Electron air plasma propulsion

Abstract

An air plasma propulsion system and method are described, comprising: an air turbine arrangement adapted to receive supply air from an external environment; and a plasma propulsion unit adapted to increase the velocity of the air after respective ionization and entry into the air plasma phase. The air turbine arrangement includes a turbine that compresses air transmitted in a plasma propulsion unit that intensively ionizes and accelerates the air by frequency or microwaves in a magnetic field generated by a laser beam.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a plasma propulsion method and system.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention comprises an air turbine device and a plasma propulsion unit, the following description relating to this field of application. BACKGROUND

[0003] Experimental work on engines has been ongoing for more than 50 years, jointly carried out by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Department of Plasma Physics and Space Propulsion Research and Development of the United States Department of Energy.

[0004] Previous operational implementations are known, for example, through European patent EP3275291B1. After the gas (air) enters, it is subjected to a first stage of compression, bombarded by an electric arc, i.e. heated, and then immediately the electrons are pulled out of the atoms with high voltage and high frequency, thus achieving gas ionization. At this point, the passage to the plasma state is determined, both ions and electrons are accelerated in movement, seeking a primitive stability. In the second stage, the magnetic and electric energy is further enhanced by frequency heating, thus generating a strong "thrust" outflow speed, for example, not less than 10-30 km / s, before a dangerous thermal diffusion occurs.

[0005] The Helicon Double Layer is a method that uses a helicon coil to surround the flow, inside which a suitable frequency is released. Outside, there are super magnets that, combined with the helicon frequency, obtain energy by generating plasma. The whole process, like the Vasimr propulsion device, does not require any moving parts. SUMMARY

[0006] OBJECTIVE The propulsion system according to the invention comprises an ion plasma propulsion unit as defined in independent claim 1.

[0007] The invention also relates to a plasma propulsion method as defined in independent claim 8.

[0008] Further aspects of the invention are defined in the respective dependent claims.

[0009] The invention generally provides at least two parts: a fluid dynamics part related to a turbine and a subsequent electromagnetic plasma part. The invention aims to improve plasma propulsion technology, with the purpose of including at least: a simpler structure compared to the complexity of known solutions.

[0010] The present invention does not require the use of polluting fuels, unlike known solutions which easily cause environmental pollution. The present invention has high autonomy, thus enabling freedom of movement and safety of movement.

[0011] According to the present invention, advantageously, the thermal fluid electrodynamic and ion plasma cycle uses only one gas: air. Air plasma is a substance in which neutral atoms or diatomic molecules are separated into electrons and charged ions. The main purpose of the present invention is: • to implement a plasma propulsion system / method which is easy to implement / operate.

[0012] • to implement a plasma propulsion system / method which is as environmentally friendly as possible.

[0013] • to implement a plasma propulsion system which is as independent and autonomous as possible.

[0014] These and other objects are achieved by the propulsion method / system described hereinafter and defined in the appended claims. SUMMARY

[0015] According to a first aspect, the present invention defines a plasma propulsion system comprising: an air turbine device adapted to receive supply air from an external environment; and a plasma propulsion unit adapted to increase air speed after respective ionization and entry into a plasma phase. Wherein the air turbine device comprises: a first compression device adapted to implement a first compression of air; a second compression device adapted to implement a second compression of air pre-compressed by the first compression device; a first heating device adapted to heat air previously compressed by the first and second compression devices; an alternator and an alternator starter adapted to generate electrical energy; a reverse rotation power turbine which can be driven by heated air to generate expanded air, wherein the power turbine is adapted to: perform compression work by the first and second compression devices; generate electrical energy; and expel residual expanded air under the action of compressed and heated air by a portion of the generated electrical energy.

[0016] The plasma propulsion unit associated with the air turbine device comprises: a duct for the plasma flow, adapted to receive the residual expanded air exiting the power turbine; a connection between the power turbine and the duct for the plasma flow, wherein the connection has a decreasing cross section in the direction of the duct for the plasma flow and comprises an anode and a cathode configured to generate a hot arc obtained by means of an RF oscillator, so that the residual air in the connection subjected to the hot arc becomes ionized heated air; magnetic means fixed so as to surround the duct for the plasma flow, adapted to generate a corresponding magnetic field, wherein said anode, said cathode and said hot arc are located in said magnetic field and said magnetic means are configured to generate a plasma from said ionized heated air; a frequency or microwave source equipped with adjacent helical antennas which surround the duct for the plasma flow in the magnetic field generated by said magnetic means; ejection means which eject the plasma generated inside the duct for the plasma flow, comprising a supersonic divergent nozzle with a bell-shaped antenna, wherein the ejection means implement the thrust generated by the propulsion system in the plasma outlet.

[0017] Preferably, the first compression means comprise two stators and two rotors associated with the fixed shaft of the turbine device.

[0018] Preferably, the second compression means 5 comprise a counter-rotating shaft compressor comprising a plurality of first blades counter-rotating with respect to a plurality of second blades. Preferably, the AC generator is adapted to generate a three-phase alternating current, characterized in that the stator is located inside the casing of the power turbine and has a reinforced magnetic rotor with external magnets fixed to the counter-rotating duct of the main turbine assembly.

[0019] Preferably, the first heating means comprise a number of groups of micro-blades counter-rotating with respect to each other, made of a hard and heat-resistant metal alloy, located in a circular gap defined by two cylindrical ducts and adapted to counter-rotate with respect to the fixed shaft, so as to form a plurality of micro-hot arcs by continuous rotation for rapidly raising the temperature of the compressed air in the conveying process.

[0020] Preferably, the annular magnetic means comprise one or more of the following devices: magnetic rings and electromagnetic rings; accelerators with multi-phase solenoids provided with an additional magnetic circular crown of the Halbach array type inside.

[0021] In another example, the system comprises a processing unit configured to correlate the frequencies generated by the ionization, the helicon wave, the exhaust nozzle and the magnetic density generated by the magnetic device and the solenoid. In a second aspect, the present invention defines a method for plasma propulsion comprising the steps of: providing an air turbine device adapted to receive supply air from the external environment; and a plasma propulsion unit equipped with a duct for the plasma flow, connected to the air turbine device, adapted to increase the air speed after the respective ionization and entry into the air plasma phase; In the air turbine device: - performing a first compression on the air and a second compression on the previously compressed air; - heating the air previously compressed by the first and second compression by means of a thermal arc; - deflecting part of the air inwardly to the axis of the power turbine on which a coaxial virtual cathode oscillator is placed, by means of a centrifugal compressor; - expanding the heated air in the power turbine to perform a compression work by means of the first and second compression devices; - generating electric energy; - expelling the residual expanded air under the action of the air which is compressed and has been heated with part of the generated electric energy; - simultaneously performing the following steps: • increasing the speed of the residual air to reduce the pressure by reducing the transmission section of the residual air at the outlet of the power turbine; • applying a thermal arc to the residual air by means of a pulse frequency in a magnetic field generated by a ring-shaped magnetic device and a multiphase solenoid fixed like a crown around the junction of the plasma flow; • wherein the two steps of increasing the speed of the residual air and applying a thermal arc to the residual air are performed simultaneously, so that from the residual air at the end of the previous passage from the power turbine, an ionized, heated and accelerated air suitable for entering the plasma state is formed ("exhaust diffuser"); • feeding the ionized, heated and accelerated air Ai into the duct 201 for the plasma propulsion unit; • determining the path for entering the plasma state and the subsequent steps of exciting and accelerating the plasma by means of an excitation device comprising: a frequency or hybrid microwave with one or more antennas wound on the duct.

[0022] In another example, the pulsed hot arc can be located at the inlet of the duct and at the power turbine, configured to operate in phase with the oscillator in the magnetic field and combined with the reflected second frequency at 90° to 180° from the first frequency, wherein the pulsed hot arc is associated with a triggering device identified as a circular arrangement of cathodes and anodes, coaxially arranged and immersed in the magnetic field generated by the magnetic device.

[0023] Preferably, the magnetic device can comprise an accelerator with a multiphase solenoid inside which an additional circular crown of the Halbach array type is provided, wherein the direction of the magnetic field generated by the multiphase solenoid parallel to the axis of the propulsion duct substantially determines the direction of the longitudinal thrust of the plasma in helical motion towards the discharge nozzle.

[0024] Preferably, the excitation and acceleration steps of the plasma can be implemented by means of an excitation device comprising one or more four-spiral antennas of rectangular section for exciting and accelerating the plasma at a frequency or microwaves, wherein the frequency applied is 500 MHz for a duct with a diameter of 50 centimetres.

[0025] Preferably, the method can comprise a step implemented by means of an electronic computer configured to synchronize or associate the resonance and the repetition of the gyromagnetic frequency during the generation of the plasma with the magnetic density generated by the solenoid and to simplify the process of ionizing and accelerating the plasma at the same frequency.

