The CubePilot Power Brick Mini is a compact and efficient power management module designed specifically for use with the CubePilot flight controller. It provides regulated power to various components in drones, robotic systems, and other embedded applications. The Power Brick Mini ensures stable voltage and current delivery while also offering current and voltage sensing capabilities for monitoring power consumption.
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This circuit is designed for a quadcopter control system. It features an Arduino Pro Mini as the central microcontroller, interfacing with a GPS module for positioning, an NRF24L01 module for wireless communication, and an MPU-6050 for motion sensing. Power regulation is managed by an MP1584EN board, and four electronic speed controllers (ESCs) are connected to brushless motors for propeller control.
This circuit features a Beelink MINI S12 N95 computer connected to a 7-inch display via HDMI for video output and two USB connections for power and touch screen functionality. An Arduino UNO is interfaced with a fingerprint scanner for biometric input. The Beelink MINI S12 N95 is powered by a PC power supply, which in turn is connected to a 240V power source. Additionally, an ESP32 CAM module is powered and programmed via a USB plug and an FTDI programmer, respectively, for wireless camera capabilities.
This circuit is designed for a multi-motor application, likely a drone or a similar vehicle, featuring eight brushless motors controlled by two 4-in-1 electronic speed controllers (ESCs). The ESCs are powered by a 3s2p 18650 battery pack and interfaced with a Pixhawk flight controller for motor management. Additionally, the system includes a Raspberry Pi 4B for advanced processing and control, which is connected to a NoIR camera module and a cooling fan, and a power module to supply and monitor the power to the Pixhawk.
This is a motion-controlled device with wireless capabilities, powered by a LiPo battery with voltage regulation. It uses an Arduino Pro Mini to process MPU-6050 sensor data and control coreless motors via MOSFETs, interfacing with an external device through an HC-05 Bluetooth module.
Powering CubePilot flight controllers and peripherals in drones
Voltage and current monitoring for UAV systems
Robotics and embedded systems requiring regulated power
Battery-powered applications needing power management
Technical Specifications
Key Technical Details
Parameter
Value
Input Voltage Range
4.8V to 52.2V (2S to 12S LiPo batteries)
Output Voltage
5.35V ± 0.1V
Maximum Output Current
30A (continuous)
Voltage Measurement Range
0V to 60V
Current Measurement Range
0A to 120A
Connector Type
XT60 for input/output
Dimensions
39mm x 18mm x 9mm
Weight
20g
Pin Configuration and Descriptions
The Power Brick Mini has a 6-pin JST-GH connector for interfacing with the CubePilot flight controller. Below is the pinout:
Pin Number
Name
Description
1
VCC
Regulated 5.35V output
2
GND
Ground
3
Voltage Sense
Voltage measurement signal
4
Current Sense
Current measurement signal
5
Reserved
Not used
6
Reserved
Not used
Usage Instructions
How to Use the Component in a Circuit
Connect the Input Power:
Use the XT60 connector to connect the Power Brick Mini to the battery (2S to 12S LiPo).
Ensure correct polarity to avoid damage.
Connect to the Flight Controller:
Use the 6-pin JST-GH cable to connect the Power Brick Mini to the power input port of the CubePilot flight controller.
Ensure the connector is securely seated.
Power Distribution:
The Power Brick Mini will regulate the input voltage and provide a stable 5.35V output to the flight controller and connected peripherals.
Voltage and Current Monitoring:
The Voltage Sense and Current Sense pins provide real-time power consumption data to the flight controller for monitoring and logging.
Important Considerations and Best Practices
Battery Compatibility: Ensure the battery voltage is within the supported range (4.8V to 52.2V).
Current Limitations: Do not exceed the maximum continuous current rating of 30A to prevent overheating or damage.
Secure Connections: Use high-quality connectors and cables to minimize resistance and ensure reliable operation.
Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the Power Brick Mini to extreme temperatures, moisture, or vibration.
Example Code for Arduino UNO
While the Power Brick Mini is primarily designed for CubePilot flight controllers, you can interface it with an Arduino UNO for voltage and current monitoring. Below is an example code snippet:
// Example code to read voltage and current from the Power Brick Mini
// Connect Voltage Sense to A0 and Current Sense to A1 on Arduino UNO
const int voltagePin = A0; // Pin connected to Voltage Sense
const int currentPin = A1; // Pin connected to Current Sense
// Calibration factors (adjust based on your setup)
const float voltageDividerRatio = 18.182; // Voltage divider ratio for scaling
const float currentSensorScale = 37.89; // Scale factor for current sensor
void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
pinMode(voltagePin, INPUT);
pinMode(currentPin, INPUT);
}
void loop() {
// Read analog values
int rawVoltage = analogRead(voltagePin);
int rawCurrent = analogRead(currentPin);
// Convert to actual voltage and current
float voltage = (rawVoltage * 5.0 / 1023.0) * voltageDividerRatio;
float current = (rawCurrent * 5.0 / 1023.0) * currentSensorScale;
// Print values to Serial Monitor
Serial.print("Voltage: ");
Serial.print(voltage);
Serial.print(" V, Current: ");
Serial.print(current);
Serial.println(" A");
delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before next reading
}
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Common Issues and Solutions
No Output Voltage:
Cause: Incorrect battery connection or damaged Power Brick Mini.
Solution: Verify the battery polarity and ensure the XT60 connector is securely connected.
Inaccurate Voltage or Current Readings:
Cause: Calibration mismatch or noise in the signal.
Solution: Recalibrate the voltage divider ratio and current sensor scale in your code. Use shielded cables to reduce noise.
Overheating:
Cause: Exceeding the maximum current rating.
Solution: Ensure the connected load does not draw more than 30A continuously.
Flight Controller Not Powering On:
Cause: Loose or damaged JST-GH cable.
Solution: Check the cable connections and replace the cable if necessary.
FAQs
Q1: Can the Power Brick Mini be used with other flight controllers?
A1: Yes, it can be used with other flight controllers that support the same voltage and current sensing interface.
Q2: What happens if I connect a battery with a voltage higher than 52.2V?
A2: Connecting a battery with a voltage higher than the specified range may damage the Power Brick Mini. Always use a compatible battery.
Q3: Is the Power Brick Mini waterproof?
A3: No, the Power Brick Mini is not waterproof. Avoid exposing it to water or moisture.
Q4: Can I use the Power Brick Mini for non-drone applications?
A4: Yes, it can be used in any application requiring regulated power and current/voltage monitoring within its specifications.
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