Component for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave

Abstract

A component (5) for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave is provided. The component (5) includes a body (7) defining an input surface (17) positioned to receive the input shock wave, a chamber (21) recessed in the input surface (17) for containing the fluid, a fluid inlet (11) for introducing the fluid into the component (5), and an intermediate volume (15) defined in the input surface (17). The intermediate volume (15) is at least partially disposed between the fluid inlet (11) and the chamber (21). The intermediate volume (15) is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet (11) and the chamber (21) for supplying the fluid from the fluid inlet (11) to the chamber (21). A portion of the input surface (17) is configured to sealingly abut against another element (3) to enclose the intermediate volume (15).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to components for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave, and in particular to components for use in methods and systems for generating high localized concentrations of energy. [Background technology]

[0002] In Patent Document 1, it was shown that the interaction between shock waves of a non-gaseous medium and a gaseous medium can generate a high-velocity transverse jet of the non-gaseous medium moving through the gaseous medium, for example, causing the jet to impinge on and capture a volume of the gaseous medium against a target, which creates a strong concentration of energy within the gas.

[0003] To deliver a gaseous medium (e.g., fuel) to a target, one option is to use a fill tube to introduce the gaseous medium into the target. However, this fill tube introduces unwanted instabilities that can cause the gaseous medium to collapse in undesirable ways, thereby reducing device performance. Solutions have been proposed, such as reducing the diameter of the fill tube, angling the fill tube, or sealing the fill tube with adhesive. However, these solutions do not completely solve the problem, as they make the device more difficult to operate and can still introduce instabilities. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2011 / 138622 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to provide systems and components that more effectively address the above problems.

[0006] Viewed from a first aspect, the present invention provides a component for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave, the component comprising: The main body is an input surface positioned to receive the input shock wave; a chamber recessed in said input surface for containing a fluid; a fluid inlet for introducing a fluid into the component; an intermediate volume defined by the input surface, the intermediate volume is at least partially disposed between the fluid inlet and the chamber; the intermediate volume is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and to the chamber for supplying fluid from the fluid inlet to the chamber; an intermediate volume, a portion of the input surface configured to sealingly abut another element to enclose the intermediate volume; The body defines a

[0007] Thus, the present invention provides a component that can hold (e.g., contain) a fluid (e.g., liquid and / or gas) such that the fluid can be exposed to an input shock wave. The input surface (e.g., at least a portion of the input surface, such as a portion of the input surface that surrounds (e.g., completely surrounds) the intermediate volume) is configured to sealingly abut (e.g., form a fluid-tight seal, such as a liquid-tight seal and / or an air-tight seal) against another element to enclose the intermediate volume and prevent the fluid from escaping. For example, the component can be configured to hold a fluid in a chamber such that the fluid can be exposed to a high-pressure shock wave, resulting in the collapse of the fluid and the concentration of energy within the fluid.

[0008] It should therefore be appreciated that with a component according to the present invention, a fluid (which may be a fuel) may be supplied to a chamber (e.g., a cavity in a target) without the need for an input tube extending directly into the chamber where the shock wave enters the fluid. In this manner, the dynamics of the shock wave's interaction with the component and the fluid therein are independent of the input tube. This allows for easier control of the shock wave propagation within the chamber.

[0009] In an embodiment, the body defines a fluid outlet for discharging fluid from the component. The fluid outlet is fluidly connected to the intermediate volume, for example, so that fluid can be discharged from the chamber to the fluid outlet via the intermediate volume. The fluid outlet can be used to determine when fluid has reached the intermediate volume, for example, to verify that the fluid inlet is not blocked. Thus, in an embodiment, the component includes a sensor positioned to detect the presence (e.g., flow) of fluid to or from the fluid outlet.

[0010] The fluid outlet can be positioned such that the chamber is at least partially located between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet. This can facilitate ensuring that the fluid reaches not only the intermediate volume but also the chamber. For example, the fluid inlet, intermediate volume, chamber, and fluid outlet can be defined within the body such that the fluid passes from the fluid inlet to the intermediate volume, then to the chamber, then to the intermediate volume (e.g., a different portion thereof), and finally to the fluid outlet.

[0011] The fluid inlet and fluid outlet (if provided) may be defined in the body in any suitable and desired manner. In embodiments, the fluid inlet and / or fluid outlet may comprise, for example, a passage or hole through the body from one (e.g., opposite) side of the body to the intermediate volume (through the body). Thus, the fluid inlet and / or fluid outlet may extend in an out-of-plane direction (e.g., non-parallel) relative to the input face.

