Dual-Use Power Beaming System with Reconfigurable Beam Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power beaming systems struggle with the dual requirement of efficiently transmitting power to receivers while also being capable of targeting and damaging uncooperative targets, such as UAVs, with a high degree of precision and safety.
Innovation Solution
A dual-use power beaming system that includes a light source, shaping optics, a beam director, and a switch to toggle between power mode and weapon mode. In power mode, the system directs a beam to a receiver for energy conversion, while in weapon mode, the beam is focused to inflict damage on uncooperative targets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the system uses a single beam configuration for both power transmission and weapon mode, then device complexity is reduced, but beam profile adaptability and targeting precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability of the beam shaping optics, allowing the system to switch between different beam profiles (power transmission mode vs. weapon mode) based on operational requirements. This dynamic adaptation enables a single physical system to perform multiple functions with optimized performance for each mode, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and functional adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal beam delivery system that can serve dual purposes: power transmission to friendly receivers and targeted damage to uncooperative targets. By incorporating reconfigurable beam shaping capabilities, the same hardware infrastructure supports multiple operational modes, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system switches between power mode and weapon mode, then dual functionality is achieved, but response time and operational agility may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pre-configured beam shaping optics for both power transmission and weapon modes, allowing the system to rapidly switch between modes by activating pre-prepared configurations rather than dynamically generating new ones. This preliminary preparation minimizes mode switching time and enhances operational agility while maintaining dual functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs rapid switching mechanisms that enable the system to alternate between power mode and weapon mode with minimal delay. By optimizing the switching mechanism to operate in periodic or near-instantaneous transitions, the system maintains high operational agility and can respond quickly to changing tactical requirements.
3Strength
If the beam is focused to a small spot for weapon mode, then damage capability is improved, but power transmission efficiency to receivers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different beam profiles optimized for specific functions: a highly concentrated, small-spot beam for weapon mode to maximize damage capability, and an expanded, distributed beam profile for power transmission mode to maximize energy delivery efficiency. The system dynamically adjusts beam characteristics to match local requirements, resolving the contradiction between focused intensity and distributed efficiency.
4Power
If the system transmits high power continuously, then power delivery capability is improved, but safety hazards from reflections and intrusions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary safety measures including intrusion detection systems and reflection monitoring that operate continuously to detect potential hazards before they become critical. When intrusions or dangerous reflections are detected, the system can pre-emptively adjust or terminate beam transmission, preventing harmful effects while maintaining high power delivery capability during safe operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic power adjustment capabilities that allow the system to modulate beam power in real-time based on safety conditions. When receivers are properly positioned and no intrusions are detected, the system transmits at full power for optimal delivery capability. When safety concerns arise, the system dynamically reduces or terminates power transmission to eliminate hazards, resolving the contradiction between high power delivery and safety.
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
The system effectively transitions between power transmission and targeting, achieving efficient power delivery to friendly receivers and capable of damaging uncooperative targets with a high-intensity beam, thus addressing the dual functionality challenge.
Implementation Method 1
a light source (e.g., a laser or a microwave or millimeter wave source) configured to emit a beam of electromagnetic energy
Implementation Method 2
shaping optics configured to shape the beam into a selected beam profile
Implementation Method 3
a receiver configured to receive the directed beam and convert it into power
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-use electromagnetic beam system may be used as a remote power delivery system when not needed as an offensive weapon. For example, a system for disabling or destroying uncooperative or enemy assets such as UAVs or ground vehicles may be used during “down time” to provide power to assets that are separated from prime power sources by distance or by logistics.