Packet Digital's innovative solution is to develop a Power System Liaison (PSL) that can interface the numerous power sources carried by the warfighter or encountered during mission activities with the C-E systems used by the warfighter or the batteries that power said equipment. The goal is not to redesign or invent new power generating sources or improved C-E equipment, but rather develop a method and device for interfacing existing C-E equipment to existing power sources such that power sources are consumed with maximum efficiency and C-E systems are operated with a high degree of reliability. Technologies developed for On-Demand Power solutions allow the Packet Digital PSL to have unmatched performance with minimal weight and volume footprints. The advantage of the PSL is that it can intelligently manage the flow of power between multiple power sources and multiple loads. An additional benefit of the PSL is that it will eliminate the need to carry additional battery chargers. A rechargeable battery can be connected directly to the power output of the PSL, and the PSL will automatically charge the battery with the optimal current and voltage waveforms.
Benefit: The Power System Liasion (PSL) could potentially replace existing battery management systems such as the Battery Charger (PP-8444), Charger on the Move (PP-8481), Suitcase Portable Charger (PP-8498), and Christie 0x9D Charger (PP-8333). A recent contract for the PP8498 and the PP-8481 represents an estimated value of $33 million to $66 million over five years. The PSL system could have broad military and commercial application. Outside of the military opportunity a target market for the PSL system would be wireless network systems. In the wireless network market, Packet Digital can leverage existing work and relationships with Crane Wireless Monitoring. According to On World, Frost & Sullivan, and ABI Research the total available market today for wireless sensor networks is estimated at $200 million. This consists of an estimated 40,000 networks of which Packet Digital's target market would be approximately 10 to 15%. With the demand for more uses in building automation, industrial controls, agriculture and health care, coupled with advances in technology, analysts are projecting the market to reach $8 billion by 2010. While the wireless sensor market is small today, the opportunity is expected to be significant in the future.
Keywords: power system liaison, power system liaison, on-demand power, distributed operations, Power management