[0012] In an embodiment, the component (or the system of which the component is a part) comprises a fluid supply connected to the fluid inlet, the fluid supply arranged to supply fluid to the fluid inlet (e.g., to supply fluid to the intermediate volume and / or chamber), In an embodiment, the component (or the system of which the component is a part) comprises a pressure or flow sensor connected to the fluid outlet, the pressure or flow sensor arranged to detect the presence of fluid at the fluid outlet (and thus in the intermediate volume and / or chamber).

[0013] The component (e.g., its body) can be configured for use with any suitable and desired fuel. In embodiments, the fluid is a fuel, for example, a fuel for nuclear fusion. In embodiments, the fluid is hydrogen, deuterium, and / or tritium in liquid and / or gas form.

[0014] The intermediate volume may have any suitable and desired geometric shape. The intermediate volume is defined by the input surface and another element (e.g., between the input surface and a surface of the other element that sealingly abuts the input surface). In an embodiment, the intermediate volume is recessed into the input surface. In an embodiment, (at least a portion of) the input surface is spaced apart from (at least a portion of) the (surface of) the other element (so as to define the intermediate volume). In an embodiment, the intermediate volume at least partially (e.g., completely) surrounds the chamber. In an embodiment, the intermediate volume has the shape of a rectangular tube (e.g., a cylinder) with, for example, an axis along which the rectangular tube or cylinder extends (and an axis about which the intermediate volume is rotationally symmetric) approximately perpendicular to the input surface (e.g., its plane).

[0015] In an embodiment, the intermediate volume is a low-profile squat prism (e.g., a cylinder) having a depth (a dimension parallel to the axis along which the square tube or cylinder extends) that is (significantly) smaller than the dimension of the square tube (e.g., the diameter of the cylinder) perpendicular to the axis along which the square tube or cylinder extends.

[0016] In an embodiment, the chamber is located substantially in the center of the intermediate volume. For example, the chamber may be defined as a deeper recess in the input face, e.g., at least partially (e.g., completely) within or surrounded by the intermediate volume.

[0017] The chamber may have any suitable and desired geometric shape. In an embodiment, the chamber is conical. The conical shape helps direct the shock wave towards the apex of the cone, increasing the pressure achieved within the fluid.

[0018] In embodiments, the axis of the chamber (e.g., about which the chamber is rotationally symmetric) is substantially perpendicular to the input surface (e.g., the plane thereof). In embodiments, the axis of the chamber is coaxial with the axis of the intermediate volume. In embodiments, the bottom (e.g., apex) of the chamber is distal to the input surface, e.g., the largest cross-sectional area of the chamber is proximal to the input surface.

[0019] The chamber may be defined by the body in any suitable and desired manner. For example, the body may be a single body defining a fluid inlet (and, e.g., fluid outlet), an intermediate volume, and a chamber. Alternatively, in embodiments, the body may include a plug (e.g., an insert), the plug defining the chamber. Thus, the plug may be located within (e.g., at least partially received within) another material (e.g., bulk) of the body. Providing a plug may, for example, allow it to be individually configurable to define a chamber having a particular geometry, or it may be constructed from a different material independent of the remainder of the body.

[0020] The plug can have any suitable and desired geometric shape. In embodiments, the plug has, for example, a cylindrical (e.g., cylindrical) outer shape with an axis generally perpendicular to the input face (e.g., its plane) and generally parallel (e.g., coaxial) with the axis of the intermediate volume, for example, along which the cylindrical or rectangular tube extends. In embodiments, the face of the plug (e.g., proximal to the input face) is flush with the intermediate volume (e.g., its surface).

[0021] In an embodiment, the plug is made of (comprises, e.g., consists of) a material that has a greater density than the other material (e.g., bulk) of the body. In an embodiment, the plug is made of (comprises, e.g., consists of) a (soft) metal, for example gold.

[0022] The input surface may have any suitable and desired geometric shape, for example, it may be substantially planar (e.g., the portion of the input surface not forming the intermediate volume and chamber).

[0023] In embodiments, the input surface may, for example, comprise a substantially planar outer (e.g., annular) rim. In embodiments, the intermediate volume may be recessed (e.g., stepped) from the outer (e.g., annular) rim of the input surface. In embodiments, the outer (e.g., annular) rim may at least partially (e.g., completely) surround the intermediate volume.

