{"project":{"acronym":"","projectId":33280,"title":"Compact Energy Conversion Module","primaryTaxonomyNodes":[{"taxonomyNodeId":10597,"taxonomyRootId":8816,"parentNodeId":10593,"level":3,"code":"TX03.1.4","title":"Dynamic Energy Conversion","definition":"Dynamic energy conversion generates electrical power or mechanical work through the conversion of heat using mechanical heat engines.","exampleTechnologies":"Advanced Stirling radioisotope generator; 1-10 kWe Stirling fission power system; Brayton and Rankine cycle generators with solar, fission, or chemical energy sources","hasChildren":false,"hasInteriorContent":true}],"startTrl":5,"currentTrl":6,"endTrl":6,"benefits":"Energy consumption is now often the most significant problem discussed whenever technology is considered. As the energy efficiency of computational devices increases, self-power via harvested energy becomes increasingly viable for a host of electronic devices for sensing and other applications. The ECM kinetic energy harvester provides self-power for a variety of wireless sensors that include those for in situ SHM of NASA vehicles and infrastructure like that supporting the RPT program. ECM directly supports non-destructive evaluation (NDE) systems for safety assurance of future vehicles. There is a major effort within NASA, the FAA, and the military to develop integrated vehicle health management (IVHM) technology that uses SHM information for computer controlled recovery actions aimed at avoiding catastrophe. ECM provides enabling technology for this effort. ECM supports the NASA Engineering and Safety Center with tools for independent testing, analysis, and assessment of high-risk projects. NASA applications include self-health monitoring of future exploration vehicles and support structures like habitats and Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs). ECM-powered sensors reduce maintenance, minimize crew interaction, and reduce spaceflight technical risks and needs. ECM is directly responsive to Topic T3.01, which calls for innovative and compact systems to harvest and convert kinetic energy sources.
The current market is seeing increased communication between equipment within an intelligent network that can automatically manage tasks in smart buildings, logistics, and monitoring. Within this so-called \"Internet of Things\" (IoT) the majority of sensors and devices will eventually be connected to other devices and the Internet. Implementing this vision requires portable devices that can be applied wherever needed, which introduces a significant challenge—how can these millions of distributed devices be powered? One path to success is energy harvesting wireless technology. Furthermore, the current dependence on batteries to power pacemakers, defibrillators, and other medical devices raise numerous safety and reliability concerns. Energy harvesting promises to eliminate bulky batteries and the risk of battery-related defects. Besides medical, applications for wireless sensors include Homeland Security structural analysis to mitigate threats (preparedness) and assess damage (response), smart structures, and SHM of civil and military structures. This broader impact includes widespread monitoring with the potential for preventing catastrophic failures and saving lives. Civil structures include bridges, highway systems, buildings, power plants, underground structures, and wind energy turbines (alternative and renewable energy). SHM applications are also driven by a desire to lower costs by moving from schedule-based to condition-based maintenance.","description":"This STTR project delivers a compact vibration-based Energy Conversion Module (ECM) that powers sensors for purposes such as structural health monitoring (SHM). NASA customers include the Rocket Propulsion Test (RPT) program, the ISS, and the Orion deep space vehicle, all of which need wireless sensors to monitor and assess structural health. The ECM represents a major advancement in the use of wireless and self-powered devices by enabling the miniaturization of vibration-based energy harvesting devices suitable for powering sensors. Implications of the innovation There exist two basic problems in reducing the size of vibration-based harvesters that plague all current commercially available devices—both are addressed here. The first is addressed by eliminating the problem of frequency matching in compact devices. The second is addressed by providing a broadband device capable of energy conversion across a range of frequencies. Technical objectives Our existing prototype is a TRL 5 unit that we used to demonstrate our ability to convert kinetic energy to useful electrical power. This prototype combines piezoelectric beam transducers with artificially induced magnetic fields to force a nonlinear broadband behavior. Phase II uses this approach for compact sizing of low center frequency transducers with the objective of delivering a field-validated compact ECM that provides a near order-of-magnitude improvement over current energy harvesters. Research description Phase I created an efficient prototype and established feasibility. In Phase II we build a fully operational unit and perform field validation-tests compatible with SSC test beds. Anticipated results Anticipated results include a reduction in the amount of battery waste generated by self-powered devices that enables long-term wireless deployment. Phase I completed a TRL 5 prototype and tested its performance in relevant vibration environments. Phase II validates and delivers a TRL 6 