AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), as an important transportation tool in modern logistics, manufacturing and other fields, is characterized by high efficiency, flexibility and intelligence. However, the battery life of AGV has always been the focus of users' attention. As the power source of AGV, the battery's life directly affects the cost and operational efficiency of AGV. In this article, we will analyze the AGV battery life problem in detail from the aspects of AGV battery type, factors affecting battery life and methods to extend battery life.

Types of AGV batteries and their characteristics

Lead-acid batteries{{22 21}}

Lead-acid batteries are the most commonly used type of batteries in AGVs, with the advantages of low price and mature technology. However, its disadvantages are also more obvious, such as low energy density, limited number of charging times, and environmental pollution.

Lithium batteries

Lithium batteries have the advantages of high energy density, high number of recharging times, small size, light weight, etc., and are gradually becoming the mainstream choice of AGV batteries. However, lithium batteries are more expensive, and safety issues need to be concerned.

Fuel cells

Fuel cells have the advantages of high energy density, long range, fast charging speed, etc., which is considered to be the direction of the development of future AGV batteries. However, the current fuel cell cost is high, and there are problems such as hydrogen storage and safety.

Factors affecting the life of AGV batteries

The number of charging and discharging times

The number of times of charging and discharging of batteries is an important factor affecting their life. Generally speaking, the more times a battery is charged and discharged, the shorter its life.

Depth of charge/discharge

Depth of charge/discharge (DOD) refers to the ratio of the discharged capacity to the rated capacity of the battery during discharge. Excessively deep charging and discharging will result in shorter battery life.

Temperature

Batteries operating at high or low temperatures can adversely affect their life. In general, the optimal operating temperature for batteries is 20-25°C.

Charge and discharge rate

Too fast a charge and discharge rate will lead to the generation of heat inside the battery, accelerating the aging of the battery and shortening its life.

Battery Management System (BMS)

The BMS monitors and controls the charging and discharging process of the battery, and a reasonable BMS design can help to extend the life of the battery.

Methods to extend AGV battery life

Selecting the right type of battery

Selecting the right type of battery according to the usage scenarios and needs of the AGV. For example, for the scenarios with high range requirements, lithium batteries or fuel cells can be used.

Optimize charging strategy

Adopt intelligent charging equipment, adjust charging parameters according to the battery status, and avoid the phenomenon of overcharge and overdischarge.

Battery temperature management

Ensure that the battery operates in a suitable temperature range, which can be temperature controlled by heat dissipation and heating.

Battery health management

Regularly test and maintain the battery, and deal with any problems in time to avoid further deterioration of battery performance.

Reduce deep discharge

Try to avoid deep discharging of the battery, reasonably plan the work tasks of the AGV, and make sure that the battery power is within the safe range.

Extend the charging interval

Under the premise of ensuring the normal operation of the AGV, appropriately extend the charging interval and reduce the number of battery charging and discharging.

The issue of AGV battery life is related to the operating costs and equipment stability. By understanding the battery type, factors affecting the life span and ways to extend the life span, it helps us to better use and maintain AGVs and improve work efficiency. With the continuous progress of battery technology, it is believed that AGV battery life will be further improved in the future, providing strong support for the development of logistics, manufacturing and other fields in China.