Showing posts with label Electric Vehicle (EV). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Electric Vehicle (EV). Show all posts

Wednesday, 22 July 2026

Power Analyser.

New compact, high-accuracy instrument extends coverage into high-voltage xEV and renewable energy applications.

The release of the WT1500 high-precision power analyser has been announced by Yokogawa. This new addition to the WT series, the WT1500 addresses a growing need for high-voltage, multi-functional measurement within the renewable energy and electrified vehicle (xEV) markets. It also offers a high precision measurement solution for semiconductor and battery applications. Delivering the highest rated input voltage of the series at 2000 V DC, and best in class accuracy, its four measurement channels fit within a 2U, 19-inch chassis, making it ideal for the rack-mount and PC controlled test environments typically found in these industries. Resolver signal input support enables customers to conduct motor evaluation tests without needing additional equipment, while new multi-unit synchronisation capabilities, due to be released soon will allow up to 5 units to connect, for a maximum of 20 power channels.

Continued growth in xEV technologies and renewable energies is accelerating demand for evaluation, testing, and production capabilities built around high-voltage equipment. Target voltages within these systems can reach the thousands, requiring specialised high-voltage divider equipment in typical analysis set-ups. These dividers can introduce measurement errors, reducing overall accuracy while complicating wiring and equipment installations. Additionally, conventional motor efficiency measurements require separately measured power and resolver signals to be synchronised on a PC.

Existing power analyser models lacked the required voltage input range for Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and Power Conversion Systems (PCS) or resolver support motor testing, or were too large to fit within conventional rack-mounted or desk-based setups. Yokogawa Test & Measurement specifically developed the WT1500 to address this gap, delivering the necessary capabilities and functionality while eliminating the need for high-voltage dividers for systems up to 2000 V, all within a compact 19 inch width, 2U height design.

Main Features.

  1. High performance: The WT1500 achieves a total power accuracy of ±0.038% (DC, 50/60 Hz) and low-power-factor accuracy of ±0.07% of S at 50/60 Hz, the best DC accuracy figures of the WT series, and supports two types of input elements, High Voltage (HV) and Wide Bandwidth (WB). The HV element supports direct measurement up to 2000 V DC and 300 kHz, ideal for high-voltage PCS and ESS applications. The WB element supports up to 1000 V with a 2 MHz bandwidth, crucial for measuring the complex, high-frequency waveforms generated in modern xEV motors. Both inputs share a common sensor input and can be mixed in a single unit.
  2. System integration and a space-saving design: The WT1500’s compact 2U height (approx. 88mm) design supports four power measurements and four motor evaluations, including both encoder and resolver signal inputs, IEEE 1588 time synchronisation, and data output to CAN/CAN-FD buses and low-latency data transmission via UDP communication. It is equipped with a variety of interfaces for remote control via PC, external monitor or tablet and features a small front panel for straightforward connection setup or even to be used as a standalone instrument. The WT1500’s high space efficiency allows easy integration into evaluation system racks.
  3. Scalable measurements: For measurements requiring more than four channels, up to five WT1500 units can be synchronised, enabling 20-channel power measurement. One unit acts as the main controller, directing subunit configuration and consolidating data acquisition. Multi-unit synchronisation support will be released soon.

The WT1500 also features four unique current input terminals, alongside its voltage terminals, providing power for current sensors. These, in combination with a series of new current adapters that are provided as accessories, enable the WT1500 to accommodate a wide variety of sensors: the CT Series solid-core (D-sub Terminal, 60 A to 2000 A, AC/DC), the CT1000S split-core (BNC, 1000 A, AC/DC), and AC-only current clamp probes (BNC, 50 A and 200 A class).

Major Target Markets

  • EV/xEV
  • Power
  • Automotive
  • Renewable energy (PCS/ESS)
  • Broader applicability: electrical & electronics, battery testing, semiconductor Applications
  • Four-channel power measurement, handling both single-phase and three-phase inputs simultaneously, using a PC to manage system configuration and data acquisition.
  • Measuring two-system inverter motors and e-Axle systems using dual-WT1500 and single unit setups, respectively.
  • Multi-unit simultaneous measurement and high-voltage measurement of energy storage and power conversion systems.


• Yokogawa Test & Measuremet products are marketed in Ireland by Irish Power & Process.

@Yokogawa, @Yokogawa_EU, @Yokogawa_Europe @irishpwrprocess @NapierPR #Power #TandM #PAuto


Wednesday, 14 January 2026

Empowering smarter home electrification.

Enables homeowners to add high-demand appliances without costly service upgrades.

The launch of ReliaHome™ Flex, a new modular energy management system which empowers homeowners and builders to add electric appliances without costly service upgrades has been announced by ABB. Designed to work with any brand of load center, ReliaHome Flex installs in minutes and scales easily for retrofits or new construction. Managed through the intuitive ReliaHome app, it delivers real-time insights and customizable automations, giving homeowners confidence and control over their energy use.

With electricity accounting for 44 percent of U.S. residential energy use – and set to rise by up to 22 percent by 20502 – demand for flexible energy management solutions is growing. For many households, adding even a single high-demand appliance can require a service upgrade costing anywhere from $3,000–$5,000 for a panel upgrade, to $5,000–$8,000 or more if the utility must upgrade transformers or trench service lines. ReliaHome Flex addresses this need by allowing homeowners the ability to add EV chargers, water heaters, HVAC systems, or induction cooktops without costly service upgrades.

ReliaHome Flex is built around two core components: the Hub and the Controller. The Hub acts as the central intelligence of the system, connecting to the home’s router via Ethernet for simple commissioning and managing wireless communication with all Controllers and the ReliaHome app. Each Controller manages single-pole or dual-pole loads up to 60 A, using information from the Hub to intelligently balance demand and prevent overloads.

The Hub and Controllers communicate through a built-in secure mesh network, ensuring reliable, seamless coordination between modules – fully independent of the home’s WiFi. This means the system continues functioning even if the WiFi signal is weak or the home temporarily loses internet connectivity.

Controllers can be installed in as little as 10 minutes and can be placed anywhere along the branch circuit without accessing the main panel, allowing for greater flexibility when managing loads that are not colocated or near the main panel. Through the ReliaHome app, homeowners gain real-time and historical energy insights, along with proactive notifications when appliances are turned on or off for load management.