[0024] At least a portion of the input surface (e.g., an outer rim) is configured to sealingly abut another element to enclose the intermediate volume (and, e.g., chamber), which may be any suitable and desired element of the system in which the component is used.

[0025] In an embodiment, the input surface (e.g., at least a portion thereof) is configured to sealingly abut (e.g., contact such that a fluid seal, such as a liquid seal and / or a gas seal, is formed) against a shockwave modulation element (e.g., an element configured to manipulate input shockwaves).

[0026] In an embodiment, the input surface (e.g., at least a portion thereof) is configured to sealingly abut the cover. Thus, in an embodiment, the component comprises another element (e.g., a cover). The intermediate volume (and e.g., chamber) is sealed (e.g., closed) by the other element (e.g., cover) such that the only fluid paths into (and e.g., out of) the intermediate volume and chamber are fluid inlets (and e.g., fluid outlets).

[0027] In an embodiment, the input surface forms a fluid-tight seal with the other element, for example in an embodiment in which the component comprises other elements.

[0028] In embodiments, the other element (e.g., the cover) is at least partially secured to the body, for example, by adhesive applied proximal to the periphery of the intermediate volume. In embodiments, the other element (e.g., the cover) and the body may be clamped or fastened together.

[0029] In an embodiment, the body defines one or more flow channels in the intermediate volume. Preferably, the one or more flow channels are configured to substantially prevent excess adhesive from reaching the chamber and / or the fluid inlet and / or the fluid outlet, e.g., the flow channels are arranged to collect excess adhesive.

[0030] In an embodiment, the fluid inlet (and e.g., fluid outlet) is located between the chamber and the one or more flow channels. In an embodiment, the one or more flow channels are radially outward of the chamber and e.g., the fluid inlet (and e.g., fluid outlet), e.g., proximate to a periphery of the intermediate volume, e.g., between a periphery of the intermediate volume and one or more (e.g., all) of the chamber, the fluid inlet, and the fluid outlet. In an embodiment, the one or more flow channels comprise, for example, an annular groove in the intermediate volume recessed from the input face of the body further into the intermediate volume.

[0031] The body may be constructed of any suitable and desired material, for example, that is easily shaped or processed. In embodiments, the body is constructed at least partially of (comprises, e.g., consists of) plastic. In embodiments, the body is constructed of (comprises, e.g., consists of) metal (such as steel), for example, a light metal (e.g., aluminum).

[0032] The body may have any suitable and desired dimensions. In one embodiment, the body has a maximum dimension of 1 mm to 200 mm, such as 5 mm to 100 mm, for example, 10 mm to 50 mm, for example, about 30 mm. The chamber may have any suitable and desired dimensions. In one embodiment, the chamber has a depth, diameter and / or maximum dimension of 0.1 to 100 mm, for example, 1 mm to 50 mm, for example, 2 mm to 10 mm, for example, about 3 mm, 5 mm or 8 mm. In one embodiment, the intermediate volume has a depth (dimension perpendicular to the input surface) of 10 microns to 1 mm, for example, 20 microns to 500 microns, for example, 50 microns to 100 microns.

[0033] The provision of other elements as part of a component is considered to be novel and inventive in its own right and therefore viewed from a further aspect the present invention provides a component for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave, said component comprising: an element configured to receive the input shock wave, the element configured to allow the shock wave to propagate therethrough; The main body is an input surface positioned to at least partially receive the shock wave after it propagates through the element; a chamber defined in the input surface for containing a fluid; a fluid inlet for introducing a fluid into the component; an intermediate volume defined by the input surface, the intermediate volume is at least partially disposed between the fluid inlet and the chamber; the intermediate volume is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and to the chamber for supplying fluid from the fluid inlet to the chamber; an intermediate volume, the input surface configured to sealingly abut the element such that the intermediate volume is surrounded by the element; a body defining a Equipped with.

[0034] The intermediate volume is thus defined by the input surface and the element (e.g., the recess thereof) that receives the input shock wave. It should be appreciated that this aspect may (and preferably does) include one or more (e.g., all) of the preferred and optional features disclosed herein, e.g., as applicable, with respect to other aspects and embodiments of the invention.

