1 kW Man-portable Hybrid-Electric Power System using Catalytic Fuel Ignition Technology

"Work is proposed to demonstrate the feasibility of a catalytic ignition system that can be retrofitted to a light-weight, silent-running, 1 kW generator, allowing it to be satisfactorily operated on heavy fuels such as diesel and JP-8. Gensetmodifications will be closely allied to catalytic igniter technology pioneered by Automotive Resources Incorporated that enables alternative fuel combustion in other small engine, vehicle, and aviation systems. The resulting product will be tested foracceptable fuel economy and noise emissions in military applications. Performance testing will include baseline testing with a 1 kW genset prior to engine conversion. A Phase I option is included to address issues of cold-start, long-term durability, andmass production. Both the military and private sector commercial market for lightweight heavy fuel engines is large and immediate. Military applications, both domestic and foreign, literally cover the entire spectrum of small engine applications.There exists a tremendous opportunity overseas for inexpensive diesel burning engines. There is a price difference paradox between diesel and gasoline fuel versus diesel and piston engines. While diesel fuel is less priced than gasoline, a diesel engine istypically higher priced as compared to a gasoline engine. The application of the SmartPlug,¿ ignition system in a lightweight heavy fuel engine would solve this dilemma, providing an inexpensive engine