Challenges
Challenges for electric mobility
Charging stations are "user touchpoints" in public spaces and are therefore subject to extreme loads.
The biggest challenge is striking a balance between aesthetics and durability. The hardware must withstand extreme force and vandalism, yet it must not detract from the column’s often delicate and modern industrial design. Weather conditions such as driving rain, snow, and especially road salt in winter must not interfere with the locks’ mechanisms.
Since the available space inside a charging station is extremely limited due to power electronics, cooling systems, and cable management, the locking systems must be compact in design.
In addition, operators are increasingly demanding smart solutions: Access to the column for maintenance purposes is often intended to be keyless, via an app or RFID, which requires a mechanical interface for electronic actuators in the lock.