Abstract
AbstractAdvances in technology have seen mobile robots becoming a viable solution to many global challenges. A key limitation for tetherless operation, however, is the energy density of batteries. Whilst significant research is being undertaken into new battery technologies, wireless power transfer may be an alternative solution. The majority of the available technologies are not targeted toward the medium power requirements of mobile robots; they are either for low powers (a few Watts) or very large powers (kW). This paper reviews existing wireless power transfer technologies and their applications on mobile robots. The challenges of using these technologies on mobile robots include delivering the power required, system efficiency, human safety, transmission medium, and distance, all of which are analyzed for robots operating in a hazardous environment. The limitations of current wireless power technologies to meet the challenges for mobile robots are discussed and scenarios which current wireless power technologies can be used on mobile robots are presented.
Highlights
The demand for tasks beyond the confinements of a work cell requires the use of mobile robots
Advances in technology have led to mobile robots being considered for deployment in environments which are hazardous to humans to perform remote inspections and interventions
The problem statement can be stated as the feasibility of a wireless power transfer (WPT) technology for delivering the power required through different transmission mediums for a non-stationary mobile robot operating within mid- to far-range distances
Summary
The demand for tasks beyond the confinements of a work cell requires the use of mobile robots This has seen the development of various kinds of mobile robots at an unprecedented pace for operations in air, land, and water. A possible solution to the limited capacity of batteries is the use of wireless power transfer (WPT) technologies to provide power alongside, or replace, the robot’s onboard battery This solution has the potential to address the energy requirement of the robot without compromising on both the robot’s operational time and mobility associated with the options present above. The primary challenge of WPT here is to deliver the power required to a non-stationary mobile robot without compromising the robot’s mobility and its mission This is compounded by additional challenges such as system efficiency, the device form factor (size, mass, ancillary components), transmission distance, and medium.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