“ABB is committed to shaping the future of electrification across North America,” said Adam Mease, Business Line Leader, Energy Distribution NEMA at ABB. “With ReliaHome Flex, we’re removing one of the biggest barriers to electrification: costly and time-consuming service upgrades. By providing a simple, modular solution that works in both existing homes and new construction, ABB is making smarter, electric-ready homes accessible to more people.”

Building on the award-winning ReliaHome™ Smart Panel introduced in early 2025, ReliaHome Flex expands ABB’s residential portfolio with a universally compatible, modular solution that supports both retrofit and new construction applications.

In retrofit applications, paired controllers enable homeowners to add new appliances without upgrading their load center or utility service. In new construction, builders can optimize service sizing, reduce costs, and work within utility constraints while ensuring homes are energy-ready.

Owners of EVs and battery systems will also benefit from the integration capabilities of ReliaHome Flex, which will allow them to better control their EV charging output and optimize the runtime of their battery backup.

From circuit protection to surge protection – and now energy management – the ABB ReliaHome portfolio delivers trusted, future-ready solutions for today’s connected homes.

ReliaHome Flex is available to order now in North America.


@ABBNorthAmerica @ABBgroupnews @abb_automation #Electric #North_America

Tuesday, 1 July 2025

DC energy meters for EVs.

A new series of DC meters is being launched by LEM. With the introduction of the DCES600 and DCES1500, LEM enables DC charging infrastructure manufacturers to accelerate time-to-market for both fast and megawatt charging solutions, with kilowatt-hour (kWh) billing services. The new meters offer enhanced performance, flexibility, and system optimization, making them particularly well-suited for applications such as e-truck charging.

Remote Display
The DCES600 and DCES1500 meters address a broad range of DC current-sensing requirements. They are designed to achieve class B accuracy at charger level with currents of up to 1500A, at operating temperatures from –40°C to +85°C without derating. Their high accuracy is maintained across the entire current range, ensuring precise measurements throughout the full charging cycle, from high currents at the start to low currents near completion.

The new meters comply with international legal metrology certifications and calibration standards, ensuring accuracy and traceability for kWh billing and regulatory compliance in EV charging applications. This, combined with the full-cycle sensing accuracy discussed above, is important when charging electric trucks, where the cost of transportation directly depends on the precise reporting of the amount of energy delivered during charging.

Designers can access the DCES meters over an RS485 communication interface that provides cybersecurity features. These features include authentication of measurements using digital signatures, and facilities that enable secure remote maintenance and firmware updates. These facilities are designed to help reduce the operating costs of EV chargers built using the DCES meters. LEM is also offering a comprehensive set of application programming interfaces (APIs) to enable quick and easy software integration, and other software tools to ease testing and product integration.

DCES600
The meters are available with an optional remote display unit, the RDU, which gives OEMs and systems integrators greater flexibility in the design of the human/machine interface compared to solutions with an integrated display. The RDU can be mounted on a front panel, DIN rail, or base plate, has a slim form factor, and doesn’t need additional connections, such as communications lines or power sources, other than its link to the DCES meters.

Both DCES meters have a robust mechanical design, with a glass-fibre reinforced case, which offers insulation resistance at up to 1000V DC for the DCES600, and up to 1500V DC for the DCES1500. They also offer large power terminals with large current contact areas. The DCES600 has two M10 studs that enable busbar termination to be screwed down onto a contact area of 33 x 36mm. In the DCES1500, there are four M12 studs in two pairs, with each pair offering a combined contact area of 45 x 100mm. The busbars for both meters are specified to operate at up to 110°C. Both meters are supplied with a protective cover and seals.

They offer real-time reporting of voltage, current, temperature and energy. These values can be used for both direct energy measurement, for example for billing purposes, and as part of a system management strategy for ensuring the end equipment is kept within safe operating limits through remote system diagnostics.

Applications for the DCES modules include in:

  • DC fast charging stations: The DCES600 is ideal for public and commercial fast-charging stations, enabling high throughput and rapid vehicle turnaround.
  • Megawatt charging hubs: The DCES1500 is purpose-built for megawatt-class charging, supporting heavy-duty vehicles, buses, and future high-capacity EVs.
  • Fleet and depot charging: Both meters can be integrated into fleet charging depots, providing accurate energy tracking for operational cost management and regulatory compliance.
  • OEM Integration: The modularity and advanced communication interfaces make the DCES family suitable for integration into OEM charging platforms and custom solutions, for control and monitoring of any DC applications such as battery storage.

LEM is now in the process of the certification of the DCES series by the end of the year. The DCES meters will then be compliant with European regulations such as MID 2014/32/EU, the EU’s Directive on measuring instruments, and with Eichrecht, the German calibration law. Samples are available now to enable developers to start work on charger integration and certification.


@LEM_Inc @NapierPR #Automotive

Tuesday, 10 June 2025

Optimising EV battery management systems at low cost.

A first of its kind high-voltage battery sensor that combines shunt and Hall effect technologies

A new current sensing unit for battery management in electric vehicles (EVs) has been launched by LEM. For the first time on the market, LEM has put together shunt and open-loop Hall effect technologies in a single part, called Hybrid Supervising Unit (HSU), to meet the challenges of small footprint, low cost and highest safety level in EV battery management systems.

“The HSU represents a significant innovation in sensor technology, being the first to combine shunt and Hall effect sensing into a single component. This integration simplifies system architecture, enhances safety, and allows for seamless upgrades without altering the mechanical layout. Additionally, it reduces the total bill of materials (BOM) and minimises cycle time at the customer's end,” said Jérémie Piro, Product Manager Battery Management Systems and Battery Storage at LEM.

The EV’s high-voltage BMS plays three key roles: it manages the battery’s state of charge and state of health, keeps the system and end user safe, and performs cell balancing as part of the battery optimisation process. For higher safety levels, system engineers typically use two separate devices, a shunt to measure 2000A and a current sensor fully isolated for measurements to 2000A.

Now LEM has combined the capabilities and performance of both technologies into a single unit, integrating it into the BDU. The signals from each section – the shunt and the current sensor – are then collected by the BMS.