[0026] Advantages The technical advantages of the present application will emerge from the following description, provided by way of example and not for limiting purposes, in conjunction with the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] In the following, the description will be made with reference to the attached drawings, which are merely examples and not limitative, in which: - FIG. 1 a diagram of the propulsion system showing an embodiment of the present application, in which the various components have been numbered in order to facilitate the understanding of the specific details of the present embodiment; - FIG. 1A a diagram showing the cross section of the propulsion unit taken along the line A-A in FIG. 1 - - FIG. 1B a diagram showing the detail numbered 13 in FIG. 1 - - FIG. 1C a diagram showing the enlarged arrangement and direction of rotation of the turbine blades and compressor blades (P1, P2 and 13) in FIG. 1 - - FIG. 2 a diagram showing the detail of FIG. 1C - -FIG. 3A-FIG. 3B Several helical antenna examples that can be used in a system are shown. FIG. 1 FIG. 4 Structure and cross-sectional view of a coaxial virtual cathode oscillator are schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The present invention describes a propulsion system comprising an air turbine device adapted to receive air supplied from an external environment and a plasma propulsion unit adapted to generate thrust and connected to the air turbine device to receive air heated by the air turbine device. In other words, the propulsion system of the present invention comprises a fluid-dynamic stage associated with a turbine and a stage for generating electromagnetic plasma.

[0029] According to the present invention, in the fluid-dynamic stage associated with the turbine, the propellant gas is air; in the following description, air will always be considered as a gas, in particular a neutral gas consisting mainly of diatomic molecules, with a symmetrical molecular structure.

[0030] In fact, it is known that the air surrounding us, in addition to helping us to maintain life, is also useful for plasma ion propulsion units in the Earth's atmosphere. Air is mainly composed of two important gases: nitrogen 78.08% and oxygen 20.95%, both non-metals with good electron affinity and electronegativity.

[0031] Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere, it is a diatomic molecule like oxygen, it is neutral, colorless, odorless, odorless and has plasma plasmonic properties, in addition to being able to absorb heat quickly. Nitrogen atoms in the excited or de-excited state (i.e. when the electron returns to the atomic site in femtoseconds) emit photons containing a series of visible blue ultraviolet rays. In order to reduce environmental pollution, nitrogen reacts with oxygen in the air at high temperature and high pressure to produce nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Nitrogen dioxide can react with water to produce nitric acid HNO3, nitrates as nutrients to promote plant growth and fertilizers, have a very important role. Other types of compounds derived from nitrates are beneficial to humans and the warming of the Earth. In the following some components used in the present invention and the physical phenomena associated with them will be described.

[0032] The generation of plasma only requires the elastic instantaneous deformation of the atom under the action of an external electric field. It does not depend on the temperature or the stress frequency, the polarization factor depends only on the atomic size and is independent of the atomic number.

[0033] ​​The ionization efficiency can be improved by applying a strong electric field, which generates a large number of high-energy electrons in the plasma. This helps to increase the ionization level, thus reducing the energy cost required to produce electrons. If the charge is below 15 eV, the associated ionization is weak and the discharge dissipates by collision, which only increases its vibrational energy. In addition, the power required for pulsed discharge is lower and more efficient. The duration of the pulsed plasma and the associated repetition frequency reduce the molecular recombination phenomenon.

[0034] The application of a strong electric or electromagnetic field (above 34 kV / cm), which is in fact an electromagnetic shock wave, causes the air to undergo electrical breakdown, which in turn causes the current to increase dramatically and propagate along a complex predefined trajectory. Discharge begins when the density on the axis decreases to a threshold discharge value. The outermost electrons of the air atoms (valence electrons) are pulled away from the atom itself (frequency radiation), and since they are 1836 times lighter than the ions, they separate from the ions by creating a charge imbalance and perturbation. This process is called ionization of atoms in a dielectric. This happens when the density on the axis decreases to a threshold discharge value (threshold frequency - the density is directly proportional to the width of the applied electric field). The electrons that separate from the atoms are accelerated under the action of the electric field. These electrons, like bullets, hit (collide) other atoms, ionizing them by pulling out their other electrons. At this point, the air filled with free electrons becomes a conductor. The cross effect (focusing) of the electromagnetic wave is effectively converted into a longitudinal field of the plasma wave.

[0035] This phenomenon occurs in a charged waveguide structure, where the electrons, which are pushed faster than the ions, are subsequently followed by the ions, due to the strong continuous gradient of the longitudinal (accelerating) electric field and the transverse electric field, as well as the strong velocity potential barrier, or expulsion from the plasma wake or kinetic energy. The electric field must have oscillatory characteristics (to maintain the electrostatic field), which force the distribution of electromagnetic charges to oscillate with a similar pulsation or frequency to the frequency of the applied electric field. This wake is generated by the laser pulse excitation.

[0036] According to the invention, the magnets help to create the plasma, limit and guide (constrain) the plasma beam and accelerate it, thus creating a thrust. The study proposes the use of increasingly powerful permanent magnets, while retaining the advantages of the Array Halbach system.

[0037] Energy saving also prevents possible side effects of electrostatic instability.

[0038] After pre-ionization, the plasma also needs to be insulated in order to avoid heat exchange (which, in addition to lowering the plasma temperature, also damages the container).

[0039] Then, a radial or normal radial magnetic structure is formed, i.e. a magnetic structure perpendicular to the plasma flow, which confines the plasma particles in a smaller volume inside the tubular container.

[0040] The characteristic of the charged particles that make a helical movement around the magnetic field lines is the basis of the method of the confined / magnetically insulated plasma.

[0041] The magnetic field density normal to the horizontal flow lines must be lower than the magnetic field density of the same horizontal line that applies the magnetic field. The confinement generated by the magnetic field limits the number of degrees of freedom of movement to only one, directed along the exit direction of the flow lines. The magnetic component of the electromagnetic wave produces negligible effects in the air, since it is transparent and behaves like a vacuum (from the point of view of magnetism).

[0042] The electromagnetic accelerators have various implementations. For example, in the present invention, they are implemented as multiphase solenoids and helical antennas, as shown in FIG. 3 、 FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B .

[0043] There is an external toroidal multiphase solenoid 16 for generating a magnetic induction current that, by means of the pulse, distributes a variable electric field or induced electromotive force along the entire length. The applied electric field and the internal current can be constant, pulsed or alternating in a certain frequency range, and different ionization systems and electrical energy release modes can be used. In fact, there are many factors that change the situation and play a crucial role in deciding the effectiveness of the acceleration process. The orientation of the magnetic field is tangential to the system components; for example, in the present invention, these components are the ceramic cylindrical duct 201 and the helical antenna.

[0044] An important characteristic of the magnetic induction field is its ability to mechanically interact with the current. In fact, it exerts a bending force on the particles, which can be called angular acceleration. The current can be generated by the flow of electrons produced by the hot electron tube. This effect forms an interaction involving the dynamic mass effect or electrodynamic force, since the entire duct cross section is a material support for the charge. In this way, the particles confined in the plasma state are constrained to make a helical movement along the magnetic field lines under the action of the Lorentz force.

[0045] The multiphase solenoid guarantees a better and suitable confinement effect, as a guarantee and function of the electron density reached. The ratio of the number of multiple alternating magnetic poles to the number of internal magnets of the solenoid must be 1 / 3 of the solenoid (magnetic). The magnetic field is pulsed (inductive) and uniform.

[0046] The perpendicular component will do uniform circular motion. The parallel component will do linear motion. Together, these two components constitute a helical motion. The electromagnetic field is covariant under Lorentz transformation, i.e. shape invariant ("electrodynamics" property of electromagnetic field), and there is a wave solution.

[0047] Adjusting the various conditions and approximations of the overall geometry of the magnetic field and the magnet, requires careful evaluation of the thermal and structural problems inside the cylindrical tube. The density of the magnet must be sufficient to absorb the radio frequency (RF) waves of the plasma. The magnetic field strength corresponds to the size of the ionization chamber. During acceleration, all magnetic field strengths are enhanced to accommodate the increase in energy. The details of the magnetic field topology have a very complex influence on the entire process. It is like a real electronic neural network.

[0048] The ponderomotive force is the force exerted by the high-frequency electromagnetic field density on the plasma. It also depends on the amount of ionized and charged gas. The tube is made of a material coated on the inside with radioactive isotopes that have the ability to emit secondary electrons: this increases the electron density and improves ionization. Typically, the electromagnetic field strength values are 20-35% of the frequency, and the electromagnetic field strength reaches its maximum value at the beginning of the ceramic tube 201. The magnetic density of the last circular magnet is lower than that of the previous magnets, which facilitates the smooth outflow of the plasma. A strong laser pulse can excite the collective motion of the plasma electrons by the ponderomotive force. This ponderomotive force modulates the density, thus creating a plasma electron wave. The correlation between the ponderomotive force and the intensity during the propagation of the laser pulse determines and generates the phase velocity of the plasma wave, which is equal to the speed of the laser pulse group.

[0049] The frequency acts on molecules, atoms and electrons in the magnetic field, causing non-elastic collisions (impacts) of the electrons, which significantly increase the temperature. In addition, the increase in the speed of ion collisions leads to an increase in pressure, which in turn reduces the distance between atoms.

[0050] These collisions (non-elastic impacts) create small eddies and energy flows that unbalance any possible direction of motion. A series of collisions of a particle causes it to randomly jump in orbits centered on the circle, following a "random walk", and after several collisions, the particle can hit the tube wall and eventually disappear. Other effects cause "drift motions" that, if not balanced in time, have a negative impact on the performance of the magnetic confinement. The electric drift speed is much lower than the thermal motion speed of electrons and ions. For example, when the beam waist of the laser beam, such as the laser beam 2 in the figure, is greater than the plasma wavelength, the longitudinal component of the ponderomotive force dominates and determines the formation of regions of positive and negative charges, i.e. the formation of the backflow electrostatic field (tail field).

