Universal Non-Intrusive Battery Monitoring and Failure Prediction System

Luna, teamed with the University of Texas - Arlington, is proposing to continue developing a miniaturized, low power system that detects imminent battery failure based on High Definition Fiber Optic Sensing (HD-FOS) technology. This system is designed to identify thermal runaways caused by internal faults that initiates an uncontrolled feedback loop resulting in overheating, fire, or explosion. When detected early, warnings can be transmitted and corrective action taken to save the vessel. The technology being implemented allows for a single, low cost, fiber optic sensor to be routed around and within cell and cell packs. With a spatial resolution of 5mm along its entire length and a millisecond response time, the sensor will immediately detect a thermal event. The sensor suite will be interrogated with a ruggedized miniaturized controller that relays warnings to a remote alarm panel. During Phase I, Luna demonstrated feasibility across a range of battery sizes. During Phase II, Luna will optimize the sensor placement and triggering algorithms, develop a prototype that satisfies the size, weight, and power envelope, and demonstrate accurate fault detection with repeated actual battery charge-discharge schemes. The Phase III effort will support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Advanced Undersea Systems use.