Lorentz-Force Apparatus for Vibration-Isolated Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spacecraft communication systems face challenges in maintaining line-of-sight (LOS) due to vehicle vibrations and dynamics, requiring precise steering of communication beams, which is complicated by minor physical disturbances.
Innovation Solution
A Lorentz-force-based apparatus using conductive coils and magnetic fields to control the orientation and movement of communication payloads, allowing for precise alignment and stabilization of communication beams despite vehicle vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If large mirrors are used to deflect and steer the communication beam, then beam steering capability is improved, but device complexity and mass increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical mirror steering system with a Lorentz-force-based electromagnetic actuation system. Conductive coils generate magnetic fields that interact with permanent magnets to produce controlled forces on the payload, enabling beam steering without physical mirrors. This substitution eliminates the need for large, complex mechanical mirror assemblies while achieving the same beam direction control function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical mirror position to electrical current in conductive coils. By controlling the current magnitude and direction in the coils, the magnetic field strength and direction are adjusted, which in turn controls the Lorentz force applied to the payload. This parameter change enables precise, dynamic beam steering with simpler actuation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If vibration-dampening platforms are used to mechanically buffer the payload, then payload stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical vibration-dampening platforms with an active electromagnetic stabilization system. Lorentz-force-based actuators continuously apply corrective forces to counteract vibrations and maintain payload stability. This active control approach using electromagnetic fields achieves superior stability without the complexity of custom-designed mechanical damping structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control where sensors detect payload position and vibration, and the control system adjusts coil currents in real-time to counteract disturbances. This closed-loop feedback mechanism continuously stabilizes the payload by applying appropriate Lorentz forces, achieving high stability without complex passive mechanical damping.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If custom-designed vibration-dampening platforms are created for each application, then payload protection is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal Lorentz-force-based actuation platform that can serve multiple functions: vibration damping, beam steering, and payload positioning. The same conductive coils and magnetic field generation structure provide all these functions, eliminating the need for custom-designed application-specific platforms. This multi-functionality simplifies manufacturing while providing comprehensive vibration protection.
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 isolates payloads from vehicle vibrations, enabling accurate and stable communication beam steering with high precision, reducing the need for large mirrors and enhancing communication reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A Lorentz-force-based apparatus using conductive coils and magnetic fields to control the orientation and movement of communication payloads
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field generation structure that generates a magnetic field through one of the portions of at least one of the plurality of conductive coils
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed system may include (1) a subassembly including (a) conductive coils having portions oriented along a first direction, and (b) a body that holds the coils such that the portions are aligned along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, (2) a structure that generates a magnetic field directed through at least one coil along a third direction orthogonal to the first and second directions, (3) a commutation controller that (a) receives a current command indicating a total amount of current to provide to the coils, and (b) determines, based on a present location of the body along the second direction relative to the magnetic field, a portion of the total amount to supply to each coil, and (4) a coil driver for each coil, where each coil driver supplies the portion of the total amount to the corresponding coil. Various other embodiments are also disclosed.