At BDU level, the HSU allows:

  • Minimal footprint, weight and cost (BOM).
  • Minimised integration effort for faster time to market; and
  • Easy system upgrade, without impacting the mechanical layout while improving safety.

At the BMS level, the HSU enables system developers to easily reach the ASIL D safety level required for EVs.

The shunt’s resistance is very low at 25µΩ, and the Hall part is galvanically isolated, with accuracy of 2% at 500A and 5% at 2000A. Signal communication lines are separated (shunt signal and analogue or digital bus for the Hall part), and there’s NTC (Negative Temperature Compensation) signal for shunt temperature compensation.

The current measuring range is up to ±2000A at 10s for both parts, as is the wide operating temperature range of −40°C to +125°C.

The HSU is the only component on the market with two technologies fitted into a standard shunt footprint.It is a plug-and-play unit, allowing easy mounting. LEM initially offers the HSU00 part, with HSU01 to follow in June. The two are suitable for the two most common BDU busbar sizes: 84 x 36 x 3mm (HSU00) and 84 x 20 x 3mm (HSU01).

Samples are now available.

LEM plans to expand its HSU lineup, by introducing new technologies, for example combining a shunt with a coreless Hall-effect part. The goal is to continue to shrink the devices’ size and cost yet improve their performance.


@LEM_Inc @NapierPR #EV #Battery

Wednesday, 14 May 2025

Class leading electric vehicle and energy-storage systems charging.

The G9EJH-1-E ultra-compact DC power relay has been introduced by OMRON Electronic Components Europe , delivering a space-saving solution for inrush protection in battery-charging systems up to 800V. With class-leading dimensions of 31mm x 27mm, and 30mm high, the relay also meets the IEC 60664 insulation distance specification to satisfy stringent reliability and safety standards.

The G9EJH-1-E is well suited to use in battery energy-storage systems (ESS), through its high maximum voltage and industry-standard insulation distance. The compact dimensions, as well as 12V coil-operating voltage, simplify integration in pre-charging, auxiliary power, and main charging systems in hybrid and electric vehicles (EV/PHEV). Also, its 800V capability meets the needs of the automotive market as typical vehicle battery voltages continue to rise, targeting greater efficiency and faster charging.

With SPST (single-pole single-throw) normally open contacts, the relay operates in series with a current-limiting resistor for inrush protection. Capable of carrying a sustained current of 15A, and handling inrush current up to 30A, the G9EJH-1-E operates and releases within 30ms to provide fast-acting protection. The contact resistance is less than 100mΩ, ensuring minimal power loss when turned on. On the other hand, the insulation resistance of 1000MΩ and dielectric strength of 2500V between the coil and contacts ensures robust performance in harsh conditions. Housed in a 6-pin PCB-mount package, the G9EJH-1-E is suitable for automated or hand soldering and ensures flexibility for assemblers while simplifying field repairs. With mechanical lifetime rated for over 200,000 operations, and specified for operating temperature from -40°C to 85°C, the G9EJH-1-E ensures outstanding reliability in automotive and industrial environments. The relays are ready now for use in on-board chargers (OBC), service equipment (EVSE), and grid-connected energy-storage (BESS) applications.



@OmronEurope @OmronComponents @napierPR #Electronics #EV

Thursday, 20 February 2025

Key hurdles to accelerating EV charging infrastructure.

A new Fluke survey just released reveals that while 68% of respondents feel the EV industry is behind the adoption curve, 92% remain confident that current standards and regulations will pave the way for long-term success in EV charging infrastructure. The Fluke commissioned survey gleaned insights from more than 400 EV charger original equipment manufacturers and technicians in the UK, USA, Germany, and the Netherlands. Survey results also demonstrated that despite incentives throughout the US and Europe, and with strong consumer demand driving EV adoption, 47% of respondents believe the industry is 25–50% behind the adoption curve, while 17% believe it to be more than 50% behind. Notably, 40% of U.S. respondents predict that widespread charger availability won’t meet demand for up to seven years, or longer.

The survey identified charger maintenance as a top concern for the future of the EV industry, with 36% of respondents identifying it as a key challenge. Adding to the complexity, 44% pointed to inoperable chargers as one of the biggest hurdles facing the EV charging infrastructure, closely followed by 40% who cited software incompatibility as a significant obstacle. Compounding these challenges, 88% of respondents highlighted a critical skills gap within the EV workforce, signaling an urgent need for training and development to support the industry's growth.

Summary:
• Over 68% of those surveyed acknowledge the EV industry is falling behind on the adoption curve, highlighting sector-wide challenges.
• 40% of respondents predict that widespread charger availability will lag behind demand for up to seven years or longer.
• 44% cite inoperable chargers, and 40% highlight software incompatibility as major hurdles to EV charging infrastructure.
• 32% of respondents cite predictive maintenance, and 31% highlight artificial intelligence as key to a successful EV charging strategy.

"I'm encouraged that while 68% of respondents recognize a gap in industry adoption, the survey highlights a strong sense of confidence as industry leaders take proactive steps to address critical challenges," said Alex Chillman, Fluke Vice President of Innovation. "To pave the way for sustained industry growth and innovation, we must prioritize comprehensive worker training and ensure the availability of a reliable, well-maintained charging infrastructure. Charger maintenance also remains a significant concern and addressing it will be essential to meeting the growing demand for electric vehicles."

The survey results underscore Fluke’s call for greater emphasis on proactive maintenance strategies and workforce development to address the skills gap and meet the growing demand for reliable EV charging infrastructure. Respondents identified key factors critical to a successful EV charging strategy, with 32% highlighting predictive maintenance and 31% citing artificial intelligence as essential for optimizing performance.

Additionally, resilient infrastructure design, remote monitoring and diagnostics, and the adoption of standardized best practices were identified as vital for ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and adaptability of the evolving EV charging ecosystem.

"The EV industry is at a defining moment—growth is accelerating, and the demand for reliability has never been higher," said Fluke Chief Product Officer Vineet Thuvara. "Our research reveals a critical need to close maintenance gaps, upskill technicians, and ensure every charging point delivers peak performance. As PDMs (Power Distribution Modules) expand, power quality at every node becomes mission-critical. The path to a sustainable future depends on a smarter, more resilient infrastructure."



