Summary
This case study details the power delivery solutions implemented for tethered remote operated vehicles (ROVs). It outlines the challenges faced in providing a reliable power supply while optimizing size and efficiency. The Vicor solution involves a high-voltage tether system that delivers power from a ground-based source, requiring a 1 to 5 kW supply. The system includes high-voltage fixed-ratio bus converter modules and Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) buck regulators, which efficiently convert high voltage to safe 48V SELV. The study highlights the benefits of this approach, including reduced tether size and weight, improved energy conservation, and extended operational time underwater. The power delivery network consists of multiple BCM4414 converters that manage the voltage levels effectively, ensuring maximum power density and efficiency. The integration of these components results in a lightweight and highly efficient solution, suitable for the demanding environments in which ROVs operate.
