Description:
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this project is to design, develop, and demonstrate an advanced small, lightweight man portable multi-fueled 3,000 W power unit. A key tenet of this power unit is that it should take advantage of recent advances in small lightweight high speed internal combustion engines which include but are not limited to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) engines. DESCRIPTION: The implementation of this technology could address several operational capability gaps across the broad spectrum of small power sources. The current Tactical Quiet Generator at 326 pounds and approximately 20% efficiency is outmoded and represents old technology; and currently there are no fielded systems in the range of 3 kW which weigh less than 200 lbs, and can operate on JP-8 over the range of military environments. In addition, the increasing advance of digital equipment and soldier battery loads is increasing the demand for a lightweight power source for forward area/platoon level battery charging. Small hybrid/alternative energy systems are also seeing increased use with generators in the 3 kW range for assured power. Use of smaller generators would be more efficient than using larger sets at part-load conditions. Increased efficiency of the generator is needed at both full and part-load conditions. Multi-fuel operation is desired in order to take advantage of locally available fuels (diesel, JP-8, gasoline). In addition it is desired that the technology can meet all the requirements for forward deployed equipment and provide quality power over a wide range of environmental extremes. PHASE I: Phase I will be a technical analysis and feasibility study to determine an analytical and engineering design approach to develop the 3 kW Lightweight Efficient Generator. The offeror will identify any challenges/technical barriers as well as the technical benefits to the engineering design approach for the 3 kW Lightweight Efficient Generator. This study will provide a detailed technical description of the engineering/design approach, expected technical value, and any assumptions. It should also include a plan for measuring, evaluating and demonstrating the technical value and performance of the proposed engineering/design approach. PHASE II: The scope of the Phase II will be to develop and demonstrate a prototype of the phase I proposed 3 kW Lightweight Efficient Generator. This demonstration shall show that the proposed 3 kW Lightweight Efficient Generator designed prototype can meet expected performance capabilities in conditions representative of Army tactical operations. The power unit prototype design should be based on the evaluation, modification/upgrade, and integration of available engines and state of the art alternator, power electronics, fuel processing techniques, thermal management and composite materials for packaging. In addition the prototype fabricated should meet all the requirements for forward deployed equipment and provide the projected weight savings. PHASE III: If the technology can meet all the requirements for forward deployed equipment and provide the projected weight savings, PM-MEP is willing to consider the potential addition of this item to our FY14-19 budget. The 3 kW system could fit directly into our planned Program of Record for Small Tactical Electric Power (STEP). During this phase, three or more prototypes for the 3 kW Lightweight Efficient Generator will be completed and delivered along with specification documentation and system drawings. In addition documentation that describes the underlying methodologies, approaches, assumptions, capabilities and limitations will be provided. The end-state demonstrated prototypes being researched within this topic will have dual-use value in commercial and government application. Potential commercial market applications for this innovation include Homeland Defense, first-responders, and local and Federal government organizations. The vendor is responsible for marketing its demonstrated prototype capability for further development and maturation for potential Post-Phase II transition and integration opportunities including actual military Programs of Record and any dual-use applications to other government and industry business areas.