[0035] The component may be arranged such that the element receives all of the input shock wave, e.g., such that only the body receives the shock wave after the shock wave has propagated through the element. Alternatively, the component may be arranged such that the element receives a portion (e.g., a majority of it) of the input shock wave and the body (e.g., a portion of it) receives a portion (e.g., a remainder) of the input shock wave, e.g., such that only a portion of the body receives the shock wave after the shock wave has propagated through the element.

[0036] In an embodiment, the element comprises a shockwave modulating element arranged to receive an input shockwave and manipulate the input shockwave to produce a manipulated shockwave, e.g., for the shockwave to impinge on the input surface after propagating through the shockwave modulating element.

[0037] The shockwave-modifying element may be arranged to modulate the input shockwave in any suitable and desired manner, for example to modify the shape and / or intensity of the input shockwave. In an embodiment, the element comprises a shockwave-amplifying element, the shockwave-modifying element arranged to amplify (e.g., concentrate the intensity of) the input shockwave.

[0038] In an embodiment, the (e.g., shockwave modulation or amplification) element comprises: an element body comprising a first material, the element body defines a cavity for manipulating the input shock wave to generate a manipulated shock wave; The cavity is an input portion for receiving the input shock wave incident on the component; an output section for outputting the manipulation shock wave from the cavity; Equipped with the cavity contains a second material having a shock impedance lower than the shock impedance of the first material; Equipped with.

[0039] The element has a body formed to define a cavity. The cavity has an input (e.g., opening) designed to receive an incident (input) shock wave at the input of the cavity. The cavity is designed (e.g., formed) to manipulate the shock wave as it passes through the cavity. The cavity also has an output (e.g., opening) designed to output the manipulated shock wave.

[0040] The element body can have any suitable and desired dimensions, which will be determined by the particular application of the element, hi one embodiment, the element body (e.g., its cavity) has a thickness, diameter and / or maximum dimension of from 0.1 mm to 100 mm, e.g., from 1 mm to 50 mm, e.g., from 2 mm to 10 mm, e.g., about 3 mm, 5 mm, or 8 mm.

[0041] The body is made of (comprises, e.g., consists of) a first material. The cavity contains (e.g., is at least partially filled with) a second material. The second material has a lower shock impedance than the shock impedance of the first material. Thus, (the shape of) the cavity is defined by (e.g., its inner wall) the body (made of) the first material, and the second material is located within the volume of the cavity.

[0042] It should therefore be appreciated that the element can be used to manipulate (e.g., modify the shape and / or intensity of) an input shock wave due to the difference in shock impedance of the cavity (e.g., its shape) and the first and second materials. In this manner, the shock wave transmitted from the output of the cavity may have a greater intensity (e.g., energy) than the input shock wave received at the input of the cavity.

[0043] Additionally, the elements may facilitate manipulating the input shock wave to help prevent or delay material jetting that occurs in the devices and methods disclosed in WO 2011 / 138622 due to, for example, the shape of the cavity and / or the presence of a second material within the cavity, thereby helping to amplify (e.g., focus the intensity of) the input shock wave before it is used to cause an impact against a target, thereby helping to increase the concentration of energy generated by the impact.

[0044] The body may have any suitable and desired shape (eg, the (internal) wall thereof) that defines the cavity.

[0045] In embodiments, the body (and thus the cavity) is formed such that the input portion has a cross-sectional area that is larger than the (e.g., corresponding) cross-sectional area of the output portion. The cross-sectional area of the input portion and / or the output portion may be defined in a plane that is generally perpendicular to a predetermined direction between the input portion and the output portion, for example, such that the cross-sectional area of the input portion is generally parallel to the cross-sectional area of the output portion. The direction between the input portion and the output portion may (e.g., in embodiments of the present invention) be generally parallel to a direction in which an input shock wave is arranged to propagate and impinge on the component.

[0046] In an embodiment, the cavity (e.g., a portion thereof) comprises a frustum, e.g., the body is formed so as to define a frustum-shaped cavity, and thus preferably a cross-section of the cavity (e.g., in a plane parallel to the direction between the input and output) has straight sides (walls), e.g., the cross-section is symmetrical (in that plane).

[0047] The frustum may comprise any suitable and desired type of frustum. In an embodiment, the cavity comprises a truncated cone. Preferably, the cavity is therefore rotationally symmetric about an axis passing through the cavity. Preferably, the axis of the body or cavity is parallel to the direction between the input and output portions.

