Economical Power Source for Dismounted Soldier and Unattended Ground Sensor Missions

The Army has identified a need for low (<20 We) power systems for the Unmanned Ground Sensor (UGS) and Dismounted Soldier (DS) applications. Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) has developed a microscale-burner with successful technology from Palm Power, DoD CERDEC and SBIR programs, and is proposing to develop component and system level designs to exceed the capabilities of current battery technology by optimizing parameters for our catalytic combustor combined with thermoelectric modules already proven in military applications. In order to overcome the key hurdles, PCI is proposing a design and sensitivity study to define performance requirements of system components that meet the stringent performance and operational requirements of microburners. Mesh-like Microlith catalytic substrates will be utilized to realize benefits from the short-contact-time technology’s compact size, its diffusive capabilities to boost mixing, and its high surface area to augment vaporization. Capabilities of current and developing thermoelectric systems and Balance of Plant components will be evaluated as part of the overall integrated power generation system design studies. If successful, a low cost system which exceeds the baseline performance of military BB-8180/U Zinc-air batteries will be defined. The Phase II program will demonstrate the most promising systems.