Zyra – Compact Hybrid Energy System
Concept Design – Hybrid Energy System for Directed Energy Applications
Overview
Zyra is a compact hybrid energy system integrating a graphene-lithium battery, graphene-based supercapacitor, and a phase change material (PCM) layer for thermal management. Designed for aerospace and high-power applications, the system delivers rapid energy bursts while minimizing thermal buildup in a compact, palm-sized form factor.
Problem
High-power compact systems (e.g., directed-energy devices, drones) often face limitations due to low burst power capability and overheating. This project aimed to design a system capable of delivering high instantaneous power while maintaining thermal stability within strict size constraints.
Process
System Architecture Design:
Designed a hybrid energy architecture combining battery energy density with supercapacitor power density. Defined energy flow pathways and load-switching logic for efficient discharge.CAD Modeling (SolidWorks):
Modeled internal component layout, optimizing spatial constraints and thermal distribution within a compact enclosure.PCB Control Design:
Designed a custom PCB concept for load switching between the battery and supercapacitor, incorporating basic control logic for power distribution and system protection.Thermal Management (PCM Selection):
Researched and selected phase change materials based on melting temperature range and heat absorption capacity. Integrated PCM layer to absorb transient thermal spikes during discharge cycles.MATLAB Simulations:
Conducted simulations to model:Energy discharge behavior between battery and supercapacitor
Transient heat generation and thermal absorption
System response under high-power pulse loads
Prototype Integration:
Combined all subsystems into a compact prototype design, validating feasibility of layout, thermal buffering, and energy delivery.
Development Phase
Design finalized with key components identified and CAD layout completed. Simulation results support feasibility of high-power output with controlled thermal response. Future work includes physical prototyping and experimental validation.
Skills Used
SolidWorks, MATLAB, Circuit Design, PCB Concepts, Prototyping, Thermal Systems, Energy Systems Design, Graphene Material Research