Reconfigurable Hybrid Power Supply for Advanced Military Systems

The emergence of new generations of munitions and others military systems has created demand for adaptable high energy density power sources. Both batteries and energy harvesters have been used separately, but with limited success. The purpose of this program is to respond to this unmet need by developing a reconfigurable, adaptable controller for a hybrid power supply. During Phase I, a long-life, 24 V lithium-ion battery will be made and used. Several different energy harvesters will also be employed, both separately and simultaneously. Previous work has demonstrated the feasibility of making miniature hybrid power supplies to operate wireless sensors and various military/aerospace systems. In this proposed program, we will build on our experience to create high power hybrid power supplies (>24 W) During Phase I breadboarded power supplies will be built and demonstrated. During Phase II a single universal controller will be built to include all system functions. The reconfigurable power source can be used to power many different systems, employing a"plug and play"architecture. The availability of this power supply will greatly extend capabilities of emerging military applications.