DATA MODUL and the key to success: Why use touchscreens as the HMI core in charge points?

In the field of public charging stations for electric vehicles, the trend is clear: they are evolving into multifunctional systems where interaction takes place via outdoor touchscreens that serve as the Human-Machine Interface (HMI).

These displays are driving a revolution in how users interact with charging stations.

From an early age, people learn to explore the world through the five senses, with visual connection being the most important interface for interaction.

“A key success factor is ease of use. A simple interface is best achieved through a sensitive touchscreen, ideally enhanced with gesture recognition,” explain representatives from DATA MODUL to Mobility Portal Europe.

DATA MODUL supplies high-quality display and HMI components for such systems and supports manufacturers and integrators in implementing these technologies.

Beyond basic operability, today’s users demand intuitive experiences, clear information during waiting times, and secure processes for payment and authentication.

It is worth noting that since its foundation in Munich in 1972, the company has developed visualisation solutions tailored to industrial requirements.

Now, with over 50 years of experience, DATA MODUL positions itself as a key player in the European market for HMI technologies applied to electromobility.

On the other hand, the company highlights that high-quality HMI components must be designed to operate under extreme conditions: resistance to vandalism, moisture, temperatures ranging from -30 to +85 °C, UV radiation, and compliance with IP protection standards.

They must also support remote diagnostics, integration with existing infrastructure, and 24/7 continuous operation.

DATA MODUL’s industrial displays are designed with these demands in mind. They feature robust protective glass, projected capacitive touch technology (PCAP), and high-brightness TFT screens, making them ideal for outdoor use.

Embedded technology and key differentiators

A distinctive feature of DATA MODUL’s offering is its ability to integrate hardware, software and services from a single source.

“The main difference is that we provide the complete service in-house, including our own touch solutions and all types of bonding, not just the hardware,” the company explains.

This translates into full customisation – from module design to the embedded system – enabling adaptation to the various formats and functionalities required by next-generation public chargers.

Beyond touch: advanced functionalities

In addition to managing the charging process, users can view vehicle status, remaining time, handle payments and receive real-time information.

Modern stations also incorporate integrated lighting, IoT connectivity, photovoltaic modules and secondary screens for digital signage, expanding the touchscreen’s role as a hub for interaction and communication.

“The existing technology is constantly refined, optimised and adapted to meet evolving market regulations,” note representatives from DATA MODUL when asked about future developments.

With these innovations, the company reaffirms its commitment to providing solutions that not only meet demanding technical standards, but also anticipate end-user needs in the dynamic landscape of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Interactive Advertising at Charging Points: An Opportunity to Generate Revenue

Incorporating digital screens into charging infrastructure not only optimises the user experience but also opens up new sources of revenue through advertising.

Additionally, it provides an opportunity for further monetisation via third-party ads, enhances brand visibility in high-traffic locations, and serves as a channel for promotions, updates, and customer information, improving the experience with dynamic content.

“Visual elements, animations, and interactive formats are particularly effective at capturing user attention,” the company says.

As a screen provider, DATA MODUL supports its clients in implementing display solutions for both monitoring and control of charging, as well as for advertising.

“In some cases, we use separate screens for monitoring/control and digital signage advertising. We can support both types of systems, and even their combinations,” they explain.

The content displayed, both for user experience and advertising purposes, is managed directly by the operators or integrators.

“Some of our screens are already in use at outdoor electric vehicle chargers across Europe, branded with our clients’ logos,” they add.

When asked which countries are showing the most interest in this interactive screen model at charging points, DATA MODUL states:

“At the moment, we are seeing growing interest in southern Europe (such as Spain and Portugal), North Africa (including Egypt and Morocco), as well as in Germany.”

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