Build better UAVs using modular power
Power Delivery Networks (PDN) based on Vicor high performance power modules enable innovative designs for the next generation of UAV development
Customer’s challenge
The addition of new sensors like LIDAR (light detection and ranging), together with sophisticated onboard AI processors, has allowed autonomous robots to interact more safely with humans. This manufacturer of security robots needed to integrate the new technologies into an upgraded robot platform that could support the higher processor loads while traveling further after a recharge. This required a larger battery and a smaller and scalable power supply to free up space for it. The key goals were:
- Extend the operational range and duration
- Free up space by minimizing power supply size
- Flexibility to accommodate power requirements of future sensors
The Vicor solution
The new design employed DCM DC-DC converters for each power rail. These small, highly efficient converters reduced the footprint and weight by 70% compared to the previous brick-based design. It also improved the system efficiency by 30%, reducing power losses and therefore increasing battery range. The DCM’s wide input voltage range allows compatibility with future battery technologies.
Key benefits
Key benefits
Low loss conversion to maximize performance from battery
Free up space by minimizing power supply size
Modular solution to allow future scaling-up of power
Power delivery network
Separate DCM DC-DC converters provided each of the four output rails. The converters isolated and regulated the fluctuating battery input voltage. Simple paralleling allows further DCMs to be added in future to meet a higher output power requirement on any rail. To analyze this power chain go to the Vicor Whiteboard online tool.
Isolated regulated
Input: 9 – 420V
Output: 3.3, 5, 12, 13.8, 15, 24, 28, 36, 48V
Power: Up to 1300W
Peak efficiency: 96%
As small as 24.8 x 22.8 x 7.21mm
Resources
Resources for the design engineer
UAV Market Trends and Power System Seminar 2025 Taipei, Taiwan
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