| Sol No.: |
Navy STTR FY2010.A |
| Topic No.: |
N10A-T001 |
| Topic Title: |
Advanced Materials for the Design of Lightweight JP5/JP8/DS2 Fueled Engines for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) |
| Proposal No.: |
N10A-001-0475 |
| Firm: |
Northwest UAV Propulsion Systems
2717 NE Bunn Road
Mcminnville, Oregon 97128-8218 |
| Contact: |
Chris Pellegrino |
| Phone: |
(503) 434-6845 |
| Web Site: |
www.nwuav.com |
| Abstract: |
Northwest UAV Propulsion Systems proposes using our purpose built heavy fuel engine designed and built in the USA for small unmanned aerial systems in the tier 2 & 3 class. We will be adding a lightweight ceramic material set combined with FEA (Finite Element Analysis) and heavy fuel atomizer (IRAD Project) to create a lightweight engine for a SUAS or STUAS class UAVs. The Ceramic material set is added to portions of the NWUAV 34cc engine to take advantage of performance enhancements like the ability to retain heat and operate at high temperatures. We propose using materials such as silicon nitride and enhancing the processing characteristics and properties of Si3N4 by using nanoparticle additions to micron-sized powders in polymer suspensions. Work will be performed by Oregon State University with engineering assistance and testing to be performed by NWUAV. |
| Benefits: |
We anticipate this research will lead to improved engine efficienies at higher altitudes; allowing longer time on station and increasing mission capabilites. Developed techology will assist these types of UAVs during launch at higher altitudes. additionally small engine companies looking for lightweight solutions for handheld equipment like chain saws and string trimmers; while helping these compnaies reduce exhaust emmissions required by the EPA. |