Design of a Contactless Battery Charger for Micro-robots

Abstract

Advancements in robotic automation technology have provided a platform that can be utilized to support a variety of services in commercial facilities, offices, and production floors. A variety of robots, including entertainment robots, are being developed to provide services in varied environments. In mobile robotic applications the robots generally rely on rechargeable batteries for the supply of power to the driving mechanism. While carrying out the operations, the batteries get depleted and need to be charged again for continuation of operation. This paper presents an overview of the electronics and magnetic design considerations related to a contactless charger for the batteries used in micro- robots such as the soccer robots. It is based on an inductive power transfer technology. Of particular interest are the theoretical and practical factors affecting the design and performance of the charger.