An innovative modification has been made to a previously patented design for the Phase Change Material (PCM) Thermal Generator, which works in water where ocean temperature alternatively melts wax in canisters, or allows the wax to re-solidify, causing high-pressure oil to flow through a hydraulic generator, thus creating electricity to charge a battery that powers the vehicle. In this modification, a similar thermal PCM device has been created that is heated and cooled by the air and solar radiation instead of using ocean temperature differences to change the PCM from solid to liquid. This innovation allows the device to use thermal energy to generate electricity on land, instead of just in the ocean.
This work was done by Jack A. Jones of Caltech for NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. NPO-48630
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Phase Change Material Thermal Power Generator
(reference NPO-48630) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) concerning the Phase Change Material (PCM) Thermal Power Generator, identified as NPO-48630. It outlines the development and testing of a power generation system that utilizes phase change materials to harness thermal energy from environmental temperature variations, particularly in oceanic settings.
The PCM power generation system is designed to operate efficiently by exploiting the thermal cycling between warm ocean surfaces and cold ocean depths. This technology is particularly relevant for long-term energy generation in remote or harsh environments, where traditional power sources may be impractical. The document emphasizes the potential applications of PCM technology in various fields, including aerospace, where reliable and sustainable power sources are critical.
One of the key projects highlighted is SOLO-TREC (SOLO Thermal Regenerative Energy Converter), which was deployed on November 30, 2009. SOLO-TREC successfully executed nearly 1,000 generation cycles before its recovery on June 11, 2011. Initially, it generated approximately 6100 Joules per dive, with an average pressure of about 2920 PSI produced by the PCM. However, the mission faced challenges when a defective battery caused a short circuit in September 2010, leading to a reduction in operational efficiency. To extend battery life, the diving frequency was adjusted to once every ten days, allowing for partial charging.
The document also discusses advancements in hydraulic power generation systems, comparing the original belt-driven design with a more efficient direct rotor coupling system. The latter achieved an electro-mechanical efficiency of 50%, significantly improving power generation capabilities during the 18-month ocean endurance test.
Overall, the Technical Support Package serves as a comprehensive overview of the PCM Thermal Power Generator's development, testing, and potential applications. It highlights the importance of innovative energy solutions in addressing the challenges of long-term power generation in remote environments, showcasing NASA's commitment to advancing technology for broader scientific and commercial use. The document concludes by inviting further inquiries and collaboration through NASA's Innovative Partnerships Program, emphasizing the ongoing exploration of aerospace-related developments.
