ZigBee-Based Self-Service Charging Framework for Plug-in Electric Vehicles

Abstract

This research presents a self-service charging structure for plug-in type electric vehicles, which includes multiple charging stations, a data service centre, and a mobile communication service centre. Each charging station is equipped with ZigBee networking devices, a charging station computer monitoring centre, and several chargers. The ZigBee networking equipment establishes a wi-fi connection with a ZigBee terminal node device in the electric vehicle. Each charger comprises a charger information management unit, an IC magnetic card identification device, a touch screen, a printer, and a charging device. The proposed self-service charging structure overcomes the issues of unstable electrical connection and high networking complexity associated with both wired and wi-fi communication procedures. It enables user-friendly, safe, auto, and intelligent charging processes without the need for manual intervention. Additionally, the structure supports multiple charging service modes. The research also presents a self-service charging procedure for plug-in type electric vehicles.