Enabling Technologies for Deployable, High Repetition Rate Directed Energy and Pulsed Power Systems
Abstract
Pulsed power technology was initially developed to provide a low cost method for x-ray imaging of nuclear detonations. In the late 1990s, applications began to emerge for compact, portable and high pulse repetition rate (PRR) systems for an emerging class of nonlethal Directed Energy Weapons (DEW). Simultaneously, new commercial applications were investigated where repetition rates were important. Industrial and commercial applications include material modification, laser ablation, protection of the environment, decontamination technologies, and biological and medical developments. These applications tend to be a modest voltage (10kV) and current (10A) levels. New wide-bandgap semiconductor switches are fueling the developments because of their compact size, light-weight, high repetition-rate, low-cost, and high efficiency. As the technology developed from applied science to system development, a host of issues have emerged regarding the operation of high PRR pulsed power yet the bulk of the development funding focused on the applications and not on technology development for repetitive systems. The University of New Mexico will investigate the commercialization potential of repetitively operated, robust pulsed power components. Initial product offerings will center on two key components of high PRR systems: the capacitor charging power supply and repetitive trigger generator.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 04, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910415
Entities
People
- Jane M Lehr
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Office of the Secretary of Defense
- University of New Mexico