Laser fusion systems and methods

Abstract

The present invention includes a high-intensity short-pulse laser generation system. The system includes a resonator and an optical path changing device coupled to the resonator. The resonator is configured to circulate or reciprocate at least a portion of laser light output from a light source along a predetermined first optical path, thereby increasing the intensity of the laser light propagating along the first optical path. The optical path changing device is coupled to the resonator and is configured to repeatedly change the propagation direction of the laser light propagating along the first optical path at predetermined timing, thereby propagating the laser light propagating along the first optical path onto a second optical path that is not on the first optical path, thereby generating high-intensity short-pulse laser light on the second optical path.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application is related to and claims priority from commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 424,779, filed November 11, 2022, which is incorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to nuclear fusion energy generation technology. In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods for nuclear fusion energy using high-intensity pulsed laser generation systems and related methods. More specifically, in one example, the present invention provides a laser generation system for nuclear fusion configured within a satellite system. By way of example only, the present invention may be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for power, spacecraft, transportation, other air, land, and water vehicles, defense applications (e.g., satellite, aerospace, ground-based and missile defense, submarines, naval vessels), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communications and / or data applications. [Background technology]

[0003] Fusion energy is a type of energy production method that occurs when two atomic nuclei fuse together, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. The fuel for the fusion reaction (primarily hydrogen) is abundant on Earth, and because the reaction does not produce greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants, it is considered a clean and abundant potential energy source.

[0004] The two main approaches to achieving nuclear fusion reactions are inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and magnetic confinement fusion (MCF). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) is a technique that uses a high-energy laser or particle beam to compress and heat small pellets of hydrogen fuel, causing them to fuse. The fuel is typically a mixture of deuterium and tritium, two isotopes of hydrogen. The fuel is typically contained within a small, spherical capsule called a hohlraum, which is placed in the center of a chamber filled with a high-energy laser or particle beam. When the laser or particle beam strikes the inner wall of the hohlraum, it generates x-rays, which uniformly heat and compress the fuel inside the hohlraum. This allows the fuel to reach the temperature and pressure conditions necessary for fusion to occur.

[0006] The main advantage of ICF is that it can potentially generate a fusion reaction using relatively small amounts of fuel and at relatively low cost, but the process is still in the experimental stage and has significant technical challenges to overcome before it can be considered a practical energy source.

[0007] Magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) involves confining, heating, and fusing a hydrogen-fuel plasma (hot ionized gas) using a strong magnetic field. The most common form of MCF is called tokamak fusion, which uses a doughnut-shaped toroidal chamber to confine the plasma. The plasma is held in the center of the chamber by a strong magnetic field generated by electrical current flowing through a set of coil windings around the chamber. The plasma is heated by injecting energy into it, either via particle beams or electromagnetic waves.

[0008] The main advantage of MCF is that it has the potential to generate fusion reactions on a larger scale, making it more suitable for power generation. However, MCF is a more complex and costly process than ICF, and there are still significant technical challenges to overcome before it can be considered as a practical energy source.

[0009] ICF and MCF have made significant progress in recent years, and there are several experimental facilities around the world working on these technologies. However, achieving a sustained fusion reaction that results in net energy production (meaning the energy produced by the fusion reaction is greater than the energy required to start and sustain the reaction) remains a significant technical challenge.

[0010] Other approaches to fusion energy, such as magnetic target fusion and muon-catalyzed fusion, are being investigated, but these approaches are still in the early stages of development, and it is not yet clear whether they will be viable as a practical energy source.

[0011] Fusion energy has the potential to be a clean and abundant energy source, but significant technical challenges must be overcome before it can be considered a practical energy source. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The present invention generally provides techniques related to nuclear fusion energy generation. In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods for nuclear fusion energy using high-intensity pulsed laser generation systems and related methods. More specifically, in one example, the present invention provides a laser generation system for nuclear fusion configured within a satellite system. By way of example only, the present invention may be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for power, spacecraft, transportation, other air, land, and water vehicles, defense applications (e.g., satellite, aerospace, ground-based and missile defense, submarines, naval vessels), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communications and / or data applications.

[0013] In one example, the present invention provides a reactor system for space applications, the system including a reactor containing fusion material and at least one satellite system disposed in orbit above a geographic location of a planet, in one example, the satellite system operably coupled to the reactor containing the fusion material.

[0014] In one example, the system includes an optical cavity maintained at a vacuum of 300 Torr or less, characterized by a free-space length of 10 meters to 10 kilometers, and co-located with a satellite system. In one example, the optical cavity is configured to increase the intensity of the laser beam, including the pulses, from a laser source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam on a first optical path, the laser beam having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule. In one example, the system forms a resonator including the optical cavity.

[0015] In one example, the system includes an optical path changing device connected to the optical cavity. In one example, the optical path changing device is configured to repeatedly change the spatial direction of a laser beam propagating on a first optical path at a predetermined timing (e.g., in a range of 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds) with a predetermined response time (e.g., 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds), thereby changing the direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to a second optical path outside the first optical path, where the laser beam propagating on the first optical path interacts with the fusion material after using several mirrors. The optical path changing device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path, generating a high-intensity pulsed laser.

[0016] In one example, the system includes at least one pair of mirror assemblies, at least one of which is located on a satellite system. In one example, each of the mirror assemblies has a mirror surface area (e.g., 1 cm 2 From 100,000m 2) and provided to the optical path changing device and disposed in the first optical path. In one example, the at least one mirror device is configured to change a spatial position of a mirror device coupled to a propagation of the laser beam.

[0017] In one example, the system includes a timing device in the optical path mechanism, the timing device having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the spatial position of the mirror device, the timing device being configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam back and forth between at least one pair of mirrors, such that the intensity of the pulse of the laser beam increases incrementally with each cycle of the laser beam.

[0018] In one example, the system includes a spatial driver connected to the timing device and at least one mirror device configured to adjust a spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after a predetermined number of cycles.

[0019] In one example, the present invention includes a high-intensity short-pulse laser generation system. The system includes a resonator and an optical path changing device coupled to the resonator. The resonator is configured to circulate or reciprocate at least a portion of laser light output from a light source along a predetermined first optical path, thereby increasing the intensity of the laser light propagating along the first optical path. The optical path changing device is coupled to the resonator and configured to repeatedly change the propagation direction of the laser light propagating along the first optical path at predetermined timings, thereby propagating the laser light propagating along the first optical path along a second optical path that is not on the first optical path, thereby generating high-intensity short-pulse laser light on the second optical path.

[0020] Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

[0021] In some examples, the present invention can achieve one or more of these benefits and / or advantages. In one example, the present invention provides a fusion energy system configured with a high-intensity pulsed laser system in a compact, spatially efficient system, and related methods. In one example, the high-intensity pulsed laser system provides energy sufficient to ignite and sustain fusion energy in space applications. In one example, the present invention provides the advantage of using the high-intensity laser of the present invention in space to generate fusion power with efficient size, weight, and cost. These and other benefits and / or advantages are realizable by the present apparatus and related methods. Further details of these benefits and / or advantages can be found throughout this specification, and in more detail below.

[0022] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be realized by reference to the latter portions of the specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] For a fuller understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which the presently described embodiments and best mode of carrying out the invention will be explained in more detail, with the understanding that these drawings should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a laser fusion system configured as a twin satellite system according to one example of the present invention.

[0025] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a more detailed diagram of a laser fusion system configured in a twin satellite system according to one example of the present invention.

[0026] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a more detailed diagram of a laser fusion system configured in a twin satellite system according to one example of the present invention.

[0027] [Figure 3a] FIG. 3(a) is a more detailed view of the optical redirection device of FIG. 3 according to an example of the present invention. [Figure 3b] FIG. 3(b) is a more detailed view of the optical redirection device of FIG. 3 according to an example of the present invention. [Figure 3c] FIG. 3(c) is a more detailed view of the optical redirection device of FIG. 3 according to an example of the present invention.

