Smart cities aim to improve their efficiency by using advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data.
To achieve these goals, integrated sensor networks continuously collect real-time data for applications like traffic and parking management. But many of them rely on batteries to maintain 24/7 operation, especially those using streetlight power, which is unavailable during daylight hours.
As a result, advancements in battery technology play a critical role in enhancing the performance, energy efficiency, and scalability of smart city infrastructures.
Battery performance is the most reliable indicator of battery technology, as it directly impacts device runtime, operational efficiency, and long-term maintenance costs. Let's explore some examples of batteries used in smart cities.
Battery for Smart City Applications
Rechargeable batteries are essential for smart cities. Among the various options, LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries are widely recognized as the best choice for smart city applications due to their outstanding features:
High Safety: LiFePO₄ batteries are highly stable and less likely to overheat or catch fire.
Long Lifespan: These batteries can last for over 2,000 charge cycles, making them very durable.
Performance in Extreme Temperatures: They work well in both hot and cold environments, ensuring reliable operation year-round.
Eco-Friendly: LiFePO₄ batteries are free of toxic heavy metals, making them better for the environment.
Thanks to these advantages, LiFePO₄ batteries are ideal for smart city devices that need dependable, long-lasting, and safe energy solutions.
VizioSense uses advanced LiFePO₄ battery technology to power its camera sensors, which are key components in smart city systems.
Durable Performance: The VizioSense battery lasts over five years, providing reliable, long-term energy.
Built for Harsh Conditions: It ensures consistent operation in extreme temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Cost-Effective: The long lifespan reduces the need for frequent battery replacements, saving time and money.
With its LiFePO₄-powered battery, VizioSense delivers smart, sustainable, and reliable energy solutions tailored to the needs of modern smart cities.
Low-Temperature Charging Solutions for Lithium Batteries
In cold environments, even batteries with high temperature tolerance, such as lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries, still experience limitations during charging. The minimum charge temperature for these batteries is typically around 0°C. At low temperatures, the viscosity of the battery’s electrolyte increases, slowing down the ion migration speed, which in turn hampers the chemical reactions during charging, potentially leading to issues such as battery damage, reduced performance, and safety risks.
To address the challenges of charging in cold conditions, the following solutions are commonly used:
Heating Systems
Heating systems are essential for enabling safe charging in low temperatures. These systems generate heat to ensure that the battery remains within the optimal temperature range for charging. Heating systems typically include heating bands, heating pads, or electric heating films, which can be used depending on the size and configuration of the battery.
Thermal Insulation
Systems Thermal insulation systems help minimize heat loss and keep the battery from cooling too quickly in cold environments. Common insulation methods include using insulating materials, such as polyurethane foam or aluminum foil, to wrap the battery and reduce the impact of external cold temperatures. Insulating coatings can also be applied to the battery surface to retain heat and ensure stable temperatures.
Battery Management Systems (BMS)
Battery Management Systems (BMS) are critical for monitoring and controlling the temperature during charging. BMS can include temperature sensors to detect if the battery is too cold for safe charging. In such cases, the BMS can adjust the charging process by limiting the charging power or pausing the charging to prevent battery damage and prolong its life.
By integrating heating, insulation, and intelligent management, VizioSense's battery effectively addresses temperature-related challenges. This ensures that batteries used in smart city applications, or other temperature-sensitive devices, remain safe, functional, and durable, even in extreme environmental conditions.
Other Requirements for Smart City Applications
In smart city applications, the design of batteries is critical due to the challenges posed by outdoor environments. These batteries need to not only meet aesthetic requirements, but also ensure functionality in harsh weather conditions. Key considerations include water resistance, heat dissipation, and the ability to withstand long-term outdoor exposure.
Appearance and Color Requirements
Discreetness: To avoid drawing attention or impacting the aesthetic appeal of the city, the battery's color should be neutral, such as gray or black, or a shade that blends with the surrounding environment. This ensures the battery seamlessly integrates into the urban landscape, minimizing visual distractions and preserving the overall city design.
Weather Resistance: The battery casing needs to have good UV resistance and weather durability to prevent fading or damage from prolonged sunlight exposure. Gray and dark gray casings tend to offer better aging resistance.
Shape and Size Requirements
When batteries are used in outdoor applications, their shape and size must be compatible with the surrounding infrastructure. For instance, when batteries are installed near streetlights to be charged at night, their shape must be compatible with the structure of the streetlight. Typically, batteries are designed to be long, cylindrical, or compact, allowing them to fit neatly within the light pole or fixture without causing interference.
Waterproof Design
The battery casing must have a waterproof feature to endure harsh weather conditions such as rain or snow. Typically, a minimum waterproof rating of IP65 or higher (e.g., IP67) is required to prevent water and dust from entering the battery, ensuring it functions properly in wet environments.
Heat Dissipation Design
Effective heat dissipation is crucial because batteries generate heat during charging and discharging, and excessive heat can reduce their lifespan. To address this, batteries often use materials like metal casings, which help to efficiently dissipate heat. In some cases, additional cooling methods, such as heat sinks, may be employed to ensure the battery remains at an optimal temperature.
VizioSense's battery features an aluminum IP68 waterproof casing, ensuring both excellent waterproofing and efficient heat dissipation. The casing is available in silver or gray, blending well with the surrounding environment while providing superior protection against the elements. This design ensures that VizioSense's battery remains safe, durable, and aesthetically integrated, even in the demanding outdoor conditions typical of smart city applications.
Conclusion
Batteries play a crucial role in the sensor devices of smart cities. By selecting the appropriate battery type and integrating heating systems, waterproof designs, and effective heat dissipation technologies, we can ensure the stability and long lifespan of batteries in various extreme environments.
Additionally, intelligent Battery Management Systems (BMS) provide real-time monitoring and regulation, ensuring efficient and safe operation. The combined application of these technologies offers a solid energy solution for smart city sensor devices, driving the development of intelligent and sustainable urban operations.