SBIR-STTR Award

A Test Plan for Fatigue and Residual Strength of Composite Flywheel Rotors
Award last edited on: 2/20/2007

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : MDA
Total Award Amount
$99,951
Award Phase
1
Solicitation Topic Code
MDA04-084
Principal Investigator
Stephen W Tsai

Company Information

Think Composites Inc (AKA: Ilt Corp)

101 Alma Street Suite 703
Palo Alto, CA 94301
   (650) 322-9433
   stevewtsai@aol.com
   N/A
Location: Single
Congr. District: 18
County: Santa Clara

Phase I

Contract Number: ----------
Start Date: ----    Completed: ----
Phase I year
2004
Phase I Amount
$99,951
A test plan for fatigue and residual strength for composite flywheel rotors can be rationally devised using master curves derived from time-temperature superposition principle. Validity of this plan will be demonstrated in Phase I using our theory and limited number of spin tests. Instead of S-N curves, this methodology forms a generic durability prediction methodology. Effects of frequency, stress ratio, combined hoop, radial and shear stresses, and high temperature can all be treated in one rational framework. Dozens of small-size calibration rotors and limited number of full-size ones will be in the Phase II test plan to generate fatigue master curves. Honeywell will provide operational characteristics and requirements so realistic thermal and mechanical loads can be imposed. Fatigue life and residual strength of rotors subjected to repeated, rapid discharges and arbitrary temperature history can be systematically determined with no need for curve fitting. All these simulation capabilities will be incorporated in Super Mic-Mac/Rotor, a friendly rotor design tool for engineers. Eventual testing of Think Composites rotor in Honeywell system as part of Phase II is envisioned

Phase II

Contract Number: ----------
Start Date: ----    Completed: ----
Phase II year
----
Phase II Amount
----