[0028] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a more detailed diagram of a laser fusion system configured in a twin satellite system according to one example of the present invention.

[0029] [Figure 5a] FIG. 5(a) is a simplified diagram of a laser fusion system according to an example of the present invention. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5(b) is a simplified diagram of a laser fusion system according to an example of the present invention.

[0030] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram of a high intensity pulsed laser generation system according to an example of the present invention.

[0031] [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a table listing magnetostrictive and piezoelectric materials according to one example of the present invention.

[0032] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a detailed diagram of a multi-pass configuration of a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system according to an example of the present invention.

[0033] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a detailed diagram of a cavity damper for a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system according to an example of the present invention.

[0034] [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a detailed view of a cavity damper drive device according to an example of the present invention.

[0035] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a cavity damper timing device in one example of the present invention.

[0036] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a timing diagram for generating a high intensity pulsed laser in one example of the present invention.

[0037] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a simplified diagram illustrating a nuclear fusion system configured with a high intensity pulsed laser system according to one example of the present invention.

[0038] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a timing diagram illustrating a high intensity pulsed laser output according to an example of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows a timing diagram illustrating a high intensity pulsed laser output according to an example of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a timing diagram illustrating a high intensity pulsed laser output according to an example of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] In one example, the present invention provides technology generally related to nuclear fusion energy generation. In particular, the present invention provides systems and methods for nuclear fusion energy using high-intensity pulsed laser generating systems, and related methods. More specifically, in one example, the present invention provides a laser generating system for nuclear fusion configured within a satellite system. By way of example only, the present invention may be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for power, spacecraft, mobility, other vehicles for air, land, and water, defense applications (e.g., satellite, aerospace, ground-based and missile defense, submarines, naval vessels), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communications and / or data applications.

[0040] In one example, the invention is configured with a satellite system. In one example, a satellite is a man-made object designed to orbit the Earth or another celestial body. Satellites are typically launched into space using rockets and can be used for a variety of purposes, including communications, weather forecasting, navigation, and scientific research.

[0041] Time-of-flight (TOF) sensors are used to measure the distance between a satellite and other objects, such as the ground or other satellites. These sensors can be used to determine the position and velocity of the satellite, as well as to track the movement of other objects.

[0042] Thrusters are used to maneuver satellites in orbit and can be chemical thrusters, which use a propellant to generate thrust, or electric thrusters, which use electricity to ionize gases and generate thrust.

[0043] Communications are an essential part of satellite function. Satellites use a variety of methods to communicate with the Earth, including radio waves, microwaves, and laser beams. They may also use antennas to send and receive signals.

[0044] Processors are used to control the functions of the satellite and to process the data collected by the satellite's sensors. Processors can range from simple microcontrollers to more sophisticated computer systems.

[0045] Other elements that may be included on satellites include solar panels to provide power, sensors to gather data about the environment and celestial bodies, and payloads such as cameras and scientific instruments. Some satellites may also be equipped with shielding to protect against radiation and other environmental hazards. Further details of the present laser fusion system as applied to satellite systems may be found throughout this specification, particularly below.

[0046] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a laser fusion system configured with a pair of satellite systems according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the system includes a first satellite system 1 and a second satellite system. A first optical path is defined between the first satellite system and the second satellite system. To form the first optical path, a pair of mirror devices is configured on each of the first satellite system and the second satellite system.

[0047] In one example, the second satellite system is configured with a drive unit coupled to an optical path changer, which changes the propagation of the high-intensity pulsed laser beam from a first optical path to a second optical path. The second optical path is directed toward a target within the nuclear fusion reactor system and is adapted to interact with the target and initiate a nuclear fusion reaction. As shown, multiple other high-intensity pulsed laser beams can be directed toward the target simultaneously with the high-intensity pulsed laser beam originating from the first optical path between the first satellite system and the second satellite system. Further details of this system can be found throughout this specification and, more particularly, below.

[0048] In one example, the present invention provides a reactor system for space applications. The system includes a reactor containing fusion material, such as fuel pellets or hohlraums containing fusion material. The system includes at least one satellite system positioned in orbit above a geographic location of a planet. In one example, the satellite system is operably coupled to the reactor containing the fusion material, as shown.

[0049] In one example, the system includes an optical cavity maintained at a vacuum of 300 Torr or less, characterized by a free-space length of 10 meters to 10 kilometers, and co-located with a satellite system. In one example, the optical cavity is configured to increase an intensity of the laser beam, including the pulses, from a laser source having a pulsed energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam on a first optical path, the laser beam having the pulsed energy output power being 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule.

[0050] In one example, the system includes an optical redirection device coupled to the optical cavity. In one example, the optical redirection device is configured to repeatedly change the spatial direction of a laser beam propagating on a first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with a response time ranging from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds, thereby redirecting the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to a second optical path outside the first optical path to interact with the fusion material after using several mirrors. The optical redirection device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path, generating a high-intensity pulsed laser beam that is directed toward a target.

[0051] In one example, the system includes at least one pair of mirror assemblies, at least one of which is located on a satellite system. In one example, each of the mirror assemblies has a resolution of 1 cm. 2 From 100,000m 2 and a mirror surface area of ​​about 100 nm, the mirror surface area being provided to an optical path changing device and disposed in the first optical path. In one example, the at least one mirror device is configured to change a spatial position of a mirror device coupled to a propagation of the laser beam.

[0052] In one example, the system includes a timing device in the optical path mechanism, the timing device having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the spatial position of the mirror device, the timing device being configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam back and forth between at least one pair of mirrors, such that the intensity of the pulse of the laser beam increases incrementally with each cycle of the laser beam.

[0053] In one example, the system includes a spatial drive connected to a timing device and at least one mirror device configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after a predetermined number of cycles. Further details of the satellite system are found throughout this specification and, more particularly, below.

[0054] In one example, each satellite includes a laser fusion system that may be physically connected to one another using structural materials, such as beams or columns, to fix the relative positions of components on different satellites. In one example, a physical structure for fixing the distance between at least two satellites may be used with the system, with or without such physical structures. Such connection systems may include other variations, combinations, and modifications.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a more detailed diagram of a laser fusion system configured as a pair of satellite systems according to one example of the present invention. As shown, the system includes a first satellite system coupled to a second satellite system. Each satellite system includes a solar energy unit that generates energy for the satellite system. One of the satellite systems includes a laser light source operably coupled to a mirror device. The second mirror device coupled to the second satellite system is also shown to be equipped with an optical path changer. The optical path changer includes a drive device, a timing device, and other elements, each of which is described in more detail below. In one example, the optical path changer changes the propagation of high-intensity pulsed laser light from a first optical path to a second optical path.

[0056] In one example, each satellite system is configured with a support beam that connects the satellite systems to one another, as shown. The support beams can be made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), aluminum alloys, and other lightweight materials. The support beams are coupled to position detectors that include time-of-flight sensors. In one example, the time-of-flight sensors include laser devices and sensing devices for monitoring and adjusting positions between the satellite systems. In one example, piezoelectric actuators can be configured to adjust the relative positions of the satellites.

[0057] Figure 3 is a more detailed diagram of a laser fusion system configured in a twin satellite system according to one example of the present invention. In one example, the system includes elements common to the previous diagram (Figure 2). In one example, the system includes a mechanical cavity damper device. The cavity damper is designed to block pulses of laser light propagating along a first optical path at the correct time. The cavity damper device rotates or moves to mechanically redirect the high-intensity pulsed laser light propagating along the first optical path to the second optical path.

