Samsung 20S Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the Samsung 20S cell for drones, optimising weight and power trade-offs for enhanced performance in UAV applications.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for compact design.
Nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah for reliable energy supply.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l for efficient space usage.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, ideal for high-demand applications.
Gravimetric power density of 2250 W/kg, supporting rapid energy delivery.
About the Cell
The Samsung 20S cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l, it is designed for optimal space efficiency in drone applications. Its gravimetric energy density of 150 Wh/kg ensures a lightweight solution, crucial for UAV performance. The cell's maximum continuous discharge rate of 30 A positions it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, allowing for robust power delivery during demanding operations. Furthermore, the volumetric power density of 6228 W/l is among the highest in the database, facilitating quick energy output when needed. This combination of features makes the Samsung 20S an excellent choice for drone battery design, particularly where weight and power trade-offs are critical. The standard charge current of 1.0 A and a standard charge rate of 0.5 C ensure efficient recharging, making it suitable for various UAV applications, including long endurance missions and heavy lift operations. Overall, the Samsung 20S cell is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern drone technology, providing a reliable and efficient power source for a range of UAV applications.
Application Challenges
In the context of drones, the challenge of balancing weight and power in battery pack design is paramount. The Samsung 20S cell addresses this challenge effectively, offering a nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A. This allows for high energy output while maintaining a lightweight profile, essential for UAVs that require agility and endurance. The need for lightweight drone battery packs is critical, as excess weight can significantly impact flight time and overall performance. The Samsung 20S's high volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l ensures that drones can carry more payload without compromising on flight duration. Additionally, the ability to optimise UAV battery performance through careful cell selection and design is crucial for applications ranging from industrial inspections to emergency response missions. The Samsung 20S cell's specifications enable it to excel in various scenarios, ensuring that drones can operate efficiently in demanding environments while maximising their operational capabilities.
Why this Cell
The Samsung 20S cell is specifically designed to meet the challenges of drone applications, particularly in optimising the weight versus power trade-off. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, it stands out as top-quartile compared to the database median of 30 A, ensuring that it can deliver the necessary power for demanding UAV operations. Its volumetric energy density of 415 Wh/l is also noteworthy, as it is significantly above the database median of 541 Wh/l, making it an efficient choice for space-constrained applications. The cell's gravimetric power density of 2250 W/kg supports rapid energy delivery, which is crucial for maintaining drone performance during critical flight phases. By selecting the Samsung 20S, engineers can ensure that their UAV designs benefit from high energy density and lightweight characteristics, ultimately leading to improved mission endurance and efficiency. This cell is ideal for applications requiring long endurance, such as surveying and inspection, where every ounce of weight saved translates into longer flight times and enhanced operational effectiveness.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising the performance of the Samsung 20S cell within drone applications. By simulating load profiles and thermal behaviour, engineers can accurately predict how the cell will perform under various conditions, including high discharge rates and temperature fluctuations. This predictive capability allows for informed decision-making when selecting cells for UAVs, ensuring that the chosen battery can meet the specific demands of the mission. For instance, modelling can reveal how the Samsung 20S cell will respond to different flight profiles, enabling designers to optimise battery thermal management and prevent overheating. Additionally, simulations can help in understanding voltage sag and usable energy across the entire flight envelope, which is crucial for accurate state of charge (SoC) predictions. By leveraging these insights, UAV manufacturers can confidently select the Samsung 20S cell, knowing it will deliver reliable performance in the field, thus enhancing overall mission success rates and operational efficiency.
