Overview
IEC TS 61851-3-4:2023 is a technical specification developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) focused on electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. This part of the IEC 61851 series addresses DC EV supply equipment where protection relies on double or reinforced insulation, and it details the general definitions and requirements for CANopen communication within these systems.
The standard applies to CANopen communication protocols used for the conductive transfer of electric power between the supply network and either an electric road vehicle, a removable rechargeable energy storage system (RESS), or on-board RESS units. The framework includes definitions and requirements for communication that ensure safe and efficient operation of the DC charging infrastructure and its connection to electric vehicles. It also supports advanced energy management strategies through communication between devices in the charging ecosystem.
Key Topics
-
Scope of CANopen Communication:
The technical specification defines the use of CANopen-a robust communication protocol-for the interoperability between DC EV supply equipment, energy management systems (EMS), and connected vehicles or RESS.
-
Protection Measures:
Particular attention is given to systems relying on double or reinforced insulation instead of relying solely on earthing or other means for user and equipment safety.
-
Energy Management System (EMS):
The EMS uses CANopen communication to monitor, control, and manage the flow of power between battery systems and voltage converter units (VCUs), enabling coordination between all devices involved in energy transfer.
-
General Definitions and Communication Requirements:
The document outlines terminology, object dictionaries, network management strategies, error handling, and state models necessary for implementing CANopen within EV charging environments.
-
Physical and Functional Layer Specifications:
Requirements for transmission rates, node-ID assignments, network topology, gateway functions, and device modelling to ensure a consistent and interoperable charging network.
-
Power Transfer and Error Management:
Procedures for connection/disconnection, "sleep" modes, error field definitions, and the state management that supports reliable operation.
Applications
IEC TS 61851-3-4:2023 is vital for manufacturers, system integrators, and operators in the electric mobility sector, including:
-
EV Charging Station Design and Integration:
Provides a standardized approach for implementing CANopen communication, improving interoperability between different brands and types of EV supply equipment and vehicles.
-
Energy Management and Smart Charging Solutions:
Supports the development of integrated EMS setups that optimize power flow, battery management, and ensure safety during DC fast charging.
-
Battery System Management:
Enables seamless data exchange and control for both on-board and removable RESS configurations, ensuring proper operation, monitoring, and protection during charging/discharging cycles.
-
Infrastructure Scaling and Compatibility:
Facilitates reliable expansion of charging networks and easier integration of new devices, reducing installation and maintenance complexities.
-
Enhancing System Safety:
By setting requirements for insulation and communication, the standard underpins safer deployment of high-power DC charging systems.
Related Standards
For a comprehensive approach to DC EV charging systems and CANopen-based energy management, IEC TS 61851-3-4:2023 is typically used in conjunction with:
- IEC TS 61851-3-5: Additional requirements for communication profiles used in DC charging systems.
- IEC TS 61851-3-6: Specifications for other communication or control functions relevant to DC EV supply equipment.
- IEC TS 61851-3-7: Further general requirements and application profiles supporting the EMS for electric vehicles.
- IEC 61851-1: General requirements for conductive charging systems.
- IEC 61851-23: DC fast charging systems for electric vehicles.
- ISO 15118: Communication between vehicle and charging station (primarily AC charging and some DC use cases).
- IEC 61850: Communication networks and systems in substations (often referenced for gateways).
Practical Value
Adopting IEC TS 61851-3-4:2023 helps organizations ensure compliance, interoperability, and future-readiness of their DC charging infrastructure. It contributes to safer, smarter, and more efficient EV charging networks, paving the way for widespread electric vehicle adoption and reliable energy management solutions in the global mobility landscape.