[0058] In one example, a mechanical cavity damper is a device used to change the direction and path of an optical beam, such as a laser beam, from a first path to a second path. The cavity damper is configured with an optical cavity, which is an enclosed or partially enclosed space designed to reflect light, and in one example, the optical cavity is a movable component that can be inserted into the cavity to reflect the beam.

[0059] In one example, the mechanically movable cavity damper can be mounted on a satellite separate from the satellite holding the mirrors that make up the first optical path or other optical paths, as described in more detail below.

[0060] FIG. 3(a) is a more detailed diagram of the optical path changing device of FIG. 3 according to one example of the present invention. As shown, a cavity is configured between a pair of mirror devices including mirror 1 and mirror 2. A laser light source emits a laser beam from one mirror to the other mirror, causing the laser beam to resonate and form a resonator device. The optical path changing device is spatially configured between the pair of mirrors. The optical path changing device (forming a cavity damper device) includes a high-speed rotation motor coupled to a highly reflective mirror, and the motor is operated to move the mirror device into a first optical path and change the direction of the laser beam propagating in the resonator to a second optical path outside the first optical path.

[0061] In one example, the cavity includes a reflective material, such as a mirror, and is shaped to allow the beam to be reflected multiple times as it passes through the cavity. To change the direction and path of the beam, a damper element is moved to a specific location within the cavity, causing the beam to reflect in a different direction. This allows the beam to be redirected from its original path to a new path, such as a second path.

[0062] In one example, the present invention includes a high-intensity short-pulse laser generation system. The system includes a resonator and an optical path changing device coupled to the resonator. The resonator is configured to circulate or reciprocate at least a portion of laser light output from a light source along a predetermined first optical path, thereby increasing the intensity of the laser light propagating along the first optical path. The optical path changing device is coupled to the resonator and configured to repeatedly change the propagation direction of the laser light propagating along the first optical path at predetermined timings, thereby propagating the laser light propagating along the first optical path along a second optical path that is not on the first optical path, and generating high-intensity short-pulse laser light on the second optical path.

[0063] In one example, the resonator includes a first optical system arranged on the first optical path, and the optical path changing device is configured to change the propagation direction of the laser light by driving at least the first optical system according to a predetermined timing.

[0064] In one example, the first optical system includes at least one pair of reflecting mirrors that define a first optical path of the Fabry-Perot resonant cavity by reflecting the laser light output from the light source along the first optical path. The optical path changing device is configured to drive at least one of the at least one reflecting mirrors to insert the driven reflecting mirror into the cavity in accordance with a timing, thereby reflecting the high-power laser light and changing the propagation direction of the high-power laser light.

[0065] A spatial driving device coupled to the timing device and the optical path changing device is configured such that a driving reflection mirror is inserted inside the cavity to reflect the high-power laser beam and repeatedly change the propagation direction of the laser beam, thereby propagating the laser beam on a first optical path and changing the laser beam to a second optical path.

[0066] In one example, the optical redirection device inserts a driven reflective mirror inside the cavity to change the propagation direction of high-power laser light at a repetition rate of 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with a response time of 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds.

[0067] As an example, as shown in the figure, the optical path changing device includes a rotating unit configured to rotate at a predetermined speed along a predetermined rotation axis, and a coupling unit that couples the rotating unit to a driven reflecting mirror. In one example, the coupling unit is configured to determine the speed of the driven reflecting mirror by controlling the distance from the center of rotation to the mirror, and inserts the driven reflecting mirror into the cavity with a response time of 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to change the propagation direction of the high-power laser light, thereby propagating along the first optical path that changes the laser light to the second optical path. The repetition rate, which is between 0.001 microseconds and 3 seconds, is determined by the rotational speed of the motor, such as RPM.

[0068] FIG. 3(b) is a more detailed diagram of the optical path changing device of FIG. 3 according to an example of the present invention. In one example, the device includes a cavity damper device for space allocation using, for example, a high-speed rotary motor. The high-speed rotary motor includes a disk that rotates at a high speed of 600 RPM. By using a 600 RPM motor, this value determines the repetition rate (repetition frequency) of the high-power laser to 10 Hz. This is because, with each motor cycle, a driven reflecting mirror is inserted into the cavity to reflect the high-power laser, changing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to the second optical path. As shown, the system includes a laser light source that is reflected by a mirror device located on the disk of the rotary motor. The laser light source is on a first path, which is within the cavity and forms a resonator, for example, a Fabry-Perot cavity.

[0069] FIG. 3(c) is a more detailed diagram of the optical path changing device of FIG. 3 according to an example of the present invention. In one example, the device includes a cavity damper device for space applications, using a configuration such as a high-speed rotary motor. The high-speed rotary motor includes support rods, support members, plates, or any support material shaped to support a driven reflector mirror. These supports have a length of 16 kilometers and rotate at a high speed of, for example, 600 RPM. However, other lengths and rotation speeds are possible. The 600 RPM motor determines the repetition rate of the high-power laser to 10 Hz. That is, with each motor cycle (e.g., one cycle), the driven reflector mirror is inserted into the cavity to reflect the high-power laser light. This changes the direction of the laser beam propagating along a first optical path toward a second optical path or another optical path. A support rod, plate, or other support for a driven reflector having a length of 16 kilometers is rotated by a 600 RPM motor at a diameter of 32 kilometers, thereby achieving a response time of 1 microsecond in one example. Again, the above parameters are merely examples.

[0070] In one example, a Fabry-Perot cavity length of 150 meters results in a round-trip laser beam time of 1 microsecond. After 100,000 round trips, the intensity of the input laser source increases by 100,000 times, resulting in a repetition rate of 0.1 seconds. A high-power pulsed laser is then extracted every 0.1 seconds at a frequency of 10 Hz using a highly reflective mirror, and the motor rotation speed is 600 RPM. In one example, the next laser pulse occurs every 1 microsecond, so a 1-meter-sized mirror must pass through the cavity within 1 microsecond. To meet these conditions, in this example, a 600 RPM rotating motor is used to increase the speed of the driven reflective mirror. To achieve this, a disk diameter of 32 km is used, and a 1-meter-sized mirror is attached to the circumference of the disk.

[0071] In one example, the disk diameter ranges from 10 kilometers to 500 kilometers. In one example, the size of the highly reflective mirror ranges from 0.5 meters to 10 meters. In one example, the rotational speed of the disk ranges from 300 RPM to 10,000 RPM. In one example, the cavity has a length ranging from 10 meters to 10 kilometers. Other ranges may be used depending on the application.

[0072] FIG. 4 is a more detailed diagram of a laser fusion system configured as a twin satellite system according to one example of the present invention. As shown, this system includes elements common to conventional systems. However, this system uses a position detector system between the two satellite systems to maintain a desired separation or gap between the two systems. The detector system includes a laser and a detector for detecting the laser, and preferably may use a Time of Flight (TOF) or other distance and position sensor, such as a Light Detection and Ranging ("LIDAR") system. Further details of the elements of this system can be found throughout this specification and in more detail below.

[0073] FIG. 5(a) is a simplified diagram of a laser fusion system according to an example of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the system includes a high-power pulsed laser system and a fusion reactor coupled thereto. The fusion reactor includes a target within a blanket structure. The target absorbs fusion energy, including the momentum energy of neutrons, helium, and tritium, to generate thermal energy. A portion of the neutrons is utilized for tritium breeding and can be reused as fuel. The thermal energy is then transferred to a surrounding heat exchange medium. The blanket is surrounded by a heat exchange medium configured to transfer thermal energy from the blanket to the medium. The medium is coupled to a thermoelectric element for generating electricity directly from the temperature difference. The thermoelectric element is connected to an external space to maintain a low temperature outside the thermoelectric element. In one example, the thermoelectric element includes, but is not limited to, a SiGe-based or BiTe-based material.

