Guide for Selection and Use of Power Supply for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

### UAV Power Selection and Use Guide

Today, with the rapid development of UAV technology, whether it is professional aerial photography, agricultural plant protection, environmental monitoring or logistics distribution, UAVs are playing an increasingly important role. And behind all this efficient operation, can not be separated from the stable and reliable power system support. The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed guide for the selection and use of UAV power supply for UAV enthusiasts and practitioners, and to help everyone better understand and apply UAV power supply technology.

#### Overview of 1. UAV Power Supply

The UAV power system mainly includes battery pack, charger, power management system (BMS) and possible backup power solution. Among them, the battery pack is the core component, and its performance directly determines the endurance, flight stability and safety of the UAV. Common types of UAV batteries include lithium polymer batteries (LiPo) and lithium ion batteries (Li-ion), which have the characteristics of high energy density, light weight and rapid charging and discharging.

#### 2. battery type selection

**1. Lithium polymer battery (LiPo)* *

-**Advantages**: Light weight, high energy density, excellent discharge performance, suitable for drones with higher requirements for weight and endurance.

-**Disadvantages**: The charging and storage conditions are relatively harsh. It is necessary to avoid overcharging, overdischarging and high temperature environment, otherwise it is easy to bulge, leak or even explode.

-**Applicable Scenarios**: Professional aerial photography, racing drones, etc.

**2. Li-ion battery (Li-ion)* *

-**Advantages**: Higher safety, long cycle life, relatively low maintenance cost.

-**Disadvantages**: Compared with LiPo batteries, the energy density is slightly lower, which may affect the maximum takeoff weight and endurance of some drones.

-**Applicable scenarios**: Agricultural plant protection, environmental monitoring, logistics and distribution and other areas with high safety requirements.

#### 3. battery capacity and voltage selection

-**Battery capacity**: Usually in milliampere hours (mAh). The larger the capacity, the stronger the endurance, but it will also increase the weight and cost of the drone. The selection should be based on the UAV design, mission requirements and load capacity.

-**Battery voltage**: Common voltages range from a few volts to tens of volts. High-voltage batteries can provide more powerful power output, but they also need the support of corresponding motors and controllers. The selection shall be made to ensure compatibility with UAS.

#### 4. charger and charging safety

-**Charger selection**: Original or brand-certified chargers should be used to ensure charging efficiency, safety and compatibility. The charger that supports intelligent charge management can automatically adjust the charging current and voltage to protect the battery from damage.

-**Charging safety**: Keep away from flammable materials when charging to avoid overheating, short circuit, etc. The use of balance charger can ensure that the battery pack within the cell voltage balance, extend battery life.

#### The Importance of 5. Power Management Systems (BMS)

BMS is the "brain" of the UAV power system, responsible for monitoring battery status, protecting battery safety, and optimizing battery performance. It can cut off the power supply in time under abnormal conditions such as battery overcharge, overdischarge, short circuit, high temperature, etc. to prevent accidents. Therefore, choosing a drone and battery equipped with an advanced BMS is essential.

#### 6. use and maintenance recommendations

-**Pre-flight check**: Before each flight, be sure to check the battery level, appearance damage, and connection.

-**Reasonable charge and discharge**: Avoid frequent deep discharge and try to keep the battery power between 20% and 80% to extend battery life.

-**Storage environment**: When not in use for a long time, the battery should be stored in a cool and dry place, and regularly charged to a half-full state to prevent the battery from being over-discharged due to self-discharge.

-**Regular maintenance**: Regularly check whether the battery connection line and interface are loose or corroded, and clean up dust and dirt in time.

#### 7. epilogue

The selection and use of UAV power supply system is directly related to the performance, efficiency and safety of UAV. Through the introduction of this paper, we hope that we can have a more comprehensive understanding of the relevant knowledge of UAV power supply, and make a more scientific and reasonable choice in practical application. With the continuous advancement of technology, the future UAV power system will be more efficient, safe and intelligent, providing a solid guarantee for the vigorous development of the UAV industry.