Dynamically Reconfigurable Electrical Power System(EPS) with Integrated Thermal Management and High Voltage Capability for Small Spacecraft

The proposed program addresses the fundamental issues of lack of commonality across SmallSat platform power management. The DREPS aims to improve modularity, scalability, and efficiency of small spacecraft and CubeSat power systems (up to 100W) by implementing a novel reconfigurable architecture that integrates high reliability components and novel thermal management techniques to enable operation in extreme radiation and temperature environments. Integration of state-of-the-art technologies such as Gallium Nitride MOSFETs, micro-channel oscillating heat pipes, and digital control systems will enable an unparalleled level of system control while providing a solution focused on extreme environmental conditions required for long duration space missions. The DREPS includes digitally controlled power architecture providing 20+ configurable switched output services that can be commanded by any desired space communication protocol (I2C, SPI, CAN, SpaceWire).Compatibility with new electric propulsion technologies can be obtained by the addition of QorTek’s recent advances in high voltage piezoceramic-based power converter technology. Integration of cutting edge thermal management technology will enable adaptive retention or rejection of heat as a fully integral portion of the system’s packaging through a partnership with ThermAvant Technologies. An array of configurable MPPT Battery Control Regulators will allow compatibility with industry standard solar and energy storage. The goal of Phase II is to achieve a modular SmallSat power system based on matrix interconnectivity of small power converters (cells) that is universally applicable to small satellite platforms and missions. The work plan will exit with fully tested ½U solution that is immediately applicable to all three target markets of ruggedized COTS (LEO), Radiation Tolerant (MEO/GEO) and long duration High Reliability (High-Rel) as vendor projected product availabilities are realized.