@FlukeCorp @NapierPR #TandM Automotive #EV

Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Investment in advanced AI software for rapid production testing of batteries.

Emerson has made a strategic investment through its corporate venture capital arm Emerson Ventures in EECOMOBILITY, a start-up that specialises in advanced battery testing and monitoring software for electric vehicle, energy storage and industrial markets.

EECOMOBILITY builds AI software, rapid battery testing and characterisation systems designed to identify defects that may lead to fires or performance issues. Combining advanced characterisation techniques and AI, their solutions portfolio can be applied at the cell, module or full battery pack level, making the company a key asset in the automotive sector.

“EECOMOBILITY’s AI-driven software for fault detection and battery testing aligns with Emerson's acquisition of NI and growing leadership in test and measurement technologies and expertise across the automotive sector,” said Thurston Cromwell, head of Emerson Ventures and vice president of development and innovation at Emerson. “Our experience in high-volume battery production testing will help accelerate EECOMOBILITY’s product development and market reach, especially in the automotive, energy storage and industrial technology sectors.”

EECOMOBILITY specialises in AI and offers platform-agnostic software that supports both standalone applications and seamless integration into customer solutions, regardless of cloud or hardware infrastructure. The software features rigorously tested, self-learning technology to ensure high speed, accurate results, easy customisation and rapid deployment.

“With this investment from Emerson Ventures and anticipated collaboration with Emerson’s Test and Measurement business, EECOMOBILITY will be better positioned to transform transportation electrification,” said Dr. Saeid Habibi, chief executive officer of EECOMOBILITY. “Given Emerson’s leadership in automation and commitment to sustainability, we are confident their support will help us expand the development and applications of our EECOPower technology, enable strategic partnerships and accelerate our growth.”

Emerson Ventures will co-invest with Automotive Ventures, RISC Capital and a North American OEM (original equipment manufacturer).


@Emerson_News @EmersonExchange @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #Canada

Wednesday, 6 November 2024

Vehicle charging points accuracy.

When the driver of a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle pulls away from a fuel station, they are unlikely to think twice about whether the amount of petrol or diesel they’ve been charged for is what has actually ended up in their tank. Over the course of decades, public confidence has been established by robust laws that govern how the flow measurement system in every pump has to be accurately calibrated.

Now that electric vehicles (EVs) are accounting for a rapidly increasing proportion of traffic on European roads, public charging points have to earn the same level of trust. That means creating new calibration systems which ensure a driver can be confident that when they have paid for 50 kWh of electricity, their battery has been topped up with that amount of energy.

In Germany, it was natural that manufacturers developing metering products for the EV charging market turned to the non-profit VDE Institute to provide a measurement set-up for calibration that complies with the EU Measuring Instruments Directive. The Institute, which employs more than 500 people at its headquarters in Offenbach am Main (D), is behind the VDE mark that for more than 100 years has been synonymous with the safety and quality of electrical and electronic devices, components and systems. Every year, VDE’s independent test engineers subject more than 100,000 devices to product, quality and safety tests that are recognised in more than 50 countries around the world.

Creating a measurement system that complies with the EU Measuring Instruments Directive and Germany’s Measurement and Calibration Act was challenging. The law specifies that meter readings must be accurate to at least 3% and no higher than the actual amount of energy supplied. This means the room for error in calibration is minuscule: the accuracy of the power meter used in the test system had to be better than the specification by at least a factor of ten, or ±0.3%.

At the heart of VDE’s solution is the WT3000E power meter from Yokogawa Test & Measurement, whose accuracy of ±0.04% is almost an order of magnitude better than the minimum specification. Combined with a programmable power supply controlled by Yokogawa’s FG420 function generator, the system provides extremely accurate measurement of voltage, current and total energy.

Other features of the WT3000E include a short interval between stored samples of just 50ms, and easy interfacing to precision current sensors supplied by LEM/SIGNALTEC.

For new designs, Yokogawa offers the WT3000E’s successor product, the WT5000 Precision Power Analyzer, a versatile platform that provides a high level of precision and exceptional performance in the most demanding applications. As well as increased accuracy of ±0.03% it boasts high-speed operation up to 10 MS/s (18 bit) and power measurement bandwidth of 5 MHz.

During this project, Yokogawa also supported development of the Raspberry Pi-based control program and measurement data acquisition system which provide an interface to the device under test. This was particularly useful when VDE engineers were faced by an absence of relevant libraries or drivers.

Following accreditation by Germany’s national Physikalisch Technische Bundesanstalt (Federal Physical Technical Institute), the test system is now being used by companies manufacturing energy meters for the country’s rapidly expanding network of public EV charging stations. With 1 million charging points set to be installed across the country by 2030, the VDE seal of approval will play an important part in establishing consumer confidence.

VDE engineer Sven Grünberg, who was part of the team that developed the system, has more than 35 years of experience with different types of test equipment. In this case, a need for ultra-high accuracy that made the choice of power meter crucial to the success of the entire project meant that he automatically turned to Yokogawa.

“To be honest, there is hardly anything else worth considering,” says Grünberg. “The Yokogawa WT3000E has been used in our calibration departments for years, and measures so precisely that it is also perfectly suited for the charging station test bench.”


@Yokogawa, @Yokogawa_EU, @Yokogawa_Europe @NapierPR #EV #TandM #Germany

Monday, 30 September 2024

Solution for the needs of FHEV, PHEV and BEV technologies.

The Single Monitoring Unit (SMU), just launched by LEM, brings previously unseen performance levels to all types of EV technologies – Full Hybrid Electric Vehicles (FHEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).

“It’s widely understood that the EV industry is continually looking to maximize driving range,"
Says Jérémie Piro, Global Product Manager BMS at LEM. "BMS designers will welcome a new sensor that is not just compact but also ensures accurate SOC estimation, which are the two main factors. We are very excited that the new SMU family will bring previously unseen performance levels to the FHEV, PHEV and BEV sectors.”

