Cryogenic Engineering Group | Research - Linear alternators for space applications
Image: Thermo-Acoustic Stirling Heat Engine alternators.
Reliable power supplies are needed for long duration space missions, such as the
proposed "Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter", to
investigate the outer planets where solar power is not available and batteries or
radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), such as those aboard the
Cassini-Huygens spacecraft, are
insufficient. Thermo-acoustic devices, using radioactive heat sources, can be used to
power linear alternators. Problems associated with matching the alternator to the
thermo-acoustic engine are being investigated. Novel manufacturing and assembly
methods are being developed to give the precision necessary for high efficiency and
extreme reliability in difficult environments.
A prototype device designed to generate around 100 Watts, constructed by Oxford and Honeywell Hymatic, was delivered to Northrop Grumman Space Technology in 2004. Theoretical studies have begun to investigate much larger alternators which would be might be used to generate the power needed for ion propulsion systems.
Useful links and references:
- Design Of A High Efficiency Power Source (HEPS) Based On Thermoacoustic Technology. Michael Petach, Emanuel Tward, Scott Backhaus. - A report for NASA Glenn Research Center on a thermo-acoustic engine incorporating the alternator described above.
Last modified 30 April 2007 by WEBNOBODY