In humanoid robotics, “SMPS” stands for Switched-Mode Power Supply,” which is a type of power supply unit used to efficiently deliver regulated voltage to the robot’s various components like motors, sensors, and control boards, often providing a stable power source despite fluctuations in the input voltage; essentially, it’s the primary power source for most humanoid robots, allowing for compact size and efficient energy usage. [1, 2, 3]
Key points about SMPS in humanoid robotics: [1, 2, 4]
  • Function: An SMPS converts AC power from the wall outlet to a regulated DC voltage suitable for powering the robot’s electronics. [1, 2, 4]
  • Efficiency: Compared to traditional linear power supplies, SMPS are significantly more efficient, meaning less energy is wasted as heat, which is crucial for battery-powered humanoid robots. [1, 5, 6]
  • Voltage Regulation: SMPS can maintain a constant voltage output even when the input voltage fluctuates, ensuring stable power delivery to the robot’s components. [1, 2, 4]
  • Common Applications: [1, 2, 3]
    • Powering Servomotors: Many humanoid robots use Dynamixel servomotors, which are typically powered by an SMPS unit. [1, 2, 3]
    • Controller Boards: The robot’s control board also receives power from the SMPS. [1, 2, 3]
    • Battery Charging: Some SMPS units can also be used to charge the robot’s batteries. [1, 2, 5]
Example: [1, 2, 3]
  • ROBOTIS SMPS PS-10: This is a popular SMPS unit frequently used with Robotis humanoid robot kits like the Bioloid and DARwIn-OP, providing a 12V output to power the robot’s servomotors and control board. [1, 2, 3]
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