TerraE 20P Drones Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Explore the TerraE 20P cell for drones, optimising weight and power for enhanced performance in UAV applications. Discover its unique advantages.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 18650 form factor for versatile integration.
Nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric energy density of 395 Wh/l for compact designs.
Maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, ensuring high power delivery.
Gravimetric power density of 2400 W/kg, ideal for demanding UAV applications.
About the Cell
The TerraE 20P cell features a cylindrical 18650 form factor, making it suitable for various drone applications. With a nominal capacity of 7.2 Wh and 2.0 Ah, it provides reliable energy storage for UAVs. Its volumetric energy density of 395 Wh/l places it in the top-quartile compared to the database median of 542 Wh/l, allowing for compact battery designs that do not compromise on performance. Additionally, the cell boasts a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, which is significantly higher than the median of 30 A, ensuring that it can deliver the necessary power for demanding drone operations. The gravimetric power density of 2400 W/kg is also noteworthy, providing excellent performance for high-energy applications. Overall, the TerraE 20P is designed to meet the rigorous demands of drone battery design, offering a balance of energy density and power output that is essential for UAV efficiency.
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 operations. The TerraE 20P cell addresses this challenge by providing a high energy density of 395 Wh/l, which allows for a lighter battery pack without sacrificing performance. This is particularly important in applications such as long endurance missions, where every gram counts. The ability to optimise the weight versus power trade-off directly impacts the drone's operational efficiency, mission range, and overall performance. Furthermore, the high discharge rates of the TerraE 20P enable it to support demanding tasks such as heavy lift operations and rapid acceleration, which are common in UAV applications. By selecting the right battery cell, designers can enhance the drone's capabilities while maintaining safety and reliability.
Why this Cell
The TerraE 20P cell is an excellent choice for drone applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 30 A, it is positioned in the top-quartile compared to the median of 30 A, ensuring that it can handle high power demands during flight. Its volumetric energy density of 395 Wh/l is also a significant advantage, as it allows for compact battery designs that do not compromise on energy storage. This is crucial for UAVs, where space is often limited. Additionally, the gravimetric power density of 2400 W/kg supports high discharge rates, making it suitable for applications requiring rapid energy delivery. The combination of these features makes the TerraE 20P an ideal candidate for drone battery design, enabling engineers to create lightweight, high-performance UAV battery packs that meet the challenges of modern aerial operations.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a vital role in optimising battery selection for drone applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the TerraE 20P cell will perform under various conditions. This includes assessing its thermal rise during high discharge scenarios, which is critical for preventing overheating and ensuring safety. Additionally, modelling usable energy allows designers to determine the effective capacity of the battery under real-world conditions, leading to more informed decisions regarding cell selection. For instance, by analysing the TerraE 20P's performance in different flight profiles, engineers can identify the optimal balance between weight and power, ensuring that the drone can achieve its mission objectives without compromising safety or efficiency. This approach reduces the reliance on trial-and-error testing, saving time and resources while enhancing the overall design process.