[0074] Alternatively, in the example of Figure 5(b), the media are coupled through a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger transfers thermal energy from the media to water to produce high-pressure steam that spins a turbine. The rotation of the turbine in a magnetic field generates electricity, which then acts as a generator for use on the power grid for private or public power systems.

[0075] In one example, the system couples a high-power pulsed laser system to a fusion reactor to generate a high-power energy source for initiating and sustaining a fusion reaction. Laser fusion, by way of example, is a process in which energy is generated by the fusion of atomic nuclei. This process occurs when the nuclei of two or more atoms are attracted to each other under high temperature and pressure, colliding and fusing together, releasing a large amount of energy. In one example, the laser fusion process uses a high-energy laser beam to compress and heat a small pellet of fuel, typically a mixture of deuterium and tritium (two isotopes of hydrogen). The laser beam creates shock waves that compress the fuel, causing it to reach a temperature and pressure high enough for fusion to occur. During the fusion process, the nuclei of the fuel atoms combine to form heavier nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. This energy can then be harnessed and used to generate electricity, as described above. Further details of the fusion system, particularly the high-power laser, are provided throughout this specification and, more specifically, below.

[0076] As an example, a high-power laser is a device that produces a highly concentrated and focused beam of light with a high level of power. The light produced by a high-power laser can have a variety of properties, such as wavelength, intensity, and coherence, depending on the specific design and construction of the laser.

[0077] One type of high-power laser is the solid-state laser. A solid-state laser consists of a solid-state gain medium that is pumped by an external energy source, such as a flash lamp or another laser. The gain medium is typically a crystal or glass rod doped with rare earth elements, such as neodymium or ytterbium, to amplify the laser beam. Solid-state lasers are highly efficient and can generate high power, making them ideal for many industrial and scientific applications.

[0078] Another type of high-power laser is the gas laser, which uses a gas as the gain medium. Gas lasers can be further classified based on the type of gas used, such as helium-neon lasers, carbon dioxide lasers, and argon lasers. Gas lasers are reliable, have long lifetimes, and are suitable for continuous operation.

[0079] High-power lasers can also be hybrids of the two types mentioned above, such as fiber lasers that use doped fiber as the gain medium. Fiber lasers are highly efficient and can produce very high powers, making them ideal for many industrial and scientific applications.

[0080] Many factors contribute to the performance and efficiency of high-power lasers, including, for example, the gain medium, pump source, resonator design, and cooling system. The design and construction of a high-power laser can significantly affect its performance and suitability for a particular application. By way of example, high-power lasers have very high power output and highly concentrated and focused beams of light, and are used in a wide range of applications.

[0081] In one example, the present invention provides a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system. In one example, a high-intensity pulsed laser is a type of laser that produces a highly concentrated and focused beam of light with a high level of power, but with a pulse duration (pulse width) that is much shorter than the average pulse duration of a continuous wave laser. The short pulse duration of a high-intensity pulsed laser allows for high peak power output and the ability to deliver energy to a target in a very short period of time.

[0082] One example of a high-intensity pulsed laser is the Q-switched laser. This Q-switched laser uses a mechanical or electro-optical modulator to rapidly switch the laser beam on and off. This allows the laser to generate very short pulses with pulse durations ranging from nanoseconds to picoseconds. Q-switched lasers are highly efficient and can generate very high peak powers, making them ideal for many industrial and scientific applications. Another type of high-intensity pulsed laser is the mode-locked laser, which uses nonlinear optical elements such as saturable absorbers and passive mode lockers to generate short pulses. Mode-locked lasers can generate very short pulses with pulse durations ranging from femtoseconds to picoseconds. They are highly stable and can generate very high peak powers, making them ideal for many scientific and research applications.

[0083] Many factors contribute to the performance and efficiency of a high-intensity pulsed laser, such as the gain medium, pump source, resonator design, and pulse generation method. The design and configuration of a high-intensity pulsed laser can significantly affect its performance and suitability for a particular application. In one example, a high-intensity pulsed laser is a type of laser that produces a highly concentrated, focused beam of light with high levels of power and very short pulse durations. It is used in a wide range of applications. In one example, the present invention provides a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system and related methods, as described throughout this specification and more specifically below.

[0084] 6 is a simplified diagram of a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system according to one example of the present invention. As shown, the system includes an input laser, where a first optical path begins at the laser input, reflects off a mirror, is coupled to an actuator, reflects off a curved mirror back to the vicinity of the input laser, and reflects off a flat mirror, forming a triangular path between the two flat mirrors and the curved mirror. Further details of the first optical path are provided throughout this specification and in more detail below.

[0085] In one example, the intensity of an input laser is applied to increase the intensity level of a laser beam propagating along a triangular path from a first intensity level, a second intensity level, etc., up to an Nth intensity level. The intensity is increased until a desired intensity level is achieved. Once the desired intensity level is achieved, an actuator spatially moves a flat mirror from a first position to a second position, changing the beam path from a first optical path to a second optical path. In one example, the second optical path changes the spatial position of a reflection point on a mirror coupled to the actuator to direct the beam from the mirror to a reflection point on a curved mirror and onto an external path for a high-intensity pulsed laser beam. In one example, this high-intensity pulsed laser beam is multiple times the intensity of the input laser beam.

[0086] As shown, the system uses both highly reflective flat and curved optical mirror devices with reflectivities of 99.99% or greater than 99.999% to minimize light loss. In one example, a highly reflective optical mirror is a device that reflects light in a specific direction. The device has a flat or curved surface coated with a highly reflective material, such as a dielectric material or a metallic material, such as aluminum, silver, or gold. A preferred highly reflective optical mirror is a dielectric distributed Bragg reflector (DBR). In one example, the shape and curvature of the mirror determine the direction and intensity of the reflected light.

[0087] As shown, there are several types of highly reflective optical mirrors, each with its own unique properties and applications. Plane mirrors (also known as flat mirrors) have a flat reflective surface and are used to reflect light in a straight line. In one example, concave mirrors have an inwardly curved reflective surface and are used to focus light to a single point. In one example, convex mirrors have an outwardly curved reflective surface and are used to spread light over a wider area. In one example, optical mirrors can be coated with specialized coatings, such as dielectric or metallic coatings, to enhance their reflective properties and reduce surface defects that can lead to optical damage due to light absorption. These coatings can improve the efficiency and performance of the mirror and make it suitable for specific applications.

[0088] As shown, the actuator is, in one example, a magnetostrictive actuator. In one example, a magnetostrictive actuator is a device for generating controlled movement or displacement using the magnetostrictive effect. The actuator includes a magnetostrictive material such as iron, cobalt, or nickel and a magnetic field source such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. Preferred examples of magnetostrictive materials are shown in FIG. 6A, etc.

[0089] When exposed to a magnetic field, magnetostrictive materials change shape or dimension, resulting in mechanical displacement. By controlling the strength and orientation of the magnetic field, the displacement of magnetostrictive actuators can be precisely controlled. In preferred examples, magnetostrictive actuators have several properties that make them suitable for high-speed actuation applications. These properties include fast response speed, low power consumption, and a high force-to-weight ratio, allowing large displacements to be generated with minimal input power. Their nanosecond response times are much faster than the millisecond response times of piezoelectric materials. In addition, magnetostrictive actuators have high fatigue resistance and can operate over a wide temperature range, making them suitable for use in a variety of environments. Magnetostrictive actuators are highly reliable and can operate continuously without maintenance, making them an attractive option for many high-speed actuation applications.

[0090] In one example, various factors can affect the performance and efficiency of a magnetostrictive actuator, such as the type and composition of the magnetostrictive material, the design and strength of the magnetic field source, and the mechanical design of the actuator. The particular design and construction of a magnetostrictive actuator can affect its performance and suitability in a particular application.

