Innovative Power Solutions for Unmanned Vehicles
Vanguard, a leader in cutting-edge power and propulsion technologies for unmanned systems, has collaborated with ARGO, a manufacturer of versatile amphibious all-terrain vehicles, to develop a lithium-ion battery solution tailored for the integrator, an eight-wheeled unmanned ground vehicle (UGV).
ARGO’s Commitment to Innovation
Based in Canada, ARGO is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of vehicle capabilities, enabling access to previously unreachable terrains. The company partners with various sectors, including defense, agriculture, and commercial enterprises, to deliver innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency in challenging environments.
The Integrator UGV: A New Era of Capability
The latest offering from ARGO, the Integrator UGV, represents a significant advancement in unmanned vehicle technology. In this project, ARGO teamed up with Briggs & Stratton to utilize thier Vanguard lithium-ion battery systems, which are specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of the Integrator.
Applications and Benefits of the Integrator UGV
This eight-wheeled UGV is engineered for diverse applications, notably in military settings, where it can assist soldiers and medics in hazardous conditions, thereby reducing the risk to human life. The vehicle is capable of traversing various terrains, including swimming in water, maneuvering through mud, and overcoming obstacles.
Transitioning to Battery Power
Historically, ARGO relied on gasoline engines for their vehicles; however, the new UGV is optimized for battery power, prioritizing user safety, enhancing reliability, and increasing overall value. Key design criteria included durability, ease of maintenance, integrated components for smooth operation, and heightened safety features. The Vanguard Commercial Lithium-Ion Battery Pack emerged as the ideal solution, boasting resistance to dust, dirt, and water, ensuring dependable performance across multiple environments.
Power and Flexibility with Vanguard Batteries
The Vanguard Commercial Lithium-Ion Battery Packs deliver 5kWh of power and can be connected in parallel to enhance the vehicle’s power output. This adaptability is crucial given the limited space within the UGV. Vanguard collaborated closely with ARGO to create a battery compartment capable of housing up to five batteries, providing a total of 25kWh of power to meet operational demands.
Advanced Battery Management System
Central to this system is Vanguard’s Battery Management System (BMS), which plays a vital role in safeguarding personnel and minimizing risks. The BMS serves as a diagnostic tool, relaying performance data back to users and enabling them to monitor battery health. It also allows for error detection, facilitating quick troubleshooting to ensure the safety of frontline operators.
Expert Insights on Battery Selection
Craig Kennedy, VP of Commercial and Robotic Products at ARGO, emphasized the importance of choosing the right battery partner: “The selection of our battery supplier was critical in the design and development of the UGV. It was essential that the vehicle could navigate challenging environments without failure,thereby reducing the risks associated with difficult situations.”
“The safety of personnel is at the heart of our UGV development mission,making the built-in safety features of the Vanguard battery a key factor in our collaboration.”
Streamlined Maintenance and Support
Paul Bramhall, Director of Marketing EMEA at Vanguard, remarked: “Our innovative Battery Management System is designed to support machines of all sizes, regardless of their location.the real-time feedback mechanism aids in identifying potential issues, allowing users to quickly address maintenance needs and minimize machine downtime.”
Ensuring Battery Longevity in Harsh Conditions
Maintaining battery performance in extreme environments can be challenging. The Vanguard batteries integrated into the UGV feature internal contactors that allow the battery to remain off when the vehicle is not in use. This functionality helps preserve battery life and ensures safety during maintenance tasks.
A Partnership Built on Long-Term Commitment
Vanguard’s dedication to ARGO extends beyond battery performance; it encompasses ongoing service and support as part of Briggs & Stratton’s comprehensive global service package. This standard service offering ensures that the Commercial Lithium-Ion Battery Packs in ARGO UGVs are maintained by Vanguard, reinforcing their commitment to providing effective power solutions for all customer needs.
