N0002424CS134

Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase I

100 HP CRAW Powerplant with New Gapless Rolling Electric Motor

Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW) 100HP Electric Powerplant

This project by Orhont Magnetics LLC focuses on the development of a 100 hp powerplant for Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW) propulsion, utilizing an innovative Gapless Rolling (GR) electric motor. The GR motor, a revolutionary design in electric propulsion, substitutes traditional airgaps with magnetic rollers. This modification enhances power density, compactness, and reduces maintenance, aligning with the specific requirements of the CRAW's powerplant. The GR motor's design is a radical departure from conventional electric motors. By employing magnetic rollers in place of the standard air gaps, it achieves superior magnetic flux distribution, which minimizes torque pulsations, vibrations, and noise. This innovation leads to increased efficiency and reduces operational costs. Analytical and Finite Element Analysis of the GR motor indicates a 25% increase in power to volume ratio compared to conventional motors. This feature is particularly advantageous for applications like torpedo propulsion, where space and weight are critical constraints. Laboratory tests of initial GR motor models have demonstrated effective rotor suspension and rotation without slippage or vibration, underscoring the design's robustness and potential for further development. In addition to the motor, the project places equal emphasis on the development of an efficient battery pack and a sophisticated bipolar motor drive. These components are integral to the overall performance of the powerplant. The battery pack is designed to meet the high current requirements and spatial constraints of the CRAW, while the bipolar motor drive, interfaced with the battery, is tailored to optimize the power output of the GR motor. A dedicated senseless control strategy ensures the motor maintains a steady speed, crucial for the CRAW's operational efficacy. Compliance with regulatory standards and cybersecurity considerations are pivotal to the project's strategy. The team is dedicated to ensuring that the GR motor meets stringent defense sector standards and incorporates robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard the technology's integrity in defense systems. The team, composed of experts in power systems, electric motor design, and propulsion systems drive the project to success.

The goal of phase I is to establish the technical merit, feasibility, and commercial potential of proposed R&D efforts and determine the quality of performance of the small business awardee organization.

N241-042

N241-042-0145

24.1

Ciara N Hildebrandt