Stealthy, Efficient, Light-Weight, JP-8 Fueled Hybrid Electric Propulsion System for UAVs

"During successful development of small diesel engines and generator sets for the Army, DARPA, NASA and others, D-STAR has developed useful experience and technologies for small, compact, light-weight, high-speed diesel engines and power systems. DuringPhase I of the proposed effort, D-STAR will explore development of a JP-8 fueled hybrid diesel electric propulsion system for use on small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), possibly using the DARPA-funded 1 kW Mini-Diesel Engine by D-STAR that is currentlyunder development.Proposed Phase I objectives include : (i) Conceptual designs and trade studies for a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system that may include a mini-diesel engine, a light-weight starter generator with power electronics, a combining method such as gearsand clutches, and a storage battery; (ii) Feasibility evaluation of the hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system and its components; (iii) Definition and evaluation of growth versions of the hybrid diesel electric propulsion system, possibly usingmulti-cylinder engines; and (iv) Definition of a Phase II plan for development and demonstration of an advanced, optimized JP-8 fueled hybrid diesel electric propulsion system that can meet the size, weight, power, fuel consumption, life and costobjectives for the intended DARPA application. The mini-diesel engine and hybrid systems would be an ideal power source for stealthy small UAVs. It would also be usable as the p