LightCell Power Generator

This proposal addresses the critical need for lightweight and reliable energy solutions to support AFSOC missions in remote environments. Batteries are heavy and have limited runtime. Internal combustion engines (ICE), though powerful, are plagued by issues such as noise, unreliability, and frequent maintenance. Building upon groundbreaking research from MIT, Mesodyne’s LightCell is a solid-state power generator that leverages thermophotovoltaics. It uses combustion to heat a photonic crystal emitter, generating thermal radiation that powers photovoltaic cells. This innovative approach is designed for spectral compatibility between the emitter and the PV cells, ensuring highly efficient conversion of fuel into electricity with no moving parts. Key features of the LightCell technology include its lightweight nature, offering over 70% reduction in weight compared to traditional batteries. It also offers multi-fuel compatibility, seamlessly converting various fuels, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel/JP-8, without the need for additional reformers or catalysts, thereby simplifying logistics and reducing operational costs in comparison to fuel cells. Furthermore, its reliability is a notable advantage, as the solid-state power conversion process involves no moving parts, leading to minimal maintenance requirements. This feature makes it well-suited for remote operations, even in extreme temperatures. The technology is also scalable and modular, allowing single LightCells to be combined into higher-power modules and disassembled as needed, offering flexibility for various applications. Additionally, the LightCell operates quietly and produces low-temperature exhaust, ensuring safe and low signature operations. Mesodyne is proposing to further scale the power output using novel photovoltaic cell designs. Furthermore, Mesodyne will develop a robust JP-8 capability; will ruggedize the LightCell for use in an operational environment, including withstand rain and dust; and will productize the LightCell for operation and compatibility with existing equipment. Mesodyne will manufacture and deliver multiple units and develop the necessary electronics to allow multiple LightCells to operate both independently and in parallel--providing reliable, less detectable, and long-endurance power for small outposts and forward-deployed AFSOC operators, contributing to force protection and mission execution.