Abstract
Unique Smart Battery Features Drive Uptake across Industries
Smart batteries with their unique features such as safety, portability, and ready-to-use nature
are ideal for numerous commercial applications across a broad range of industries from aerospace,
defense, electronics, semiconductors, telecommunications, and automotive to healthcare. Lightweight,
high temperature resistance and an environment-friendly nature are some of the key attributes
driving smart batteries uptake in medical and electronic devices. Lead acid batteries combining
advanced microprocessor regulated conditioners and built-in chargers are likely to be of immense
importance to the automotive sector. Moreover, the rising complexity of wireless products requires
breakthrough smart battery packs that can sustain the performance and durability of these devices.
In future, cooperation between battery designers and battery charger manufacturers will be essential
to meet the constantly evolving design requirements in various industries.
This Technical Insights research evaluates the latest and upcoming trends in the global markets
for smart batteries. In addition to discussing the various technology drivers and restraints that
govern the smart battery markets, the study covers research and development efforts at various
universities, leading companies, and other research institutions across the globe. Participants can
identify potential collaborators, stay ahead of the competition, and remain shoulder-to-shoulder
with critical developments.
Rise in Defense Budgets Accelerates Growth of Smart Battery Technologies
Given the recent threats to global security, defense investments in sophisticated equipment for
use in surveillance and deterrence systems have been increasing. Priority to worldwide defense
programs such as the airborne laser and space-based infrared systems reflects the growing demand for
smart batteries. Increase in the digitization of the battlefield equipment is also spurring the need
for highly efficient smart batteries. For example, the U.S. Armys land warrior program uses a
self-contained uniform with wholly integrated batteries that power all the needs of the soldiers
from computing to communications.
In the United States, researchers have developed a smart nanobattery prototype that offers longer
battery shelf life (15-20 years) and quicker activation times compared to conventional batteries.
"Due to the very small distances between the nanostructures, response time to full activation
power can be enhanced, creating a power source for high performance electronics," explains the
analyst of this research. "For the military, homeland security, and first responders, this
feature would be highly desirable because batteries could be stored, for decades, without fear of
dissipation."
Smart Batteries to Find Use in Several Portable Devices
Thanks to quantum leaps in research and development efforts worldwide, smart battery systems are
moving beyond the realms of computers and cell phones into a broader range of portable electronic
devices. "The introduction of rechargeable alkaline as well as lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries
facilitated by the microelectronic charger controller technologies is making smart battery packs
more attractive for portable devices," observes the analyst. Such novel battery systems are
expected to offer prolonged run-times, effectively predict product performance, and enhance charging
safety for a wide range of battery-powered portable equipment. | 
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