[0051] It is important to note that, in general, electrons are more susceptible to RF than ions (by several thousand times) due to their lightness. This stronger heating of electrons activates the phenomenon of electron-ion collisions, which heat the ions. Since the temperature of the electrons is much higher than that of the ions, and the electrons are lighter than the ions, the speed of the hot electrons is much higher than that of the hot ions. Considering that the electrons are initially bound by electrostatic charges, and the ions are accelerated due to the positive potential imparted to them, this phenomenon is at its best when the flow of electrons and ions is equal and balanced (saturated).

[0052] The plasma discharge is almost neutral, which means that the number of ions and electrons is equal, and more simply, the ion-electron recombination neutralizes the exit plume.

[0053] Thus, there is no need for a hollow cathode / electron gun.

[0054] In addition, the particles move in a magnetic field, the magnetic density decreases, causing their axial acceleration, thus suppressing their rotational motion. During the discharge expansion, the plasma cools by generating thrust, thus also accelerating axially. For example, a radio frequency antenna can be used, such as FIG. 1 The antenna marked 15 applies additional acceleration to the exit cone (nozzle). When the kinetic energy density parallel to the direction of the magnetic flow is greater than the magnetic energy density, it will break away from the divergent exit nozzle. Then, the gas (plasma) must be at saturation, i.e. at critical conditions, i.e. at the speed of sound (M1) at the outlet of the (must converge) duct. Only after this, the gas can pass through the divergent channel, where the expansion wave, due to the negative pressure existing in the nozzle outlet section, propagates at the speed of sound and, together with the small oblique shock wave inside the nozzle, successfully raises the subsonic flow present in the divergent nozzle, accelerates the fluid towards the outlet and transforms it into a uniform flow (axial velocity), taking into account the limit layer.

[0055] Therefore, due to the increase in cross-section, which favors expansion, the density and pressure decrease, while the most precise aspect of the flow and the amount of movement remain unchanged, the supersonic speed will increase significantly; this happens only at supersonic speeds and with a properly proportioned divergent or bell-shaped nozzle. If the speed exceeds the speed of sound, the bell-shaped nozzle is no longer needed, but a hinged nozzle similar to a "petal" is used. This variable-geometry convergent-divergent nozzle optimizes the pressure of the gas flow by adjusting the throat section, thus maximizing the outlet speed and, consequently, the thrust, which increases by 15%. In addition, by hinging the exit nozzle, it is possible to achieve a vector thrust, thus controlling the direction of the thrust.

[0056] It has already been mentioned that the dielectric constant of air is higher than that of other gases, it is a diatomic molecule, the average atomic weight is high, while nitrogen is a neutral gas. Air is composed of nitrogen + oxygen, oxygen is not neutral, its dielectric constant and enthalpy are lower than those of nitrogen, so it can release free electrons, thus initiating ionization and driving the plasma to move in a vortex rotating orbit. Increasing the temperature of the air (at standard pressure and temperature) can most easily achieve ionization, because in this way compounds and couplings with a lower dielectric constant and a smaller recombination emission effect are formed. The air is heated by introducing a hot arc as an ionization source, which makes the electrons in the air move by generating an air flow.

[0057] According to the invention, the pulsed hot arc X is located at the inlet of the plasma duct 201, the cathode 11 and the anode 12 are in a magnetic field (B) FIG. 1 .

[0058] When this charge (hot arc) alternates, a flow change occurs due to the electromotive force generated by the small amount of electrons previously produced. Then, due to the collision between the electrons and the neutral atoms (nitrogen), an electric discharge is initiated, producing more and more electrons, the current causing a significant temperature increase, finally entering the plasma state. This current heats the plasma by the Joule effect.

[0059] When a neutral atom (nitrogen) loses an electron, this same atom will transfer high energy to the plasma, thus becoming an ion and almost always positively charged.

[0060] The moving electrons and ions generate a current and an oscillating magnetic field around them, i.e. electromagnetic waves. These electromagnetic waves, combined with microwaves or other frequencies, are absorbed by the plasma and initiate new oscillation phenomena until they reach the strength of the applied frequency, becoming their own resonant energy and transforming into the kinetic energy of the associated particles. There are three methods of heating and acceleration in the plasma: - Ion cyclotron resonance ICRH - Electron cyclotron resonance ECRH (resonance occurs when its frequency is equal to the frequency of the electrons) - Lower hybrid resonance LHRH (1-4 GHz).

[0061] The plasma frequency depends on the square root of its density. The density also depends on the uniformity required by the plasma. When the applied frequency matches the plasma frequency, a critical density is formed. For nitrogen, this problem still exists because binary collisions occur and thus are not universal and not uniform.

[0062] This spatial non-uniformity related to partial ionization causes defocusing, the laser pulse focuses until the electron density is not satisfied. This problem can be solved by applying a laser pulse with a characteristic frequency much higher than the plasma frequency. The mechanism of interaction between the laser and the compressed air is quite complex.

[0063] In addition to the enhancement of the ponderomotive force, it is also possible to change the force of the magnetic field by changing the laser energy. By changing the wavelength and / or the laser energy and the pulse frequency, it is possible to synchronize the wavelength of the generated magnetic field to the desired harmonics. The application of a double frequency (or wave radio) or strong pulses with weak pulses to the antenna in the magnetic field, in addition to the cross-modulation and self-modulation phenomena, will significantly enhance the intensity associated with the sideband waves of the interaction and the harmonics of the strong pulses (low hybrid waves: double frequency modulation).

[0064] A higher laser density (very useful) will reduce its power. The resonant cyclotron electron source results from the action of the Lorentz force, which counteracts the magnetic field by activating a vortex flow movement with an angular frequency.

[0065] When an alternating pulsed electric field is applied by an RF or microwave synchronized with the period of the cyclotron kinetic energy of the free electrons, the cyclotron kinetic energy of the free electrons will increase, making it higher than the ionization energy of the air diatomic molecules (oxygen + nitrogen). In the (transverse) electron impact ionization process, if the energy applied is three to four times the ionization energy, the ionization potential and the extraction probability will reach a maximum, that is, the difference in charge or speed of the incident electron with the orbital electron does not have to be too great. Then, the electron ionization energy must exceed the ionization energy associated with the electron.

[0066] The kinetic energy generated collisions are only binary collisions, and in our example, there is a residual pressure (from the FIG. 1 The dynamic turbine marked 10, which is advantageous for recombination. The best solution is to establish a precise resonance condition between the RF frequency, the laser frequency and the repetition frequency in a multiphase pulsed system. The solution provided avoids the need to increase the magnetic and electric fields. The problem is not solved by increasing the energy costs.

[0067] The dynamic turbine 10 comprises a fixed shaft 6. The fixed shaft 6 is composed of an external fixed tubular cylinder, inside which there are two other coaxial counter-rotating cylinder ducts. These cylinder ducts are intended to house the external rotors. The initial compression prepares the air for the cooling path and the subsequent entry into the counter-rotating compressor. The initial compressor is composed of two stages, but it can also be composed of three stages (bypass ratio increase), the stator being fixed to the fixed external cylinder (carter) (101).

[0068] The counter-rotating axial compressor preferably contains six bladed rotors counter-rotating with respect to six other bladed rotors. The bases of the outermost rotors are distributed in a horizontal line (cylindrical surface 101), which is advantageous for obtaining better fluid dynamics. They will adopt a modelized profile, the technical effect achieved being the best compression ratio, as well as the speed triangle: better stability and symmetry between the six + six bladed rotors. The compressed air pressure is approximately 18 / 26 Atm (kg / cm 2) and the temperature exceeds 600°C, then through the gap (annular roof) of two identical counter-rotating cylinders.

[0069] The gap between the two cylinders also contains 104 other rotors (104) FIG. 1 ) implemented with smaller blades made of a hard heat-resistant metal alloy, such as HSS3, a very hard and high-temperature-resistant special steel, but containing a small amount of beryllium alloy to avoid the creation of sparks. These small blades are shorter and must be far from the counter-clockwise rotating cylindrical wall surface (which constitutes the roof of the blade height end) and must be close to another blade that will hit them when rotating counterclockwise, thus creating a voltaic or hot arc on the compressed air stream. In this way, high temperatures are obtained.

[0070] The pressure conditions, electrode shape, surface in contact with air and electrode spacing are variable and determine the type of discharge of the electrons applied, which is ultimately chosen. The main purpose of all the blades is to increase the air temperature, which can exceed 1000°C; if the blades of the power turbine 10 are coated with ceramic (thermal insulation), the temperature can reach 2000°C.

[0071] In this case, if the counter-rotating speed is 15,000 rpm, the corresponding cylinder (pipe) has an overall speed of 15,000 + 15,000 rpm, i.e. 30,000 rpm. Therefore, since each time the blade of a cylinder comes into contact with another blade of the coaxial counter-rotating cylinder, a succession of small thermal perturbations (initial voltage of only 30 kV) occurs, thus creating a succession of successive thermal shocks. In addition, the blade-rotor array has an additional function: to coordinate the delivery of compressed air and can be defined as a fan or circulation pump.

