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Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 6)
The main project objective is to conduct collaborative research with MSFC to develop a novel wireless power transfer (WPT) technology (currently at a TRL 4) that enables power and communication transmission over large conducting surfaces (such as cryo-tanks, fuselages, equipment chassis, etc.) and eliminates the need for interconnected wires. This technology will offer greater sensor density and placement flexibility, while simultaneously reducing weight by removing the dependency on wires. The results of this project will be a high-impact technology with far-reaching capabilities for industrial and defense applications, which will naturally segue into commercialization avenues. The proposed research will focus on three main thrust areas: 1.) WPT sensor integration, 2.) sensor communication/data health monitoring, protection, and encryption, 3.) system performance evaluation, including Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) testing.
The ability to place sensor systems over critical structures that can be rapidly reconfigured to the changing dynamics of space mission scenarios, in an ad hoc modular manner, will be of extreme importance to NASA’s “back to the moon” initiative. WPT technologies that can easily integrate into current NASA sensor systems to enhance human, vehicle, and equipment survivability through greater spatial density is a core objective in the Technologies Supporting Spacecraft Systems focus area of this Cooperative Agreement Notice.
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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.
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