Understanding OCPP 1.6: Basic requirements and structure

The OCPP 1.6 (Open Charge Point Protocol) is an international standard protocol designed to facilitate communication between electric vehicle charging stations and a central server. This protocol ensures the seamless transmission of crucial information and commands, enabling the efficient operation of electric vehicle charging networks.

The Basic Requirements of OCPP 1.6

The OCPP 1.6 protocol encompasses several basic requirements that form the foundation of its functionality. These requirements include:

1. Status and Charging Data Transmission: Each charging station, known as a Charge Point, must be capable of transmitting its status information and charging data to the central server, known as the Central System. This real-time data exchange allows for comprehensive monitoring and control.
2. Command Reception: The Charge Point must also be able to receive commands from the Central System, enabling the server to control and manage the charging station as needed.
3. Support for Additional Functions: OCPP 1.6 supports various additional functions, such as plugin support, synchronization, diagnostics, configuration updates, protocol initialization, and remote commands. These functions enhance the overall capabilities of the charging network.
4. Flexible Communication Methods: The protocol supports multiple communication methods, including HTTP, HTTPS, SOAP, and WebSockets. This flexibility allows for seamless integration with different network architectures and ensures reliable communication between the Charge Point and the Central System.

The Structure of OCPP 1.6

The OCPP 1.6 protocol can be divided into three main components: the Charge Point, the Central System, and the communication procedures between them.

Charge Point

The Charge Point refers to the electric vehicle charging stations that implement the OCPP 1.6 protocol. These charging stations are equipped with the necessary hardware and software to communicate with the Central System. By adhering to the standardized international protocol, Charge Points ensure compatibility and interoperability across different charging networks.

Central System

The Central System represents the central server responsible for monitoring and controlling the status and charging data of all connected Charge Points. It receives and analyzes the information sent by the Charge Points and sends various commands to the corresponding stations. The Central System acts as the brain of the charging network, enabling efficient management and optimization of the charging infrastructure.

Communication Procedures

The communication between the Charge Point and the Central System occurs through individual requests and responses. The Charge Point sends its status information and charging data to the Central System, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis. Additionally, the Charge Point accepts and executes commands sent by the Central System, enabling remote control and management of the charging station.

OCPP 1.6 supports a variety of communication methods, including HTTP, HTTPS, SOAP, and WebSockets. This flexibility ensures that the protocol can seamlessly integrate with different network architectures and technologies, making it a versatile choice for electric vehicle charging networks.

Furthermore, OCPP 1.6 offers advanced features such as plugin support, synchronization and diagnostics, configuration updates, and protocol initialization. These features enhance the stability, efficiency, and overall performance of the electric vehicle charging network, ensuring a seamless charging experience for users.

Conclusion

The OCPP 1.6 protocol serves as a vital international standard for electric vehicle charging stations, enabling efficient communication between Charge Points and the Central System. By adhering to the protocol’s basic requirements and utilizing its flexible communication methods and advanced features, electric vehicle charging networks can operate reliably, providing a seamless charging experience for users and contributing to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.