At the Institute of Power Electronics of Novosibirsk State Technical University, NETI, they are working on miniature electric energy converters that are used in aircraft power supply system. Their use will make it possible to increase the payload and the economic benefits of aircraft operation.
"If you take a spacecraft, the power supply system there can take up to 30% of the volume and weight, respectively. If we miniaturize the power supply system, you can either reduce the cost of putting this object into orbit, or increase the payload — take up the vacant space, for example, scientific equipment, life support systems. When creating microassemblies, we take as a basis the experience of world leaders — manufacturers of battery-free power supplies. We have our own circuitry, different technology, and a different housing that is resistant to external influences. There are strict requirements for power supplies, and converters on board spacecraft must operate under conditions of radiation exposure, extreme temperatures, and other environmental factors. We take all this into account," said Dmitry Stein, a leading engineer at the Institute of Power Electronics.
The NSTU NETI Technology Center has already launched a line for assembling prototypes of hybrid microassemblies using shell-less elements, and the team is now manufacturing the first samples and conducting tests, which are planned to be completed by the end of the year.
According to Dmitry Stein, the main task is to determine the technology of design, assembly, and subsequent tests, to obtain a fully functional demonstration sample. The work is conducted within the framework of the "Priority 2030" program of the national project "Science and Universities". Miniature electric power converters are being developed to meet the technical requirements of space and aviation boards. There are already potential customers interested in this product.