Radiation-Resistant, High-Efficiency Direct Current-Direct Current (DC-DC) Converters For Spacecraft Loads

ABSTRACT: Delivery of power to satellite subsystems requires efficient DC-DC down converters that can support multiple spacecraft loads at very low output voltages. The converters must be tolerant to radiation, support loads of 25 watts or more, utilize a minimum amount of power during the conversion, and provide reliable operation for 15 years or longer. The key technical requirements are to improve the efficiency of conversion (in a single step) from 80 volts direct current (VDC) to 1.2VDC, provide flexibility through additional intermediate voltage outputs (e.g., 5VDC, 15VDC), in a configuration with high radiation tolerance and the reliability to support multi-year space operations. The goal of this SBIR is to develop a capable DC converter. In Phase 1 DTI will begin defining the qualification requirements for the full converter to be built in Phase II, and define the tasks to be accomplished in Phase II to achieve a full specification, qualifiable prototype at the end of Phase II. BENEFIT: The technology should be capable of supporting a 15-year mission in Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and 5 years in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) after 5 years of ground storage. Combining these parameters (efficiency, high input/low output voltage, peak power, power density, and radiation tolerance) requires innovative architecture and packaging solutions.