Meso-Scale Ericsson Power Generation System

Inventherm's patented meso-scale Ericsson power generation system (MEPS) will be used as the enabling technology for radioisotope generators that exceed the performance of existing Stirling power conversion systems. The system will meet or exceed the solicitation specifications including operating at efficiencies greater than 25%, with a life greater than 10 years while being compact and light weight. It is anticipated that the conversion efficiency will exceed 40% with a power density over 100 We/kg.

Radioisotope power conversion for satellites and extraterrestrial rovers.

Suitable for supplementing or replacing batteries in many industrial, consumer and military devices. The energy density of the system is over ten times that of rechargeable lithium ion batteries when liquid fuels are used as the fuel source. Potential applications include power for portable respiratory devices, wearable cooling garments, portable soldier power. The device can use solar thermal energy, biomass and waste heat as an energy source as well.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.

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