unit.","startYear":2015,"startMonth":6,"endYear":2017,"endMonth":9,"statusDescription":"Completed","principalInvestigators":[{"contactId":403133,"canUserEdit":false,"firstName":"Robert","lastName":"Owen","fullName":"Robert B Owen","fullNameInverted":"Owen, Robert B","middleInitial":"B","primaryEmail":"robertbarryowen@icloud.com","publicEmail":true,"nacontact":false}],"programDirectors":[{"contactId":206378,"canUserEdit":false,"firstName":"Jason","lastName":"Kessler","fullName":"Jason L Kessler","fullNameInverted":"Kessler, Jason L","middleInitial":"L","primaryEmail":"jason.l.kessler@nasa.gov","publicEmail":true,"nacontact":false}],"programExecutives":[{"contactId":215154,"canUserEdit":false,"firstName":"Jennifer","lastName":"Gustetic","fullName":"Jennifer L Gustetic","fullNameInverted":"Gustetic, Jennifer L","middleInitial":"L","primaryEmail":"jennifer.l.gustetic@nasa.gov","publicEmail":true,"nacontact":false}],"programManagers":[{"contactId":62051,"canUserEdit":false,"firstName":"Carlos","lastName":"Torrez","fullName":"Carlos Torrez","fullNameInverted":"Torrez, Carlos","primaryEmail":"carlos.torrez@nasa.gov","publicEmail":true,"nacontact":false}],"projectManagers":[{"contactId":3164170,"canUserEdit":false,"firstName":"Scott","lastName":"Jensen","fullName":"Scott Jensen","fullNameInverted":"Jensen, Scott","primaryEmail":"Scott.L.Jensen@nasa.gov","publicEmail":true,"nacontact":false},{"contactId":461333,"canUserEdit":false,"firstName":"Theresa","lastName":"Stanley","fullName":"Theresa M Stanley","fullNameInverted":"Stanley, Theresa M","middleInitial":"M","primaryEmail":"theresa.m.stanley@nasa.gov","publicEmail":true,"nacontact":false}],"website":"","libraryItems":[{"file":{"fileExtension":"pdf","fileId":298592,"fileName":"STTR_2014_2_BC_T3.01-9987","fileSize":74488,"objectId":295126,"objectType":{"lkuCodeId":889,"code":"LIBRARY_ITEMS","description":"Library Items","lkuCodeTypeId":182,"lkuCodeType":{"codeType":"OBJECT_TYPE","description":"Object Type"}},"objectTypeId":889,"fileSizeString":"72.7 KB"},"files":[{"fileExtension":"pdf","fileId":298592,"fileName":"STTR_2014_2_BC_T3.01-9987","fileSize":74488,"objectId":295126,"objectType":{"lkuCodeId":889,"code":"LIBRARY_ITEMS","description":"Library Items","lkuCodeTypeId":182,"lkuCodeType":{"codeType":"OBJECT_TYPE","description":"Object Type"}},"objectTypeId":889,"fileSizeString":"72.7 KB"}],"id":295126,"title":"Briefing Chart","description":"Compact Energy Conversion Module, Phase II Briefing Chart","libraryItemTypeId":1222,"projectId":33280,"primary":false,"publishedDateString":"","contentType":{"lkuCodeId":1222,"code":"DOCUMENT","description":"Document","lkuCodeTypeId":341,"lkuCodeType":{"codeType":"LIBRARY_ITEM_TYPE","description":"Library Item Type"}}},{"caption":"Compact Energy Conversion Module, Phase II Briefing Chart Image","file":{"fileExtension":"jpg","fileId":297902,"fileName":"STTR_2014_2_BC_T3.01-9987","fileSize":55279,"objectId":294436,"objectType":{"lkuCodeId":889,"code":"LIBRARY_ITEMS","description":"Library Items","lkuCodeTypeId":182,"lkuCodeType":{"codeType":"OBJECT_TYPE","description":"Object Type"}},"objectTypeId":889,"fileSizeString":"54.0 KB"},"files":[{"fileExtension":"jpg","fileId":297902,"fileName":"STTR_2014_2_BC_T3.01-9987","fileSize":55279,"objectId":294436,"objectType":{"lkuCodeId":889,"code":"LIBRARY_ITEMS","description":"Library Items","lkuCodeTypeId":182,"lkuCodeType":{"codeType":"OBJECT_TYPE","description":"Object Type"}},"objectTypeId":889,"fileSizeString":"54.0 KB"}],"id":294436,"title":"Briefing Chart Image","description":"Compact Energy Conversion Module, Phase II Briefing Chart Image","libraryItemTypeId":1095,"projectId":33280,"primary":true,"publishedDateString":"","contentType":{"lkuCodeId":1095,"code":"IMAGE","description":"Image","lkuCodeTypeId":341,"lkuCodeType":{"codeType":"LIBRARY_ITEM_TYPE","description":"Library Item Type"}}}],"transitions":[{"transitionId":64645,"projectId":33280,"partner":"Other","transitionDate":"2015-06-01","path":"Advanced From","relatedProjectId":18174,"relatedProject":{"acronym":"","projectId":18174,"title":"Compact Energy Conversion Module","startTrl":4,"currentTrl":5,"endTrl":5,"benefits":"Energy consumption is now often the most significant problem discussed whenever technology is considered. As the energy efficiency of computational devices drops, self-power via harvested energy becomes increasingly viable for a host of electronic devices for sensing and other applications. The ECM kinetic energy harvester provides self-power for a variety of wireless sensors that include those for in situ structural health monitoring (SHM) of NASA vehicles and infrastructure. ECM directly supports non-destructive evaluation (NDE) systems for safety assurance of future vehicles—especially those making heavy use of composite materials. There is a major effort within NASA, the FAA, and the military to develop integrated vehicle health management (IVHM) technology that uses SHM information for computer controlled recovery actions aimed at avoiding catastrophe. ECM provides enabling technology for this effort. ECM supports the NASA Engineering and Safety Center with tools for independent testing, analysis, and assessment of high-risk projects. NASA applications include self-health monitoring of future exploration vehicles and support structures like habitats and Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs). ECM-powered sensors reduce maintenance, minimize crew interaction, and reduce spaceflight technical risks and needs. ECM is directly responsive to Topic T3.01, which calls for innovative and compact systems to harvest and convert kinetic energy sources.
