Nanotechnology enabled self-sustained power systems and high-power-density electronics for autonomous flight vehicles

Abstract

For autonomous flight vehicles, nanotechnology-enabled high-power and high-energy densities microelectronics, power electronics, energy sources and energy storage solutions are examined. Proof-of-concept self-sustainable power systems are designed with applications in all-electric autonomous aerospace, naval and security platforms. Research and technology developments are performed in energy harvesting, management and storage. We research and demonstrate the following key components and modules: (1) Low-power microelectronics; (2) High-power-density semiconductor devices (power transistors) and power electronics; (3) Enabling energy harvesting sources, such as solar cells and electromagnetic generators; (4) Advanced energy storage solutions; (5) Energy management systems. Energy sustainability and concurrency are essential to ensure the overall functionality of flight, propulsion, navigation and other systems. We design, test and evaluate prototypes of integrated self-sustained power systems for different applications. High-power and high-energy densities, robustness, safety and affordability are ensured by using advanced technologies, front-end microelectronics, modular designs, practical system organizations, consistent control schemes and enabled energy conversion solutions. Our systems meet generic requirements and common specifications. These systems are able to provide power and energy in continuous and impulse operating envelopes up to hundreds of joules. Closed-loop systems are designed ensuring control and diagnostics. Experimental results are reported.