N132-127 TITLE: Compact, Lossless, Ruggedized, Electromagnetically Shielded Connectors for Power and Signals

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Ground/Sea Vehicles, Electronics

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: FNC P&E-FY14-01: Efficient and Power Dense Elec Arch and Component Dev.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is to develop a compact, lossless, ruggedized, electromagnetically shielded electrical connector design and conduct a demonstration of the connector.

DESCRIPTION: As the Navy progresses into more advanced, modularized, higher power density, power electronics and efficient distribution architecture onboard ships and other platforms, the need for more efficient, compact, and reliable connections between devices and cables becomes ever more critical. Thermal output, efficiency and safety are all concerns that are impacted by the quality of electrical connectors.

One key objective of this topic is to understand and model the various impedance and degradation phenomena associated with electrical connectors in high-power electronics. The second key objective is to develop a connector design(s) and demonstration that drastically improves upon impedance, electromagnetic shielding, survivability, corrosion resistance, and connector diameter relative to cable diameter. Such connectors should be designed for cables transmitting various DC and AC power variants in tandem with communication signals. Many applicable scenarios include highly transient loads. One key metric will be a reduction of connector impedance to micro-ohms.

PHASE I: Perform a feasibility study and develop physics-based models in order to produce a design which meets the capabilities outlined in the description. The deliverable is a model that can serve to provide design specifications for connectors.

PHASE II: Development of a prototype based on Phase I work for demonstration and validation. The prototype should be delivered at the end of Phase II, ready for testing in a live circuit.

PHASE III: Integrate the Phase II developed connector into the P&E-FY14-01 FNC program for transition to the ESO acquisition program.

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL/DUAL-USE APPLICATIONS: Successful development of a compact, lossless, ruggedized, electromagnetically shielded electrical connector would directly impact power distribution and devices in every possible civilian and commercial application imaginable. It would enable more efficient, reliable, and user-friendly systems in portable electronics, vehicles, power grids, and so on.

REFERENCES:
1. C. Peter Cho et al.; Energy Losses in Magnetic Lamination Materials of a Novel Integrated Motor/Pump System; Jul. 22, 1997; Proceedings, Twenty-sixth Annual Symposium, Incremental Motion Control Systems & Devices, pp. 325-333.

2. Naval Ships� Technical Manual, Chapter 320, "Electric Power Distribution Systems", S9086-KY-STM-010, Tmders Incorporated: N65540-04-TC09, N65540-04-SA09, N65540-04-TC43, This Chapter Supersedes Chapter 320 Dated 30 May 2002. Distribution Statement A: Approved For Public Release. Distribution Is Unlimited, Published By Direction of Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command.

3. Jerome H. Collins, 9th Joint FAA/DoD/NASA Aging Aircraft Conference "The Challenges Facing U.S. Navy Aircraft Electrical Wiring Systems", Wiring Systems Branch (AIR-4.4.5.3), Naval Air Systems Command.

4. Society of Automotive/Aerospace Engineers. AS22759 Wire, Electrical, Polytetrafluoroethylene/Polymide Insulated, Light Weight, Tin Coated, Copper Conductor, 150�C, 600 Volts. Warrendale, Pennsylvania.

KEYWORDS: Electrical Connector; Efficiency; Energy Security; Thermal Performance; Resistance; Impedance

** TOPIC AUTHOR (TPOC) **

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