1. The Basics of AGV: An Introduction to Automated Guided Vehicles

1.1 Introduction

An automated guided vehicle (AGV) is a mobile robot that is capable of following a pre-programmed path or set of instructions, and 24V lithium battery is a popular battery series used in AGV. These robots are typically used in manufacturing and logistics applications, where they can be used to transport materials, components, and finished goods throughout a facility or between different locations.

AGVs are typically equipped with sensors and other navigation equipment, which allow them to detect and respond to changes in their environment. For example, they may use cameras, laser scanners, or other sensors to detect obstacles in their path, and adjust their course or speed accordingly.

AGVs can come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, depending on the specific application and requirements. Some AGVs are designed to move along fixed paths or tracks, while others are more flexible and can navigate around obstacles or follow different paths depending on the situation.

AGVs can be programmed to perform a wide range of different tasks, depending on the needs of the application. For example, they may be used to transport raw materials from a warehouse to a production line, or to move finished products from a manufacturing facility to a distribution center.

AGVs can also be used in other applications, such as in hospitals or other healthcare settings. For example, they may be used to transport medical supplies, equipment, or waste throughout a facility, without the need for human intervention. They can also be used in retail environments, where they can be used to move goods from a warehouse to a retail store or other location.

AGVs can provide a number of benefits over traditional manual methods of material handling. For example, they can reduce the need for human labor, which can help reduce costs and increase efficiency. They can also help reduce the risk of injury or accidents, as they can operate in areas where it may not be safe for humans to do so.

AGVs can also provide greater flexibility and scalability, as they can be reprogrammed or reconfigured to perform different tasks as needed. This can be especially important in manufacturing or logistics environments, where changes in demand or product requirements may require different types of material handling equipment.

Overall, AGVs are a powerful tool for improving efficiency and productivity in a wide range of different industries and applications. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that we will see even more advanced and capable AGVs in the future, further improving the capabilities and benefits of these versatile machines.

1.2 LIAO Battery: The Leading AGV Battery Manufacturer

LIAO Battery is a leading battery manufacturer in China that offers reliable and professional battery solutions for various industries such as AGV, robot, and solar energy. The company specializes in providing LiFePO4 battery to replace lead-acid batteries in many applications. Among their popular product series is the 24V lithium battery, which is widely used in AGV. With their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Manly Battery is a trusted partner for businesses seeking dependable battery solutions.

2. Analysis of technical characteristics of 24v lithium battery in AGV

2.1  Charging and discharging current characteristics of 24v lithium battery

The charging and discharging current of AGV lithium batteries is basically constant, which differs from electric vehicles that may experience momentary sustained high currents in actual working conditions. The AGV lithium battery is generally charged with a constant current of 1C to 2C until the protection voltage is reached and charging is terminated. The discharge current of the AGV lithium battery is divided into unloaded and loaded currents, with the maximum loaded current typically not exceeding 1C discharge rate. In fixed scenarios, the working charging and discharging current of AGV is basically fixed unless its load capacity changes. This charging and discharging mode is actually beneficial for 24v lithium battery, especially for the use of lithium iron phosphate batteries, particularly in terms of calculating SOC.

2.2 Charging and discharging depth characteristics of 24v lithium battery

In the AGV field, the charging and discharging of 24v lithium battery is typically in a “shallow charge and shallow discharge” mode. Since the AGV vehicle operates frequently and needs to return to a fixed position for charging, it is impossible to discharge all of the electricity during the discharge process, otherwise, the vehicle cannot return to the charging position. Typically, around 30% of the electricity is reserved to prevent subsequent electricity demands. At the same time, in order to improve labor efficiency and usage frequency, AGV vehicles usually adopt fast constant current charging, whereas traditional lithium batteries require “constant current + constant voltage” charging. In AGV lithium batteries, constant current charging is carried out until the upper limit protection voltage, and the vehicle automatically determines that the battery is fully charged. In reality, however, “polarization” problems may lead to the appearance of “false voltage”, which means that the battery has not reached 100% of its charging capacity.

3. Enhancing AGV Efficiency with 24V Lithium Batteries instead of Lead Acid Batteries

When it comes to selecting a battery for AGV applications, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical decisions is whether to use a 24V lithium battery or a 24V lead acid battery. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice will depend on the specific requirements of the application.

One of the most significant advantages of 24V lithium batteries, such as the 24V 50Ah lifepo4 battery, is their longer lifespan. Lithium batteries can be charged and discharged many more times than lead acid batteries, making them an ideal choice for AGV applications where the battery is likely to be used heavily over an extended period.

Another advantage of lithium batteries is their lighter weight. AGVs require a battery that can provide enough power to move the vehicle and any load it is carrying, but the battery must also be lightweight to avoid compromising the vehicle’s maneuverability. Lithium batteries are typically much lighter than lead acid batteries, making them an excellent choice for AGVs.

In addition to weight, charging time is another critical factor to consider. Lithium batteries can be charged much faster than lead acid batteries, which means that AGVs can spend more time in use and less time charging. This can improve productivity and reduce downtime.

The discharge curve is another important factor to consider when selecting a battery for AGV applications. The discharge curve refers to the battery’s voltage over the discharge cycle. Lithium batteries have a flatter discharge curve than lead acid batteries, which means that the voltage stays more consistent throughout the discharge cycle. This can provide more consistent performance and reduce the risk of damage to the AGV’s electronics.

Finally, maintenance is another critical consideration. Lead acid batteries require more maintenance than lithium batteries, which can increase the cost of ownership over the life of the battery. Lithium batteries, on the other hand, are typically maintenance-free, which can save time and money.

Overall, there are many advantages to using a 24V lithium battery, such as the 24V 60Ah lifepo4 battery, in AGV applications. They have a longer lifespan, are lighter, charge faster, have a flatter discharge curve, and require less maintenance. These benefits can result in improved performance, productivity, and cost savings over the life of the battery, making them an excellent choice for AGV applications.

The “shallow charge and shallow discharge” charging and discharging mode is beneficial for extending the service life of lithium-ion batteries. However, for the lithium iron phosphate battery system, there is also a problem of poor SOC algorithm calibration.

2.3 Service life of 24v lithium battery

Lithium iron phosphate batteries have a long service life, with the number of full charge and discharge cycles of the battery cells being over 2000 times. However, the number of cycles in the battery pack is reduced based on issues like battery cell consistency and current heat dissipation, which are closely related to the voltage and structural design, as well as the process of the battery pack. In AGV lithium batteries, the cycle life under “shallow charge and shallow discharge” mode is significantly higher than that under full charge and discharge mode. Generally, the shallower the charging and discharging depth, the more the number of cycles, and the cycle life is also closely related to SOC cycle interval. Data shows that if a battery pack has a full charge and discharge cycle of 1000 times, the number of cycles in the 0-30% SOC interval (30% DOD) can exceed 4000 times, and the number of cycles in the 70% to 100% SOC interval (30% DOD) can exceed 3200 times. It can be seen that cycle life is closely related to SOC interval and discharge depth DOD, and the cycle life of lithium-ion batteries is also closely related to temperature, charging and discharging current, and other factors, which cannot be generalized.

In conclusion, AGV lithium batteries are one of the core components of mobile robots, and we need to analyze and understand them in-depth, especially combined with the different usage scenarios of different robots, to determine their operating characteristics and strengthen our understanding of lithium battery use, so that lithium batteries can better serve mobile robots.