The selection and implementation of a battery power supply for a mobile robot and the management of mobile robot batteries is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of the system during a work shift. Several factors should be taken into account:
  • Distance to be traveled and difficulty of the terrain;
  • Required speed and acceleration;
  • Power consumption (including computing, sensing, communication during work);
  • Weight of the payload (also its loss or increase along the route);
  • Effect of the weather (e.g., increased power consumption at low or elevated temperatures);
  • Required operating time between charges;
  • Density and availability of the charging stations;
  • Possibility of recharging/refueling at the right time;
  • Ability to change batteries between shifts;
  • The chemical composition of the batteries and their environmental effect;
  • Battery size and weight.