SBIR-STTR Award

The objective of this project is to design an enhanced mobile electric power distribution system (EMEPDIS). The new system will be comprised of a single, modularized distribution panel to replace the existing 15kW, 30kW, and 100kW distribution panels. EMEPDIS will utilize light weight construction techniques in the modular design as well as light weight, low cost, armored aluminum cabling to further reduce system weight. The system will be compatible with all existing mobile electric power sources as well as future power sources including the 3kW man-portable system. EMEPDIS will be able to manage power from multiple dissimilar sources allowing the USMC to deploy mobile electric power tailored to exact end-user needs. This new system will deliver fully conditioned AC and DC power as well as remote monitoring and control of critical functions while reducing overall weight and size. The modularity of EMEPDIS, along with its capability to manage power from multiple dissimilar sources, will greatly reduce mobile electric power support cost and embarkation footprint while providing a rugged, easily employed power system.

Benefits:
The innovative engineering solutions proposed here have broad utility and certain potential for commercial application. The need for light-weight, portable power distribution is pervasive in construction, outdoor recreation, and in both military and non-military disaster and other humanitarian relief operations.

Keywords:
Power distribution Mobile electric power Cabling MEPDIS EMEPDIS Phase matching Uninterruptable Power Supply Portable power

The major factors inhibiting deployment of mobile electric power distribution systems are: Equipment weight, equipment volume, and technical complexity. Mechanical resources are required to lift and place heavy, bulky distribution boxes and cabling. Skilled technical people are necessary for all parts of the deployment effort and much of the present system in use today is fabricated or modified on site. During the execution of Phase I SBIR entitled "Deployable Power Distribution Systems", SPL generated four major concepts that will be applied to the design of an enhanced mobile electric power system. An enhanced mobile electric power system can be achieved by employing the following: 1. A solid state generator paralleling capability that can parallel multiple dissimilar generators without the use of a generator synchronizer will be developed. Paralleling capability will afford users the ability to suit power requirement needs more efficiently. Gensets can be turned off during times of low power usage and be brought on and off line without interrupting the power supply. 2. Modular distribution panels proposed in Phase I can be configured at the site to meet the power requirement need. A tooless set-up is also proposed. Modules, interconnecting buss, and cabling are all secured using on-board latching devices. Module weight can be limited to that which deployment personnel can physically carry. 3. An intuitive, graphical interface is proposed that will allow the operator to access all power distribution information as well as execute control functions for the operation. A microprocessor facilitates the management of the power distribution system by automating certain system tasks. 4. Armored aluminum cabling with encapsulated terminations will be developed to replace the heavy copper cables presently being used.

Benefits:
The innovative engineering solutions proposed here have broad utility and certain potential for commercial application. The need for light-weight, portable power distribution is pervasive in construction, outdoor recreation and intertainment, and in both military and non-military disaster and other humanitarian relief operations.

Keywords:
Power distribution Mobile electric Cabling MEPDIS EMEPDIS Phase matching Uninterruptable MEP