SBIR-STTR Award

Integrated Power Generation for Small Unmanned Vehicles
Award last edited on: 11/14/2013

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : OSD
Total Award Amount
$1,157,999
Award Phase
2
Solicitation Topic Code
OSD08-UM5
Principal Investigator
Jeffery L Erickson

Company Information

Erickson Motors LLC (AKA: Engine Research Associates Inc)

3219 Stellhorn Road
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
   (260) 338-1010
   N/A
   www.ericksonmotors.com
Location: Single
Congr. District: 03
County: Allen

Phase I

Contract Number: ----------
Start Date: ----    Completed: ----
Phase I year
2008
Phase I Amount
$99,979
This program will improve the size, weight and efficiency of power generators by integrating a lightweight, high efficiency alternator with a quiet, fuel efficient and high power density heavy fuel engine. It will be capable of meeting DoD needs for reliable and efficient propulsion and power systems for unmanned aircraft, ground and maritime systems. The electrical power source will use a proprietary, compact and very high power-to-weight alternator using rare earth permanent magnets. It is scalable from 0.5 to 15 kW and larger. This electrical power source could also be adapted to other conventional engines if desired. The alternator will be fully integrated with an internally supercharged Migrating Combustion Chamber (MCC) engine. Microprocessor controls will provide for load following and stabilized power at varying loads. Electronic controls will allow the use of the alternator for starting the engine. The MCC engine’s mechanism and cycle of operation allow it to operate on low octane fuels like diesel and JP-8 without auto-ignition, detonation or wet stacking. This engine provides full expansion of the combustion gases inside the engine which increases efficiency and produces a very quiet, cool exhaust. The MCC engine is scalable from 2 HP to over 200 HP.

Keywords:
High Power Density Generator For Small Unmanned Vehicles, Mcc Engine, Heavy Fuel, Diesel And Jp-8, Low Acoustic And Ir Signature

Phase II

Contract Number: ----------
Start Date: ----    Completed: ----
Phase II year
2010
Phase II Amount
$1,058,020
This program will integrate a lightweight, high efficiency alternator with a quiet, fuel efficient and high power density heavy fuel engine. The electrical power source uses a proprietary, compact and very high power-to-weight alternator using rare earth permanent magnets. It is scalable from 0.5 to 70 kW and larger. MAI''s alternator will be integrated with Engine Research Associates (ERA) Migrating Combustion Chamber (MCC) engine. This engine’s mechanism and cycle allow it to operate on low octane fuels like diesel and JP-8 without auto-ignition, detonation or wet stacking. It provides high efficiency, produces a very quiet, cool exhaust and has very low vibration. The MCC engine''s profile and crankshaft design made it an excellent match for integration with Magnetic Application''s (MAI) alternator. The MCC engine is scalable from 2 HP to over 200 HP. This program''s design is a 10 HP MCC engine and 1 kW alternator fully integrated to maximize efficiency and minimize total system weight. The total estimated system weight for the 1 kW alternator and 10 HP MCC engine is 21.45 lbs. or less. Estimated BSFC is 0.50 lbm/hour/brake at cruise power.

Keywords:
Small High Power Density Generator, Mcc Engine, Heavy Fuel, Diesel And Jp-8, Low Acoustic And Ir Signature