SBIR-STTR Award

Urban warfare tactics call for clearing buildings from the top down. Roof access is greatly improved by a lightweight, efficient winch. The devise generates 1-2 hp, lifting soldiers with fighting load (~ 100 kg) at a rate of 1 meter per second. Radiated noise is less than 50 db. It will be as efficient as possible to minimize the fuel consumption and thermal signature. We will conduct an engineering feasibility investigation for the lifting system with the use of computer analysis of system elements. Trade studies will evaluate three system approaches to the portable lift. The preferred approach for the power supply is Quoin's PowerQuickTM free-piston-based micro-engine; currently under development as a primary power source for DARPA. The high-pressure gas from the power source drives a small turbine internal to a winch. Studies will focus on the design and integration of the winch along with implementation of the operator interfaces. A preliminary concept for a small 3-pound device clamps on a mountaineer's climbing rope. It has an integral power, turbine drive, operator control interfaces. This device is to be demonstrated in Phase I. An interesting variation of the concept features a belt mounted power supply that can power many tools. Quoin has teamed with commercial manufacturers to design versions of the power supply for use in portable nailers and firefighting equipment. Work will expand to include additional civilian and military applications.

Urban warfare tactics call for clearing buildings from the top down. Roof access is greatly improved by a lightweight, efficient winch as a personal lifting device. The devise generates 1-2 hp, lifting soldiers with fighting load (~100 kg) at a rate of 1-meter-per-second. Radiated noise is less than 50 db. It will be as efficient as possible to minimize the fuel consumption and thermal signature. In Phase I Quoin conducted an engineering feasibility investigation for the lifting system with the use of computer analysis of system elements and designed and demonstrated a working system. Phase II will optimize the current design and evaluate three power supply options including liquid and solid propellant cartridges and Quoin?s PowerQuickTM free-piston-based micro-engine; currently under development as a primary power source for DARPA. The high-pressure gas from the power source drives a small turbine internal to a winch. Each power supply option will be designed, built and tested, with the best performing power supply integrated with the winch to produce a fieldable unit. The system will be demonstrated with Special Forces, FBI and commercial users.

Keywords:
Propulsion Systems, Power Supply, Central Air Compressor, Reversing Turbine, Small Engines, Lifting Devices, Free Piston Engine, Portable Winch