[0091] In one example, the actuator is coupled to an electric coil to generate a magnetic field to spatially change the magnetostrictive material. In one example, an electric coil, also known as an inductor or solenoid, is a device that generates a magnetic field when an electric current is passed through it. A coil is generally a long piece of wire, typically made of copper or aluminum, wound into a cylindrical or rectangular shape. The number of turns and diameter of the wire determine the strength of the magnetic field generated by the coil. Various factors, such as the type and size of the wire, the number of turns, and the shape of the coil, can affect the performance and efficiency of an electric coil. The specific design and construction of an electric coil can significantly affect its performance and suitability for a particular application.

[0092] In one example, the actuator also includes a housing, an inertial mass, and a set screw for spatial adjustment. The actuator also includes a magnetostrictive material that moves 0.01 to 2 mm, but other lengths are possible. The material has a flat surface directly bonded to the back surface of the mirror. In a preferred example, the flat surface has an area approximately equal to the back surface of the mirror. The material can be attached using an adhesive, or in another example, it can be mechanically attached to the back surface.

[0093] 7 is a detailed diagram of a multi-path configuration for a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system according to one example of the present invention. As shown, the system includes an input laser, where a first optical path begins at the laser input, reflects off a mirror, is coupled to an actuator, reflects off a curved mirror, returns to the vicinity of the input laser, and reflects off a flat mirror, forming a triangular path between the two flat mirrors and the curved mirror. Further details of the first optical path are provided throughout this specification and in more detail below.

[0094] In one example, the intensity of an input laser is added to increase the intensity level of a laser beam propagating within a triangular path from a first intensity level, a second intensity level, and so on up to an Nth intensity level. The intensity is increased until a desired intensity level is achieved. Once the desired intensity level is achieved, an actuator spatially moves a flat mirror from a first position to a second position, changing the beam path from the first optical path to a second optical path. In one example, the second optical path changes the spatial position of a reflection point on a mirror coupled to the actuator, redirecting the beam from the mirror to a reflection point on a curved mirror and into an external path for the high-intensity pulsed laser beam. In one example, the high-intensity pulsed laser beam is multiple times the intensity of the input laser beam. As shown and described, the various elements that make up the system and change the beam direction from the first beam path to the second beam path are referred to as a cavity damper. The term cavity damper is to be interpreted in accordance with the present specification and its meaning as understood by those skilled in the art. Further details of the cavity damper device are described in more detail below.

[0095] FIG. 8 is a detailed diagram of a cavity damper for a high-intensity pulsed laser generation system according to an example of the present invention. As shown, the cavity damper includes various elements, including input parameters and information, a timing device, a driving device (e.g., a spatial driving device), and an optical path changing device, which may take various forms. The optical path changing device is coupled to a movable mirror, a curved mirror, and a flat mirror, as shown. The spatial region defined between the mirrors forms an optical cavity, as shown. The optical cavity includes a first optical path that generates a high-intensity laser beam and a second optical path that outputs the high-intensity pulsed laser beam. The second optical path is outside the optical cavity, as shown. In one example, the second optical path can be directed toward a target. The target can be another mirror device, particles for a reactor, a material to be processed, a moving target (e.g., a vehicle, a battleship, a drone, a rocket, a nuclear warhead), or any other object (man-made or natural, or a combination thereof).

[0096] As shown, information and / or feedback from the light source is sent to the processing platform. The processing platform can be a suitable computer-based processor, controller, or other type of processor. Examples of feedback can include signals from the light source and signals from photodiodes (not shown in FIG. 8) for detecting transmitted light from the back surface of each mirror, including pulse timing, frequency, power output, and other parameters. Parameters for cycling the mirror device are also provided to the processing platform. The processing platform further includes storage devices such as volatile and non-volatile memory, including dynamic random access memory, flash memory, static random access memory, fixed memory devices, hard drives, and any combination of electronic and / or optical memory devices.

[0097] The information from the processing platform is provided to a timing device. The timing device is configured with a clock signal that is set based on the information and generates one or more electronic signals for the driver. The driver includes, for example, a physical field generator that generates a magnetic or electric field to cause a spatial change in a spatial region within a material, such as a magnetostrictive material, a piezoelectric material, or other material, thereby outputting a mechanical force and moving the spatial position of a movable mirror. The movement of the mirror's spatial position changes the laser beam from a first optical path to a second optical path or any other optical path. In one example, the driver can be referred to as a spatial driver because it drives a mechanical member in free space.

[0098] FIG. 9 is a detailed diagram of an actuator for a cavity damper in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9(a), a magnetostrictive material is provided with a power source. The power source is coupled to a timing device. Power is supplied through a coil to generate a magnetic field. This magnetic field induces a mechanical force that changes the shape of the magnetostrictive material from a first state to a second state, elongating the material (or contracting the material, depending on the system configuration), and moving an external region coupled to the mirror device from the first spatial region to the second spatial region. As shown in FIG. 9(b), a piezoelectric material is provided with a power source. The power source is coupled to a timing device. Power is supplied to the material to generate an electric field. The electric field changes the shape of the piezoelectric material from the first state to the second state, elongating the material, and the mechanical force moves an external region coupled to the mirror device from the first spatial region to the second spatial region.

[0099] FIG. 10 is a detailed diagram of a timing device of a cavity damper in one example of the present invention. As shown, the timing device receives inputs of laser characteristics, such as operating conditions, pulse duration, pulse operation, frequency, and other information. The timing device includes a programmable software program and computer hardware, among other elements. In one example, the timing device outputs an on / off signal from a driver to the magnetostrictive or other material.

[0100] In one example, a computer for controlling a drive (driving device), such as a high-speed driver, is also known as a "drive computer" and is a dedicated device used to control and monitor the operation of the high-speed driver, such as an actuator. In one example, the drive computer typically includes a microprocessor or microcontroller, which is a type of central processing unit (CPU) responsible for controlling the operation of the drive. The drive computer also includes an input / output (I / O) interface, which allows it to receive input signals from sensors or other devices and output control signals to the drive. In one example, the drive computer may also include memory for storing data and instructions, as well as various other hardware and software components that enable it to perform its functions. Some drive computers may also include additional features, such as communication interfaces for communicating with other devices or systems, or built-in diagnostic tools for monitoring and troubleshooting the drive. Further details of the present system and method are described below.

[0101] Figure 11 is a timing diagram for generating a high-intensity pulsed laser in one example of the present invention. As shown in the first row labeled "Light Source Output Intensity," each laser pulse from the light source has a pulse duration in the nanosecond range, e.g., 1 to 10 nanoseconds. The light intensity within the cavity increases with each pulse from the light source, from a first energy intensity, a second energy intensity, to an Nth energy intensity (where N is 1000 or greater, but can be less or more depending on the application). When the high-intensity pulse is dumped (ejected) or redirected to a second path, the process continues from the beginning, to the first energy intensity, to the second energy intensity, and to the Nth energy intensity. The cavity dumping operation for dumping the laser beam after reaching the Nth energy intensity is shown in the bottom row, showing a pulse duration range of 0.01 to 10 microseconds, although other values ​​are possible. The dumped laser beam is a high-intensity pulsed laser with an intensity much higher than the original intensity from the laser source.

[0102] In one example, the high-intensity pulsed laser system of the present invention can be configured with a laser fusion system for generating energy. For example, laser fusion is a process in which a laser is used to initiate and sustain a fusion reaction, which releases energy by combining atomic nuclei. This process has the potential to provide a virtually unlimited and clean energy source. In laser fusion, a high-energy laser beam is used to generate plasma, a hot ionized gas composed of free electrons and atomic nuclei. The plasma is then compressed and heated to extremely high temperatures and pressures, causing the atomic nuclei to fuse together and release energy. One example of laser fusion is inertial confinement fusion (ICF). In ICF, a laser beam is used to generate shock waves that compress small pellets of fusion fuel. Further details of laser fusion are described in more detail below.

