Power more sensors without increasing weight

Improved sensors, autonomy, mobility and AI (allowing deep learning) is enabling inspection robots to replace humans, especially in hazardous or confined areas like inside pipelines or in storage tanks. Manufacturers are looking for smaller, more robust solutions with ever improved resolution, repeatability and operating range. This manufacturer of tethered sewer inspection robots was looking to improve the sensor resolution and quality of video images without increasing the size of the platform. The key goals were:

• Allow easier handling and room for more sensors by reducing power supply size and weight
• Minimize interference with cable carrying video feed
• Reliable operation in a harsh environment

High efficiency in all environments

The 48V (SELV) supply to the tether was provided by a PFM AC-DC converter.  On board the robot the three rails were provided by three individual regulators. Key benefits were:

• ZVS buck and buck-boost regulators offered high power density and low weight (0.8g)
• Low noise ZVS topology minimized filtering required
• High efficiency (up to 92.5%) reduced heat, increasing reliability in high ambient temperatures