Coherent Light Energy Transmission for Spacecraft Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spacecraft propulsion methods require significant power and fuel for takeoff, making them costly and inefficient, and existing energy distribution systems in space are not practical for continuous, reliable, and safe energy transmission over long distances due to the dynamic nature of spacecraft orbits and the Earth's atmosphere.
Innovation Solution
A system that collects energy from the Sun or a reserve source and converts it into coherent light for efficient transmission and reception in space, using lowest order Gaussian modes to enable precise and high-energy delivery over multi-megameter distances, allowing for propulsive thrust, electrical energy, and other applications, with a network of strategically positioned spacecraft to minimize distance and ensure continuous coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If rocket-based propulsion methods are used for spacecraft takeoff, then sufficient thrust can be achieved, but the cost and fuel requirements become significantly high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional rocket-based mechanical propulsion with a laser-based optical propulsion system. A ground-based laser array transmits coherent light to the spacecraft, which converts the optical energy to propulsive thrust through a laser ablation or photon pressure mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for large amounts of onboard fuel while providing sufficient thrust for spacecraft launch and maneuvering.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a laser beam as an intermediary energy transmission medium between the ground-based energy source and the spacecraft. The laser system acts as a mediator that transfers energy across long distances through the atmosphere and space, enabling propulsion without direct mechanical contact or onboard fuel storage.
2Area of stationary object
If energy is transmitted over long distances in space, then coverage area increases, but transmission efficiency decreases due to atmospheric interference and distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic beam tracking and focusing systems that continuously adjust the laser beam parameters based on the spacecraft's position, atmospheric conditions, and distance. The system dynamically modifies beam width, power distribution, and pointing accuracy to maintain optimal transmission efficiency across varying distances and atmospheric conditions while covering large areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the laser beam characteristics (wavelength, power, pulse duration, beam width) to optimize transmission through different atmospheric conditions and distances. By adjusting these parameters in real-time, the system maintains high transmission efficiency while expanding coverage area to include multiple orbiting spacecraft.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and precise energy transmission and reception in space, supporting novel propulsion methods and energy applications, such as deorbiting debris, while minimizing the number of spacecraft and distance from Earth, and providing reliable energy distribution anywhere in near Earth space.
Implementation Method 1
using stimulated emission to configure that energy as well defined states of the optical field
Implementation Method 2
delivery of energy from quantum phenomena based energy infrastructure for near Earth space... in forms that enable use of that energy in ways that approach the limits set by quantum phenomena
Data Source
AI summary
A system has a plurality of spacecraft in orbit around the earth for collecting energy from the Sun in space, using stimulated emission to configure that energy as well defined states of the optical field and delivering that energy efficiently throughout the region of space surrounding Earth.