NASA research award. Proposal to develop a revolutionary space micro-concentrator module (MCM) that utilizes microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) reflectors to retain cell performance by increasing…

This is a $595,830 firm-fixed-price NASA research contract awarded to Spectrolab, Inc. to develop a revolutionary Space Micro-Concentrator Module (MCM) technology that utilizes microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) reflectors. The MCM is intended to increase the localized incident flux intensity and temperature of solar cells, serving as a cell-interconnect-coverglass (CIC) replacement that can be mounted in a flat-panel or photovoltaic blanket configuration. The contract aims to optimize Spectrolab's space-qualified triple junction solar cells for MCM use, miniaturize and optimize the MEMS mirror controls, and design towards space qualification. This work builds on Spectrolab's prior internal research and development of a proof-of-concept MCM prototype. There is no set-aside designation noted for this award.

NASA research award. Proposal to develop a revolutionary space micro-concentrator module (MCM) that utilizes microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) reflectors to retain cell performance by increasing the localized incident flux intensity and temperature as a cell-interconnect-coverglass (CIC) replacement mountable in a flat-panel or PV blanket configuration. Roses 2015 NRA: advancing collaborative connections for earth system science. Spectrolab has developed a proof-of-concept MCM under internal funding utilizing MEMS mirror arrays developed by sandia national laboratories. Spectrolab proposes to further develop the MCM technology by optimizing our space-qualified triple junction cells for MCM use, miniaturizing and optimizing the MEMS mirror controls for minimal power consumption, and designing towards space qualification. Our innovative design of the MCM incorporates small area solar cells of area mounted in an inverted fashion above an array of individually actuated MEMS micro-mirrors. These mirror arrays form an adaptive concentrating parabolic optic where the mirror tilts are able to adjust to a change in the sun's position on timescales of microseconds or less. The MCM may generate concentrations on the cells or more dependent on design. At lilt distances, the cells will thus see intensities and reach temperatures equivalent or higher to those at 1 AU and will regain nominal efficiencies. This performance boost has a secondary effect on cost as process bands and screening methods for lilt-capable epitaxy may be relaxed. Because the mirror actuation is internal, the module is able to fine tune the solar pointing of the array with greatly reduced reliance on the external stepper motors used for panel actuation, leading to overall power and reliability savings. Additionally, the MCM will have a lower cost compared to an equivalent CIC, as IT reduces the necessary high cost III-V solar cell material in favor of silicon MEMS materials and is compatible with proven and scalable integrated circuits processing methods. Furthermore, because there is no direct line-of-sight to the active area of the inverted solar cells, the MCM design promises radiation tolerance and improved end-of-life performance in missions in high radiation environments. Spectrolab will continue its work to design and fabricate the MEMS mirror arrays as well as their efforts to develop the module design parameters such as target concentration, size, and layout of the MCM as well as panel-level development needed for optimal power management. An assembled TTR-design MCM coupon may be available at completion.