Smart Curtain Automation Design
Thought for 36 sec
Below is an analysis of using a 3S pack of 14500 batteries (1000 mAh each, nominal 3.7V per cell → ~11.1V overall) compared to using larger capacity cells:
Table
| Aspect | 3S 14500 (1000 mAh each) | Larger Cells (e.g. Samsung INR21700) |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | ~11.1V overall | Often similar (if 3S) but with higher capacity |
| Capacity & Energy | 1000 mAh × 11.1V = ~11.1 Wh | For example, 5000 mAh × 11.1V = ~55.5 Wh (if using similar 3S) |
| Current Delivery | Must verify that the 14500 cells can safely supply the motor's peak current demands during startup or load; these cells are typically designed for moderate loads. | Larger cells are designed for higher current loads and may better handle bursts required by motors. |
| Duty Cycle | For a curtain motor, which likely runs only a few seconds per activation, the lower capacity may be acceptable if the current draw is modest. | High capacity cells ensure longer run times and lower stress under high current draws. |
| Physical Size & Cost | Smaller and often cheaper; space limitations might allow a compact design. | Usually larger and might add to cost, but provide more headroom. |
Conclusion:
Using a 3S pack of 14500 batteries can be sufficient to open and close your curtains if your motor’s current demands (especially during startup) do not exceed the discharge capabilities of the 14500 cells. Given that curtain operations are intermittent and short in duration, the energy provided by an 11.1 Wh battery pack could be enough—provided the cells offer sufficient current delivery.
Using a 3S pack of 14500 batteries can be sufficient to open and close your curtains if your motor’s current demands (especially during startup) do not exceed the discharge capabilities of the 14500 cells. Given that curtain operations are intermittent and short in duration, the energy provided by an 11.1 Wh battery pack could be enough—provided the cells offer sufficient current delivery.
I recommend checking the motor’s stall and running currents from its datasheet and ensuring the selected 14500 cells can comfortably handle those currents without overheating. If the current draw approaches the limits of the 14500 cells, you might see reduced performance or shorter battery life, and in that case, higher capacity cells would be preferable.
This analysis should help you decide if the 3S 14500 solution meets your needs or if you should opt for a higher capacity battery pack.
Okay I've when and done the calcs on the motor and pulley system that I plan on using and the motor will never use more than 1A of current therefore I am confident that the 1000mAh batteries which is rated at 1.5C will work for my project
Thought for 23 sec
Your calculations look solid. A 3S pack of 14500 batteries (totaling ~11.1V nominal with a 1.5C rating giving up to 1.5A) will comfortably meet your 1A maximum motor current requirement, provided the pulsed loads and continuous currents are within those limits.
This power setup should be suitable for your design. Would you like to proceed with defining the power supply section in the schematic (battery pack, buck converter, decoupling components, etc.)?
Start Schematic Power Section
Focus on Decoupling Needs
Choose Buck Converter
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Talk to Flux to get started.
