Improved Pulse Power and Thermal Management Capabilities for Aircraft Applications

Next generation aircraft systems will include weapons, sensors and actuators requiring large amplitude pulse power capability which will exceed the continuous power delivery capacity of most aircraft. Compact, lightweight and efficient power conversion and thermal management systems are required to provide a suitable interface between the aircraft power supply and these pulse power loads. We will develop a high density, high efficiency power conversion and thermal management system to meet these needs. Our approach uses an efficient front end conversion method which is compatible with either 115 VAC or 270 VDC aircraft electrical supplies, electrical energy storage for high power pulse capability, programmable pulse control, and an innovative thermal management system which minimizes size and weight for aircraft applications. During Phase I we will define our technical approach and analytically quantify performance expectations and prepare plans for Phase II demonstrations. During Phase II we will fabricate and evaluate a subscale prototype to show level of performance compared to stated goals.