The new modular SMU family meets the needs of designers of automotive battery management systems (BMS) who are looking to extend as far as possible the maximum driving range of an electric vehicle. The SMU continuously monitors such vehicle parameters as battery performance and safety systems. They also identify anomalies and support diagnostics, which improves vehicle efficiency and ensures compliance with regulations.

The design of the new high-performance sensor recognizes the need for the smallest possible components so that EVs can weigh less and travel further on a single charge. The compact SMU measures just 29.1mm (H) x 35.5mm (W) x 49.9mm (L) while the busbar thickness is 2mm to 3mm compatible. The integrated busbar does not just keep size down and improve accuracy, it has been designed to accommodate a range of different busbar dimensions. The key to maximizing EV driving range is accurate State of Charge (SOC) estimation, which means precisely determining the remaining battery capacity. Accurate SOC estimation helps to optimize battery life and prevent unexpected power loss, while enhancing user confidence and delivering efficient energy management.

The SMU is a Hall effect technology sensor, open loop configuration using the latest LEM9 Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). Designed by LEM to add intelligence at the Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU) level, the ASIC makes it possible to measure environmental factors while ensuring accurate sensor performance.

Many new features have been built into the SMU to optimize performance. For example, accuracy is improved by software algorithms that can correct or adjust measurement data to account for distortions or errors caused by mechanical stresses. This enhances the precision of the sensor's readings and makes it possible to reach 1% of accuracy up to 1300A and <1 .7="" 1500a.="" a="" accurate="" addition="" algorithm="" also="" and="" any="" applications.="" as="" avoided="" be="" bms="" built-in="" by="" calibration="" caused="" correct="" current="" dedicated="" detected.="" diagnostic="" digital="" drift="" eeprom="" eliminating="" end-to-end="" ensuring="" errors="" features="" flash="" for="" ideal="" improved="" in="" include="" includes="" internal="" is="" issues="" magnetic="" magnetism.="" malfunction="" measurement="" memory="" microcontroller="" mode="" more="" of="" offset="" or="" other="" over-voltage.="" p="" protection="" provides="" range="" readings="" reliable="" residual="" rom="" s="" safe="" sensitivity="" sensor="" should="" state="" such="" temperature="" the="" to="" under-="" up="" warnings="" which=""> The new sensor’s high isolation levels enable it to withstand voltage differences greater than 800 V between components or between the device and its surroundings. This improves safety and prevents electrical interference or damage.

Finally, unlike other similar sensors on the market, the new SMU family is compliant with functional safety conditions. This means that it satisfies the stringent Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) requirements built into the ISO 26262 standard for functional safety in vehicles. The first version to enter the market is ASIL B ready with the possibility to extend it to ASIL C. ASIL B applies to systems where moderate safety risks are present, balancing safety with practicality in automotive design, and the new SMU family incorporates all the safety mechanisms and design processes that are required to address the risks associated with safety-critical automotive applications.


@LEM_Inc @NapierPR #Automotive #EV


Friday, 27 September 2024

EMC filter is space efficient for ease of integration.

Designed for high power electric vehicle charging applications.

Global EMC solutions provider EMIS announces the availability of the MF620 DC EMI Filter range specially designed for high power Electric Vehicle charging applications. The compact, space saving DC EMI filters suppress undesirable electrical disturbances in power lines, specifically for EV DC fast charging.

The MF620 filter range meets the safety requirements of IEC/EN 61851-23 Electric Vehicle Conductive Charging System and UL 2202 Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging System Equipment. This high current dual-stage DC EMI/EMC filter series is designed to operate up to 1600 VDC with the option to select the parallel capacitors. These DC EMI Filters are designed with specific capacitance and inductance values to target unwanted frequencies and in addition to EV Charging the filters may be used for Industrial Automation, Renewable Energy Systems, Telecommunication Equipment and Power Supplies. Key features include:

  • Capable of handling various voltage levels and load currents, making them suitable for diverse applications
  • Addresses both Common Mode and Differential mode interference, ensuring comprehensive noise reduction
  • Space efficient for easy integration into electronic systems
  • Operating Voltage up to 1500VDC
  • Current Rating 150A to 1600A
  • Chassis Mounting

With a robust global supply footprint across eight industry segments, EMIS is continuously investing in technology and skills to deliver its promise of efficiency with seamless customer support.


@proactivefleet #EMIS #PAuto #Electronics

Tuesday, 16 July 2024

Relay allows faster charging.

A new high power PCB relay for use in AC wallboxes for Mode 3 AC EV charging stations ha been launched by Omron Electronic Components Europe. The G9KC relay provides the lowest contact resistance available on the market and produces significantly less load terminal heat rise when in operation compared to equivalent devices. This opens new opportunities for designers and manufacturers of EV chargers to create systems that can charge faster and more efficiently, with a higher reliability and expected lifetime.

As electric vehicles (EVs) grow in popularity, demand for dependable and high-speed EV supply equipment (EVSE) or EV chargers is also rapidly increasing. Improved charging speeds can be achieved by using higher charging currents; however, this requires the use of higher rated electronic components, resulting in the generation of more heat inside the wallbox enclosure.

Higher temperatures within the wallbox can significantly affect charging performance and efficiency and can cause temporary limitations on charging power. Furthermore, increased heat cycles and heat levels can also cause components to wear prematurely and fail. Balancing the increasing amounts of heat dissipated by higher power components, with the desire to reduce overall system footprint, is therefore a major challenge for designers of EV charging infrastructure.

The G9KC relay utilizes an optimized structure which includes a mechanically coupled, double break contact design for demanding AC wallbox and Pedestal Charger designs for use in home, workplace, commercial and industrial settings. Designed and developed to high Japanese standards its aim is to offer an improvement in energy efficiency while reducing heat dissipation. As a result, G9KC contributes effectively towards the overall reduction in operating temperature in a typical 22 kW (max 32 A/Phase) wallbox. This not only facilitates faster, more efficient charging, but also unlocks new possibilities for wallbox designers to develop more compact and robust designs.

The relay’s 4-pole structure means that a single device can replace larger multi-pole Contactors and combinations of 1 and 2 pole, reducing the footprint required. With a guaranteed initial contact resistance of less than 6 mΩ it has the potential to contribute less as a hotspot while improving charging efficiency and performance. The G9KC’s lower operating temperature reduces the likelihood in the number of charge cycles reaching charging current throttling thresholds, while also contributing to improved reliability and longevity of the relays themselves, as well as surrounding components.