[0072] The compressed air, which has been partially heated during compression, thus reaches a temperature of 1,000°C - 2,000°C and is pushed into the power turbine 10, which produces power during expansion to operate the compressor, the generator starter and the alternator located on the outer wall. The turbine inlet temperature should not exceed 1500°C.

[0073] The air transmission speed inside the compressor can be chosen between 140 m / sec and 200 m / sec, the intake flow rate can reach 50 m 3 / sec and the outer diameter of the counter-rotating compressor can reach 70 cm. The speed can be set at 15,000 rpm. The air transmission speed of the counter-rotating axial compressor can increase by 10% - 15% from the inlet to the outlet.

[0074] The exhaust or power turbine 10 is also counter-rotating and has 3 + 3 blade rotors.

[0075] The electricity production is achieved through two designs: three-phase AC generator and DC generator. Inside the outer compressor and power turbine 10 cylinder there is a three-phase AC generator, with a magnetic rotor inside a stator fixed on the outer rotating cylinder wall with a diameter greater than 70 cm, also at 15,000 rpm. The stator is wound with graphene / copper fiber bundles and is fixed on the wall of the fixed outer cylinder (carter, 101) as shown in FIG. 1 . Inside the magnetic rotor there is a set of additional Halbach array type magnets, as this allows to increase the magnetic density inside the rotor and at the border of the rotor with another stator comprising two stator sheets (with a very narrow gap) laterally supported as shown in FIG. 1 . The DC starter generator produces direct current, which can be used to perform the functions of the starter and to charge the battery. In the embodiment, high-temperature resistant magnets can be used to avoid demagnetization phenomena. The current production exceeds 600 KW, up to 1400 KW; for superconductors such as graphene, tinene, germanene, etc. there is no need for special heating. The power production group of the three-phase AC and DC generators shares a rotor with two coaxial magnets: one external magnet for the generator and one internal magnet (Halbach array magnet). The entire air initially compressed for cooling passes through. At this point, the air is in a common environment of pressure and temperature. The air flows through the counter-rotating power turbine 10, which, after heating and expansion, discharges the gas through fluid communication to the subsequent ducts for plasma, while driving the counter-rotating compressor and magnetic rotor in rotation. The air discharged in the magnetic duct 201 still has residual pressure and suitable temperature: temperatures up to +600°C / 1000°C can be detected, which are useful for the subsequent ionization process and significant temperature increase.

[0076] In fact, the air flow at the inlet of the plasma duct forms a hot arc (alternating) in the magnetic field (exhaust diffuser). This hot arc uses the frequency of the oscillator in the magnetic field and is superimposed with a second frequency reflected and 90°-180° different from the previous one. The voltage applied is 50-100 kV, but not less than 30 kV / cm; the distance between the anode and the cathode is measured in centimeters cm. The pulsed hot arc X is associated with the triggering devices 11 and 12 identified as cathode 11 and anode 12, which are arranged in a circular arrangement, in coaxial position of the arrangement, and immersed in the magnetic field B generated by the magnetic device 14 and the multiphase solenoid 16, which is arranged in such a way as to allow the maximum ionization efficiency; the distance AK-GAP between the cathode and the anode is small, which allows to increase the frequency. The aforementioned discharge process causes elastic and inelastic collisions of electrons with ions, neutral atoms, with a discharge and recombination exchange effect that breaks the dielectric breakdown threshold, thus creating a continuous triggering mechanism, with the simultaneous production of a small amount of ions. It is known that the ionization of nitrogen atoms returns to its original position in femtoseconds. The arc is mainly characterized by thermal ionization and cathode emission. During air ionization, the ions produced by ionization are accelerated by the electric field of the arc and, during the impact, they transfer energy, with the simultaneous production of local heating, due to the thermionic effect, which causes the cathode to emit electrons: air ionization. The temperature (maximum) can reach 20,000 °C, with a thermal energy (maximum) of 300 Kcal / m 2 The working state of the arc depends largely on the thermionic emission of the cathode. The thermionic emission causes a significant increase in the flow of electrons, which triggers a second transition in which the voltage applied to the electrodes decreases, while the current (amperes) increases relatively significantly.

[0077] The duct 201, which constitutes the thrust shaft and is not electrically conductive, is wound by a toroidal permanent magnet, an electromagnetic coil or a solenoid. The air at the beginning of the duct is ionized. The air ionization allows the current to be conducted, thus allowing the subsequent part to be strongly magnetized, energized and accelerated by the electromagnetic force at RF frequency. In this state, for a duct 201 with a diameter of 50 cm, a frequency of 500 MHz is used. According to the Ampere-Maxwell law (magnetic field) and then according to the Faraday law (electric field), this is a "inductive coupling", at which the "Lorentz force" comes into play. As a magnetic charge, the overall density applied on the perimeter of the duct is estimated to be 5-6 Tesla. This Lorentz force (electrodynamic nature of the electric field) causes a uniform circular motion perpendicular to the direction of the frequency, called "cyclotron frequency". If the magnetic field is not constant, a drift velocity is generated. The cross-sectional dimension of the cross-sectional trajectory (Lorentz line) must be greater than the wavelength, which is a pseudo-sine curve - twist - which is a function of the magnetic field. In addition, the magnetic charge can also be adjusted as needed, thus making it easier to use the same frequency for ionization and acceleration.

[0078] The frequency is provided by a rectangular section copper band wound on a low dielectric constant ceramic conduit made of a material with high secondary electron emission, such as BN, alumina (AI2O3), B4C or silicon nitride (Si3N4), and can immediately generate a plasma, which can even be defined as a pre-plasma or cold plasma. The supply system is a helicon wave double layer. In fact, the presence of a magnetic field along the helicon wave antenna axis direction creates an operating mode with high ionization efficiency and higher electron density than typical ICP. All the magnets (5-6 Tesla) are wound like a crown in the "pipe", which plays an important role in activating the plasma and helps to enhance the ponderomotive force and confinement.

[0079] The first magnet installed in the pipe - the ionization zone - must have a greater magnetic charge to facilitate confinement, enhance the ponderomotive force and control the direction of the propagation speed. It is important to note that ionization is caused by the frequency and not by the electromagnetic field.

[0080] By applying a certain amount of frequency in the magnetic field, it is possible to make the frequency action range similar to that reached by the applied magnetic or electromagnetic field.

[0081] Ions are not sensitive to the magnetic field, even if it is too strong, they are disturbed; if this disturbance occurs in the ionization zone inside the pipe, it is possible to increase the effectiveness of the frequency intervention. It is important to note that ions are limited in the radial direction by the magnetic field and in the longitudinal direction by the electric field.

[0082] For the configuration of the magnetic elements of the plasma propulsion unit, it is preferable to use a multiphase solenoid accelerator with magnetic rings.

[0083] According to the invention, heating preferably uses low hybrid waves LHRH instead of ECR, since hybrid waves, in addition to being lower in frequency, do not need to be in tune with the magnetic field frequency. The frequency required by the ECR system is higher, even double, which causes a significant energy loss, since the over-heating of the electrons makes them no longer comply with the adiabatic invariants and takes away a large amount of absorbed heat, causing useless energy, and this energy is greater than that required by the plasma RF. The microwaves used are in the U band (UHF).

[0084] In this scenario, it is preferable to adjust the magnetic field strength, specifically by reducing (modulating) the magnetic field strength, so that the frequency of the low-hybrid wave approaches or is similar to the 500 MHz ECR. This allows for changes in thrust power by increasing ionization and frequency power. Furthermore, the combination of the low-hybrid wave and the ECR wave can form an electron transport barrier. The low-hybrid wave frequency is that of an electromagnetic heating device, whose plasma frequency lies between the ion and electron cyclotron resonance frequencies (500 MHz). The hybrid wave resonance frequency is a disturbed cyclotron resonance frequency that causes the ion and electron resonance frequencies to shift proportionally with electron density. Since the low-hybrid wave frequency is located in the microwave band, waveguides can be used as the generator and plasma, employing techniques that meet power and performance requirements, and offering the effectiveness of "current-driven" operation.

[0085] A preferred embodiment employs a microwave propulsion unit and a multiphase solenoid.

[0086] By continuously applying electrical energy through phase changes, a more unidirectional thrust can be generated. The magnetic field generated by the multiphase solenoid is parallel to the axis of the propulsion pipe (201), enabling the longitudinal thrust to generate a strong helical motion.

[0087] Continuous fundamental rotation promotes greater plasma concentration. A key feature of multiphase solenoids is their ability to alter the magnetic field based on existing electronic conditions. Their effect is primarily concentrated on the radius of charged particles. Phase shift can be achieved through a multiphase solenoid (…). FIG. 3 This is achieved by a solenoid consisting of six concentric coils rotated 60° relative to each other axially, powered by a progressive RF source with a radial influence range of 0°-60°-120°-180°-240°-300°. Alternatively, it should be noted that in this case, a three-phase current is generated at the edge, consisting of three concentric coils rotated radially sequentially from 0°-120°-240°, 120° out of phase with each other. The wave frequency of the wavelength is equal to the wave propagation speed.

