Exploratory Development of a Small, Light-Weight, Electro-Turbo-Compound Diesel Engine for Hybrid Electric Drives

The proposed SBIR Phase II effort by D-STAR Engineering Corporation addresses the highest risk technologies necessary for the development of a unique light-weight, heavy-fueled 24 - 30 hp class hybrid-electric propulsion system for UGVs. The two most critical technologies are : 1) development of a compact, light-weight, fuel-efficient engine to operate on JP-8 and other heavy fuels; and 2) development of an Electro-Turbo Compounding (ETC) that would enhance power density, enhance fuel efficiency and enhance stealth for the user vehicle system. The proposed hybrid propulsion system features a six-cylinder, four-stroke high-speed diesel fueled engine coupled with a high-efficiency integrated starter / generator. The system could also function as a modular auxiliary power unit (APU). D-STAR's high-speed mini-diesel technology has the potential to be significantly smaller and lighter than conventional diesel engines and APUs used currently in military ground vehicles. D-STAR brings to this project significant experience and prior successes in developing Micro-Diesel engines for DARPA and Micro-Diesel Electrical Generator Sets for the Army, Navy and Special Operations Forces.