Offline EVSE Configuration Using Two-Factor Installer Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system and method to manage the configuration of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) without network connectivity, ensuring secure authentication of the person configuring the charger.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a 2-factor authentication process using a power cycle as the first factor and additional methods such as RFID card, device Mac address, or specific computer/app identification as the second factor to authenticate the installer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional authentication methods are used for EVSE configuration, then the system is simple to operate, but security is insufficient in offline locations without network connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication system is segmented into two distinct factors: something the installer knows (password/PIN) and something the installer has (RFID card, USB token, or mobile device). This segmentation allows the system to achieve higher security through multiple independent verification layers while keeping each individual factor simple and familiar to users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism that bridges the gap between simple operation and high security. The system uses local storage of authentication credentials and intermediate verification steps (such as RFID card validation or USB token recognition) to enable secure offline authentication without requiring complex network-based security infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If offline EVSE configuration is enabled, then the system can operate without network connectivity, but authentication verification becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication actions by storing credentials locally on the EVSE device before offline operation is needed. RFID cards, USB tokens, or mobile device identifiers are validated and cached in advance, allowing the system to verify installer authorization without real-time network connectivity. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex online verification during offline configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The EVSE device serves itself by maintaining local authentication capabilities independent of network infrastructure. The system stores and validates authentication credentials locally, enabling self-verification of installer authorization without external verification services. This self-service approach allows offline operation while maintaining authentication security through locally-held cryptographic keys and credential validation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures secure configuration of EVSE in locations without internet connectivity by verifying the installer's authorization through multiple authentication methods.
Implementation Method 1
an RFID reader to read an RFID code number from a master RFID card
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for 2-factor authentication of an offline Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) are provided. One system comprises a data input apparatus for entering a qualifying identification of an installer and for entering an authorizing signal by the installer to login into an application that shows the EVSE that the installer is authorized to configure the EVSE. The login to initiate a power cycle of the EVSE which is a first-factor authentication and puts the EVSE in a configuration mode. The system further comprises an authorization computer connected to the data input apparatus for establishing an authorization signal and for verifying a received authorization signal for a user to connect the EVSE to Internet which puts the EVSE in a connected mode. The user rights of the user are cheeked as a second-factor authentication by a Charger configuration tool or a charger application or a configuration software.