[0048] In embodiments, (the cross section and / or wall of) the cavity comprises two or more portions (e.g., sub-cavities) each at a different angle relative to the axis of the cavity (e.g., an axis about which the cavity is rotationally symmetric, e.g., parallel to the direction between the input and output). Thus, for example, the cavity may comprise two or more frustums, each having sidewalls at a different angle relative to the axis of the cavity. Providing portions of the cavity with different angles may help to manipulate an input shock wave in a particular manner, for example to help accelerate the input shock wave from the input to the output.

[0049] In embodiments where the cavity has three or more frustum-shaped sections, each section may be at a different angle relative to each of the other sections, although two or more sections may be at the same angle with one or more intermediate sections of the cavity at a different angle.

[0050] In embodiments, instead of or in addition to a cavity having one or more straight lateral portions (in cross section), the cavity may have a cross section with one or more portions having curved walls. For example, the cavity may have a flared (e.g., conical) frustum shape, and the cavity walls are curved (e.g., elliptically). These types of shapes may tend to provide greater uniformity of the shock front and shock shape at the output.

[0051] In an embodiment, the element comprises an impedance matching layer. The impedance matching layer may comprise a layer of material provided between two other materials. The impedance matching layer is composed of a material having a shock impedance between the shock impedances of the two materials. For example, a layer of aluminum may be provided between a layer of tantalum and a layer of copper. In an embodiment, the impedance matching layer may comprise multiple materials arranged within the layer such that the shock impedance incrementally changes between the layers.

[0052] Impedance matching layers facilitate coupling of energy between different layers of material.

[0053] In embodiments, the element includes an input impedance matching layer adjacent to (e.g., extending across) the input of the cavity (e.g., its opening). The impedance matching layer may facilitate improving the transfer of energy (e.g., from an incident projectile) into the second material, for example, by facilitating a reduction in the reflection component of the input shock wave from the surface of the second material. Thus, the input impedance matching layer may facilitate coupling of the input shock wave into the cavity.

[0054] In an embodiment, the input impedance matching layer comprises a planar layer. The input impedance matching layer may comprise (e.g., consist of) a material having a shock impedance greater than the shock impedance of the second material, e.g., a material having a shock impedance lower than the first material, e.g., a material having a shock impedance between the shock impedances of the first and second materials.

[0055] In an embodiment, the shock impedance of the input impedance matching layer is between the shock impedance of (the material of) the impact projectile configured to generate the input shock wave (e.g., upon impact with the element) and the shock impedance of the second material.

[0056] In embodiments, the element includes an output impedance matching layer adjacent to (e.g., extending across) the output of the cavity (e.g., its opening). The impedance matching layer may facilitate improving the transfer of energy from the cavity (e.g., the second material) by, for example, facilitating a reduction in the reflection component of the shock wave as it exits the cavity from the output surface of the second material. Thus, the output impedance matching layer may facilitate coupling of the shock wave outside the cavity.

[0057] In an embodiment, the output impedance matching layer comprises a planar layer. The output impedance matching layer may comprise (e.g., consist of) a material having a shock impedance less than that of the second material, e.g., a material having a shock impedance greater than that of the (e.g., target) material on which the output shockwave is incident, e.g., a material having a shock impedance between that of the second material and that of the (e.g., target) material on which the output shockwave is incident.

[0058] Viewed from a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of manipulating shock waves, the method comprising generating at least one shock wave incident on a component (e.g., an element) according to any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein.

[0059] It should be appreciated that this aspect may (and preferably does) include one or more (e.g., all) of the preferred and optional features disclosed herein, e.g., as applicable with respect to other aspects and embodiments of the invention.

[0060] In an embodiment, the method comprises striking a component (e.g., the element) with a projectile to generate said at least one shock wave.

[0061] Viewed from a further aspect, the present invention provides a system for generating a localized concentration of energy, the system comprising: A component according to any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein; a mechanism for generating a shock wave incident on the component (e.g., the element); Equipped with.

[0062] It should be appreciated that this aspect may (and preferably does) include one or more (e.g., all) of the preferred and optional features disclosed herein, e.g., as applicable with respect to other aspects and embodiments of the invention.

[0063] As used herein, the term "shock impedance" should be understood to mean "the pressure that must be exerted on a medium to give a portion of the medium a unit particle velocity" (Henderson, "On the refraction of shock waves," Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Vol. 198, January 1989, pp. 365-386), which is equal to the product of the shock velocity and the density of the non-shocked material.

