ltr"><h3 dir="ltr">Compatibility</h3></li></ol>SBCs are typically designed to work with different types of hardware and run a variety of operating systems and software applications. This compatibility enables their use with any system.Whether it is operating systems, such as Linux, Windows, or Android, or software applications, such as web servers or programming languages, SBCs can be designed to provide such compatibility and enable easy operation. As for hardware, SBCs have a variety of options for processors, storage, RAMs, and peripheral input/output interfaces, such as HDMI and USB ports.&nbsp;While not all SBCs fit all applications, there is always an SBC for an application. And this compatibility is important for EV charging units running on different systems.<ol start="3"><li dir="ltr"><h3 dir="ltr">Low cost and power efficiency</h3></li></ol>It is trivial to realise that SBCs are cost-efficient. Their minimal size and compactness lead to a lower cost than relatively larger, traditional computers. Combining multiple components of a system on one module is a massive step towards minimising the cost of materials and manufacturing.But lower cost does not come at the expense of efficiency. SBCs are required to be at high efficiency to provide sufficient serviceability in EV chargers. That is why they are designed with efficiency in mind, supporting both public and domestic EV charging units.<ol start="4"><li dir="ltr"><h3 dir="ltr">Connectivity and Monitoring</h3></li></ol>Connectivity is at the core of network and remote systems. EV charging requires such a feature, especially in networks like smart grids. For instance, SBCs can be used to communicate with smart grids, enabling chargers to adjust their charging rates based on grid demand and the availability of renewable energy sources. SBCs can also communicate with connected vehicles, allowing for automatic charging initiation and the transfer of charging data between the vehicle and the charging station.With such functionality, SBCs in EV chargers would be able to help with handling complex tasks such as real-time monitoring for preventive maintenance, data collection, and analysis. This enables EV chargers to offer a variety of services, such as remote charging management, billing, and payment processing.&nbsp;With the use of SBCs, EV chargers can collect and analyse data on energy consumption, charging patterns, and user behaviour, creating more efficient charging solutions.<ol start="5"><li dir="ltr"><h3 dir="ltr">High performance and low power consumption</h3></li></ol>Applications that include embedded systems like SBCs require a certain level of power efficiency, in which the ratio of performance-to-power consumption is as high as possible. EV chargers are no different. In fact, the EV charging speed is highly dependent on the processing power level.SBCs have the capacity to provide that, given their cutting-edge components and architecture. In fact, researchers have studied&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167739X1833142X?via%3Dihub" target="_blank">the performance of SBCs and SBC clusters</a> and found that recent developments in SBCs have seen an increase in performance followed by an increase in energy efficiency and value for money.For a demanding EV charging market, SBCs are a strong fit as an embedded processing solution to provide sufficiently high performance while saving on energy consumption.Yet, with all the advantages SBCs offer, they still constitute a growing industry. This means there are always challenges to be tackled. From processing power to limited storage and memory capabilities, heat dissipation, and security risks, the challenges ahead of SBCs may still need to be solved. However, the constant development of SBC technology shows a huge potential in overcoming such challenges and playing an increasingly important role in the development of smarter, more sustainable EV charging solutions.&lt;image&gt;<h2>An SBC to help push electrification: The ROCK series from OKdo</h2>The all-new <a href="https://www.okdo.com/c/rock-shop/rock-sbc/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_campaign=rock&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_content=ev_charging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ROCK series</a> of SBCs from global technology company <a href="https://www.okdo.com/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_campaign=rock&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_content=ev_charging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">OKdo</a> has hit the market with cutting-edge features that can help engineers <a href="https://www.okdo.com/smart-world/ev-charging-stations-smart-ev-charging-solutions/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_campaign=rock&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_content=ev_charging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">develop innovative EV charging solutions</a>.&nbsp;Here are some of the most prominent features you can find in ROCK series of SBCs.<div align="left" dir="ltr"><table><tbody><tr><td>Powerful SBCs</td><td>Flexible and Compact SoMs</td><td>Fully Customisable SBCs</td></tr><tr><td>High-performing Hexa-core Rockchip RK3399-T processor</td><td>Compact size for easy integration into different designs</td><td>Develop low-cost and efficient applications for embedded systems</td></tr><tr><td>Wide OS compatibility, including Android</td><td>Reliable &amp; Powerful Rockchip RK3566 SoC</td><td>Fully configurable design</td></tr><tr><td>Expandable storage capability</td><td>Quad-core Arm&reg; Cortex&reg;-A55 CPU</td><td>Add or remove components</td></tr><tr><td>Supporting 4K &amp; 8K displays</td><td>Flexible storage &amp; wireless connectivity</td><td>Your board, your way</td></tr></tbody></table></div>With OKdo&rsquo;s mission to &ldquo;deliver imagination, creativity, and technical expertise&rdquo; to help product developers generate new ideas and turn them into commercial reality, the ROCK series is a clear representation of what <a href="https://www.okdo.com/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_campaign=rock&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_content=ev_charging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">OKdo</a> does.Choose between ROCK 3 Series, ROCK 4 Series, or ROCK 5 Series, and customise your board to fit your EV charger. Check out the solutions page <a href="https://www.okdo.com/c/rock-shop/rock-sbc/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_campaign=rock&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_content=ev_charging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EhiAPfHKFBE?&wmode=opaque&rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" id="751138646" title="OKdo DRIVING THE CHARGE FORWARD WEBINAR"></iframe> <hr><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">The ROCK Engineering Challenge</h2>Do you have an idea of how to use the ROCK?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-rock-engineering-challenge" target="_blank">The challenge</a> is open to all OEM&#39;s, startups, research teams, and students working on innovative SBC applications. Show the world what you can create with cutting-edge single-board computer hardware.We invite engineers, entrepreneurs, inventors, and developers to submit an idea for a part, product, or system that takes advantage of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.okdo.com/c/rock-shop/rock-sbc/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_campaign=rock&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_content=ev_charging" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ROCK</a> single-board computers.&nbsp;<ul><li dir="ltr">The first 500 valid entries will receive a ROCK board of choice worth $45 - $159. Simply tell us what you are working on, and we&#39;ll send you a piece of cutting-edge hardware to bring your ideas to life.&nbsp;</li><li dir="ltr">The most-cutting edge entry will be rewarded with&nbsp;a grand prize of a $50,000 partnership with electronics company OKdo&nbsp;to scale up their project idea.&nbsp;</li></ul>The challenge is now open until April 12th, 2023.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-rock-engineering-challenge" target="_blank">Read more here.</a><h2 dir="ltr">How to Enter?</h2>Submit your entry via this&nbsp;<a href="https://wevlv.co/okdo-form" target="_blank">form</a>. You will be asked for a comprehensive idea description, details of your team, and images or videos that support your idea. The challenge is open until April 12, 2023.&nbsp;We can&rsquo;t wait to see your entries!<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjc4NDQ5Njk0NzI1LW9rZG8gYm90dG9tLndlYnAiLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">

Single-board computers (SBCs) are the brain of an EV charger. With the EV charging market taking off, SBCs are at the centre of the electrification movement. But what are the challenges that lay ahead? And what do cutting-edge SBCs bring forth?


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