Alphacore will focus on two classes of sensors: pressure sensors and accelerometers for the Phase I of the program. The target sensors need to be modeled for mechanical as well as electrical response to correlate the two outputs. Building upon existing work, additional sensor parameters will be incorporated, and electrical tests will be designed to excite the mechanical characteristics. Architectural design of the parametrizable self-test IP will be made to be versatile to accommodate self-test and calibration accessible to wide range of products. Finally, error models for the sensors will be built using multivariable statistical approach to determine the confidence intervals associated with sensitivity and drift parameters. Adaptive boosting algorithms that require min. number of repeated measurements and minimum number of sensors in the array will be developed. Proposed deliverables are progress reports, technical review within 6 months and a final report detailing all the work, architectural design, simulation and modeling results.
Alphacore’s high performance DC/DC converters are intended for smart instruments and controllers used in spacesuit life support systems. With future missions in mind, NASA is developing a next generation Exploration Portable Life Support Subsystem for deep space and surface. Alphacore’s innovation can be implemented during the planned testing on the International Space Station followed by the Deep Space Gateway, the Space Launch System and Orion exploration plans in the Moon to Mars missions.
Isolated DC/DC converters are popular in mixed signal circuits, test & measurement equipment, process and machine controls, and telecommunication applications. Alphacore’s radiation-hardened and high-performance converters can be applied to defense and aerospace-related power management, by government agencies such as DOE office of Clean Engery and NIST.