Fast Transient Response High Voltage Power Converter for Space Applications

The proposed program addresses the need for a high voltage converter capable of ultra-fast slew rates and be within a small satellite form factor. The proposed innovation leverages a Class-E derived topology of converters by combining an RF source (inverter) and an impedance matched rectifier to produce high voltages at efficiencies greater than 95%. These efficiencies are possible through the implementation of resonant switching in the topology. In addition, by implementing power switching at the MHz to 10s of MHz , the size of the converter can be minimized through the requirement of needing smaller values capacitors and inductors (coreless). The required modulator is also simplified in the Class-E design as the single power switch (GaN MOSFET technology) utilizes a ground reference source simplifying the gate driver requirements. The modulator will also enable a means to control the output voltage to deliver a linear response to the input command. The rectifier stage will satisfy a 25kV output isolation requirement needed by detection instruments. The Phase I program will produce a 10kV high voltage supply with the converter implementing a scalable output rectifier such that additional rectifiers added on the output can be placed in series and boost the output voltage. As the design matures, we intend to ensure that a path exists for all utilized components to have radiation hardened equivalents to achieve a future rad option. At Phase I exit, we will have demonstrated a converter with rectifiers placed in series with the output to achieve the desired closed-loop regulated 10kV target.

The subcompact-sized high performance radhard HV ultrafast slew rate (high power) supply offers significant impact to a wide range of NASA SmallSat missions including detection instruments, X-ray tube, gyroscopes, plasma initiators etc. by reducing existing HV power solutions by as much as 10×. The technology would significantly impact surface exploration missions by providing radhard power solutions greatly reducing size/weight of lander subsystems on such as Mars Science Laboratory.

QorTek is heavily engaged in both magnetic-based and piezo-based HV supply design and products. However, along with commercial space opportunities, the proposed new class-E derived RF HV supply fills an untapped market need for very small high performance HV supplies in wafer manufacture, aerospace, and defense systems needs such as sensor/detector high voltage modulator systems.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.