Unlike Contactors, the G9KC can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB), which can help to facilitate smaller and lighter designs in a variety of products including EVSE/ Chargers, UPS, Grid Interactive and commercial and industrial inverters and converters. G9KC has been approved by safety standard certification authorities of UL/C-UL, TUV and CQC, and has been designed to meet the requirements of IEC 62955 - Residual direct current detecting device (short circuit capability), and IEC 61851-1 - Electric vehicle conductive charging systems, alongside a wide range of other relay safety applicable standards.


@OmronEurope @OmronComponents @napierPR #EV #Transport

Tuesday, 4 June 2024

Helping sustainable EVs in public transport.

Smart energy company GridBeyond is to support Stagecoach, the largest bus operator in the Britain, to optimise the energy consumption of its EV fleet and integrate renewables energy in their business strategy.

The new partnership will allow Stagecoach to participate in the Capacity Market from October 2024, while looking at several other opportunities to support the grid and its energy transition goals.

The Capacity Market aims to ensure there is reliable electricity supply to meet peaks in demand, safeguarding against the possibility of blackouts if renewables sources such as those dependent on weather, are not generating enough. By participating in the Capacity Market, Stagecoach will support the grid when there is a high risk that a system stress event could occur whilst reducing the total cost of ownership from its fleet transition to EV through revenues earned by participation.

EV fleets are expanding at a fast pace in several of the world’s largest markets. This is being driven by governments and operators who are promoting electric vehicles as a key technology to curb oil use, fight climate change and air pollution.

As bus companies increase their EV operational fleets there are new opportunities to use this load not only as consumers but also as contributors to the power grid and its decarbonisation through the integration of renewables.

GridBeyond Head of EV Solutions Michael Kent said: “There are many opportunities for EV fleet operators to support the grid and become a key player in supporting the energy transition. We look forward to working together with Stagecoach and to start the Capacity Market programme. The long term contract it is a recognition of GridBeyond expertise and capabilities.”

Stagecoach Asset Management & Infrastructure Director Tony Cockcroft said: “We are pleased to be partnering with GridBeyond as we press ahead with our ambitious fleet decarbonisation plan. Using GridBeyond’s expertise in energy markets will enable us to get the most value out of our significant investment into our electric fleet.”


@GridBeyond_ @StagecoachSE #EV #Transport #PAuto

Tuesday, 30 January 2024

Smaller current sensor for high-power apps.

The transition to a decarbonized economy is accelerating fast and the demand for innovative technologies is increasing to support the large-scale adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Lightweight and compact design of power electronic components is key to enabling efficient design and increasing the driving range of EVs – adding value to Tier 1 supplier / OEM system engineers and consumers.

After working closely together for several years, LEM and Semikron Danfoss have designed a new concept, called Nano, that merges the capabilities of LEM’s range of current sensors with Semikron Danfoss’s DCM half-bridge power module platform for high-power automotive applications. The collaboration results in a core-based sensor that is 60% smaller than anything previously available without any compromise on performance.

“The Nano current sensor is a great example of how LEM is able to work hand-in-hand with industry specialists to tackle customers’ system challenges and create innovative current sensing solutions that deliver optimal performance levels. This project was a significant challenge, and the beauty of its success lies in the perfect collaboration with Semikron Danfoss. Both teams have been able to work almost like one single team. We have been able to push the boundaries because we created a synergy from our different expertise.” says Damien Coutellier, Senior electronics engineer and Nano project manager at LEM.

The newly developed sensor makes it possible to completely integrate the sensing function into the power module, minimizing component footprint, simplifying assembly and keeping costs down.

It is particularly ideal for use with electric vehicle (EV) traction inverters with the DCM platform, but also compatible with other Semikron Danfoss power module platforms. The innovative idea behind the Nano concept was to design a core-based current sensor that could fit into the unused space between the top side of the power module and the gate driver board.

This enables the footprint of the current sensor to overlap with the footprint of the power module. As a result, the Nano current sensor does not take up additional space in the inverter. Also, no additional components are required to fixate the sensor mechanically and connect it electrically to the driver board. This delivers the highest level of integration that a core-based current sensor can achieve. The Nano current sensor is mounted on the DCMTM power module, which uses the latest generation of 750V and 1200V SiC MOSFETs and has a rated current of 200A to 1000A.

Characteristics of the DCM platform mean that the new device satisfies insulation coordination requirements for 800V batteries per IEC 60664-1. At the same time, superior mechanical robustness, high-temperature stability and protection from humidity and vibrations enable inverters to deliver stable and reliable performance in a range of environments.

“By working hand-in-hand with LEM, Semikron Danfoss was able to develop a unique solution that combined the best of both worlds – our expertise in power electronics with LEM’s current sensing and metrology knowledge. As a result, this plug-and-play solution will save our customers a great deal of time and effort because they will no longer have to worry about the current sensor footprint, assembly, validation, testing or even performance – they are all taken care of in a single package,” says Thomas Zöls, Senior Electrical Engineers at Semikron Danfoss.


@LEM_Inc @semikrondanfoss #EV #Automotive

Tuesday, 9 January 2024

Early fire detection.

Ultra-sensitive, radiometric 24/7 early fire detection system for built environments and electric vehicle charging stations.

Eye on Cloud (EOC), a Korea-based video security and thermal imaging IP camera company, will leverage the Teledyne FLIR Lepton® radiometric thermal camera module in its early fire detection (EFD) series of IP cameras. EOC is introducing the series of EFD cameras as part of its Thermal by FLIR collaboration.

The HI1612-OH and HI1612-MW series cameras offer multiple resolution options for continuous monitoring of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and other critical infrastructure, security, and facility applications. With non-contact temperature measuring, the FLIR Lepton can identify elevated heat before ignition, which then triggers an alarm system. EOC’s ONVIF-compliant EFD cameras help improve safety while enabling fire personnel to attack a potential fire more quickly than when relying on traditional smoke alarms.

