Multi-Channel Stirling Convertor Space Controller (MC-SCSC)

West Coast Solutions (WCS) and Sunpower, Inc. propose to build on the successful Phase I Multi-Channel Stirling Convertor Space Controller (MC-SCSC) Program and the ongoing NASA Phase II Program for a single-channel SCSC to create the next natural evolution of the technology – a high fidelity, path to flight brassboard demonstration of a MC-SCSC system. The MC-SCSC is architected to support up to eight (8) Sunpower Robust Stirling Convertors (SRSCs), thus immediately paving the way for ~480 W SRSC-based systems. Perhaps more importantly for the long term, maturation of this technology begins to prove out the methods for joining Stirling convertors of any number and any scale for future higher power systems. WCS proposes to perform a preliminary flight design to ensure a “path to flight,” and then proceed with a robust brassboard design, build, and test program. The end point of Phase II will be a TRL 5 MC-SCSC design with a low-risk path to TRL 6, and flight programs shortly thereafter. The proposed effort has been strongly informed by the topic references, related references, and consultation with Sunpower to determine a baseline architecture and preliminary requirements. The effort will be led by WCS, who is presently developing the SCSC and brings a proven track record of developing and delivering space-rated controllers for Stirling cryocoolers, as well as many other space-flight applications. WCS has again teamed with Sunpower, the industry leader in the design and build of highly efficient and reliable space-rated Stirling convertors. This well-established Team executed Phase I and is now executing the related single-channel Phase II, carrying over maximum execution efficiency to the new program.

There are many regions of space where solar power is not an option and there exists a need for long term operation of a spacecraft, lander, or rover for exploration. Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) offer the technical advantage of a small size and long life, but the main drawback is the low thermal heat to electrical energy conversion rates of the leading technology, thermoelectric (TE) materials. Given the high cost and limited supply of suitable radioisotopes, this solution is not ideal. Per Topic 13.06, the stated objectives of high thermal-to-electrical efficiency, low mass, long life and high reliability for planetary spacecraft, landers, and rovers, the SRSC represents an industry-best solution. However, the SRSC single-module capacity of nominally 60 W is insufficient for all applications. Combining multiple SRSCs together provides both higher power capability and enhances system reliability by reducing single point failure modes. Many of the key design drivers for defining a system like the Dynamic RPS (DRPS) have strong implications for the electronic controller, including output power capacity, number of convertors, exported vibration mitigation, and reliability. The controller must be able to control all the requisite convertors, combine the output power from multiple convertors, synchronize the operation of opposing pairs to minimize exported vibration, provide fault tolerance by automatically switching off failing convertors and/or controller drive circuits, and for applications in which Active Vibration Cancellation (AVC) modules are included, controlling the AVC(s) to further minimize exported vibration. The focus of the proposed effort is to develop this multi-channel, system optimized electronic controller, the MC-SCSC so that the proposed development will enable RPS-based missions to Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Europa, Saturn, Titan, Uranus, Neptune, the moon, asteroids and comets as foreseen by NASA in the not-too-distant future. The Department of Defense is already beginning to show interest is Stirling Convertor technology for space applications as exemplified by the Joint Emergent Technology Supplying On-orbit Nuclear Power (JETSON) Program, a program on which WCS is already participating as the Space Controller provider. Just as NASA is beginning to extend its interest in Stirling Convertor technology beyond single-string SRSC implementations, which is the motivation for the proposed Multi-Channel effort, we expect DoD to similarly expand into higher power, multi-convertor systems. In addition, as commercial entities like Intuitive Machines continue to expand their lunar exploration activities, non-USG applications will emerge.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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.