[0103] 12 is a simplified diagram illustrating a fusion system configured with a high-intensity pulsed laser system according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the fusion system includes fusion material, e.g., pellets, contained within a reactor. The fusion system can be configured using multiple lasers from different sources.

[0104] 13-15 show timing diagrams illustrating high-intensity pulsed laser output according to one example of the present invention. As shown in the example of FIG. 13, a 1 megajoule class laser source is included. The laser source is configured for example at 1060 nm, but other wavelengths are possible. The laser pulses have a length of 10 nanoseconds. The cycle is 10 microseconds (or 100 kHz). In one example, one hundred thousand (100,000) cycles or round trips are generated within a cavity according to the present invention. The cavity length is, for example, 1.5 kilometers, which equates to a round trip cavity length of 3 kilometers. The round trip time is 10 microseconds, and there are 100,000 round trips in one second. For 100,000 round trips, we have 1×10 12 It produces a watt (or 1 terawatt), or 10 kilojoules of pulsed energy at 1 Hz. If 100 laser beams are used together for a fusion reactor, 1 megajoule is achieved.

[0105] As shown in the example of FIG. 14, a 1 megajoule class laser source is included. The laser source is configured for example at 1060 nm, but other wavelengths are possible. The laser pulses have a length of 10 nanoseconds. The cycle is 1 microsecond (or 1 MHz). In one example, 100,000 cycles or round trips are generated in a cavity according to the present invention. The cavity length is, for example, 150 meters, which equates to a round trip cavity length of 300 meters. The round trip time is 1 microsecond, which is 1 / 10 of a second for 100,000 round trips. 100,000 round trips is 1×10 12Generate a watt (or 1 terawatt) or 10 kilojoules of pulse energy at 10 Hz. 1 megajoule is achieved when 100 laser beams are used together for a fusion reactor. Continuous laser fusion and commercial laser fusion, in one example, require megajoule-class pulses at a 10 Hz repetition rate. Using this invention, it is possible to create megajoule-class pulses with a 10 Hz repetition rate by using a laser source with a pulse energy of 100 mJ and a repetition rate of 1 MHz. Currently, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is only able to generate one megajoule-class pulse per day.

[0106] As shown in Figure 15, a commercially available laser light source (0.5 × 10 6 W). The laser source is configured for example for 1060 nm, but other wavelengths are possible. The laser pulses have a length of 10 nanoseconds. The cycle is 1 microsecond (or 1 MHz). In one example, 100,000 cycles or round trips occur within a cavity according to the present invention. The cavity length is, for example, 150 meters, which equates to a round trip cavity length of 300 meters. A round trip time is 1 microsecond, which means 100,000 round trips in 1 / 10 seconds. 100,000 round trips is 0.05 x 10 12 It produces a pulse energy of 1 watt (or 0.05 terawatts) or 500 joules at 10 Hz. When 200 laser beams are used together for a fusion reactor, one-tenth (0.1) megajoule is achieved.

[0107] In one example, the present invention provides a reactor system for space applications, the system including a reactor containing fusion material and at least one satellite system disposed in orbit above a geographic location of a planet, in one example, the satellite system operably coupled to the reactor containing the fusion material.

[0108] In one example, the system includes an optical cavity maintained at a vacuum of 300 Torr or less, characterized by a free-space length of 50 meters to 10 kilometers, and co-located with a satellite system. In one example, the optical cavity is configured to increase the intensity of a laser beam comprising pulses propagating on a first optical path from a particular energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity by circulating or shuttling at least a portion of the laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule on a first optical path.

[0109] In one example, the system includes an optical path changer coupled to the optical cavity. In one example, the optical path changer is configured to repeatedly change the spatial direction of a laser beam propagating on a first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with a response time ranging from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds, thereby redirecting the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to a second optical path outside the first optical path to interact with the fused material after using several mirrors and lenses. The optical path changer is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path, generating a high-intensity pulsed laser beam that is directed toward a target.

[0110] In one example, the system includes at least one pair of mirror assemblies, at least one of which is located on a satellite system. In one example, each of the mirror assemblies has a resolution of 1 cm. 2 From 100,000m 2 and a mirror surface area of ​​about 100 nm, the mirror surface area being provided to an optical path changing device and disposed in the first optical path. In one example, the at least one mirror device is configured to change a spatial position of a mirror device coupled to a propagation of the laser beam.

[0111] In another example, the system includes a high-speed rotary motor configured to change the propagation direction of the laser beam from a first optical path to a second optical path, or any other desired optical path.

[0112] In one example, the system includes a timing device in the optical path mechanism, the timing device having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the spatial position of the mirror device, the timing device being configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam back and forth between at least one pair of mirrors, such that the intensity of the pulse of the laser beam increases incrementally with each cycle of the laser beam.

[0113] In one example, the system includes a spatial driver connected to the timing device and at least one mirror device configured to adjust a spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after a predetermined number of cycles.

[0114] In one example, the optical redirection device includes a nonlinear optical element that converts the pulse photon energy of the input laser beam to approximately two or three times the pulse photon energy of the laser beam.

[0115] In one example, the fusion material includes elements with a proton count of 10 or less. In one example, the fusion material includes at least one of deuterium and tritium, which have a proton count of 1.

[0116] In one example, the reactor includes at least one radiation output device and a material housing, the radiation output device being configured to output pulsed electromagnetic waves having a wavelength at least equal to or shorter than X-rays when irradiated with a high-intensity pulsed laser, such that the fusion material undergoes a fusion reaction when irradiated with the pulsed electromagnetic waves, and the material housing being configured to house the radiation output device and the fusion material and enable irradiation of the high-intensity pulsed laser onto the housed radiation output device.

[0117] In one example, the system includes a neutron absorption unit and a power generation unit, the neutron absorber configured to generate thermal energy by absorbing at least a neutron beam of radiation generated from the fusion material by the fusion reaction, and the power generation unit configured to convert the generated heat into electrical energy.

[0118] In one example, the system comprises a supply unit configured to supply electrical energy to at least the laser light source.

[0119] In one example, a high intensity pulsed laser beam directly or indirectly irradiates the fusion material.

[0120] In one example, the spatial drive comprises a magnetostrictive material in mechanical contact with a rear surface of the mirror device, the magnetostrictive material being aligned with or monolithically integrated with the rear surface of the mirror device. In one example, the mechanical contact is made using a surface area of ​​the magnetostrictive material and the rear surface of the mirror device, and the mechanical contact between the surface area of ​​the magnetostrictive material and the rear surface is substantially coincident in area.

[0121] In one example, by spatially modulating a magnetic field coupled to the magnetostrictive material with the magnetostrictive material, the magnetostrictive material is characterized by a volume structure thickness configured to vary spatially along a plane of the magnetostrictive material parallel to and facing the back surface of the mirror device, whereby the magnetostrictive material is configured to tilt from a first angle to a second angle measured from a direction perpendicular to the mirror surface area of ​​the mirror device, the first angle relative to the second angle being in the range of 0.1° to 5°.

[0122] In one example, by applying a uniform magnetic field to the magnetostrictive material, the magnetostrictive material is characterized by a volumetric thickness configured to change from a first thickness to a second thickness along an entire volume provided between a first surface region and a second surface region of the magnetostrictive material coupled to the back surface of the mirror device, thereby changing the spatial position of incidence of the laser beam on the mirror device from the first position of the mirror surface region to the second position of the mirror surface region, thereby causing the mirror device to change the position of the laser beam from the first optical path to the second optical path.

[0123] In one example, the pair of mirrors each comprise a flat mirror device and a curved mirror device, wherein the flat mirror is tuned using a magnetostrictive material and the curved mirror device is configured to redirect the laser beam from a first optical path to a second optical path using the first mirror device.

