USB-C POWER DELIVERY FOR MILITARY PORTABLE SYSTEMS

Abstract

Modern military operations increasingly depend on portable electronic systems, including radios, night vision devices, medical monitors, and rugged computing platforms. However, reliance on proprietary power interfaces often leads to logistical inefficiencies, increased equipment weight, and reduced operational flexibility. This thesis investigates the adoption of Universal Serial Bus Type-C (USB-C)power delivery (PD) as a standardized charging interface for military portable systems to reduce logistical burden, improve charging efficiency, and enhance mission readiness.A dual-method approach was used. First, two USB-C PD-enabled prototype battery packs (4S1P and 4S3P) were designed, assembled, and tested under multiple load profiles. Results showed a 70-80% reduction in charge time compared to legacy chargers, while maintaining safe thermal limits and compatibility across varied PD power profiles. Second, a USB-C PD adoption analysis using data from 73 representative devices demonstrated substantial improvements in availability and operational efficiency. A regression-based predictive model and a squad-level operational simulation confirmed that USB-C PD standardization reduces charger count, increases flexibility, and enhances readiness. These findings highlight the potential of transitioning toward USB-C PD systems to streamline power logistics and enable greater scalability in defense applications.