[0088] In addition, a Harbach array magnetic system is installed inside the multiphase solenoid. This system also helps to enhance the radial confinement of the moving plasma, thereby generating a pulsed multiphase magnetic field with a single magnetic field direction (for neutral gas, each phase is assigned a magnetic pole). The Harbach array magnetic system consists of three consecutive stages: the first stage has 3 magnetic poles; the second stage has 6 magnetic poles; and the third stage (exit) has 3 magnetic poles.

[0089] antenna( FIG. 3A-FIG. 3BWith a rectangular cross-section, the helical antenna can be a four-pole antenna or a two-pole antenna, with a suitable spacing in the dense magnetic field. The problem is that the applied frequency cannot penetrate the plasma surrounded and constrained by the magnetic field, so it cannot interact electromagnetically with the existing plasma. For this purpose, a phase-shifted (+ / -) antenna can be used, and a rectangular waveguide (grid) can be placed at the edge of the plasma (tube) to meet the required comparative condition between the electric field and the wave. In this way, the wave-particle resonance interaction is achieved through the phase difference (phase shift) between the rectangular waveguide array, which maximizes the power transfer.

[0090] It should be noted that the antenna and the solenoid are two different elements included in the invention, and their arrangement is such that the magnet is located between the two. Specifically, the solenoid is arranged externally with respect to the antenna, while the (rectangular) antenna is arranged internally.

[0091] The plasma tube can be coated with a reflective material. In this way, a more powerful near-isotopic confinement is achieved without the need for electrostatic acceleration, and the specific charge can be zero, i.e. a neutral plasma with near-isotopic collisions is formed. The multiphase accelerator works at radial and longitudinal frequencies, thus generating a strong spiral motion, and with a suitable frequency - for example, for high-temperature compressed air applications, it is preferable to use a (low hybrid wave) microwave at 500 MHz (UHF) that can interact with any gas by generating a continuous unidirectional thrust.

[0092] On the contrary, the electric field acts on stationary and moving charges and makes them oscillate in an oscillatory motion in which the acceleration varies continuously. Any charge that activates this motion emits electromagnetic waves. The type of emission depends on the applied charge, and since the electrodes are more sensitive, their oscillation frequency is also higher. Air molecules are also affected by electromagnetic wave (up to ultraviolet wave) radiation. It would be interesting to understand how high-frequency laser electromagnetic waves interact with a plasma containing electrons and positive ions. The oscillating electric field of the (laser) beam can be absorbed, reflected, diffused and / or refracted by the surface. The phenomenon that deserves attention is the absorption of the electromagnetic energy of the laser beam and its conversion into thermal energy. In fact, the free electrons in the plasma quickly absorb energy from the incident oscillating electric field (pulsed laser). Subsequently, their energy is transferred to the plasma ions through attractive interaction: this is the real transfer of oscillating electrons.

[0093] This is a real impact (collision), and the laser can heat the electrons even faster. In a system consisting of thousands of particles, the physical phenomenon presents an intriguing phenomenon, i.e. the formation of vortices (spools with angular motion).

[0094] Under the hydrodynamic conditions, there is a favorable proportion between the fluid element (plasma) and the magnetic field: if the plasma density increases, the magnetic field density must also increase. In the plasma duct, there is plasma viscosity due to the pressure effect and there are fluid vortices. The role of the magnetic field is to confine the particles, thus creating a collective behavior. Even if the collision parameters are different, the intrinsic complexity of the plasma leads to different phenomena, for example, the different response of the electrons and ions, the magnetic field is still able to promote the propagation of the waves. If the magnetic field is not constant, the drift velocity is obtained.

[0095] Under the air pressure compatible with the plasma design, the strong magnetic field is able to guarantee the confinement and to absorb a considerable part of the incident laser energy. If the plasma is in a low or zero pressure regime, the energy utilization efficiency of the laser will be low, requiring greater laser energy. This is because, when the laser starts to heat the plasma, the subsequent oscillating electric field is attenuated.

[0096] There is a principle of complementarity between the wave and the particle, because they have common properties. They also have quantum duality in themselves: wave-particle. When the frequency corresponding to the interaction energy is higher than the electron excitation frequency, the energy transfer between the two quantities (photons) is accompanied by a longer phase coherence, thus completing the energy exchange.

[0097] After the reverse rotation compressor and the area of the blades used for heating by micro-thermal arc, the flow of compressed and heated air in the reverse rotation small diameter cylinder is partially deflected (escapes). The overflowing air is further compressed and heated by the radial compressor 13 ( FIG. 1 ), which aims to raise the air by additional pressure and temperature and introduce it into the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator located in the wide central shaft of the power turbine 10. Subsequently, the air is discharged in the axial center of the plasma duct 201.

[0098] The laser or electromagnetic beam source generates particles of radius that interact with the confined particles or adjacent particles, which in turn are influenced by the plasma duct (resonance chamber). This influences the existing frequency by generating instabilities (called collective effects), the intensity of which depends on the flow density. These oscillations (collisions) are guided by the magnetic field, the intensity of which accelerates the oscillations and promotes their "closed" (i.e. correct) orbital motion along a sinusoidal curve throughout the duct. The transverse oscillations of the electrons and the radiation phase of the electromagnetic waves are the same, so they must be synchronized.

[0099] Even if the propagation speed of the electromagnetic wave is higher than that of the electron by two or more wavelengths, the synchronization condition is still met and this condition constitutes a harmonic. When the plasma starts to form (low initial temperature), the electrons can be accelerated by exciting longitudinal plasma waves using a focused laser beam, thus infinitely enhancing the electric field. The frequency of the wave corresponding to the wavelength is equal to its propagation speed.

[0100] If the frequency of the electromagnetic wave is not higher than the plasma density (below the critical plasma), it cannot propagate in the plasma, otherwise the wave is reflected. The excitation (wakefield) effect is better when the plasma wavelength is equal to the laser pulse duration.

[0101] The phase velocity of the electromagnetic wave must be reduced so that the propagation velocity of the electrons is higher than that of the electromagnetic wave. In this way, the decelerated electron velocity will be higher than the accelerated electron velocity and the energy lost by the electrons will be transferred to the electromagnetic field (because of the stimulated emission). The absorption of the electromagnetic wave is very efficient if the frequency of the wave is equal to the characteristic oscillation frequency of the plasma (resonant frequency).

[0102] In addition, the frequency of the wave corresponding to the wavelength is equal to the propagation velocity of the wave. In order to obtain high power per frequency, it is necessary to reduce the "emission spectral width", i.e. to obtain longer pulses. That is, the laser plasma accelerator (in theory) will be one thousand times shorter than its frequency counterpart. The width of the plasma wave (i.e. the electric field intensity) is proportional to the laser intensity.

[0103] In a pulsed laser with "self-focusing" properties, the pulses are intermittently broken (pulse breaking) by generating instabilities driven by ponderomotive forces that oscillate the plasma. A strong laser pulse of femtosecond order causes a rapid increase in temperature and ionization, which in turn causes a sudden increase in positive ions and free electrons inside the pipe, thus generating non-thermal heating. This involves a significant increase in energy. Compared to laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA), the advantage of supermicro laser wakefield acceleration (SMLWFA) is that, due to the stronger electric field resulting from the high density of the plasma, a stronger acceleration is generated, so that the pulse duration is no longer limited to the near-resonant condition.

[0104] This mechanism enhances the instability of the plasma and the consequent significant increase in temperature reduces the "wave breaking" limit, so that a part of the electrons has a thermal velocity close to the phase velocity of the wave, thus favoring the acceleration of high-energy electrons.

[0105] Therefore, the advantage of this mechanism is that the increase in wave vector is achieved with a lower loss of disorder energy. The characteristic frequency of the laser pulse is much higher than the plasma frequency. The real ideal range of the laser pulse duration is about a few tens of femtoseconds, corresponding to a plasma density of about 10 18 el / cm 3 (I = 10 18 W / cm 2 ).

[0106] To achieve the best results, the intensity of the laser pulse must be higher than the electromagnetic field strength of the bound nitrogen atom. Only then can the ionization of nitrogen be achieved, converting it into plasma. The double-pulse, ultra-short pulse, ultra-high density laser pulse, with a suitable repetition frequency, must be matched to the plasma wavelength; there must be a certain contrast between the pre-pulse and the main pulse; the pre-pulse is the precursor pulse in the plasma, its energy is equivalent to 10% of the available energy of the laser, it excites the rotational state of the molecule by generating a cyclotron dynamic rearrangement between the molecules; at this stage, the second pulse arrives, which is the main pulse, with higher intensity and greater energy, it is separated from the first pulse by a period, with 90% of the energy of the first pulse; it generates harmonics that make the polarization angle of the molecule coincide with the axis formed by the first pulse; its frequency is twice that of the first pulse, the pulse is extremely short, and it generates acceleration through the "laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA)". The pulses and their associated frequencies must be similar so that their sum constitutes the laser excitation frequency. The synchronization of the pulse with the resonant absorption of the plasma must be perfectly consistent (autocorrelation). The initial delay of the second pulse period generates a harmonic spectrum that, if it resonates, temporarily delocalizes the electron by positioning it on the atomic orbit, without taking into account the influence of electronegativity. The strength of the generated harmonic spectrum depends on the delay of the second laser pulse.

[0107] In addition: the temperature difference between the outer circular part of the tube and the inner part (higher temperature) generates a voltage proportional to the incident radiation power. The larger the diameter of the laser beam, the lower its temperature. To manufacture a low-cost high-power microwave system, existing technology is chosen as the main power component.

