Welcome back to the we.digitize blog! Here, we regularly provide you with information about the latest developments and insights into exciting topics relating to our company and the industry. In this post, we address the questions we are most frequently asked about our LiveLocker® and LiveCharger® products.
FAQ LiveLocker®
How do QR codes work?
Each LiveLocker® has a QR code above the locker number. This QR code takes you directly to the corresponding booking or checkout page for the selected locker. If you are logged in and there is already a booking in your name for this locker, you will be automatically redirected to your current session.
If there is currently no active booking, the link will take you to your next reservation, if there is one. You can simply use your smartphone camera to scan the QR code. Alternatively, you can use a trusted QR code scanner app. In this case, please make sure that the app opens your default web browser and does not use an internal browser, as otherwise logging in via Google or other providers may not work. If it is not possible to scan the QR code, you can also access the booking or checkout page directly via the map view by selecting the desired locker there.
How does instant booking work?
To select a locker using our instant booking feature, either scan the QR code on the locker or go to the map-page in the app. To do this, open the “Map” section in the menu, activate “Instant Mode,” and select your current location. You can then select the desired locker system and specific locker, which will automatically redirect you to the instant booking page. Read all the information carefully and select the date and time until which your booking should be valid.
If available, you can also use the “Quick Selection” feature to speed up the booking process. Please note that late termination of use may result in overdraft fees. Then click on “Book & Close” and confirm your selection to start the booking process.
Why are there overdraft fees?
These fees may arise because we facilitate reservations and therefore require a clearly defined end to each period of use. If this period is exceeded and the subsequent reservation cannot be honored as a result, this is inconvenient for the next customer.
How do I reserve a locker?
To make a reservation in advance, please open the map page. Currently, it is not possible to make a reservation using the QR code on the locker. Click on “Map” in the menu and then select “Reservation Mode.” A pop-up window will open where you can set the start date and time of your reservation (marked in green) as well as the end date and time (marked in red).
After making your selection, the map will automatically update and display the availability status of all locker systems for the selected period. Now proceed as you would with an instant booking. Find the selected location, choose the appropriate locker system, and click on an available locker to go to the reservation page. Read the information displayed carefully and then click on “Reserve” to confirm your booking.
If you want to adjust your reservation time after completing the final booking, you can do so using the “Edit time” option on the booking page. There are five ways to start a reservation that has been booked in advance.
How do I start a reservation?
1. Via the confirmation email
Open the email with the subject line “Reservation confirmed” that you received after completing your reservation. Click on the “Go to reservation” button in the email to go directly to the home page of your reservation.
2. Via the QR code on the locker
Scan the QR code on the reserved locker with your smartphone. If you are already logged in, your reservation will be automatically recognized and you will be redirected to the reservation home page.
3. Via the map page
Open the “Map” section in the menu and activate “Instant Mode.” Make sure you are logged into your account. Select your location. Now you need to select the desired locker system and locker. This will take you directly to the reservation home page.
4. Via the banner
Wenn Sie eine bevorstehende Reservierung haben, dann wird oben auf der Webapp ein grünes Banner mit dem Text „Ihre Reservierung“ angezeigt. Wenn Sie dort draufklicken, dann gelangen Sie direkt zur Reservierungsstartseite.
5. Via the profile page
Click on your name in the menu and select “My Profile.” Navigate to the ‘Bookings’ tab and then to the “Reservations” sub-tab. Select the desired reservation to go to the reservation's home page.
How do the tablet and the code work?
If the selected locker system supports the use of a tablet, then you have several options available to you. To reserve a locker, you can either use your smartphone and start the process via the web app or, alternatively, use the tablet attached to the locker.
You can also create a unique code using your tablet. Once you have generated this code, please select “Book & Use.” A tablet code can also be generated directly in the web app, but this is only possible before the booking process has started.
If the locker is completely free of charge and a tablet is available, you can use the system without a smartphone. This is particularly useful in facilities such as gyms or swimming pools, where you may also want to store your cell phone in the locker. Please note, however, that payment is only possible via the web app on your smartphone. Only free lockers do not require a cell phone. The tablet serves merely as a supplementary component of the LiveLocker® system.