[0064] It should be understood that the input shock wave may be formed external to the component (e.g., the element) and propagate within the component, but may additionally or alternatively be generated within the component (e.g., the element) by, for example, the component (e.g., the element) being struck (e.g., by a projectile). Both alternatives are encompassed by the term "input shock wave."

[0065] Embodiments of the component may be suitable for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave to generate a localized energy concentration, for example, for the purpose of generating conditions suitable for nuclear fusion within a chamber (e.g., a target). However, the system is not limited thereto and may be used in other applications where the chamber contains a fluid (e.g., of a different type). For example, the component (e.g., its chamber) may be configured to contain fluid (e.g., gaseous) reactants. The component may be arranged to expose the reactants to a shock wave to place them under pressure, for example, to increase the rate of the reaction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0066] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 shows a schematic perspective cutaway view of the components of the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 shows a perspective cutaway view of the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 4 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the components shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 6]2 shows a cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 1 including elements of the wider system. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic cross-section of an amplifier suitable for use in a system according to the invention; [Figure 8a] 8 shows one of six successive stages of the shock wave's interaction with the amplifier of FIG. 7. [Figure 8b] 8 shows one of six successive stages of the shock wave's interaction with the amplifier of FIG. 7. [Figure 8c] 8 shows one of six successive stages of the shock wave's interaction with the amplifier of FIG. 7. [Figure 8d] 8 shows one of six successive stages of the shock wave's interaction with the amplifier of FIG. 7. [Figure 8e] 8 shows one of six successive stages of the shock wave's interaction with the amplifier of FIG. 7. [Figure 8f] 8 shows one of six successive stages of the shock wave's interaction with the amplifier of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of components according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0067] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0068] Components and systems for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave are described herein.

[0069] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The system includes a shock wave modulation element 3 and a component 5 for containing a fluid. Figure 2 shows a perspective cutaway view of component 5 alone. Figure 1 also shows a generally planar projectile 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the projectile 6 is a flat disc, although other projectiles may be used.

[0070] Component 5 comprises a body 7. In the illustrated embodiment, body 7 is generally cylindrical, although body 7 may be of any suitable and desired shape. Body 7 defines a chamber 21 for containing a fluid, a fluid inlet 11 for introducing fluid into component 5, a fluid outlet 13 for allowing fluid to exit component 5, and an intermediate volume 15, a portion of intermediate volume 15 defined between fluid inlet 11 and fluid outlet 13.

[0071] The body 7 has a first face configured to be proximal to the shockwave modulation element 3, hereinafter referred to as the proximal face (input face) 17. The body also has a second face opposite the proximal face 17, hereinafter referred to as the distal face 18.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, intermediate volume 15 is formed as a shallow cylindrical recess in the proximal surface 17 of body 7. The central axis of intermediate volume 15 is aligned with the central axis of body 7 itself, both perpendicular to the proximal and distal surfaces 17, 18. Chamber 21 is formed as a further conical depression within intermediate volume 15. The maximum diameter of chamber 21 is smaller than the diameter of intermediate volume 15. The central axis of chamber 21 is aligned with the central axes of both body 7 and intermediate volume 15.

[0073] A chamber 21 configured to contain a fluid is formed in the plug 19 located in the cylindrical recess 9 of the body 7. Alternatively, the chamber 21 may be defined directly in the body 7.

[0074] The chamber 21 may be of any suitable shape and may be particularly configured to cooperate with the shockwave modulation element 3 to manipulate the input shockwave.

[0075] 3-6 show a system 1 including a component 5 and a shock wave modulation element 3 which is an amplifier 2. The function of the amplifier 2 is explained in more detail below in connection with FIGS.

[0076] An advantageous effect of the plug 19 is that, for example, the shape of the chamber 21 can be specifically configured to work with various shock wave modulation elements while still allowing the use of the same shaped body 7. This plug-and-play configuration increases the overall versatility of the component 5.

[0077] The body 7 may be constructed of any suitable material, as the material from which it is constructed is not critical to its function. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the body 7 is constructed at least partially of steel, although other workable materials such as aluminum or plastic may be used. In the embodiment shown, the plug 19 is constructed of gold. Gold is used for its malleability, which allows complex shapes to be easily manufactured, although other materials with similar properties may be used.

