Portable Array Module for Disaster Relief and Expeditionary Operations
Navy SBIR FY2010.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.1
Topic No.: N101-088
Topic Title: Portable Array Module for Disaster Relief and Expeditionary Operations
Proposal No.: N101-088-0676
Firm: Composite Technology Development, Inc.
2600 Campus Drive, Suite D
Lafayette, Colorado 80026
Contact: Robert Taylor
Phone: (303) 664-0394
Web Site: www.ctd-materials.com
Abstract: There is a need for transportable alternative energy systems capable of providing 5 - 50 kW of renewable electric power. The proposed Portable Array Module (PAM) meets this need, promising a new age of energy production and storage in situations where highly reliable energy sources must be established and maintained within a very short timeframe. Individual PAM modules are fully functional power generation and storage systems. Within PAM, power is generated by thin film photovoltaic solar cells, then stored and conditioned for use. Every PAM power system stows within a single ruggedized canister for easy transport to the desired location. Once on site PAM power modules unroll to a length of 20 ft in a matter of seconds. Batteries and the necessary electronics to condition the power as it comes off the array are located inside the ruggedized transport canister. The ability of each module to store and condition the power being produced not only ensures a constant source of reliable energy; it simplifies deployment logistics. Field deployment of any size system is as simple as ordering the necessary number of PAM self-contained power modules. Unroll the modules and renewable energy will be generated, stored, and conditioned for use.
Benefits: The proposed Phase I SBIR program will develop a portable power module that can provide renewable electrical power for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and expeditionary operations. Additionally, the results of the Phase I program will directly lead to advancements in lightweight next-generation composite structures, and thin film photovoltaic solar cells. Any improvements to these composite structures or photovoltaic cells will be implemented in a variety of military and commercial applications.

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