Abstract
As humanoid robots emerge from being mere machines to become the “Next AI Infrastructure,” the focus of hardware design is shifting. A significant amount of power is consumed during the process of precisely controlling high computational loads and dozens of joints. This makes a stable power supply crucial.
This article highlights the importance of small, high-capacity MLCCs (Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitors) as a key component for implementing server-grade performance within a robot's compact body. It also suggests strategies for optimizing MLCCs to overcome harsh environments, such as high temperatures and vibration.
1. All-in-One MLCCs for Humanoid SoC dedicated to the Computing Module
1) Securing Stability for Real-Time AI Inference
APs and GPUs responsible for advanced AI inference are distinguished by rapid power consumption changes and high mounting density. Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ ultra-compact, ultra-high-capacitance MLCCs minimize voltage fluctuation within limited board space, building an optimized computing infrastructure without any delays in data processing.
| Product Specifications | Core Placement Locations | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| 0201 (0603m) 10µF / 2.5V |
Directly beneath AI chipsets and ultra-compact sensor modules | [Ultra-fast response] Placed at the shortest distance from the chipset to minimize inductance and eliminate high-frequency noise. |
| 0402 (1005m) 47µF / 2.5V |
GPU/NPU power rail (Decoupling) | [Voltage stabilization] Prevents sudden voltage drops during AI compute load surges, ensuring real-time inference accuracy. |
| 0603 (1608m) 100µF / 2.5V |
PMIC output stage and main power section | [Space innovation] Replaces multiple MLCCs with a single component through its dominant capacitance, thus dramatically reducing board area. |
Product Lineup
| Part Number | Size (inch/mm) |
Capacitance | Related Voltage |
TCC | Data Sheet |
Sample |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CL03W106MS5C6W# | 0201/0603 | 10㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6T | ↓ | Available |
| CL05X476MS6N9W# | 0402/1005 | 47㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
| CL10X107MS8NZW# | 0603/1608 | 100㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
2) Swift motion. Zero 1ms-level error
Voltage fluctuations may lead to delays in command when robots walk over rough terrain and dozens of joints operate simultaneously. Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ high-capacitance MLCCs supply power instantly right next to the chip. This improves response speed thanks to their lower ESR (equivalent series resistance) characteristics compared to tantalum capacitors. They also maintain signal integrity under external vibration, helping robots achieve an agile sense of balance.
Ultra-High Capacitance Product Lineup
| Part Number | Size (inch/mm) |
Capacitance | Related Voltage |
TCC | Data Sheet |
Sample |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CL21X107MSYN3W# | 0805/2012 | 100㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
| CL31X227MSKNNW# | 1206/3216 | 220㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
| CL32X337MSVN4S# | 1210/3225 | 330㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
| CL32Z227MSVN4S# | 1210/3225 | 220㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X7T | ↓ | Available |
2. High-Voltage, High-Reliability MLCCs to control Actuators in the Engine Control Unit
The dozens of actuators which enable flexible movement in humanoid robots are exposed to harsh environments, including vibration, heat generation and back-EMF. Samsung Electro-Mechanics' 100 V-class, high-voltage, high-reliability MLCCs overcome the limitations of conventional electrolytic capacitors. Our line-up ensures precise motion control even under challenging conditions.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics has developed a line-up of high-reliability MLCCs optimized for 48V drive systems, ensuring stable operation even in high-temperature environments. Moreover, the application of improved Bending Strength technology supports a robust design which mitigates physical stress, even under repetitive movements and strong vibrations experienced by robot joints.
1206 inch size Product Lineup
| Application | Feature | Bending Strength |
Part Number | Size (inch/mm) |
Capacitance | Rated Voltage |
TCC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial | General | 1mm | CL31Y475KCK6NW# | 1206/3216 | 4.7㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
| Industrial | Soft-term | 3mm | CL31Y475KCK64N# | 1206/3216 | 4.7㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
| Automotive | General | 3mm | CL31Y475KCK6PN# | 1206/3216 | 4.7㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
CL31Y475KCK64N#
1210 inch size Product Lineup
| Application | Feature | Bending Strength |
Part Number | Size (inch/mm) |
Capacitance | Rated Voltage |
TCC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial | General | 1mm | CL32Z475KUJ6NW# | 1210/3225 | 4.7㎌ | 125Vdc | X7T |
| Industrial | General | 1mm | CL32Y106KCV6NW# | 1210/3225 | 10㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
| Industrial | Soft-term | 3mm | CL32Y106KCV64N# | 1210/3225 | 10㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
| Automotive | General | 3mm | CL32Y106KCV6PN# | 1210/3225 | 10㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
| Automotive | Soft-term | 5mm | CL32Y106KCJ6PJ# | 1210/3225 | 10㎌ | 100Vdc | X7S |
CL32Y106KCV64N#
3.High-Capacitance MLCCs for Sensors to Enable the Precise Control of Humanoids
Implementing the five senses of a humanoid robot requires precise power design within limited space. In visual sensors, where miniaturization is critical, it is important to minimize the mounting area that MLCCs occupy while stably supplying the power consumed during operation.
MLCCs mounted on balance sensors contribute to maintaining an absolute horizontal reference by minimizing capacitance variation even under vibration and voltage fluctuation while walking.
The MLCCs in the tactile sensor area act as filters, meticulously screening out electrical noise generated by the joint motors and preventing it from affecting the delicate sensor circuitry.
Product Lineup
| Part Number | Size (inch/mm) |
Capacitance | Related Voltage |
TCC | Data Sheet |
Sample |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CL03X225MQ5N6W# | 0201/0603 | 2.2㎌ | 6.3Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
| CL03X475MS3CNW# | 0201/0603 | 4.7㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6S | ↓ | Available |
| CL03W106MS5C6W# | 0201/0603 | 10㎌ | 2.5Vdc | X6T | ↓ | Available |
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