The current dependence on batteries to power pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, neurostimulators, and other medical devices raise numerous safety and reliability concerns. Energy harvesting promises to eliminate the need for bulky batteries and the risk of battery-related defects. Besides medical applications, commercial applications for wireless sensors include Homeland Security structural analysis to mitigate threats (preparedness) and assess damage (response), smart structures, and SHM of civil infrastructures, land/marine structures, and military structures. This broader impact includes practical and widespread monitoring with the potential for preventing catastrophic failures and saving lives. Civil infrastructure includes bridges, highway systems, buildings, power plants, underground structures, and wind energy turbines (alternative and renewable energy). Land/marine structures include automobiles, trains, submarines, ships, and offshore structures. Military structures include helicopters, aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and others. The need for self-powered SHM sensors is driven by an aging infrastructure, malicious humans, and the introduction of advanced materials and structures. SHM applications are also driven by a desire to lower costs by moving from schedule-based to condition-based maintenance. Key commercial players include Energy Harvesting Sensors and Smart Materials. However, their harvesting products are neither compact nor broadband.","description":"This STTR project delivers a compact vibration-based Energy Conversion Module (ECM) that powers sensors for purposes like structural health monitoring (SHM). NASA customers include the ISS and the Orion deep space vehicle, both of which need wireless sensors to monitor and assess structural health. The ECM represents a significant advancement in the use of wireless and self-powered devices by enabling the miniaturization of vibration-based energy harvesting devices suitable for powering sensors. Implications of the innovation There exist two basic problems in reducing the size of vibration-based harvesters that plague all current commercially available devices—both are addressed here. The first is addressed by eliminating the problem of frequency matching in compact devices. The second is addressed by providing a broadband device capable of energy conversion across a range of frequencies. Technical objectives Our initial prototype is a TRL 4 unit that we used to demonstrate our ability to convert kinetic energy to useful electrical power. This prototype combines piezoelectric beam type transducers with artificially induced magnetic fields to force a nonlinear broadband behavior. Phase I shows feasibility through experimental tests and theoretical models that will establish that we can use this approach for compact sizing of low center frequency transducers. Research description Phase I transforms our prototype into a compact system and performs a variety of engineering feasibility tests under both typical ambient kinetic environments and the more high intensity environments that might be found in propulsion testing and launch facilities. Anticipated results Anticipated results include a reduction in the amount of battery waste generated by self-powered electronic devices that enables long-term wireless deployment. Phase I completes a TRL 5 prototype and validates system performance in relevant vibration environments. Phase II delivers a TRL 7 unit.","startYear":2014,"startMonth":6,"endYear":2014,"endMonth":12,"statusDescription":"Completed","website":"","program":{"acronym":"SBIR/STTR","active":true,"description":"
The NASA SBIR and STTR programs fund the research, development, and demonstration of innovative technologies that fulfill NASA needs as described in the annual Solicitations and have significant potential for successful commercialization. If you are a small business concern (SBC) with 500 or fewer employees or a non-profit RI such as a university or a research laboratory with ties to an SBC, then NASA encourages you to learn more about the SBIR and STTR programs as a potential source of seed funding for the development of your innovations.
The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
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The SBIR and STTR programs have 3 phases:
The SBIR and STTR Phase I contracts last for 6 months with a maximum funding of $125,000, and Phase II contracts last for 24 months with a maximum funding of $750,000 - $1.5 million.
Opportunity for Continued Technology Development Post-Phase II:
The NASA SBIR/STTR Program currently has in place two initiatives for supporting its small business partners past the basic Phase I and Phase II elements of the program that emphasize opportunities for commercialization. Specifically, the NASA SBIR/STTR Program has the Phase II Enhancement (Phase II-E) and Phase II eXpanded (Phase II-X) contract options.
Please review the links below to obtain more information on the SBIR/STTR programs.
Provides an overview of the SBIR and STTR programs as implemented by NASA
Provides access to the annual SBIR/STTR Solicitations containing detailed information on the program eligibility requirements, proposal instructions and research topics and subtopics
Schedule and links for the SBIR/STTR solicitations and selection announcements
Federal and non-Federal sources of assistance for small business
Search our complete archive of awarded project abstracts to learn about what NASA has funded
Still have questions? Visit the program FAQs
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