SBIR-STTR Award

Problems in manufacturing process control such as temperature gradients, poly metal sheet resistivity, thin film substrate thickness, etc., are problem areas to be investigated which have major impact on cell efficiency and yields. Without control of these processes cell efficiency is reduced and cell yields will be lower resulting in higher cell costs. Monitoring and control via Tele-platform concept and selected sensors provides the missing link in the Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) Monolithic Integrated Module cell manufacturing through embedded sensors and control. Using a custom smart sensor arrays and application specific integrated circuit accurate “On Cell” measurements and control via wireless Tele-platform feedback system is possible. ARSECO will design, analyze and simulate a smart integrated prototype control Tele-platform sensor arrays with feedback control ability interfacing with analog readout electronics in application specific integrated circuit form. There will be a study of necessary developmental test software interface with cell researchers, manufacturers and solidify concepts of integration of these devices in TPV cells.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:
TPV commercial market is evolving into a range of niche markets out of which opportunities can evolve. Applications that require quiet and emission free compact electrical generators fit the current TPV technology and economics. Markets are predicted to come into reach of TPV systems, a development favored by high overall energy conversion efficiency and possible future large cost reductions compared to photovoltaic systems.

Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) cells offer many opportunities as an alternate energy source. However, problems in TPV cell characterization, needed for manufacturing process control have an adverse impact on efficient cell manufacturing and yields. This project will develop an `On Chip’ smart sensor array to characterize TPV cell parameters such as temperature gradients, poly metal sheet resistively, and thin film substrate thickness. Using a custom smart sensor array and an application specific “Device Characterization Platform,” accurate `On Cell” measurements and control via wireless tele-platform feedback system will be engineered. In Phase I, the `On Chip’ sensor array concept was verified through virtual software system analysis. An application-specific “Device Characterization Platform” was built and its rudimentary interface circuits were tested for integrity, functionality, and performance. In Phase II, the actual TPV cell with `On Chip’ embedded smart sensor array will be fabricated. Prototype TPV cell units will be used on the TPV “Device Characterization Platform” to collect temperature gradient data.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:
The technology should result in reduced TPV cell costs and improved energy conversion. Applications that have waste heat and require noiseless and emission free compact electrical generators should be candidate markets for this TPV technology.