Project Title:
Aluminum-Gallium-Arsenide, Photovoltaic, Space-Laser Energy Converters
10.04-6696
911179
Aluminum-Gallium-Arsenide, Photovoltaic, Space-Laser Energy Converters
Kopin Corporation
695 Myles Standish Boulevard
Taunton
MA
02780
Mark B.
Spitzer
508-824-6696
LaRC
NAS1-19527
208
10.04-6696
911179
Abstract:
Aluminum-Gallium-Arsenide, Photovoltaic, Space-Laser Energy Converters
This project addresses the development of a space-based, laser energy converter for
power transmission. The unique and innovative aspects include increasing the operating
range of the converter to high power densities, on the order of 100 watts/cm2, by
using a series-connected array approach to reduce series resistance. A substrate
removal approach will reduce thermal impedance between the active semiconductor layer
and heat sink. To make this improvement possible, direct gap materials must be used.
Phase I will consist of work to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach. In
Phase II, a prototype device will be demonstrated.
Applications are in the conversion of space-based laser light to electrical energy
and in conversion of light from an optical fiber into electrical energy over a broad
energy density range. Additional applications include power transmission via tamper-resistant
and EMI-resistant optical cables.
photovoltaics, energy conversion