SBIR/STTR Award attributes
Dynovas’ Adaptive Expeditionary Micro-hydro Power System (AEMPS) is a ruggedized and man-portable surface-piercing (partially submerged) vertical turbine system designed for expeditionary power generation applications based on four key capabilities: Enable expeditionary power generation capabilities and deployment via 2-man portable transport volume and weight package Enable intervention-free operation with minimal/no performance degradation due to debris presence Provide maximum power generation across the specified Marine Corps. Systems Command’s (MCSC) flow speed and depth ranges Enable serviceability and in-field manufacturability of critical path components via design for Expeditionary Advanced Manufacturing (EAM) methods The vertical turbine architecture is designed to adjust the relative insertion depth of the hydrokinetic turbine foils (or blades) and adapt to present conditions of water depth and flow speed as well as remove itself completely in the presence of debris to provide both power generation and survivability across varying deployment scenarios. Dynovas’ novel micro-hydro generator technology will provide scalable technology platform that is aimed to provide 500W 24VDC continuous power generation across hydro environments of variable depths greater than 0.5m (min. depth) and variable flow velocities above 0.5m/s (up to 3.5m/s). The team’s innovative approach will enable expeditionary and remote deployable power generation capabilities utilizing 1-2 personnel to assemble, launch, and retrieve the modular system, which will fit within a packing volume less than 1m3 with an overall weight below 88lbs for a 2-AEMPS unit containing deployment package. AEMPS consists of a light-weighted and ruggedized composite structure erected from an array of nestable composite struts, joints, structural cables, tool-less fastening mechanisms, and supporting electronic components. AEMPS leverages sonar debris detection/avoidance protocols, tension sensing, along with power output vs. current speed vs. capture area monitoring potential debris impact and fouling from objects up to 30m upstream. Continuous operation does not require a shroud, net, or deflector to mitigate risk of reduced performance or damage due to flowing debris in the environment. Instead, AEMPS’ open architecture simply can move out of the collision path and subsequently continue operation when determined safe via novel vertical actuation mechanism. This array of structural components, mechanisms, and electronic components are both selected and/or designed with the intent of optimizing in-field reparability and manufacturability via EAM methods to address the needs of the warfighter, humanitarian efforts, and provide a disruptive approach to renewable and remote hydrokinetic power generation.
