Dynamic EV Charger QR Codes for Secure Commissioning and Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing EV chargers face issues with secure and clear identification during configuration and operation, as static QR codes are susceptible to hacking and environmental damage, while dynamic QR codes are confusing when no backend is associated with the charger.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an EV charger with an electronic display screen featuring two distinct dynamic QR codes: one for configuration/commissioning during boot time and another for operation, using an e-ink display to avoid confusion and enhance security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a static QR code is used for EV charger identification, then the charger can always be identified regardless of backend connection, but the code is susceptible to hacking and environmental damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic QR codes that change based on the operational state of the EV charger. During commissioning, a first dynamic QR code is displayed that changes over time. During operation, a second dynamic QR code is displayed that also changes. This dynamic nature prevents hacking attempts while maintaining reliable identification, as the codes are valid only for brief moments and cannot be statically copied or tampered with effectively.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a dynamic QR code is used for EV charger identification, then hacking via paper code placement is harder, but the code changes every time based on backend connection, causing user confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dynamic QR code functionality into distinct operational modes: commissioning mode and operation mode. In commissioning mode, a first dynamic QR code is displayed specifically for configuration purposes. In operation mode, a second dynamic QR code is displayed for charging operations. This segmentation allows each QR code to serve its specific purpose without causing user confusion, while both remain dynamic to resist hacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual differentiation (analogous to color changes in TRIZ) by displaying different QR codes in different operational states. The system visually indicates to users which type of QR code is currently active, helping users understand whether they are in commissioning or operation mode, thereby reducing confusion while maintaining security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two different QR codes are placed on the EV charger (one static, one dynamic), then configuration and operation can be supported, but it creates additional confusion for users and service personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for two separate QR codes by implementing a single dynamic QR code that adapts its content based on the operational state. The system automatically switches between displaying a commissioning QR code and an operation QR code based on whether the charger is in commissioning mode or operational mode. This dynamic adaptation maintains versatility while eliminating user confusion that would arise from having two static codes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises an Electric Vehicle (EV) charger with an electronic display screen having an e-ink/e-paper display—a technology that allows displaying information without power and an Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) backend system that receives charging data and sends charging commands based on dynamic load management principles via communication between chargers and central back-end EV charging management systems. The system further comprises a first dynamic Quick-Response code (QR code) representing the EV charger for the purposes of charger commissioning and configuration is presented on the e-ink/e-paper display during a boot time, and during (re-)configuration time whenever the EV charger is placed in a (re-)configuration mode and a second dynamic QR code different from the first dynamic QR code related to the OCPP backend system to which the EV charger is connected is presented on the e-ink/e-paper display during an operational time.