Variable Speed Alternator Drive

In this proposed Phase II SBIR project for the US Army, Orbital Traction, Ltd, of Houston Texas, will develop, fabricate, test, and demonstrate a prototype of a novel Controlled Velocity Accessory Drive (CVAD) for use on military ground vehicles. This innovative device, designed to DOD requirements and successfully simulated in Phase I, will enable a vehicle"s alternator to produce full rated power while the vehicle engine operates at idle; yet, not over speed at full engine RPM. The Orbital Traction CVAD will be extremely compact, highly efficient, and adaptable to both existing and increased power alternators for both military and commercial applications. The CVAD"s electrical power quality and electromagnetic interference (EMI) characteristics will comply with performance requirements of MIL SPEC 461F and MIL STD 1275D. The CVAD will be installed on a selected Department of Defense owned vehicle at TARDEC and tested in accordance with Army requirements and performance specifications. Orbital Traction anticipates having a fully configured and manufacturable CVAD ready for production within eighteen months after the conclusion of this Phase II project.