Orbital elevator system and associated methods

Abstract

Orbital Elevator with Magnetic Rail Propulsion System: The invention relates to an orbital elevator designed to transport payloads between Earth and geostationary orbit. The system uses an ultra-strong, multi-strand cable made of carbon nanotubes to withstand gravitational and centrifugal forces. A transport module (climber) equipped with magnetic rails is in continuous contact with the cable, enabling stable, frictionless propulsion and precise control of movement along the cable. An integrated emergency braking system allows the climber to be stopped if necessary, thus enhancing transport safety. The ground base, which anchors the cable, includes a control center to monitor the movement of the modules and maintain structural tension. An orbital counterweight completes the system, stabilizing the cable through dynamic equilibrium.

Description

Title of the invention: Orbital elevator system and associated methods technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of space technology and orbital transportation infrastructure engineering. More particularly, it concerns an innovative system for transporting cargo and passengers between Earth and outer space by means of an orbital elevator, designed to reduce the costs and environmental impacts associated with traditional rocket launches. General Description of the Invention

[0002] The invention relates to a complete orbital elevator system ([Fig. 1]), comprising the following elements: 1. An ultra-strong cable connecting a ground anchor point to a counterweight located beyond geostationary orbit. 2. Propulsion systems for transporting loads along the cable. 3. Stabilization, monitoring and security mechanisms for to ensure the continuous and safe operation of the elevator. 4. An energy management system, enabling efficient transmission of energy to moving parts. 5. Space traffic integration and management systems to avoid collisions with other objects in orbit.

[0003] The objective is to enable safe, economical and regular transport between the Earth's surface and space. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0004] 1. Ultra-Resistant Cable

[0005] The cable is the central element of the orbital elevator and must be able to withstand extremely high tensile forces. It is made from advanced materials, including: 1. Carbon nanotubes: Chosen for their exceptional tensile strength, lightness and flexibility. 2. Graphene: Offers even greater mechanical resistance and increased durability against the effects of the space environment (radiation, micrometeorites).

[0006] The cable is designed with a protective coating, capable of withstanding the conditions of space, in particular cosmic radiation and impacts of high-speed particles. It is also designed to limit the effects of atmospheric corrosion and terrestrial weathering at the anchor point.

[0007] 2. Anchor Points and Counterweights

[0008] Land Anchorage: Ideally positioned near the Earth's equator to take maximum advantage of the Earth's rotation. Possible sites include equatorial islands, offshore platforms, or dedicated land areas with robust support infrastructure. The anchorage must be equipped with stabilization systems to minimize the effects of surface and high-altitude winds.

[0009] Space Counterweight: Placed at a sufficient distance beyond geostationary orbit (approximately 36,000 km), the counterweight ensures continuous tension on the cable. Options include: 1. Artificial satellites specifically designed to serve as counterweight masses. 2. Space stations that could also serve as relays for communication and energy transfer. 3. An asteroid captured and stabilized to act as a natural counterweight. 3. Propulsion Systems for Elevators (Climbers)

[0010] The climbers are the vehicles that move along the cable and transport cargo and passengers. They are equipped with advanced propulsion systems: 1. Electromagnetic propulsion: Use of magnetic rails to minimize friction and maximize energy efficiency. 2. Laser power transmission: The climbers are powered by laser beams directed from the ground or from orbiting relays, converted into electricity via onboard receivers. This allows for continuous power without dependence on onboard power sources. 3. Solar panels: Used as a supplementary energy source to maximize autonomy and reduce the need for transmitted energy.

[0011] The climbers also incorporate redundant safety systems, such as emergency brakes and locking systems, to ensure safe ascent and descent.

[0012] 4. Stabilization and Management of Dynamic Forces

[0013] To ensure the stability of the cable and the entire system, active stabilization mechanisms are deployed: 1. Dynamic dampers: Placed along the cable to compensate for vibrations and oscillations caused by external forces (Coriolis forces, high altitude winds, gravitational influences). 2. Tension compensation systems: Use of motorized systems to adjust cable tension in real time according to environmental conditions. 3. Impact protection: Integration of protective barriers to deflect space debris and minimize the risk of damage. 5. Monitoring, Maintenance and Security

[0014] The system is based on an integrated network of sensors and automated devices: 1. Smart sensors: Placed along the cable to detect anomalies, monitor temperature, voltage, and potential impacts. 2. Autonomous maintenance drones: Capable of moving along the cable to perform rapid repairs in case of detected damage. These drones are equipped with welding and damaged section replacement technologies. 3. Safety protocols: In case of failure or emergency situation, emergency braking systems, parachutes for climbers, and cable containment systems are activated to minimize risks. 6. Energy Management and Energy Transmission

[0015] The energy system relies on a combination of renewable energy sources and advanced transmission technologies: 1. Solar production: Solar panels located at anchor stations and climbers provide clean energy for continuous operation. 2. Laser energy transmission: Lasers allow energy to be efficiently transmitted to climbers, avoiding energy losses due to cables. 3. Intelligent storage and management: The use of high-capacity batteries allows energy to be stored for constant use, even in the event of low solar production. 7. Integration with Space Traffic

[0016] To avoid collisions with satellites and space debris: 1. Coordination with space surveillance networks: Integration with existing systems to avoid potential collisions by automatically adjusting the trajectory of climbers or counterweight. 2. Deflection technologies: Systems capable of maneuvering the cable slightly to avoid identified obstacles, ensuring optimal safety.

Claims

Demands

1. An orbital elevator system comprising an ultra-strong cable connecting a terrestrial anchor point to a space counterweight positioned beyond geostationary orbit.

2. An electromagnetic propulsion device for transporting loads along the cable, powered by laser energy transmission.

3. A dynamic stabilization mechanism comprising dampers and tension compensation systems.

4. An automated monitoring network with smart sensors and maintenance drones for real-time inspection and repair.

5. An energy management system based on solar production and laser transmission for continuous and sustainable power supply.

6. A space traffic management system integrating obstacle detection and deflection technologies.

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