Alternative Methods of Wireless Sensor Power Navy SBIR FY2005.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.2 Topic No.: N05-130 Topic Title: Alternative Methods of Wireless Sensor Power Proposal No.: N052-130-0459 Firm: Hi-Z Technology, Inc. Suite 7400 7606 Miramar Road San Diego, California 92126-4210 Contact: Velimir Jovanovic Phone: (858) 695-6660 Web Site: www.hi-z.com Abstract: Hi-Technology, Inc. (Hi-Z) proposes to use thermoelectric devices in developing an alternate method of providing power for wireless sensors. A thermoelctric gneator (TEG) converts heat directly to electicity in a compact, reliable, robust, solid-state module. Hi-Z has developed thermoelectric module technology that is well suited for this Navy application. Using the experience gained in the current Phase II SBIR where a small power-harvesting TEG is being designed and fabricated for Navy wireless sensors, Hi-Z is planning to examine all potential heat sources and select the best one for the conceptual design of a TEG for this application generating 10-100mW constant power and having a minimum life of 4 years. In the Phase II SBIR, Hi-Z is designing a TEG that utilizes the heat transfer between shipboard waste heat sources and the ambient air to generate electricity for wireless sensor. In two prior Navy applications Hi-Z designed TEGs for senors wih the one installed on USS Monterrey (CG61) operating on just a 5C difference between the temperature of the space inside the ship and the ships hull. In order to satisfy the desired small form factor for the alternate power source, Hi-Z proposes to apply its innovative Quantum Well thermoelectric technology that has four times higher conversion efficiency than SOTA bulk thermoelectrics. Benefits: Benefits to the Navy are in cost reduction by elimination of batteries and tethered wires, large reduction in personnel and significant reduction in downtime by providing early detection of abnormal conditions in critical equipment. Other applications are in health monitoring of machinery in submarines, commercial ships, aircraft and launch vehicles, power plants, trucks, automobiles, appliances, and in security and surveillance industries. Return