Anti Tamper (AT) Techniques

The Air Force has a need for improved power supplies to service anti-tamper (AT) systems. The current approach, primary batteries, because of power draw requirements is oversized and bulky and subject to degradation over long storage periods. While energy harvesting (EH) devices are a possibility, the quiescent storage environment negates many EH options. TPL has developed EnerPak, a microprocessor-controlled, EH-based power management system, which also employs a unique energy storage/delivery device configuration for improved efficiency. Combined with improved betavoltaic batteries now entering the market, perhaps complemented by the use of vibration generators, a long lasting, miniaturized power supply for AT systems appears viable. In Phase I, power requirements will be defined; betavoltaic batteries, thin film rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors will be characterized; supporting circuitry will be designed and fabricated; and a breadboard demonstration of the EH-based power supply will be demonstrated. TPL"s expertise in developing power management systems for a variety of EH devices, its use of a rechargeable battery/supercapacitor configuration for power delivery, and proven performance of EnerPak over a two year field test provides a proven capability to develop the needed advanced power supply. BENEFIT: The DOD has an extensive need for EH-based power supplies, including unattended ground sensors, structural and component health monitoring, wireless sensor networks, and other applications. There is growing use of EH-based power supplies in the commercial sector with forecasts projecting a market of $4B within the decade the such devices. The proposed project will increase the options available for the development of such power supplies.