“We developed the Thermal by FLIR program to support customer innovations for new and developing applications,” said Mike Walters, vice president, product development, Teledyne FLIR. “EOC Tech and its work with early fire detection for EV charging stations and other built environments is a natural collaboration for the FLIR Lepton and Thermal by FLIR program.”

The Thermal by FLIR program is a cooperative product development and marketing program that supports original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), to integrate Teledyne FLIR thermal camera modules into products, along with go-to-market support for ensuing product innovations.

“Substation, building, and EV parking facility managers, including shopping centers and office buildings, need solutions that will help them better detect fires that can threaten life and property,” said Dong Gyun Shin, CEO, EOC Tech. “Our line of EFD dual thermal-visible camera systems developed as part of the Thermal by FLIR program provide a relatively low cost yet effective method to identity potential fires before they ignite.”


@flir @mepaxIntPR #Safety #EV #Eye_on_Cloud

Monday, 8 January 2024

Current monitors.

LEM has launched a new product in its CDSR series of Residual Current Monitors. Now available with three output types - fault output, SPI bus, and analog output - the new product brings an increased level of safety and reliability to AC wall boxes and charging cables.

The new LEM CDSR offers cost-effective leakage current detection, reduces electromagnetic interference, aids preventive maintenance and improves the reliability of AC electric vehicle chargers and gives users confidence in the safety of their charging system.

Based on LEM’s Fluxgate technology, offering best in class performance, the new LEM CDSR is an RCM type B.

Compliant with international tripping standards (IEC 62752/62955/UL 2231), the CDSR family is suitable for 3.3 to 22 kW AC charging systems and is offered in both single and three phase versions.

As electric vehicles become more popular, users need a reliable and safe way to charge their vehicles from their home AC supply. Because EVs use a high voltage battery, they are also a high-power energy source. This needs to be carefully monitored to avoid any electrical shock to users or damage to household switchboard protection such as the RCM A that protects the house from electrical hazards.

Meeting these requirements demands a highly accurate method of monitoring AC and DC current leakages, with the ability to measure leakages as low as 5 mA, some 10,000 times smaller than the current flowing in the conductor.

The LEM CDSR family achieves this using LEM’s fluxgate technology with fixed jumpers phase current. This uses mechanical placement to optimize performance, making it the most accurate contactless technology available today.

It also ensures easy integration and layout of the power track design thanks to its unique vertical shape. Offering isolation in a compact solution, the CDSR’s external test winding is also readily accessible to the customer to test the sensor.

The high reliability and safety of the LEM CDSR family ensures manufacturers and users of AC wall boxes and charging cables can take full advantage of the benefits offered by current leakage sensors. Amongst these are a reduction in electromagnetic interference that can affect nearby electronic equipment, improving the overall electromagnetic compatibility of the charger.

The CDSR can also aid in preventive maintenance, flagging up potential issues before they become severe and reducing long-term repair costs. The device allows the detection of minor leakages from the very first signs of a drift from normal behaviour.

By ensuring that current leakage issues are detected and resolved promptly, the CDSR family improves the overall reliability of AC EV chargers, reducing unplanned downtime.

It also gives more confidence to EV owners, with the presence of current leakage sensors in an EV charger demonstrating the manufacturer's commitment to safety and quality. LEM has backed this up with the high reliability of the CDSR, which is offered with a five-year guarantee.


@LEM_Inc @NapierPR #Electrical #EV

Tuesday, 12 December 2023

Innovations in EV and connected transportation.

Mouser Electronics has released a new eBook in collaboration with TE Connectivity, exploring EVs and the rapidly evolving landscape of connected transportation. This new eBook highlights emerging engineering topics such as V2X ecosystems, fleet telematics with 5G, the future of high-powered EV charging and other design trends providing insights into the EV and connected transportation eMobility revolution.

In EV And Connected Transportation, TE Connectivity and Mouser explore the EV evolution from transportation modes to dynamic data hubs, as the rise of fleet telematics and the integration of 5G turn vehicles into roaming data centres. This eBook takes a deep dive into the emerging V2X communication standards for the next generation of EVs, featuring cloud-based and 5G systems to help vehicles gather, process, and transmit more information, optimising everything from navigation to maintenance. Topics include the advent of automotive single-pair ethernet, which requires advanced sensing and connectivity, and highlight TE Connectivity’s offerings for even faster and more secure in-vehicle data handling for rapid remote updates, communication between vehicles and infrastructure, sophisticated driver assist systems, and ultimately, complete vehicle autonomy.

EV and Connected Transportation features the latest TE Connectivity products available from Mouser, including Charging Inlets for commercial and industrial vehicles, enabling safe, fast, and secure charging of up to 10,000 mating cycles while charging at 250 VAC (at 32 A) and 1000 VDC (at 200 A), and are ideal for use with heavy and medium-duty trucks, buses, two-wheelers, agriculture, construction, and recreational vehicles. 5G Phantom no ground plane required antennas deliver global cellular coverage without needing a fixed ground plane, even for regions where the lower 600 MHz band is required. These antennas provide consistent performance and can cover either 617 MHz to 7125 MHz or 698 MHz to 7125 MHz frequency bands in a ground plane-independent format. They are suitable for IoT, freight and transportation environments, and public safety applications.

Also available from Mouser, PowerTube connectors are designed for high-power applications in hybrid and electric industrial and commercial vehicles. The ECPx50B high voltage contactors are built for handling large electrical loads, up to 580A continuous current, depending on wire size and temperature, and offer 1000 V switching voltage of up to 1500 VDC with a continuous carry current of up to 500 A. These contactors are designed for control in high-voltage environments such as battery energy storage systems, solar inverters, and EV charging applications.


@MouserElecEU @ttiinc @TEConnectivity @Publitek #Transportation #PAuto

Monday, 11 December 2023

Sustaining lithium-ion recycling plants.

Korea’s SungEel HiTech Co., Ltd., a specialist in lithium-ion battery recycling, has selected Emerson to provide advanced automation solutions in support of sustainable production and operational efficiency goals at the newest of three lithium-ion recycling plants located at SungEel’s Hydro Centre complex in Gunsan, Jeollabuk-do.

Through the combination of Emerson’s process automation technology and SungEel HiTech’s unique battery recycling methods, the collaboration aims to establish a robust resource cycle that will help enable a more stable supply of battery materials for electric vehicles in pursuit of bolstering the world's overall production capacity.

