Laser-Induced Plasma Channels for Ionospheric Energy Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for harnessing and transmitting ionospheric energy, such as space solar power, face limitations due to the filtering effect of the Earth's atmosphere and inefficiencies in wireless power transmission, particularly with high-intensity laser beaming systems, which struggle with conversion efficiencies and stability of plasma channels.
Innovation Solution
The creation of concentric laser-induced plasma channels between the Earth's surface and the ionosphere, using high-power lasers to establish a conductive path for ionospheric energy transmission, with mechanisms to maintain channel stability and redirect wandering currents through alternating paths to ensure continuous energy flow to a terrestrial collection apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high-intensity laser beams are used to create plasma channels for ionospheric energy transmission, then energy transmission capability is improved, but channel stability deteriorates due to wandering currents and unpredictable energy paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single plasma channel into multiple segmented channels arranged in specific geometric patterns (linear arrays, triangular configurations, hexagonal patterns). This segmentation allows the system to handle wandering currents more effectively by providing multiple discrete paths, reducing the impact of instability in any single channel while maintaining high power transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple plasma channels into a unified transmission system where channels work collectively to transmit ionospheric energy. By merging multiple channels in specific configurations, the system achieves both high power transmission and improved stability, as the combined effect of multiple channels compensates for individual channel variations and wandering.
2Reliability
If multiple plasma channels are created to improve stability, then channel stability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple laser systems required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs laser systems that can serve multiple functions: a single laser array can create multiple plasma channels simultaneously, and the same system can operate in different geometric configurations (linear, triangular, hexagonal) depending on transmission requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized laser systems for each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically controllable laser systems that can adjust their operation in real-time. The laser arrays can modulate their output to create and maintain multiple plasma channels with varying characteristics, allowing the system to adapt to changing atmospheric conditions and optimize both stability and complexity trade-offs dynamically.
3Use of energy by moving object
If laser beams are focused to create thin plasma sheets, then energy concentration is improved, but atmospheric filtering effects worsen due to increased interaction with atmospheric gases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from creating two-dimensional thin plasma sheets to forming three-dimensional plasma channels with substantial cross-sectional dimensions. This dimensional change reduces the relative impact of atmospheric filtering by providing a larger volume through which energy can transmit, while still maintaining concentration through the focused channel structure. The channels extend vertically through the atmosphere, creating a volumetric transmission path that minimizes filtering losses.
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
This approach enables efficient and stable transmission of high-order energy from the ionosphere to the ground, overcoming the limitations of previous technologies by maintaining a continuous flow and reducing the risk of unpredictable energy paths, thus enhancing energy transfer efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
concentric laser-induced plasma channels formed through the Earth's atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
conduit having walls comprised of ionized or partially ionized gas
Implementation Method 3
the walls serving as the conductive path through which charged particles are induced to ground
Data Source
AI summary
A charged particle induction apparatus and method comprising a high power light emitting means, such as a laser array, in operable communication with a high energy output means to accomplish initiation of at least two concentric plasma channels in atmosphere extending from the Earth's surface to the charge-rich upper atmosphere, including the ionosphere, for the transmission of charged particles therethrough to ground using the surrounding atmosphere as an insulator. The transmitted energy is drawn down (due to an artificially created potential) through the conductive plasma channels to collection means.