Critical High Energy Laser (HEL) Technologies - Power Sources

The objective of the Phase II proposed effort is to design and demonstrate the ability to develop a high-speed composite flywheel-based Electromechanical Battery (EMB), to support deployment of high energy laser (HEL) technology for missile defense. The Phase I design studies assessed the EMB size, operating speeds and material requirements needed to achieve the energy density levels and charge/discharge rates and defined the power electronics and supporting foil bearings. Under Phase II, the EMB manufacturing approach will be validated through high speed testing, and overall system layout will be designed, with a goal to minimize system footprint and weight. To achieve the desired power and energy densities in a composite flywheel operating at surface speeds in excess of 1000 m/s in a low pressure, high g-force environment, such as those found in high altitude flight, will require robust, well damped and low loss bearings. The subcontractor will produce the composite flywheel structure and power electronics, while MiTi will be responsible for bearings, system integration and bench testing. Approved for Public Release 15-MDA-8169 (20 March 15)