[0124] In one example, the laser beam of the light source has a wavelength range of 1020 nm to 1070 nm. In one example, each mirror device has a reflectivity of 99.99% or higher for the laser beam.

[0125] In one example, the light source comprises a semiconductor laser light source including an AlInGaN-based compound, although other light sources may be used depending on the application.

[0126] In one example, the pulse intensity of the generated laser beam is at least 10 times greater than the pulse intensity of the laser beam from the light source. 3 Twice as big.

[0127] In one example, the optical path changing device is configured such that an optical element consisting of a mirror can change the propagation direction of a laser beam repeatedly entering and exiting the first optical path, thereby changing the laser beam propagating through the first optical path into a laser beam directed toward the second optical path by the optical element. In one example, the optical element consisting of a mirror is configured to extract the laser beam into the second optical path by rotating around a central axis of rotation or off-axis to change the direction of the laser beam of the first optical path repeatedly entering and exiting the first optical path.

[0128] In one example, the present invention provides a high-intensity short-pulse laser generating system for space applications, the system having a first satellite system orbitable above a geographic location of a planet and a second satellite system within proximity of the first satellite system.

[0129] In one example, the system includes an optical cavity maintained at a vacuum of 300 Torr or less, characterized by a free-space length of 10 meters to 10 kilometers, and located with the aerospace vehicle, the optical cavity configured to increase an intensity of the laser beam including the pulses from an energy power intensity to an energy power intensity propagating on the first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of a laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule on a first optical path.

[0130] In one example, the system includes an optical path changing device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path changing device configured to repeatedly change the spatial direction of a laser beam propagating on a first optical path at a predetermined timing in a range of 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with a response time of 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds, and to redirect the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to a second optical path outside the first optical path after using several mirrors and lenses to interact with the fusion material. In one example, the optical path changing device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path, which generates a high-intensity pulsed laser for interacting with the fusion material. In one example, the optical path changing device is configured such that an optical element including a mirror capable of changing the propagation direction of the laser beam repeatedly enters and exits the first optical path, and the laser beam propagating on the first optical path is changed to the second optical path by propagating through the optical element including the mirror.

[0131] In one example, the system includes at least one pair of mirror assemblies. In one example, at least one of the mirror assemblies is configured on a satellite system. The mirror assemblies are 1 cm 2 From 100,000m 2 and a mirror area of ​​about 100 nm, the mirror area being ...

[0132] In one example, the system includes a timing device in the optical path mechanism, the timing device having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the spatial position of the mirror device, the timing device being configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam back and forth between at least one pair of mirrors, such that the intensity of the pulse of the laser beam increases incrementally with each cycle of the laser beam.

[0133] In one example, the system includes a spatial driver connected to the timing device and at least one mirror device configured to adjust a spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after a predetermined number of cycles.

[0134] In one example, the present invention provides a high-intensity, short-pulse laser generation system for space applications, the system including a first satellite system orbitable above a geographic location of a planet and a second satellite system within proximity of the first satellite system, the system also including a laser generation system coupled to the first satellite system.

[0135] In one example, the laser generation system includes an optical cavity maintained at a vacuum of 300 Torr or less and characterized by a free-space length of 50 meters to 10 kilometers, and co-located with a first satellite system, the optical cavity configured to increase an intensity of the laser beam including the pulses from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule on a first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam from the light source on the first optical path, the laser beam having the pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule, from one energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity.

[0136] In one example, the system includes an optical path changing device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path changing device configured to repeatedly change the spatial direction of a laser beam propagating on a first optical path at a predetermined timing in a range of 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with a response time in a range of 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds, thereby changing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path toward a second optical path outside the first optical path, thereby propagating the laser beam on the second optical path to generate a high-intensity pulsed laser, and the optical path changing device configured to change the propagation direction of the laser beam by repeatedly moving an optical element into and out of the first optical path, thereby changing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path toward the second optical path.

[0137] In one embodiment, the system includes at least one pair of mirror assemblies, at least one of the mirror assemblies being configured on a satellite system, and each of the mirror assemblies having a resolution of 1 cm. 2 and a mirror surface area of ​​from 100,000 m to 100,000 m, and optical path changing devices are provided in the first optical path, at least one of the mirror devices being configured to change the spatial position of a mirror device coupled to the propagation of the laser beam.

[0138] In one example, the system includes a timing device in the optical path mechanism, the timing device having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the spatial position of the mirror device, the timing device being configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam back and forth between at least one pair of mirrors, such that the intensity of the pulse of the laser beam increases incrementally with each cycle of the laser beam.

[0139] In one example, the system includes a spatial driver connected to the timing device and at least one mirror device configured to adjust a spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after a predetermined number of cycles.

[0140] In one example, the optical element is configured to repeatedly move in and out of the first optical path by rotating about or off-axis a central axis of rotation that extends in the first direction.

[0141] While the above is a complete description of specific examples, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalent constructions may be used. By way of example, a packaged device may include any combination of elements outside the scope of this specification and described above. Therefore, the above description and illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A reactor system for space applications, comprising: a reactor containing fusion materials; at least one satellite system disposed in orbit above a geographic location of the planet and operably coupled to said reactor containing said fusion material; an optical cavity maintained in a vacuum and characterized by a free-space length of 10 meters to 10 kilometers, the optical cavity being co-located with the satellite system, the optical cavity being configured to increase the intensity of a laser beam comprising pulses propagating on a first optical path from one energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity by circulating or reciprocating on the first optical path at least a portion of the laser beam output from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule; an optical path changing device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path changing device configured to repeatedly change the spatial direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at predetermined times, thereby redirecting the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to a second optical path outside the first optical path for interaction with fusion material after using several mirrors, whereby the optical path changing device is configured to cause the laser beam to propagate on the second optical path to generate a high-intensity pulsed laser; At least one pair of mirror assemblies, at least one of which is configured on the satellite system, each of which has a mirror assemblies with a minimum reflectance of 1 cm 2 From 100,000m 2 at least one pair of mirror devices, each having a mirror surface area of ​​100 nm to 100 nm, provided in the optical path changing device and disposed in the first optical path, wherein at least one of the mirror devices is configured to change a spatial position of a mirror device coupled to the propagation of the laser light; a timing device provided in the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the spatial position of the mirror device, whereby the timing device is configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of a laser beam between at least one pair of mirrors, each cycle of the laser beam causing a progressive increase in intensity of a pulse of the laser beam; and a drive unit coupled to the timing unit and the at least one pair of mirror units, the drive unit configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror units to move the spatial position of the mirror units from a first position to a second position after a predetermined number of cycles; A reactor system comprising:

2. The optical path changing device includes a nonlinear optical element that converts pulse photon energy of the input laser beam into pulse photon energy that is approximately twice or three times that of the laser beam. The system of claim 1 .

3. the fusion material includes an element with a proton number of 10 or less, The vacuum is 300 Torr or less, The predetermined timing has a response time ranging from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds, and a range of 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds. The system of claim 1 .

4. The fusion material contains at least one of deuterium and tritium, each having a proton number of 1. The system of claim 1 .

5. the reactor comprises at least one radiation output and a material housing; the radiation output body is configured to output a pulsed electromagnetic wave having a wavelength at least equal to or shorter than that of an X-ray when irradiated with the high-intensity pulsed laser; the fusion material is configured to induce the fusion reaction when irradiated with the pulsed electromagnetic waves; the material housing portion is configured to house the radiation output device and the fusion material and to allow the high-intensity pulsed laser to irradiate the housed radiation output device. The system of claim 1 .

