With its attendance at the Association of the US Army’s annual defence exhibition in Washington, DC, from 9-11 October 2023 power management and head protection specialist Galvion will be demonstrating its Charge on the Move vehicle-mounted soldier power solution.
Developed in response to emerging requirements to provide power and battery charging to dismounted troops while they are being transported in vehicles, the foundation of Galvion’s Charge on the Move solution is the field-proven and widely adopted Squad Power Manager (SPM) in a vehicle-mounted configuration in order to streamline the connection between the onboard vehicle power systems and Galvion’s personal-worn power and data systems. The SPM converts vehicle power for direct operator use and provides smart charging when needed, obviating the need for a large generator or extra batteries.
Input power can be done through NATO tactical connections, via a DC ‘cigarette plug’ adapter, or direct from the vehicle battery, onboard AC or solar source. The system is compatible with most tactical vehicles currently in use.
Working in conjunction with Galvion’s power and data ecosystem, dismounted soldiers connect into the system using Galvion’s Personal Worn Scavenger (PWS) via a low-profile, sealed magnetic connection that can be quickly connected/disconnected, even while wearing gloves, and gives a more secure and robust link. Operators can keep radios and other mission-critical equipment running while simultaneously trickle-charging personal-worn batteries and equipment.
Additionally, Galvion’s proprietary Nerv Centr Application, an integrated capability with its 2-Port Power & Data Hub, allows operators to monitor power supply versus demand, enabling quick analysis of power requirements. Up to four soldiers can connect to the SPM simultaneously, allowing dismounted soldiers to step off the vehicle fully charged and ready to fulfil their mission.
Kristen Lomastro, president of the Active Systems business at Galvion, was quoted as saying in a company press release, “This Charge on the Move solution further optimises the functionality and efficiency of our power management and wearable power and data ecosystems, taking up minimal real estate but providing maximum value. System interoperability builds flexibility and agility for the warfighter and increases their ability to respond and adapt to changes in operational demands. Lessening the burden on the individual operator and unit, whether physical, cognitive, or logistic, drives everything we do at Galvion, and this solution ticks all the boxes to enhance performance and support mission success.”
