Molicel P42A Drones Mission feasibility assessment - asses what missions or use cases are possible or not using a go/no-go decision using simulation.
Explore the Molicel P42A cell for drones, designed for mission feasibility assessments, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in critical applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for compact designs.
Nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh, ideal for extended missions.
Top-quartile power density (+58% vs median 2,029 W/kg) for brisk current draws.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45.0 A, suitable for demanding applications.
Gravimetric energy density of 216.0 Wh/kg, ensuring lightweight solutions.
About the Cell
The Molicel P42A is a cylindrical 21700 lithium-ion cell with a nominal capacity of 15.12 Wh (4.2 Ah). It boasts a volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l, which is significantly above the database median of 542 Wh/l, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring high energy storage in a compact form. The cell's gravimetric energy density stands at 216 Wh/kg, which is around the median of 210 Wh/kg, ensuring it remains competitive in weight-sensitive applications. Additionally, the P42A features a maximum continuous discharge rate of 45.0 A, placing it in the top quartile compared to the median of 30 A, allowing it to handle high power demands effectively. With a volumetric power density of 6,434 W/l, it is among the highest in the database, providing robust performance for dynamic applications.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, mission feasibility assessment is crucial for determining what missions or use cases are possible. The Molicel P42A cell's high energy density and discharge capabilities are essential for ensuring that drones can operate effectively in various conditions. For instance, in scenarios where drones must operate in extreme environments or carry heavy payloads, the ability to predict battery performance under different conditions is vital. The P42A's specifications allow for accurate simulations that inform go/no-go decisions, ensuring that operators can trust their drones to perform as expected. This reliability is particularly important in critical applications such as search and rescue, where every second counts and battery performance can directly impact mission success.
Why this Cell
The Molicel P42A cell is specifically designed for drone applications, particularly in mission feasibility assessments. Its maximum continuous discharge rate of 45.0 A is significantly above the median of 30 A, ensuring that it can meet the high power demands of various drone operations. Additionally, its volumetric energy density of 600 Wh/l is among the highest in the database, providing the necessary energy storage for long-duration flights. This combination of high energy and power density makes the P42A an ideal choice for UAV battery optimization, allowing for extended flight times and improved mission endurance. Furthermore, its lightweight design contributes to overall drone efficiency, making it a preferred option for custom UAV battery packs.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a critical role in optimising the performance of the Molicel P42A cell for drone applications. By modelling load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the identification of the optimal operating parameters, ensuring that the cell delivers the required thrust and energy throughout the flight envelope. For instance, simulations can help determine the best charge and discharge rates, which are crucial for maintaining battery health and performance during missions. Additionally, understanding thermal rise and voltage sag through simulation helps in selecting the right cell for specific mission profiles, ultimately leading to safer and more reliable drone operations.
