Amprius SA02 Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Discover the Amprius SA02 cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV battery pack design.
Value Propositions
Pouch form factor with nominal capacity of 38.5 Wh and 11.0 Ah.
Volumetric energy density of 740 Wh/l, top-quartile vs median of 542 Wh/l.
Gravimetric energy density of 340 Wh/kg, around median of 210 Wh/kg.
Maximum continuous discharge of 33.0 A, top-quartile vs median of 30 A.
Volumetric power density of 2,219 W/l, around median of 2,029 W/l.
About the Cell
The Amprius SA02 cell is designed specifically for drone applications, featuring a pouch form factor that allows for a nominal capacity of 38.5 Wh and 11.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 740 Wh/l, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the median of 542 Wh/l in the database. The gravimetric energy density of 340 Wh/kg is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, providing a solid balance of weight and energy storage. Additionally, the cell boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 33.0 A, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A. Its volumetric power density of 2,219 W/l is also around the median of 2,029 W/l, making it a competitive choice for UAV applications.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is critical. Drones require lightweight components to maximise flight time while ensuring sufficient power for various tasks. The Amprius SA02 cell addresses these challenges effectively, providing high energy density and power output. The weight versus power trade-off is essential for applications such as long endurance missions, where every gram counts. The ability to optimise battery performance directly impacts the drone's operational efficiency and mission success.
Why this Cell
The Amprius SA02 cell is an ideal choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 33.0 A, it ranks in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A in the database, ensuring reliable performance during demanding operations. Its volumetric energy density of 740 Wh/l is also a significant advantage, being in the top-quartile versus the median of 542 Wh/l. This high energy density allows for longer flight times, which is crucial for UAV missions that require extended operational periods. The combination of these metrics makes the SA02 cell a strong candidate for UAV battery optimisation.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a pivotal role in selecting the right battery cells for drone applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict the performance of the Amprius SA02 cell under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of the optimal balance between weight and power, ensuring that the selected cell meets the specific requirements of the mission. For instance, simulating the thermal rise and usable energy helps in understanding how the cell will perform during extended flights, preventing issues such as overheating and ensuring reliable operation. This data-driven methodology supports informed decision-making, ultimately leading to better battery pack designs for drones.