The tablet code can also be used to end or temporarily interrupt your session. To do this, select “Open locker” on the tablet and enter again your locker number and the tablet code.
How do I receive my invoice?
If you require an invoice, please open your profile and navigate to the relevant booking or reservation. There you will find a button that you can use to request your invoice. Enter your full name, company name (optional), and a complete billing address in the form. The invoice will then be sent to the email address stored in your profile. You also have the option to save your billing address for future requests.
This saved address can be deleted at any time directly on your profile page. If the billing request for a specific locker system is not available, please contact us at info@live-locker.com so that we can process your request manually.
What if I have problems with my reservation?
If you encounter any problems with your reserved locker, you can request a locker change. To do so, click on the link"Lockers unusable? Click here to request a change",at the bottom of the home page of your reservation. The link will become visible as soon as the start time of your reservation is reached. During the change process, you may be asked to provide a reason for changing lockers. You will then be offered a selection of other available lockers. Once you have selected a new locker, your reservation will be automatically updated and assigned to the new locker.
Why is a green locker not available?
The green light on a locker simply indicates that it is currently unlocked. However, this does not automatically mean that the locker is available for booking. A locker marked green may still be reserved and, in this case, is not available for a new booking or a locker change. Please check the web app to see the current availability of the desired locker. If a locker is already reserved, it can only be used again after the reservation period has expired or after the owner has canceled the reservation.
FAQ LiveCharger®
How does the charging infrastructure work?
Our LiveCharger® product is just like any other provider in terms of how it is used by electric vehicle drivers. Our own LiveCharger charging station also works like conventional charging stations, so that electric vehicle drivers feel familiar with how to use it. LiveCharger® is more significant as an infrastructure product. The charging infrastructure is characterized by its modular expandability, scalability, and flexibility. It is also manufacturer-independent, meaning that LiveCharger® works with most charging station manufacturers.
What is special about the charging infrastructure?
Our smart charging infrastructure is particularly impressive thanks to its exceptional flexibility. It can be installed without complex civil engineering work, and the click-in charging stations can be easily repositioned as required. Thanks to its modular design, the system can be expanded at any time and individually adapted to different requirements.
Die Lösung basiert auf robusten Stromschienen, die mit allen gängigen Wallboxen sowie Backend-Systemen kompatibel sind. Sie eignet sich gleichermaßen für den Innen- wie Außenbereich und funktioniert zuverlässig unter verschiedensten Bedingungen. Ein weiterer Vorteil ist die Integration der Powerline-Technologie, durch die zusätzliche LAN-Kabel überflüssig werden. Das Baukastensystem ermöglicht eine flexible Planung hinsichtlich Größe, Budget und zukünftiger Erweiterungen. Gleichzeitig sorgt eine kosteneffiziente Aluminium-Stromschiene für eine wirtschaftliche Alternative zu teuren Kupferkabeln. Ein besonderes Highlight ist, dass die Ladestationen im laufenden Betrieb abgenommen werden und an anderer Stelle wieder montiert werden können.
How secure is the charging infrastructure?
The busbar is protected, meaning that there is contact protection throughout. Our camouflage or cover provides additional protection for the charging stations against the weather, creating an extra layer of protection for users. RCDs and circuit breakers provide additional protection, as required by law. These are already installed in the busbar boxes and at the busbar feed (sub-distribution). Like all electrical systems, our systems are checked annually for electrical safety. This means you can always rely on a reliable and safe charging experience.
What is the charging infrastructure compatible with?
Our charging infrastructure is fully compatible with all common models of electric and hybrid vehicles. No matter what vehicle you drive, you can charge your car reliably and easily. In addition, our charging infrastructure is independent of charging station manufacturers. Not only do we connect AC charging stations, but it is also possible to power DC charging stations with energy from the busbar. These are not clicked into place like the AC boxes, but are connected by cable to an outlet box, which in turn is clicked into place.
How does billing work?
Billing is handled by the backend provider or your own card provider. The following billing options are available:
- Roaming: You bring your own card from a contract with a provider. Billing is then handled by your provider.
