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Robots are mechanical devices that help humans perform specific tasks and make life easier and better for all of us. They can perform movements and actions with greater precision, accuracy and faster speed than humans and don’t get tired, leading to more consistent and higher volume production. Robots can take on tasks and operate in environments unsafe for humans, protecting workers from injuries. Gains in productivity may make robots a more cost-efficient option for businesses compared to hiring more human workers. Robotics has become a mainstay automation technology for a growing number of industries.
Consumers may be familiar with the home automation robots include lawn mowing robots and personal robot assistants that can play music, engage with children and help with household chores. Social robots can support children with learning disabilities and act as a therapeutic tool for people with dementia. They also have business applications like providing in-person customer service in hotels and moving products around warehouses.
Industrial robots can perform a variety of tasks. They assemble products, sort and inspect items, perform welds and paint objects, or move a load from one place to another. They may even be used to fix and maintain other machines in a factory or warehouse. Medical robots transport medical supplies, perform surgical procedures and offer emotional support to those going through rehabilitation. Robots performing dangerous tasks are also common. Search and rescue robots can explore terrain, discover landmark features, save those stuck in flood waters, deliver supplies to those stranded in remote areas and put out fires when conditions become too extreme for firefighters. Not only can robots detect and defuse bombs, but they also can exist in places humans cannot, such as under water, in outer space, and in extreme heat and cold. They further can interact with and dispose of hazardous waste and perform a whole host of functions that benefit the environment.
Control systems of all modern robots rely on electronics. This implies the need for electrical energy sources in every design. Power supply is one of the key components that determine the performance and uptime of the robot. The largest energy consumption in robots is related to the locomotion and manipulatory functions, and depending on the control problem complexity, the power source needs to be sized accordingly.
Robotic cars, or robotic vehicles, are one of the many robotic designs that are designed to move around to perform physical tasks. The movement of this robot itself involves the application of power and the use of motors. When creating such a robot, a balance needs to be struck between the load (the weight of the robot), the battery, and the motor used.
The main mobile robot energy sources are rechargeable batteries which are made from different materials. For the best performance, low weight, high current draw capability, and high capacity are required. The main concerns of choosing a battery include geometry or the shape of the batteries, weight, durability, capacity of the battery pack in milliamperes-hour, initial cost, and environmental factors.
Among the many advantages of lithium ion technologies is their lightweight and the highest power density. At present, most mobile robots rely on lithium ion batteries as their primary source of power, enabling them to perform a wide array of tasks efficiently. They offer high energy density, lightweight design, and fast charging capabilities. These attributes contribute significantly to the enhanced operational capabilities of mobile robots, allowing them to operate seamlessly across various industries. When it comes to powering mobile robots in the field of automation, lithium ion batteries offer a significant improvement to lead acid based batteries in most parameters.
Operational efficiency is a key factor in the performance of mobile robots. Lithium ion batteries excel in this aspect due to their higher energy density. They provide more power for longer periods, allowing mobile robots to operate continuously without frequent recharging. Lead acid batteries, on the other hand, have lower energy density and may require more frequent recharges, resulting in potential downtime.
Maintenance and logistics are crucial considerations in any automated operation. Lithium ion batteries require less maintenance, reducing the need for constant monitoring, watering, and cleaning that lead acid batteries often demand. Additionally, lithium batteries are lighter, making transportation and handling more manageable.
Size matters when integrating batteries into the design of mobile robots. Lithium ion batteries are compact and lightweight, allowing for flexible placement within the robot’s frame. This compact size optimizes space utilization and contributes to the overall efficiency of the robot.