[0108] The coaxial virtual cathode oscillator is a kind of oscillator, i.e. a high-power microwave source. It is suitable for this design because it is able to generate very powerful radiation pulses, it has a simple structure, it is small and robust, and it can be operated in a relatively wide range of microwave frequencies. In general, the performance of virtual cathode oscillators has good reproducibility and reliability. Its inner surface is mirror-polished to reduce the likelihood of metal surface emission. The anode wire (grid) diameter = 0.25 mm, the opening width is 1.2 mm. If the thermionic arc intensity is higher, the anode wire diameter and opening width need to be increased.

[0109] The anode can be made of polished pyrolytic graphite. The cathode can include a double-mode emitter made of carbon fibers thermally bonded to a graphite substrate.

[0110] The thermionic arc occurs between the cathode and the anode. Little is known about the physical properties of the arc, and the relationship between voltage V and current A has never been thoroughly explored and described.

[0111] This is a phenomenon related to the physics of energy transmission. The voltage applied to the arc with electrodes that generates the discharge (breakdown voltage) is closely related to the frequency, pressure and electrode spacing. It is important to note that in air, the diatomic gases, nitrogen and oxygen, are homonuclear molecules with metastable symmetry, with a collisional regime that is impingement, and therefore a higher breakdown voltage. It is believed that the transmission of ions by the rarefied plasma has a wider energy diffusion range. The position of the active area of the resonant coaxial tube makes the distribution of the reaction current in the electrodes of the device more uniform, thus doubling the output power.

[0112] The distribution of the electronic energy is not known. The exact nature of the transition is also unknown. The cathode and the entire wall in which it is located have the same potential (100 kV).

[0113] The electrothermal arc (30 kV) uses short pulses to avoid arcing (short circuit) and deformation of the laser medium.

[0114] The energy and duration of the radioactive pulse must be directly proportional to the pressure: energy proportional to pressure, pulse inversely proportional to pressure.

[0115] The duration of the pulse is usually limited by the time required to fill the gap (anode-cathode) with plasma, so the energy of the electron beam is converted into microwaves with an efficiency of about 40%.

[0116] In the virtual cathode oscillator, the electrons are emitted by the cathode (through a sawtooth structure, preferably sinusoidal in arrangement) and accelerated by the anode. The virtual cathode oscillator produces microwaves through two mechanisms: one is the passage of electrons between the real cathode and the virtual cathode; the other is the number of electrons in the virtual cathode. When the potential energy of the electron beam that passes through the anode with a transparent mesh structure (70%) is greater than its kinetic energy, an electron cloud (oscillating electrons) is formed, called a virtual cathode. This 70% transparent mesh represents a geometry related to the space charge constant (oscillating electrons) or permeability, thus obtaining a current as a function of the voltage V. The frequency of the electron beam produced by the cathode combines with the frequency at which the virtual cathode is located, which adapts or is forced (due to being controlled) to oscillate at the same frequency as the original electron beam. This combination of a single frequency produces extremely high efficiency. The diameter of the cathode of the virtual cathode oscillator is between 10 cm and 16 cm. The position of the diode laser (mentioned in this case) allows it to pass through the center of the virtual cathode oscillator and through the "cloud" of the virtual cathode. During this process, the frequency of the laser must be the same as or a multiple of the frequency used by the cathode (for example, 2.45 GHz = 2.45 GHz, or in the pipe 201 : 500 MHz x 5 = 2.5 GHz). (Ultra High Frequency (UHF) - Super High Frequency (SHF)).

[0117] The laser passes through the center of the virtual cathode oscillator cavity and through the field of accelerated electrons of the anode (virtual cathode), which helps to increase the temperature and to create extremely high enthalpy and thermal content. The power peak is proportional to the square of the pressure. Then, the laser output is a high-power pulse. In order to study the dynamics of the electronic states of the gas (air) in the cold plasma, laser pulses of femtosecond, several optical periods, high energy are needed to enhance the excitation of the energy levels and the strongly correlated electronic energy systems affected by pressure. The chosen diode (the way of selection can vary) is of the multimode type (but if the power is very high, it can also be a single-mode diode), if a high-power optical fiber is used, there is no need for a resonator. In the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator, the reflector (absorbing energy) allows the mode to switch from TM 01 to TE 11, and the corresponding new frequency also switches from the S band to the L band. Higher order modes (TE and TM modes) can propagate at higher frequencies in a coaxial medium, but one would like to avoid using these modes because the transition from the TEM mode to the TE or TM mode creates power losses. The TE 11 mode (also the cutoff frequency) is the mode with the lowest frequency and the best power management. Arc refers to the phenomenon of discharge in air, which can have a temperature of up to 10,000 °C to 20,000 °C.

[0118] In the virtual oscillator cavity, the electrons passing through the anode form a charge that oscillates at microwave frequencies with extremely high power: i.e. electron emission, accompanied by the transfer of positive and negative ions, which eventually reach high temperatures. A strongly ionized gas channel is thus formed. In this way, ions and electrons with extremely high cross sections for impact (main participants in elastic and inelastic collisions) acquire strong kinetic energy. Since air is composed of two components, excitation occurs even between different types of atoms or molecules through typical resonance excitation transfer. Nitrogen is a diatomic neutral gas that can quickly absorb heat, thus causing a temperature increase, so it is easy to reach thermal resistance difference = KT with oxygen in air, where K is the Boltzmann constant.

[0119] Then, it can be found that after the impact (pulse current passage), one of the two gases creates an energy level difference, so that the following can occur: the atom of one gas excites the atom of the other gas and stores energy. If this atom is in a metastable state, there is time to excite the other gas (secondary collision). This resonance transfer even occurs between electrons and atoms, between atoms and molecules, causing energy transfer of the molecular vibration state (neutral molecule excitation).

[0120] In this way, the excited atom, after transferring energy through collisions, can decay back to the ground state: electron-atom collision, atom collision of two different gases, atom collision with the container wall, spontaneous emission (no spatial and temporal coherence).

[0121] To achieve "conversion efficiency", i.e. net transfer of energy, a synchronization mechanism between the propagation speed of the electron beam (oscillating near the cathode) and the phase velocity of the radiation field (microwaves) must be achieved. In addition, the radiation frequency must be greater than the plasma frequency (critical density). The wave-plasma power transfer must occur in a specific way at a specific frequency. There is a resonant relationship between the wave velocity and the particle velocity.

[0122] The geometry of the coaxial cathode oscillator (virtual cathode oscillator) contains many physical parameters that can be changed by adjustment to change the performance of the system. Target parameters include: diode length, distance between anode and cathode. An increase in the anode radius leads to the collection of too many electrons, thus reducing the generated microwave intensity. A reduction has a smaller effect. By simulating changes in parameters, different geometries aimed at obtaining optimal performance can be provided and simulated. The frequency depends on the distance between the anode and the cathode and the applied voltage.

[0123] The dynamics of the electrons on the interaction space path are very complex.

[0124] At the start of the oscillation, groups of electrons pass through the semi- permeable membrane anode (70%), forming a virtual cathode; those that move parallel to the cylindrical anode (then in a circle or like a crown); and those that are free, which are expelled after reaching the output. If the "free" electrons could be reduced, then a 50% increase in output power could be obtained through the virtual cathode oscillator.

[0125] The solenoid in the virtual cathode oscillator (even if not necessary) creates a magnetic field that, applied to the cathode, can increase the efficiency. The incident laser pulse creates charged particles, forming an exponential energy beam and a large angular divergence. Therefore, it is necessary to collimate or compress and focus this beam by winding a solenoid on the cathode of the virtual cathode oscillator and even applying a solenoid in the plasma duct 201 ( FIG. 1 ) to make the laser suitable for entering the resonant cavity. In addition, the magnetic elements of the solenoid activate the spiral path of the electrons and have the potential to ionize additional free atoms.

[0126] A large number of experiments (build-simulate) are needed with the aid of a computer and the impedance and frequency should be "matched".

[0127] The Rogowski coil is installed to monitor the electrical energy.

[0128] An optical pyrometer and a pressure sensor are also needed. In addition, a sound wave wheel with a speed sensor is also useful.

[0129] Inflation and laser.

[0130] This case includes lasers that exploit transitions of the vibrational and rotational type. The energy of a diatomic molecule includes: electronic energy, rotational energy and vibrational energy. A very effective method is to flow compressed air at a certain temperature along the discharge direction, so as to diffuse and enhance the heat previously compressed and heated by the hot arc blade. In order to avoid using excessively high voltages, a set of electrodes is arranged along the entire transverse path. In this way, lower voltages can be applied. The laser can deliver the high-temperature and high-pressure gas mixture to the plasma duct 201 after passing through the virtual cathode oscillator, which has much lower pressure and temperature. In this wider (and constant cross-sectional area) area, the gas mixture can expand rapidly, resulting in a rapid drop in temperature. The reduction in temperature and pressure causes the energy transferred by the nitrogen molecules to tend to shift to lower energy levels. Due to the rapid flow of the air mixture in the non-thermodynamic equilibrium region, the population inversion occurs, even if the compressed air reaches a high temperature. This expansion at supersonic speed reduces the temperature and the associated pressure in a time shorter than the high average lifetime of the laser beam but longer than the low average lifetime of the laser beam. The speed of sound is determined by the properties of the gas: (diatomic molecule y = 1.4), R is the gas and temperature constant.

