Power Dense Quiet (PDQ) Electric Drive for Underwater Propulsion

SatCon proposes to fabricate and test an advanced technology electric drive for improved power density and quiet operation for underwater propulsion systems with an initial focus on torpedo applications. We will leverage our experience in SiC applications, NUWC propulsors, and active ONR podded propulsor program as a baseline design, and couple this with the design analysis and modeling expertise of Energy Systems Analysis Consortium at Purdue University. Key attributes of the drive development effort are a multilevel PWM bridge architecture, implementation of SiC switching devices into the power stage, and coupled thermal/loss/performance modeling and simulation for enhanced drive optimization from both a power dense design and quiet operation standpoint. In Phase II a representative drive system will be fabricated and performance demonstrated in the laboratory and then in a relevant environment in the Option phases.