Raytheon Dual-Use Cryocooler system development

The Dual-Use Cryocooler system, consisting of a single-stage pulse tube thermo-mechanical unit (TMU) in combination with a modified, high reliability set of tactical cryocooler electronics, has been designed to fill the gap that exists between present low-cost tactical and high-cost space cryocooler products. The TMU portion of the system contains a significantly smaller number of parts than typical space cryocoolers while maintaining all of the long-fife features that allow those machines to operate continuously and reliably for 10+ years. This reduction in mechanical complexity positively impacts both unit cost and required build time. The drive electronics have been developed in parallel, and include such features as dual independent motor drives, output waveform shaping, and a variety of TMU / electronics protection algorithms. The fabrication and test cycles for the brassboard system have been completed, and insights gained from these exercises are presented in this paper. Initial design trades and present design status for the TMU and drive electronics are both presented, as well as a comparison of expected versus measured performance. Lastly, an overview of the steps required to bring this system design to flight-readiness will be given.