[0131] The increase in population inversion, i.e. the (stimulated) absorption of energy, generates a drift velocity and causes an increase in the diffusion and penetration depth of the fast electrons in the compressed air (acceleration slope). At the same time, the current consumption is reduced.

[0132] The wave nature of electromagnetic radiation generates electromagnetic forces that displace the oscillating particles, causing the atoms in the compressed air to vibrate. Therefore, the compressed air interacts with the electromagnetic radiation, causing a direct and significant increase in temperature.

[0133] The principle of operation of the pulsed laser is that the propagation speed of the voltage pulse is the same as the speed of light, so that the laser pulse and the electrical pulse propagate synchronously, thus obtaining a high gain (frequencies > (10) -100 Hz and (100) -500 kV). The application of a 500 kV voltage is very dangerous because it can damage the material.

[0134] Stimulated emission must be higher than spontaneous emission, therefore the condition for the production of stimulated emission (Einstein's law) that stimulated emission must be higher than absorption requires (within the duct) a high temperature and a corresponding low energy to promote the population inversion.

[0135] The resonant cyclotron electron is generated by the Lorentz force, which counteracts the magnetic field by activating a vortex flow motion with an angular frequency.

[0136] After the application of an alternating or pulsed electric field synchronized with the period of the free electron cyclotron motion, the kinetic energy of the free electrons increases to become greater than the ionization energy of the air diatomic molecules. The motion of the vortex flow (Lorentz force) produces a vibration-rotation effect, but also a drag effect. The real centrifugal and centripetal vortex motion, perpendicular to the helical propulsion axis, leads to an increase in energy. All these increases in energy (heat) and even the work done on the fluid cause a significant change in the fluid enthalpy, which reflects the thermal energy content of the fluid. This acquired energy is converted into a propulsion force, whose kinetic energy is controlled by the pressure.

[0137] Due to the excessive temperature rise in the virtual cathode oscillator, it is necessary to use a closed cryocooler for strong cooling and a liquid helium pulse tube cryocooler for pre-cooling. This liquid helium will circulate on the surface of the cathode of the virtual cathode oscillator and in the circular cavity (sheath tube) located outside the solenoid between the cathode and the axis of the dynamic turbine 10. Forced cooling of all the magnets in the duct 201 is useful and necessary.

[0138] The use of a duct 201 with a diameter of about 50 cm (but also a 30 cm duct: in this case the frequency will be 2.45 GHz for LHRH mixed waves) is preferred, in order to obtain a high-density plasma dominated by collective phenomena. The imbalances and collisions inherent in these conditions will re-equilibrate in a very short time. If the laser pulse width is a few femtoseconds, the thermalization time will exceed the duration of the laser pulse and the temperature difference between ions and neutral atoms and electrons will be greater.

[0139] At the final size of the cylindrical duct 201, a large number of perturbation waves, twist waves and magnetoacoustic waves are generated, so it is necessary to superimpose between the acceleration electric field and the arc voltage to generate the light beam intensity in this pulse duration.

[0140] In the turbulent flow, the sinusoidal rotation effect (caused by the Lorentz force) and the expansion are caused by the arrival of the power laser (which passes through the virtual cathode oscillator and reaches the plasma duct) with a very intense acoustic wave. This acoustic wave, due to the centrifugal effect (twist wave), rotates with a frequency lower than the previous acoustic wave, propagates in a limited circular space, then twists, the frequency decreases and the centrifugal speed increases. However, due to the change in frequency, the acoustic wave reappears and, due to the Doppler effect, the acoustic wave becomes even more noisy. The whole process is helically moving in the field direction.

[0141] Turbulence stabilization is necessary because the lack of turbulence stabilization weakens the confinement effect. Changes in the applied electric field cause a change in velocity by suppressing the development of turbulence. During plasma heating, directionality must be prioritized, making the spectrum resonate only with particles having a specific direction. The velocity of an electromagnetic wave depends on its frequency and refractive index. The oscillation frequency of the electric field must be modulated to maintain phase synchronization between the rotation frequency and the acceleration electric field frequency. Effective rotational turbulence causes instability. Turbulence constitutes a perturbation method in thermal diffusion. The propagation and absorption of microwaves constitute the electron heating of the plasma in the collision regime. Collisional effects do not change the distribution of the plasma current density.

[0142] Collisions bring particles to different temperatures by generating a collisional drag that decreases rapidly with temperature until equilibrium is reached and mutual "collisional" interactions are induced, thus balancing the different temperatures. Collision is a complex process that causes energy loss but tends to balance the temperatures between particles.

[0143] Collisions are reduced only at high temperatures. Extremely short and intense pulses can excite plasma waves. Thus, the nonlinear forces (ponderomotive forces) generated by laser pulses can create charge separation by forming an electron wake (wake field).

[0144] The longer the wavelength, the smaller the phase velocity, and the higher the corresponding plasma wave intensity, and the wave front will bend: in this case, when the curvature radius of the wave front decreases but has not reached its transverse dimension, the plasma wave will break. In an additional compression step, the gas becomes more turbulent, ultimately leading to collisions. Collisions consume a large amount of energy through shock waves and turbulence in the air (this is the real physical mechanism). For diatomic molecules (i.e., composed of two identical atoms), the pulsed laser requires a voltage of 100,000 / 500,000 volts. Using an inductor, the voltage pulse can be made to propagate along the axis of the resonator at the same speed as the speed of light.

[0145] In this way, laser pulses and electrical pulses can propagate synchronously, thus obtaining a very high gain. This makes it possible to achieve a power of up to 50 MW and a pulse frequency of up to 100 Hz. The increase in vibrational energy causes a positive vibrational transition, which in turn triggers a rotational transition known as a vibrational-rotational transition.

[0146] The electrical energy in the (compressed) air plasma must be higher than 25 eV to produce a large number of high-energy electrons, thus increasing the degree of ionization and, in turn, reducing the energy cost of producing electrons. Compared to sinusoidal discharges, non-equilibrium pulsed discharges are more efficient and require less power. In addition to high electrical energy discharge, a (pulsed) repetition frequency and a pulse length less than the molecular recombination period are required. In order to produce a beam intensity in this pulse duration, there must be superposition between the electric field and the arc voltage. High repetition rates can replace the current.

[0147] This analytical formulation is of little interest for describing all the processes and behaviors related to ionization.

[0148] It is generally accepted that any slight change in energy, magnetic field and electron density, pressure, frequency or pulse will result in the need for continuous fine-tuning, described by the following terms: balancing, tuning, resonance, phasing and modeling. For each implemented project, the actual settings of the characteristics of the existing parameters are required. For this purpose, plasma calculation software is used.

[0149] The complexity of the plasma phenomenon and the very high computational complexity force us to parallelize the operations related to the solution of linear systems of equations (using distributed memory). There are many types of plasma software. These software, by implementing data and calculation acquisition codes, guarantee optimal performance even for complex systems. By applying some software for the control and monitoring of specific instruments and hardware, it is possible to monitor the operation and set the relevant parameters.

[0150] Thus, it is possible to improve the rheological behavior of the plasma, such as nonlinearity, large number of degrees of freedom and lack of symmetry. This calculation software is a decision-making tool for solving the stabilization process performed by the magnetic field, improving the reliability of the process in progress and implementing multiscale optimization and precision management.

[0151] The magnets and parts of the power turbine 10 must be cooled. These magnets are located in coaxial positions of the same rotor: the magnets of the alternator, the magnets of the starter generator and the subsequent magnets that form the plasma (duct 201). The cooling problem is solved by introducing a portion of compressed air produced by the first rotor of the compressor (3) (bypass system), i.e. before the air is superheated. The introduction or use of compressed air preferably occurs after the second rotor (or stage) of the compressor (secondary air flow). The compressed air reaches the area of the power turbine 10 through the axis (6) (bottom passage) and is discharged from the last blade row of the power turbine 10, where the discharge pressure of the cooling air is slightly higher than the discharge or expansion residual pressure; or from the blade row of the larger rotor of the power turbine 10, i.e. the last discharge blade.

[0152] These blades are thicker and have holes that are aligned with the direction of the turbine airflow. Another method of cooling the entire turbine engine body is to use the compressed air from the first two stages (and possibly the third) to be directed and pushed into the gap between the stationary outer cylindrical tube and the inner tube (bypass) that rotates at 15,000 rpm. The airflow passes through this gap with a circular protrusion, cools the magnet rotor and reaches the outer area of the plasma tube 201, where it can enter and wind around the magnet, and then exit to the outside. In addition to cooling and magnetic confinement, a double-chamber structure can be formed in the plasma tube - fresh air flows in it and, along the outlet direction, through the dump holes, taking the plasma away from the surface, as in the combustion chamber of a gas turbine. The cooling method is traditional cooling (air film cooling).

[0153] The invention has been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings; these descriptions and drawings are obviously examples of the technology described. The invention is defined by the attached claims.

[0154] The components shown in the figures and their corresponding reference numbers are as follows.

