SBIR-STTR Award

Kinetic BEI intends to design, build and test MicroJectors during this SBIR Phase I contract. A first generation prototype of the MicroJector currently exists. This SBIR would provide the opportunity to expand on previous work, fine-tuning the mechanical design of the miniature fuel injection system and bench testing second-generation prototypes. During this effort, spray patterns will be evaluated and CFD analysis will be conducted. With a mass of 33.3g, the MicroJector weighs less than half of the nearest fuel injector on the market. The MicroJector measures just 1.880” in length with a fuel pressure of 4,000 psi. Other advantages include low power consumption, excellent atomization, simplicity, and electronically-controlled variable injection rates. While some work has been accomplished in this area, more research is required. The opportunity to expand the research and development of this miniature/micro fuel injection system through a dedicated SBIR program will have far-reaching implications in both the military and commercial worlds. The MicroJector proposed in this Phase I has already demonstrated strong potential. Funding through this SBIR would provide the opportunity to add fidelity and advance the technology to a point where it can be utilized on current miniature engine development programs.

Keywords:
Micro, Small, Fuel Injection, Fuel Delivery, Engine Development

Kinetic BEI intends to design, build and test Gen 3 and Gen 4 Micro Injectors during this SBIR Phase II program incorporating data from Gen 2 testing, further CFD and FEA analysis, and design for manufacturability. The design concept was proven during Phase I, with bench testing of a Gen 2 Micro Injector. A significant amount of spray pattern analysis was also accomplished during Phase I and will be continued during Phase II development. Target specifications for the injector include injection quantity of up to 10 mm^3 /injection, fuel pressure of 4,000 psi, injection frequency of 10,000 inj/min, mass flow of 10 lbs/hr, and multi-fuel capability. Other advantages include low power consumption, excellent atomization, simplicity, and electronically-controlled variable injection rates. Phase II testing will be performed as both bench testing and on-engine testing utilizing a production diesel engine, as well as development engines at Kinetic BEI. The opportunity to expand the research and development of this miniature/micro fuel injection system through a Phase II SBIR program will have far-reaching implications in both the military and commercial engine development programs. A TRL of 6-7 is anticipated at the end of Phase II development.

Keywords:
Micro Fuel Injection, Micro Fuel System, Miniature Fuel, Heavy Fuel, Direct Injection, Jp-8, Biofuel, Diesel