↓Skip to main content
Iter8
  1. Projects/

SCCS-EVCC

·
Hardware
Table of Contents

Smart Car Charging Station: Building a Smarter EV Charging Network
#

Introduction
#

The Smart Car Charging Station (SCCS) is a custom-engineered PCB integrated with an EVCC-01 module, designed to streamline communication between electric vehicle charging systems and home automation networks. This project, completed at PXL University of Applied Sciences and Arts, creates a scalable, interconnected network of charging stations, enabling efficient energy use and seamless integration into smart home ecosystems.

Key Features and Goals
#

Communication
#

The SCCS supports multiple communication protocols:

  • Ethernet: For high-speed data transfer and scalability.
  • CAN Bus: For reliable vehicle communication.
  • KNX: To integrate with home automation systems.
  • UART: Direct connection with the EVCC-01 module.

Objectives
#

  1. Compact design with long-term reliability (20+ years).
  2. Scalability for multiple units in a single network.
  3. Power-efficient operation with sleep modes.

Hardware Design
#

Component Choices
#

The core of the design is the STM32F217VG microcontroller, chosen for its native support for Ethernet, CAN, and UART, as well as its long-term reliability. The PCB includes:

  • A 4-layer design for optimal power distribution.
  • Robust protection mechanisms like ESD diodes and Schottky diodes.
  • A modular design to simplify future upgrades, provided by the expansion header.

Challenges
#

  • Signal Integrity: Achieved through impedance-matched traces and serpentine routing.
  • Scalability: Each module is uniquely identified by its STM32 ID for seamless network integration.
  • Fabrication: Designed for hand assembly, allowing prototyping and patchwork.

Software Overview
#

The SCCS software uses RTOS for real-time processing and prioritization. Key features include:

  • Error Monitoring: Tracks abnormal conditions like over-temperature or voltage.
  • Command Handling: Allows dynamic configuration and data queries.
  • Scalable Networking: Supports adding new stations with minimal setup.

Results and Future Work
#

Achievements
#

  • Working UART communication with the EVCC-01.
  • Promising initial tests for CAN Bus communication.
  • Functional PCB assembly and testing.

Lessons Learned
#

  • The STM32F217VG provided a robust foundation, though alternative chips with USB programming would simplify development.
  • KNX integration remains a future goal due to its lack of documentation.

Future Goals
#

  • Finalize KNX protocol implementation.
  • Optimize network scalability for larger installations.
  • Explore additional features like solar panel integration.

Conclusion
#

This project successfully demonstrates the feasibility of a scalable, efficient EV charging network. The SCCS provides a solid foundation for integrating EV charging with smart home systems, enhancing energy efficiency and user convenience. Continued development could further optimize its capabilities, ensuring it remains a versatile and future-proof solution.

This project was completed by

  • Seppe Budennaers
  • Lucas Cosemans
  • Kobe Dieryck
  • Dries Nuttin

under the guidance of:

  • Jan Clerinx
  • Martijn Leemans
  • Ward Martens.