SBIR-STTR Award

This proposal addresses the use of multicomponent, multiband emitter merials, the fabrication of an optical reflector and dichroic mirror th has a designed response, the design of both a combustion and shock abrption system and finally the integration of these components to show e feasibility of a compact and efficient bench-top device to produce 1-500 watts power. Overcoming efficiency limitations with the combinatn will allow the utilization of this new technology in applications whe high efficiency is essential and the environmental advantages are imrtant. The mechanical design of proof-of-concept system will demonstre the feasibility of a lightweight, portable device. The goal of the Phase I program is to produce a demonstration model thermophotovoltaicevice/system with the capability of producing at least 100-500 watts Delectrical power. It is anticipated that the preliminary model will bbench top size, but will demonstrate the feasibility of being made inta soldier portable device. The gains achievable by using amultispectr emitter in combination with an optical reflector, dichroic mirror andwo matched band gap photovoltaic cells will be shown. The utility of shock mounted mechanical design in increasing the ruggedization of theenerator device for portability will be demonstrated.

Benefits:
It is anticipated that this proposed program will result in advances inovel emitter materials, optical systems development, and mechanical dice design that will ultimately lead to a high efficiency, compact andugged thermophotovoltaic system. This work is expected to lead to a cpact thermophotovoltaic system producing 100-500 watts electrical powe Potential commercial applications include small, portable power suppes for remote site operation or electrical power generation. Small, qet, and environmentally friendly generators for third world countries d standby emergency power systems where long dormancy periods are requed are also possible.

Keywords:
superemitter, relic process, photovoltaic, dichroic mirror, thermophotovoltaic, rare earth oxide

This project will develop a compact, lightweight, quiet, efficient TPV power generator in the 100 to 500 Watt range. Based upon Quantum's success with our Phase I laboratory TPV generator, we are convinced we can engineer the prototype to make a reliable, easily maintainable, and economical device providing 100 Watts in a single powered module. We have designated this device the "Photon Electric Power 100" generator (PEP TM 100). Over 500 Watts can be achieved when PEP100 modules are ganged to meet higher power requirements. Quantum's Phase I TPV generator uses narrowband, rare earth superemitting devices matched to the spectral responsiveness of a photovoltaic cell for high efficiency photon to power conversion. During Phase I, we demonstrated that a proof-of-concept, 100 Watt, quiet, TPV generator using ytterbia selective emitters matched to silicon PV cells. Our laboratory TPV system has the same efficiency as small, internal combustion, electrical generators without their noise and vibration. During Phase II we will improve PEP 100 performance, affordability, and portability by: increasing emitter robustness; reducing system weight; investigating a multi-fuel use capability; and design optimization engineering. The result will be a PEP 100 engineering prototype, of which we will build five units. The principal PEP"' 100 features and benefits are: 1. inherent system simplicity, reduced maintenance, and increased reliability; 2. increased emitter strength; 3. increased system ruggedness to broaden military and commercial applications. Commercial applications are targeted for the camping, recreational vehicle and boating industries. These industries require quiet power supplies in the 100 to 500 Watt range for air conditioning and other applications.

Keywords:
Thermaphotovoltaic Tpv Emitter Ytterbia Photovoltaic Generator Electricity