Typically we use off-the-shelf LiPo battery pack similar to what is used in RC airplanes and Quadcopters.
The battery should have the following specifications:
LiPo 3s (Three Cell) 12V nominal voltage (10-14V)
2000-3000mAh
XT60 connector with balance leads
Dimensions
A) 75mm L x 34mm W x 26 H (short and stubby)
B) 100-110mm L x 35mm W x 22-26mm H (longer format)
Other dimensions are possible. Ensure the battery chosen fits the compartment area,
A battery is NOT included with the kit. This can be purchased online or from a local hobby shop
Links to sample batteries
Below are links to some example batteries. THIS IS IN NO WAY an endorsement of these specific batteries, only a link so you can see more detail about the types of similar batteries that could be used:
You will find that "Stubby/Shorty" batteries such as listed below will give you more working space. However longer thinner batteries have also worked well
Example Stubby / Shorty type battery pack
Zeee 3S 2200mAh Lipo Battery 11.1V 50C Shorty Pack Battery with XT60 Plug for RC Car Truck RC Vehicles Boat Drone RC Airplane Quadcopter Helicopter FPV Racing Hobby Models(2 Pack)
You must use a LiPo battery charger to safely charge the battery. There are very inexpensive ones available that will charge using the cell termination connectors at the expense of them being quite slow to charge. Many other types of chargers exist. When choosing a charger consider that this is a safety issue and overcharging or improperly charging can be dangerous and result in a fire.
There are many excellent LiPo battery chargers available. ISDT makes several high-end charges like the following: (This is an example, and not a specific recommendation)
Battery monitor usage
MR-B3RB units have a power monitor built into the PDB board. This will tell you the total pack voltage and individual cell voltage. It will alarm when the cell voltage goes too low.
There is an optional BMS that can interface with the B3RB. It provides advanced battery monitoring capabilities.
Battery Alarm
LiPo batteries shoudl never be over-discharged. The PDB battery monitor will measure the battery voltage level, and properly running software and control software will alert the user if tbe battery is low.
As an extra backup, a small battery alarm board is included, that can be attached to the battery CT leads directly. This is recommended and can save you from over discharging during development or when you may get distracted (i.e. at a tradeshow or seminar)
The alarm is connected as shown in the attached photo.
While it's usage is mostly self explanatory, you can learn more via YouTube tutorials such as this one:
Step 8c: Battery Monitor and Alarm
Battery monitor
MR-B3RB units have a power monitor built into the PDB board. This will tell you the total pack voltage and individual cell voltage. It will alarm when the cell voltage goes too low.
Advanced BMS
There is an optional BMS that can interface with the B3RB. It provides advanced battery monitoring capabilities.
Battery Alarm
An external battery alarm is included in the Kit
LiPo batteries should never be over-discharged. The PDB battery monitor will measure the battery voltage level, and properly running software and control software will alert the user if tbe battery is low.
As an extra backup, a small battery alarm board is included, that can be attached to the battery CT leads directly. This is recommended and can save you from over discharging during development or when you may get distracted (i.e. at a tradeshow or seminar)
The alarm is connected as shown in the attached photo.
While it's usage is mostly self explanatory, you can learn more via YouTube tutorials such as this one:
Side note: The 3D model for the has been prepared and may be 3D printed if a replacement is needed.
There are two locations where on board batteries could be located after being connected
Battery on Mezzanine level
1) On the "mezzanine" level of the frame and
Battery on Lower level of Frame
2) On the lower part of the the lower chassis.
Since the mezzanine level may be used for additional electronics in the future, we will refer only to the removeable battery location on he lower chassis.
Notes on Securing the battery
The exact method of securing the battery is dependent on the user preferences.
There is a battery strap included in the kit. This could also be used to strap to the upper/mezzanine level of the metal frame.
You may wish to remove the small plastic battery tray frame that is already installed in the kit in order to free up additional space.
A foam piece can be used to wedge between the underside of the battery and the lower chassis in order to prevent any movement. This wedges the battery "up" against the underside of the mezzanine level.
Battery Power switch
Latest versions of MR-B3RB-M include a power switch mounted under the front edge of the B3RB. Toggle it to the on or off position as desired.
Step 8b: B3RB battery charger
LiPo Battery charger
You must use a LiPo battery charger to safely charge the battery. There are very inexpensive ones available that will charge using the cell termination connectors at the expense of them being quite slow to charge. Many other types of chargers exist. When choosing a charger consider that this is a safety issue and overcharging or improperly charging can be dangerous and result in a fire.
There are many excellent LiPo battery chargers available. ISDT makes several high-end charges like the following:
(This is ONLY an example, and not a specific recommendation)
Battery monitor usage
MR-B3RB units have a power monitor built into the PDB board. This will tell you the total pack voltage and individual cell voltage. It will alarm when the cell voltage goes too low.
There is an optional BMS that can interface with the B3RB. It provides advanced battery monitoring capabilities.
Battery Alarm
LiPo batteries shoudl never be over-discharged. The PDB battery monitor will measure the battery voltage level, and properly running software and control software will alert the user if tbe battery is low.
As an extra backup, a small battery alarm board is included, that can be attached to the battery CT leads directly. This is recommended and can save you from over discharging during development or when you may get distracted (i.e. at a tradeshow or seminar)
The alarm is connected as shown in the attached photo.
While it's usage is mostly self explanatory, you can learn more via YouTube tutorials such as this one:
3D printed pieces may be designed also to hold the battery in a preferred way.