[0155] - 1. Intake - 2. Laser - 3. Air pre-compressor - 4. Refrigerant circulating air - 5. Reverse rotation axial compressor - 6. Fixed shaft - 7. DC generator stator - 8. Inner-outer magnet rotor - 9. Hot arc - 10. Reverse rotation turbine - 11. Cathode - 12. Anode - 13. Centrifugal compressor - 14. Magnet - 15. Antenna - 16. Multiphase solenoid - 17. Clock-shaped supersonic nozzle - Ai Ionized air - Ar Residual expanded air - E Electric energy - 3a Rotor - 3b Stator - P1 Reverse rotation blade - P2 Reverse rotation blade - W Coaxial virtual cathode oscillator with solenoid on cathode - PL Plasma - PW thrust - 100 turbine body - 101 outer cylindrical tube with AC generator stator - 102 counter-rotating cylindrical tube with blades - 103 counter-rotating cylindrical tube with blades inside tube 102 - 104 circular gap between 102 and 103 - 200 plasma propulsion unit with hot arc X inside region 202 - 201 plasma duct - 202 hot arc X provided by cathode 11 and anode 12.

Claims

1. A plasma propulsion system, comprising: An air turbine unit (100) is adapted to receive supplied air (A) from the external environment. And a plasma propulsion unit adapted to increase the velocity of the supply air (A) after it has been ionized and entered the plasma phase. The air turbine device (100) includes: - First compression device (3), adapted to perform the first pre-compression of the accelerated supply air (A); - A second compression device (5) is adapted to perform a second compression of the air (AP) pre-compressed by the first compression device (3); - A first heating device (9) is adapted to heat the air that has been pre-compressed by the first compression device (3) and the second compression device (5); - Coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W), equipped with a solenoid; - A centripetal compressor (13) adapted to generate a portion of the airflow in the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W); - A three-phase AC generator, suitable for generating three-phase current; -DC generator starter, suitable for generating electrical energy (E); - A counter-rotating power turbine (10) capable of being actuated by heated air to generate residual expanding air (Ar), wherein the power turbine (10) is adapted to: Compression is performed by the first compression device (3) and the second compression device (5); Compression is performed by a centripetal compressor (13); ○ Generates electrical energy (E); ○ Apply a 2.45 GHz radio frequency; ○ In the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W), residual expansion air (Ar) is discharged under the action of compressed air heated by a portion of the generated electrical energy (E); The plasma propulsion unit (200) is connected to the air turbine device (100) and includes: - Pipe (201), for plasma flow, adapted to receive the residual expanded air (Ar) discharged by the power turbine (10); - A connection (202) is located between the power turbine (10) and the plasma flow duct (201), wherein the connection (202) has a cross-section that decreases along the direction of the plasma flow (201) and includes an anode (12) and a cathode (11), the anode (12) and the cathode (11) being configured to generate a thermal arc (X) obtained by an RF oscillator, such that the residual expanded air (Ar) passing through the connection (202) and acting on the thermal arc (X) becomes ionized heated air (Ai); - Magnetic devices (14, 16) are fixed around the pipe (201) like a crown for a crown-shaped plasma flow and adapted to generate a corresponding magnetic field, wherein the anode (12), the cathode (11) and the thermal arc (X) are located in the magnetic field, wherein the magnetic devices (14, 16) are configured to generate plasma of the ionized heated air; - A radio frequency or microwave source, equipped with an adjacent helical antenna, and the conduit (201) for the plasma flow is wound in the magnetic field (B) generated by the magnetic devices (14, 16). - The laser source (2) is configured to emit a laser with double pulses that linearly passes through the center of the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W) and then enters the center of the conduit (201) to accelerate and increase the plasma just generated in the magnetic field (B) generated by the magnetic devices (14, 16); The discharge device (17) discharges the plasma (PL) generated in the pipe (201), including a bell-shaped supersonic diverging nozzle (17) with an antenna (15), wherein the discharge device (17) realizes the thrust (PW) generated by the propulsion system at the plasma (PL) outlet. When the plasma flow velocity exceeds the speed of sound, the diverging nozzle is replaced with a "petal" shaped nozzle.

2. The plasma propulsion system according to claim 1, wherein, The first compression device (3) includes a stator (3b) and a rotor (3a), which are connected to a fixed shaft (6) in the turbine device (100).

3. The plasma propulsion system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The compression device (5) includes a reverse rotary shaft compressor having a plurality of first blades (P1) and a plurality of second blades (P2) that rotate in opposite directions.

4. The plasma propulsion system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The current is generated by the following: -The three-phase AC generator is adapted to generate three-phase current; and - The DC generator starter is adapted to generate electrical energy (E). The generator starter is adapted to generate direct current and is characterized by a fixed stator located on the side and a Halbach array-type external magnetic rotor fixed to an internal counter-rotating tube (8).

5. The plasma propulsion system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The first heating device (9) includes one or more sets of microblades that rotate in opposite directions, are made of a hard and heat-resistant metal alloy, are located in a circular gap (104) defined by two cylindrical tubes (102) and (103), and are adapted to rotate in opposite directions relative to a fixed axis (6) to form multiple micro-thermal arcs by continuous rotation, which are used to raise the temperature of compressed air during the delivery process.

6. The plasma propulsion system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The annular magnetic device (14, 16) includes one or more of the following: -Magnetic rings and electromagnetic rings; - An accelerator with a multiphase solenoid (16) and an internal Halbach array-type additional magnetic circular crown (14).

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The compression device (5) includes a single centripetal compressor (13) adapted to generate a portion of the airflow for further compression and heating in the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W) equipped with a solenoid.

8. A plasma propulsion method, comprising the following steps: An air turbine device (100) and a plasma propulsion unit (200) are provided, the air turbine device (100) being adapted to receive supplied air (A) from an external environment, and the plasma propulsion unit (200) being provided with a conduit (201) for plasma flow, connected to the air turbine device (100), and adapted to increase the velocity of the air after the air has been ionized and entered the air plasma phase; The first pre-compression of the air and the second compression of the previously pre-compressed air are performed in the device (100); An additional separate centripetal compression is performed on the air that is introduced before entering the power turbine (10) and then compressed and heated to introduce the air into the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W), through which the laser passes. Apply a 2.45 GHz radio frequency; The air, which has been compressed by the first compression and the second compression, is heated by a thermal arc (X); The air that expands and is heated in the power turbine (10): - To perform compression work through the first compression device (3) and the second compression device (5); -To generate electrical energy (E); - To expel residual expanded air (Ar) under the action of compressed air heated by a portion of the generated electrical energy (E). Simultaneously perform the following steps: a) Increase the velocity of the residual air (Ar) to reduce the pressure by decreasing the transmission cross section (202) of the residual air (Ar) flowing out of the power turbine (10); b) The thermal arc (X) is applied to the residual air (Ar) by generating a pulsed radio frequency in a magnetic field (B), wherein the magnetic field (B) is generated by a toroidal magnetic device (14) and a multiphase solenoid (16) fixed like a crown around the conduit (201) for plasma flow; In this process, both steps a) and b) simultaneously begin from the residual air (Ar) to form ionized heated air (Ai) suitable for entering the plasma state. The ionized heated air (Ai) is received in the conduit (201) for plasma flow in the plasma propulsion unit (200). The excitation device determines the path to the plasma state and performs subsequent steps to excite and accelerate the plasma, the excitation device comprising: - Radio frequency or low-hybridization microwave, having one or more helical antennas wound around the conduit (201) for plasma flow. - A laser source that emits a laser wave with double pulses, which passes linearly through the center of the conduit (201) for plasma flow after passing through the coaxial virtual cathode oscillator (W) at a frequency of 2.45 GHz and generating an increase in thermal energy. The plasma (PL) generated in the pipe (201) is discharged, including a bell-shaped supersonic divergent nozzle (17) with a radio frequency antenna (15) for realizing an outlet of the plasma (PL) representing the generated thrust (PW) from the propulsion unit (200); When the plasma flow velocity exceeds the speed of sound, the diverging nozzle is replaced with a "petal" shaped nozzle.

9. The plasma propulsion method according to claim 8, wherein, The magnetic device (14, 16) includes an accelerator with a multiphase solenoid, the interior of which is provided with a Halbach array-type additional magnetic circular crown, wherein the direction of the magnetic field generated by the multiphase solenoid parallel to the axis of the propulsion tube substantially determines the longitudinal thrust direction of the plasma (PL) spiraling toward the exhaust nozzle (17).

10. The plasma propulsion method according to claim 8, comprising the step of exciting and accelerating the plasma (PL) by means of the excitation device using a low-hybridization wave suitable for exciting and accelerating the plasma (PL), the excitation device comprising one or more quadruple helical antennas (15) having a rectangular cross-section, wherein the applied radio frequency is 500 MHz, and the diameter of the conduit (201) for the plasma flow is determined to be 50 cm.

11. The plasma propulsion method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The laser source emits a first pulse and a second pulse. The energy of the first pulse is equal to 10% of the usable energy of the laser. The second pulse starts at a certain time interval from the first pulse and has an energy equal to 90% of the usable energy of the laser. The frequency of the second pulse is twice that of the first pulse.

12. The plasma propulsion method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, comprising steps executed by an electronic computer configured to synchronize and / or correlate resonant and repetitive cyclotron frequencies in a plasma generation process with magnetic density generated by a solenoid, and to simplify the process of ionizing and accelerating the plasma with the same radio frequency.

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