Plasma Drive Thruster Arrays for Directional Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plasma thrusters lack efficient directional control and cumulative thrust vector management, limiting their ability to provide precise and continuous thrust in complex propulsion systems.
Innovation Solution
A plasma drive system comprising multiple arrays of plasma thrusters arranged in a three-dimensional configuration, with circuitry controlled by a digital processor to sequentially energize and de-energize thrusters, allowing for directional control of the cumulative thrust vector through a controlled progression, enabling the formation of desired thrust directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple arrays of plasma thrusters are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration and sequentially energized, then directional control of cumulative thrust vector is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma drive system is divided into multiple arrays of plasma thrusters arranged in a three-dimensional configuration. Each array can be independently controlled and sequentially energized, allowing the system to achieve directional control of the cumulative thrust vector while managing complexity through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic sequential energizing of thruster arrays, where the digital processor controls the timing and sequence of energization. This dynamic control allows the cumulative thrust vector to be directed in desired directions by adjusting which arrays are active and in what sequence, transforming a static complex structure into a dynamically controllable system.
2Duration of action of moving object
If plasma thrusters are sequentially energized and de-energized in a controlled progression, then continuous thrust is achieved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma thrusters operate through periodic sequential energization and de-energization cycles. The digital processor implements a controlled progression that systematically activates and deactivates thrusters in sequences, creating continuous thrust through repeated periodic cycles while managing control complexity through algorithmic progression.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves continuous thrust by ensuring that as one array of plasma thrusters is de-energized, another array is sequentially energized to take over the thrust generation. This continuous transition between arrays eliminates gaps in thrust production, maintaining continuous useful action through coordinated sequential control.
3Ease of operation
If arrays of plasma thrusters are arranged in overlapping three-dimensional configurations, then thrust vector directionality is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma thruster arrays are arranged in overlapping three-dimensional configurations rather than simple linear or planar arrangements. This dimensional transition to 3D space allows for improved thrust vector directionality by enabling thrust in multiple directions simultaneously, while the patent addresses manufacturing complexity through systematic arrangement patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The arrays of plasma thrusters are arranged in nested overlapping configurations where smaller arrays are positioned within or adjacent to larger arrays in three-dimensional space. This nesting arrangement enables compact packaging and systematic manufacturing while maintaining the capability for multi-directional thrust vector control through the hierarchical structure.
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 achieves precise directional control and continuous thrust by sequentially energizing and de-energizing thrusters across multiple arrays, enhancing the propulsion system's efficiency and thrust management.
Implementation Method 1
an arc of electricity passing through the fuel, causing ablation and sublimation of the fuel
Implementation Method 2
an arc of electricity passing through the fuel, causing ablation and sublimation of the fuel
Implementation Method 3
The heat generated by this arc causes the resultant gas to turn into plasma, thereby creating a charged gas cloud
Implementation Method 4
The flow of electrons generates a strong electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 5
which then exerts a Lorentz force on the plasma, accelerating the plasma out of the PPT exhaust at high velocity
Data Source
AI summary
A plasma drive includes a plurality of plasma thrusters arrayed in each of at least one array of plasma thrusters. Plasma thrust may be generated sequentially or in a pulse from each array. Circuitry is adapted to selectively fire each thruster in each array according to a digitally controlled progression. The controlled firing progression collectively provides a cumulative thrust vector for each array. In a turbine drive embodiment the controlled progression causes sequential firing of the thrusters in each array, and the arrays in sequence. The controlled progression allows for directional control of the combined cumulative thrust vectors.