SBIR-STTR Award

The proposed program is focused on studying UAV critical technologies. Two technologies considered significant to meet the emerging UAV requirements include power extraction and the engine centrifugal compressor material. Therefore, two studies will be conducted in the proposed program: A detailed study will be conducted to evaluate secondary power extraction propulsion system optimization: Trading design integration of propulsion engine and electric power generator for efficiency, space and weight to provide an affordable, operable weapon system with adequate range. Primary focus will be on the design integration of said electric power generator with the aircraft engine Fan/LPC in order in order to minimize installed volume/weight, preserving engine performance, operability and fuel burn for range and providing an affordable systems solution. As an option, a second study with relatively lower amount of effort will be conducted to analyze the impeller design and its operating environment in order to be able to select a viable centrifugal compressor material to meet the emerging UAV engine operating life and reliability. Honeywell, the largest producer of small gas turbine engines, strongly supports this effort and will be assisting Agilis with the information required to successfully complete this study.

Under this program, an evaluation will be performed to select the optimum electric power generation package to meet electrical output requirements within the confines of the propulsion system architecture - based on the results of the Phase I SBIR. Additionally, system configuration and integration issues will be addressed in an effort to quantify the following: · Document the prime power generation needs for future USN UAV platform. · Perform trade studies to aid in selecting the optimum electric generation package with considerations toward: - Electrical system weight and performance - System drag characteristics - ECS bleed system - Thermal management system - Generator speed limitations · Perform trade studies to aid in selecting the optimum location for the electric generation package considering: - Low Pressure Spool (LPS) driven, engine internal mount locations - Electrical and oil service routing · Determine propulsion system requirements and trade-offs including net thrust effects, system weight, etc. · Perform a demonstration to reduce program risk. · Generate Detail Design Drawings for both the generator and packaging hardware (i.e., mounts, cables.)

Keywords:
UCAV GENERATOR DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPONS TRADE STUDY PROPULSION SYSTEM INTEGRATION DETAIL DESIGN DEMONSTATION ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION SYSTEMS