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Customer application 19 February 2024
More Than Just Light: RZB Bollard Lights with Integrated Charging Technology for e-Vehicles

Do lighting and charging technology fit together? When the team from RZB was confronted with this question, their answer was a clear “yes.” They developed an intelligent bollard light with integrated charging technology for e-vehicles, including connection technology and MID meters from WAGO.

For more than 80 years, RZB Rudolf Zimmermann, Bamberg GmbH, has been manufacturing efficient lights with the highest light quality. During this time, they learned to constantly reinvent themselves and remain open to new ideas. The “Lupalo” bollard light has demonstrated this commitment to quality once again. This outdoor light combines light with mobility, because the light is equipped with charging technology for e-vehicles.

The basic idea came from owner Dr. Alexander Zimmermann. Looking towards the upcoming project for renovating the plant facilities in Bamberg, he came up with the idea of installing a hidden charging station in a light fixture. The team, led by Sebastian Zajonz and Andreas Beck, faced the challenge of integrating charging technology into a light fixture. These lights were initially only for internal use at RZB; however, they worked so well that the company decided to sell them. From this emerged the RZB Energy brand.

A brief pit stop: The bollard light conceals intelligent charging technology for e-vehicles – including WAGO technology.

Combination Solution Reduces Cable Connections

But why does it make sense to integrate charging infrastructure into outdoor lighting? “One advantage is that it looks tidier. It eliminates the double expense of charging columns and parking space lighting. The operator just has to lay a foundation, and it requires fewer cable connections than a split solution, saving saves installation time and money in the end. It involves less effort,” explains Sebastian Zajonz, Group Manager for Development and Design at RZB.

The bollard light can be placed in public parking lots, in front of shopping centers and hospitals, in companies’ parking lots and, of course, also on private homeowners’ property. “I think our lights can help make progress in expanding public charging infrastructure, because the installation is easier, for example. It’s a common challenge deciding where to position and secure a wall-mounted charging station so it’s easily accessible, but also protected from vandalism,” says Zajonz, describing the advantage of an outdoor light with integrated charging technology.

A clear picture: The combination of light and charging makes the parking lot tidier and requires fewer cable connections.

MID Meters without Tools – Wiring via Lever

WAGO supported the project. For example, the charging light can be ordered with energy meters from WAGO (item number 879-3000). The MID-compliant energy meter measures the outgoing current with kilowatt hour precision. “It was the lever on the MID Energy Meters from WAGO that tipped the balance in their favor. They allow the conductors to be easily connected without screw contacts or tools,” says Zajonz, explaining his decision. Push-in connection technology with levers merely requires the conductors to be plugged into the energy meter, saving time and eliminating the need for tools.

The devices for direct measurement are just 72 mm wide. This saves space. In addition to the values for active and reactive energy, the energy meters also record the mains frequency, as well as current, voltage and power for all phases. Another benefit is the large illuminated display, from which the user can read off all the important information, as long as it is installed in a visible location. With M-Bus and Modbus® interfaces and two S0 pulse outputs, the energy meter is a true communication pro. This is practical, for example, for setting up and configuring the MID meter. “This makes the process significantly easier,” explains Sebastian Zajonz.

Reliable Connection with WAGO Terminal Blocks

In addition to the energy meter, RZB has opted for WAGO splicing connectors, rail-mount terminal blocks, PCB terminal blocks and SMD terminal blocks. For wiring conductors coming from the base plate, RZB uses the TOPJOB® S Rail-Mount Terminal Blocks with push-buttons for a conductor cross-section of 16 mm². The 6 mm² version of the TOPJOB® S handles additional wiring tasks. 221 Series Splicing Connectors with Levers and 250 Series PCB terminal Blocks on the LED drivers connect the lighting technology. 1- and 2-pole 2060 Series SMD PCB Terminal Blocks are installed on the LED module in the top part of the light. “Many electricians are familiar with WAGO products and know how the system works. That was one reason behind the decision. In addition, these are flexible, high-quality products,“ explains the RZB developer.

Sustainability

“All components of our products are replaceable. This makes maintenance particularly easy. Due to the assembly on a DIN-rail, everything can be switched out without difficulty. That makes our light sustainable, not a disposable product,” explains Zajonz. WAGO’s energy meters and built-in connection technology make replacing the components easy. With the push-button and lever, the conductors can be inserted easily and safely and removed during maintenance.

The “Lighting and Charging Technology” project shows what comes out of thinking “outside the (wall) box”: a hybrid solution that supports the transition to electrical mobility – with WAGO’s support.