LtoR: SungEel HiTech CEO Yi Kang-Myung,
Emerson chief sustainability officer Mike Train
and Emerson VP North Asia, ChenFai Chung
.
“Our automation portfolio and expertise are empowering our customers to optimise and scale the circular economy for critical battery components, a key step towards meeting global net-zero targets head-on,” said Mike Train, Emerson’s chief sustainability officer.

SungEel HiTech operates a comprehensive battery recycling ecosystem across nine global locations, including a recycling park for collection and pretreatment, and a hydrometallurgical battery material production facility at the Gunsan Hydro Centre. The upcoming third Hydro Centre plant will be triple the size of the first two, contributing to increased production capacity that can supply raw materials for approximately 400,000 electric vehicles each year.

“As the battery recycling market continues to grow, the significance of automation solutions to improve productivity and process efficiency is increasingly apparent,” said ChenFai Chung, vice president and general manager for Emerson in North Asia. “We are proud to work with an innovative leader like SungEel HiTech to contribute to the advancement of battery recycling technology.”

Emerson will supply advanced instrumentation and valve solutions that provide the high levels of performance, accuracy and reliability required for the advanced proprietary hydrometallurgical processes that SungEel HiTech uses. The package will include a variety of flow, level, pressure, and pH sensors and transmitters, as well as robust control valves that are critical to safe and reliable operations.


@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #EV #Korea

Friday, 23 June 2023

DC energy meter for EVs.

LEM will use PCIM 2023 to give the global e-mobility market advance notice of its new DC energy meter for DC wallbox chargers of electric vehicles (EVs). Offering compliance to the latest metrology regulations, the DCBM 100 energy meter will be introduced to the EU market in Q3 this year.

Florent Balboni
“Rapid deployment of new products and technologies is crucial to meet the diverse demands of EV charging applications,"
says Florent Balboni, LEM Global Product Manager for energy metering solutions. "Ensuring fairness and transparency for all users, kWh-based billing is essential for technology acceptance. DC meters must therefore be tailored to EV charging applications such as DC wallboxes which will play a significant role in charging infrastructure and the development of advanced V2G services.”
 
With the continuous growth at a rapid rate of the e-mobility sector, the new DC energy meter is expected to be of particular interest to manufacturers of EV chargers to enable kWh-based billing when charging in public or semi-public areas. To allow for kWh-based billing of charging sessions, energy metering solutions must be integrated into destination DC chargers, following calibration laws. kWh-based payment is increasingly required and enforced because it promotes accessibility, fairness and transparency of prices for all users during the charging process of electric vehicles.

EVs have the option of being charged using either AC or DC power. DC charging through a wallbox offers several advantages over AC charging because it overcomes the power limitation of the on-board charger used in AC charging. This results in shorter charging times and enables easier access to services like vehicle-to-grid (V2G).

With destination charging applications, where the charging time is typically between one to two hours, an average charging power in DC in the range of 30kW is usually adequate to recharge most EVs. To meet this demand, DC wallboxes are a crucial component of the charging infrastructure and provide reasonable charging times at an acceptable cost for charging point operators (CPOs). 

With its powerful bi-directional energy metering enabling V2G, the DCBM 100 DC energy meter is designed to ensure full transparency and enable end-users to have confidence in the fairness of their kWh-based charging experience. The future-ready DCBM 100 has been developed specifically for 11kW to 30kW DC wallbox applications, delivering Class B accuracy and 1000V DC and 80A rating in temperatures from -40°C to +80°C. Charging cables can be directly connected to the new meter.

Also, the DCBM 100 provides in real time additional data (voltage, current, power, temperature) that will be essential to developing the kinds of predictive maintenance tools needed to minimise EV charger downtime. As part of LEM’s larger family of direct current billing meters, the DCBM 100 also ensures easy software integration and secure data handling using the latest Open Charge Metering Format (OCMF).

@LEM_Inc @NapierPR #PAuto #Electrical #Automotive


Wednesday, 21 June 2023

Low contact resistance relays.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has expanded its high-power switching capability with the addition of a low contact resistance model for the successful 2 pole contact type G7L-2A-X series relays. With a 6.0mm contact gap, the new G7L-2A-X-SI relay provides low contact resistance of maximum 10mΩ and a rated load of 30A at 600V DC, or 25A at 1000V DC. The G7L-X series conforms to British and IEC solar inverter standards, as well as applicable UL and VDE electrical standards.

Features of their design include an assisting magnetism circuit, to help achieve a very quick switchover. The relay contacts have been specifically designed to handle very high DC loads that are a feature of this application. Contact forms is 2 pole DPST and its 6.0mm contact gap ensures improved safety.

Driven by the trends for higher capacity and increasing heat generation issues, the G7L-X series enables reduced charging time for vehicle charging and offers high capacity for residential energy storage systems and battery storage management.

In comparison with similar level competitive relays, the G7L- 2A- X-SI has a larger contact gap, low contact resistance, and bidirectional switching ability. Capable of 6,000 operations at 600V DC, or 100 operations at 1000V DC, the relays provide higher capacity and low heat generation. The device is compact for a relay with this capacity: it measures just 52.5 x 35.5 x 41.0 mm.

@OmronEurope @OmronComponents  @NeeshamPR  #PAuto #Automotive

Tuesday, 20 June 2023

EV charging.

LEM has announced that its DCBM 400/600 direct current billing meter is the first of its kind to be certified in France by Laboratoire national de métrologie et d'essais (LNE), the country’s national laboratory for metrology and testing.

As Europe continues to develop extensive public charging infrastructure for EVs, the importance of fair and transparent billing based on energy usage (kWh) becomes crucial. The DCBM 400/600 facilitates kWh billing integration into the EV market, accelerating the time to market for rapid charging station manufacturers.

With its LCD display, industry standard data protocols, and compliance with metrology regulations, the DCBM 400/600 is suitable for both retrofit and new DC rapid charging stations, offering secure communication, authentic billing, and easy connectivity to Cloud services.


@LEM_Inc @LNE_fr @NapierPR  #Electrical #Automotive #France