A Micro-Nuclear Power Generator for Space Missions

Mitigation of Potential Environmental Risks of Space Nuclear Power Sources (NPS) Missions in International Law

Micro Electret Power Generator

We present the first micromachined rotational electret power generator, linearized theoretical model of electret power generation, and novel method to produce uniformly charged electret. We also improved our previously developed [ I , 21 thin film Teflon AF 1601-S electret technology with respect to dielectric thickness, charge uniformity, and processability. In demonstration, our prototype pow...

Micro-Flying Robotics in Space Missions

The Columbia Accident Investigation Board issued a major recommendation to NASA. Prior to return to flight, NASA should develop and implement a comprehensive inspection plan to determine the structural integrity of all Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) system components. This inspection plan should take advantage of advanced non-destructive inspection technology. This paper describes a non-intrusi...

Piezoelectric Micro Power Generator for Energy Harvesting

A thin film lead zirconate titanate Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT), power generating device is developed. It is designed to resonate at specific vibrational frequencies from an ambient, vibrational energy source, thereby creating electrical energy via the piezoelectric effect. The energy harvesting device uses the piezoelectric d33 mode and is fabricated with three mask steps. Our cantilever device was desi...

MEMS Electrostatic Micro-Power Generator for Low Frequency Operation

This paper describes the analysis, simulation and testing of a microengineered motion-driven power generator, suitable for application in sensors within or worn on the human body. Micro-generators capable of powering sensors have previously been reported, but these have required high frequency mechanical vibrations to excite a resonant structure. However, bodydriven movements are slow and irreg...