Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: To address the Navy"s need for a reliable laser-based turbine engine ignition system,

Description

To address the Navy"s need for a reliable laser-based turbine engine ignition system, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Turbojet Laser Ignition (TuLI) system. It is based on integration of existing laser optics technologies into a compact form factor, generating and delivering into the combustion chamber optical energy greater than that of electrode-based systems, igniting the intake charge, generating the same power, while minimizing wear on the igniter components. The innovation in compact optical igniters enables delivery of more energy to more efficiently ignite the intake charge, while reducing required maintenance by replacing conventional electrodes of finite lifecycle, with optical elements. Therefore, the TuLI system eliminates various finite-lifecycle durability issues of electrode-based spark igniters such as cracked insulators, electrode contaminant buildup, and electrode erosion, giving the TuLI system>4000 hr of service due to the much longer life expectancy of optical components, directly increased system durability as the Navy requires. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of the TuLI system by creating a laser igniter in a compact form factor. In Phase II, POC plans to develop an ignition system prototype to conduct small-scale live-testing to prove the mission worthiness of the TuLI system.