6. Further comprising a neutron absorption unit and a power generation unit, the neutron absorber is configured to generate thermal energy by a fusion reaction by absorbing at least a neutron beam of radiation generated from the fusion material; The power generation unit is configured to convert the generated heat into electrical energy. The system of claim 1 .

7. further comprising a supply unit configured to provide electrical energy to at least the laser light source. The system of claim 1 .

8. the high-intensity pulsed laser beam directly or indirectly irradiates the fusion material; The system of claim 1 .

9. the drive device includes a magnetostrictive material in mechanical contact with a rear surface of the mirror device; the magnetostrictive material is aligned with or monolithically integrated into the rear surface of the mirror device; The system of claim 1 .

10. the mechanical contact is made with a surface region of the magnetostrictive material and a back surface of the mirror device; the mechanical contact between the front surface region and the rear surface region of the magnetostrictive material is substantially coincident in area; The system of claim 9.

11. the magnetostrictive material is characterized by a volumetric structure thickness configured to vary spatially along a plane of the magnetostrictive material parallel to and facing a rear surface of the mirror device by spatially modulating a magnetic field coupled to the magnetostrictive material; whereby the mirror device is configured to tilt from a first angle to a second angle measured from a direction normal to the mirror surface area of ​​the mirror device, wherein the range from the first angle to the second angle is 0.1 degrees to 5 degrees. The system of claim 9.

12. the magnetostrictive material is characterized by a volumetric thickness that varies from a first thickness to a second thickness along an entire volume between a first surface region and a second surface region of the magnetostrictive material coupled to a back surface of the mirror device; whereby the mirror device changes the position of the laser beam from the first optical path to the second optical path by changing the spatial position of incidence of the laser beam on the mirror device from a first position on the mirror surface area to a second position on the mirror surface area. The system of claim 9.

13. The pair of mirrors may include a flat mirror device or a curved mirror device. The system of claim 1 .

14. the laser beam of the light source has a wavelength range of 1020 nm to 1070 nm; each of the mirror devices has a reflectivity with respect to the laser beam of 99.9% or more; The system of claim 1 .

15. the light source includes a semiconductor laser light source including an AlInGaN-based compound; The system of claim 1 .

16. The pulse intensity of the generated laser beam is at least 10 times greater than the pulse intensity of the laser beam from the light source. 3 Twice as big, The system of claim 1 .

17. the optical path changing device is configured such that a component can repeatedly change the propagation path of the laser beam from the first optical path, and the component extracts the laser beam toward a second optical path by changing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path; The system of claim 1 .

18. the component is configured to repeatedly move in and out of the first optical path, thereby changing the propagation of the laser beam in the first optical path and extracting the laser beam into a second optical path; 20. The system of claim 17.

19. 1. A high intensity continuous wave (CW) or short pulse laser generation system, comprising: an optical cavity maintained at a vacuum of 300 Torr or less and characterized by a length of 50 meters to 10 kilometers, the optical cavity being configured to increase the intensity of a laser beam, including CW or pulses, on a first optical path from a light source having a CW or pulsed energy output power of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam on the first optical path; an optical path changing device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path changing device configured to repeatedly change propagation of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at a predetermined timing in a range of 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with a response time of 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to extract a laser beam from the laser beam propagating on the first optical path within the optical cavity to a second optical path outside the first optical path that is outside the optical cavity, whereby the optical path changing device is configured to propagate the laser light on the second optical path to generate a high intensity CW or pulsed laser, the optical path changing device configured such that an element can extract the laser beam from the first optical path, whereby the laser beam propagating on the first optical path is changed to the laser beam toward the second optical path; Each mirror has a surface area of ​​1 cm ２ From 100,000m ２ mirror device; a timing device provided in the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the optical path changing device, the timing device being configured to adjust the optical path changing device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam between at least one pair of mirrors, with each cycle of the laser beam progressively increasing the intensity of the CW or pulse of the laser beam; a driving device connected to the timing device and the optical path changing device, the driving device being configured to enable an optical element to repeatedly extract the laser beam, thereby changing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to the second optical path; A system comprising:

20. 1. A high intensity CW or short pulse laser generation system, comprising: a resonator; and an optical path changing device coupled to the resonator; Equipped with the resonator is configured to increase intensity of the laser light propagating along a predetermined first optical path inside the optical cavity by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser light output from the light source along the first optical path; The optical path changing device coupled to the resonator is configured to repeatedly change the propagation of the laser light propagating along the first optical path at a predetermined timing, thereby propagating the laser light propagating along the first optical path onto a second optical path outside the optical cavity that is not on the first optical path, thereby generating high-intensity CW or short-pulse laser light on the second optical path. system.

21. the resonator includes a first optical system disposed on the first optical path; the optical path changing device is configured to change the propagation of the laser light by at least driving the first optical system in accordance with the predetermined timing.

21. The system of claim 20.

22. the first optical system includes at least one reflecting mirror that reflects the laser light emitted from the light source along the first optical path, thereby defining the first optical path; the optical path changing device configures the driven reflection mirror in accordance with the timing to reflect the high-power laser light and change the propagation of the laser light; 21. The system of claim 20.

23. the optical path changing device positions the driven reflecting mirror within a time frame having a repetition rate ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds; 21. The system of claim 20.

24. the optical path changing means moves the driven reflecting mirror within a response time range of 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds; 24. The system of claim 23.

25. The optical path changing device is a rotating unit configured to be rotatable at a predetermined speed along a predetermined rotation axis; a connecting portion that connects the rotating portion and the driven reflecting mirror; the connecting portion is configured to perform a predetermined reciprocating motion by rotation of the rotating portion, thereby repeatedly inserting the driven reflection mirror into the cavity.

21. The system of claim 20.

26. The high-intensity CW or short-pulse laser generation system is configured on a satellite system.

21. The system of claim 20.

27. the high-intensity short-pulse laser generating system is connected to a fusion reactor having a fusion fuel material; 20. The system of claim 19.

28. 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the high intensity short pulse laser production system is connected to a fusion reactor having fusion fuel material.

29. 1. A nuclear fusion reactor system comprising: a reactor containing a fuel material; an optical cavity characterized by a length and a pair of mirrors configured to circulate or reciprocate at least a portion of a laser beam comprising pulses from a light source, thereby increasing the intensity of the laser beam propagating on a first optical path from one energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity; an optical path changing device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path changing device configured to repeatedly change the laser light propagating on the first optical path inside the optical cavity at a predetermined timing to change the propagation path of the laser light propagating on the first optical path to a second optical path outside the first optical path and cause the laser light to interact with the fuel substance, thereby generating a high-intensity laser propagating on the second optical path; and At least one pair of mirror devices, each of which has a diameter of 1 cm 2 From 100,000m 2 and at least one pair of mirror devices, each pair having a mirror area of ​​1 / 2 mm and arranged in the first optical path in combination with the optical path changing device, wherein at least one of the mirror devices is configured to change the propagation of the laser beam from the first optical path to the second optical path by connecting the mirror device to the propagation of the laser beam; A system comprising:

30. a timing device associated with the optical path mechanism, the timing device having a predetermined frequency for adjusting the mirror device such that the intensity of the laser beam pulses increases gradually with each cycle of the laser beam after the laser beam has propagated between at least the pair of mirrors for a predetermined number of cycles.

30. The system of claim 29.

31. and an I drive unit coupled to the timing unit and the at least one mirror unit, the I drive unit configured to change the laser propagation from the first optical path to the second optical path after the predetermined number of cycles.

30. The system of claim 29.

32. the light source is characterized by a CW or pulsed energy output power on the first optical path of 0.001 millijoules to 1 megajoule or greater; 30. The system of claim 29.

33. the laser light source has an emission wavelength of 1020 nm to 1070 nm; 30. The system of claim 29.

34. the optical cavity is a Fabry-Perot cavity; 30. The system of claim 29.

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