[0078] 6, fluid inlet 11 and fluid outlet 13 are connected to inlet piping 12 and outlet piping 14, respectively. The fluid inlet is connected (via inlet piping 12) to a source of fluid (e.g., fuel). Fluid outlet 13 is connected (via outlet piping 14) to a pressure sensor 25. Because chamber 21 is located between fluid inlet 11 and fluid outlet 13, measuring the pressure at fluid outlet 13 can determine whether fluid has reached chamber 21 from fluid inlet 11.

[0079] 1 and 5, intermediate volume 15 is formed as a thin gap defined by a depression or recess in proximal surface 17 of body 7 and output face 312 of amplifier 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance between the bottom of the depression and output face 312 of the amplifier is 50-100 microns.

[0080] Figure 7 shows a longitudinal cross section through a shock wave modulating element, amplifier 2. It should be understood that the amplifier 2 shown in Figure 3 is merely exemplary and that other amplifier designs may be used in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] The amplifier 2 comprises a body 33 defining a hollow, truncated cone-shaped cavity 35. The body 33 is constructed of a material having a high shock impedance, such as a heavy metal. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 33 is constructed of tantalum, although other materials are suitable, such as platinum, copper, steel, or other heavy metals, such as tungsten. The cavity 35 contains a material (cavity filler) 37 having a low shock impedance. The cavity filler 37 has a shock impedance lower than that of the body 33. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity filler 37 is polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

[0082] Cavity 35 has an input portion 39 configured to receive shock waves and an output portion 311 configured to output the shock waves after they have propagated through amplifier 2. The cross-sectional area of input portion 39 is larger than the cross-sectional area of output portion 311.

[0083] 7 shows a longitudinal cross section, and in the illustrated embodiment, amplifier 2 is rotationally symmetric. It should be understood that the cavity 35 of amplifier 2 is thus formed as a truncated cone with an input radius that is larger than the output radius. Amplifier 2 has an input face 310 proximate the input 39 of cavity 35 and an output face 312 proximate the output 311 of cavity 35.

[0084] 7 illustrates an embodiment of amplifier 2 having an impedance matching layer 317 disposed on the input face 310 of amplifier 2. Impedance matching layer 317 is a planar layer of material having an impact impedance between the impact impedance of projectile 6 and the impact impedance of cavity filler 37. Impedance matching layer 317 improves coupling efficiency into amplifier 2 such that a greater percentage of the energy input into amplifier 2 by projectile 6 is transferred to cavity filler 37.

[0085] The function of amplifier 2 will now be further explained with reference to Figures 8a-8e. Figures 8a-8e show a projectile 6 striking amplifier 2 shown in Figure 8a. Figure 8a shows projectile 6 striking impedance matching layer 317. In Figures 8b and 8c, the resulting shock wave 12 passes through impedance matching layer 317 and enters cavity filler 37. Pressure increases in amplifier 2 through shock wave reflection and superposition within cavity 35.

[0086] Upon incidence into cavity 35, as can be seen in Figure 8d, the incident shock reflects from cavity wall 36 as an irregular shock reflection (Mach reflection), which propagates from cavity wall 36 and eventually overlaps with the central axis of cavity 35, as shown in Figures 8e and 8f.

[0087] This radially symmetric wave superposition about the central axis creates a high pressure point within the cavity fill 37, which expands and interacts with impinging Mach reflections, resulting in the generation of an axial quasi-planar Mach stem that propagates towards the output 311 of the cavity 35. This wave eventually reaches the output 311 of the cavity 35 and emerges from the amplifier 2 at a pressure higher than that of the original input shock wave 12.

[0088] 3-6, as the shock wave exits the output 311 of the cavity 35, it is directed into the chamber 21, which contains a fluid. The fluid may be a fusion fuel, such as deuterium gas. When a sufficiently high pressure is injected from the cavity 35 into the chamber 21, the fluid will collapse, creating high pressures and temperatures in the collapsing fluid that may be sufficient to initiate fusion.

[0089] By introducing the fluid into chamber 21 through intermediate volume 15 rather than directly into chamber 21 by fluid inlet 11, the dynamics of the fluid collapse are not affected by the inlet tube. Therefore, the collapse is more efficient, which can generate sufficient pressure and temperature to initiate fusion, potentially resulting in higher fusion yields.

