High Temperature Energy Harvesting Solution for Autonomous Wireless Sensor Networks in Aircraft Systems

ABSTRACT: This Phase II SBIR will focus on the development of a high temperature (225°C) wirelessly powered, distributed wireless network for use in jet turbines. The network nodes will be capable of supporting sensors to monitor environmental variables or actuators for system controls. The nodes will be powered via a magnetically coupled RF energy transmission system. Resonant coupling systems will allow low power sensor nodes to be powered continuously. Actuator nodes will require a capacitive based energy storage system that provides greater amounts of power in short pulses. Communication with the sensor nodes will also necessitate the development of a high temperature transceiver. This transceiver will be based on HTSOI electronics and employ a high temperature microcontroller for data management. This microcontroller will also be used to control the actuators. BENEFIT: The flexibility obtained by being able to locate sensors and actuators anywhere (<225°C) in an engine environment will be very valuable to the turbine industry. Engineers will be able to employ this system to quickly make and test design changes. This system will also be useful in health monitoring applications by allow sensor placement without regard to energy harvesting capabilities of the specific location.