- Ad hoc charging via QR code: You pay using standard online payment methods via a website that can be accessed using the QR code at the station. Billing is carried out via online payment and takes place directly between the user and the backend provider.
- Payment terminal: If a charging station (usually only DC stations) has a credit card terminal, you can hold your card up to it and the payment will also be settled directly between the backend provider and the user. (The money is simply debited. No data is exchanged and no websites/apps are accessed).
How reliable is the charging infrastructure?
Through regular maintenance and system checks, we ensure that our smart charging infrastructure always functions reliably. In addition, with the help of the backends and additional tools we use, we receive reports of failures and problems in near real time, allowing us to intervene immediately. Our customers often don't even notice that there was a problem, because we fix it immediately after the system reports it. We are also certified by many charging station manufacturers to commission and maintain their charging stations.
How long does a typical LiveCharger® installation take?
The duration of an installation depends on the connection point and the length of the busbar. Let's take a project as an example in which five charging stations are installed on the busbar. It would take two days to install the busbar brackets, the busbar, and the camouflage. An additional 15 minutes are needed to click the five boxes onto the rail. The rest is similar to the conventional method, including configuration, network, backend, power connection to the sub-distribution board, etc.
What happens if I need more stations after 2 years?
There are two possibilities for this scenario. Either the busbar for additional charging stations was built in advance but not yet equipped. It would then only take a few minutes to click in new boxes. If the power rail has not yet been installed, additional power rail elements can be added retrospectively and the boxes can then be clicked into place. However, this does not require any additional cables to be laid and connected, so this option is also very quick and easy to implement.
What if problems arise with LiveLockers® or LiveChargers® and users need help?
Entgegen vieler Unternehmen sind wir nach der Installation nicht einfach „weg“. Wir bleiben erreichbar und leisten Support und das auch direkt an die Endkunden und Elektrofahrer. Hierfür haben wir eine extra Hotline eingerichtet über die Sie uns per Telefon unter +49 203 41069 290 oder per Mail über support@live-locker.com oder support@live-charger.com erreichen können. Dort sind wir in den normalen Bürozeiten erreichbar. So bekommen die Nutzer schneller und einfacher Hilfe und der Betreiber/Besitzer wird entlastet. Außerdem bekommen wir auf diese Weise direktes Feedback, welches wir für Produktverbesserungen nutzen können. Das ist eine klassische Win-Win-Win Situation.
How long does commissioning take after installation?
Commissioning usually takes place immediately after completion of installation. It includes electrical testing of the system, including charging stations, and, if necessary, integration of the backend system. The latter is prepared by us in advance and only needs to be activated and tested on site.
What is the maximum number of charging points that can be installed?
The maximum number of charging stations depends on several factors. Firstly, it depends on the power output. The busbar we use as standard has a maximum current rating of 400A. If there are more than 26 charging stations, which are limited to 11kW, load management would have to be added in order to distribute the 400A fairly. For larger locations, however, it is also possible to use a more powerful busbar, as the product range we use offers busbars up to 6300A. Another factor is the network and load management. Depending on the manufacturer, charging station networks often have upper limits on the number of participants. These can be as high as 100 charging points, for example. For larger systems, several networks can be set up in parallel to circumvent this problem.
Wenn die Kommunikation über LAN-Kabel laufen, dann kommen natürlich sehr viele LAN-Kabel zusammen (pro Ladestation ein Kabel). Bei unserer Powerline-Technologie sind diese kilometerlangen Kabel aber kein Thema mehr, was sie zu einer sehr effizienten Lösung macht.
Outlook
We hope that this article has provided comprehensive answers to the most important questions about our smart lockers and charging infrastructure.
If you still have questions or need clarification, you can reach us at any time via our social media channels Instagram and LinkedIn . We also have a contact form on our website, and you can also contact us directly by email at info@we-digitize.io.
If you are interested in one of our innovative solutions, simply get in touch with us. We can provide you with a personalized quote at any time.
We are happy to provide further information or answer any individual questions you may have.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article.
Stay tuned!