[0090] Although the chamber 21 is not sealed from the fluid inlet 11 or the fluid outlet 13, the rate of collapse is so high that collapse occurs faster than fluid can flow out the fluid inlet 11 and fluid outlet 13.

[0091] 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a component 105 according to a further embodiment. The component 105 is configured to be used without other components, such as a shock wave modulation component. For this reason, the component 105 comprises a cover slip 140 provided on its proximal surface 117 to close off the intermediate volume 115. The intermediate volume is thus defined by the recess in the proximal surface 117 of the body 107 and the cover slip 140.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the coverslip 140 is glued to the body 107. Because excess glue would be problematic if it were to flow into the fluid inlet 111, fluid outlet 113, or chamber 121, glue channels 142 are provided between the outer wall of the recess defining the intermediate volume and the fluid inlet 111 and fluid outlet 113. While FIG. 9 appears to show two glue channels, it should be understood that this is because FIG. 9 shows a cross-section and the components (other than the fluid inlet 111 and fluid outlet 113) are rotationally symmetric, resulting in an annular glue channel 142. In other embodiments, the coverslip 140 and body 107 may be clamped together, eliminating the need for glue. In such embodiments, a sealing member, such as an O-ring, may be clamped between the coverslip 140 and body 107 to provide an acceptable seal. In such embodiments, no glue is present, and thus glue channel 142 may be omitted. The coverslip may be made of any suitable material, such as glass.

[0093] Although each of the embodiments described herein includes only a single chamber for containing fluid, it is contemplated that components may be provided that supply fluid to multiple chambers from a single inlet and a single intermediate volume.

Claims

1. A component for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave, comprising: The main body is an input surface positioned to receive the input shock wave; a chamber recessed in said input surface for containing a fluid; a fluid inlet for introducing a fluid into the component; an intermediate volume defined by the input surface, the intermediate volume is at least partially disposed between the fluid inlet and the chamber; the intermediate volume is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and to the chamber for supplying fluid from the fluid inlet to the chamber; an intermediate volume, a portion of the input surface configured to sealingly abut another element to enclose the intermediate volume; A component comprising a body defining a

2. The component of claim 1 , wherein the body defines a fluid outlet for expelling fluid from the component, the fluid outlet being fluidly connected to the intermediate volume.

3. 3. The component of claim 1 or 2, wherein the body comprises a plug, the plug defining the chamber.

4. 4. The component of claim 3, wherein the plug is made of a soft metal, such as gold.

5. 5. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the chamber is conical.

6. 6. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the input surface is configured to sealingly abut a shockwave modulating element.

7. 7. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a further element for enclosing said intermediate volume.

8. The component of claim 7 , wherein the other element is at least partially secured to the body by an adhesive.

9. 9. The component of claim 8, wherein the body defines one or more flow channels within the intermediate volume, the one or more flow channels configured to substantially prevent excess adhesive from reaching the chamber and / or the fluid inlet.

10. A component for exposing a fluid to an input shock wave, comprising: an element configured to receive the input shock wave, the element configured to allow the shock wave to propagate therethrough; The main body is an input surface positioned to at least partially receive the shock wave after it propagates through the element; a chamber defined in the input surface for containing a fluid; a fluid inlet for introducing a fluid into the component; an intermediate volume defined by the input surface, the intermediate volume is at least partially disposed between the fluid inlet and the chamber; the intermediate volume is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and to the chamber for supplying fluid from the fluid inlet to the chamber; an intermediate volume, the input surface configured to sealingly abut the element such that the intermediate volume is surrounded by the element; a body defining a A component comprising:

11. 11. The component of claim 10, wherein the element is a shockwave modulating element, the shockwave modulating element being arranged to receive an input shockwave and manipulate the input shockwave to produce a manipulated shockwave.

12. The element is an element body comprising a first material, the element body defines a cavity for manipulating the input shock wave to generate a manipulated shock wave; The cavity is an input portion for receiving the input shock wave incident on the component; an output section for outputting the manipulation shock wave from the cavity; Equipped with the cavity contains a second material having a shock impedance lower than the shock impedance of the first material; Component according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising:

13. The component of claim 12 , wherein the body is formed such that the cross-sectional area of the input portion is greater than the cross-sectional area of the output portion.

14. A method of manipulating shock waves, comprising the step of generating at least one shock wave incident on a component according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The method of claim 14, comprising striking the component with a projectile to generate the at least one shock wave.

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