Satellite Laser Power Constellation for Continuous Space Energy Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy management systems for space missions, such as those using photovoltaic panels, suffer from low efficiency (25-35%) and limited lifespan, necessitating replacement, which is impractical in space, and are inadequate for high power requirements or small spacecraft.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for remotely transmitting electromagnetic energy, preferably using laser beams, from a constellation of orbiting satellites to a target in space or celestial body, overcoming the limitations of solar radiation reach and providing continuous energy supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic panels are used for energy conversion in space, then solar energy can be converted into electric energy, but the conversion efficiency is limited to 25-35%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the photovoltaic conversion system with a microwave-based wireless energy transmission system. Instead of converting solar energy to electricity through photovoltaic panels, the invention transmits microwave energy directly from orbiting satellites to ground-based or space-based receivers, eliminating the efficiency limitations of photovoltaic conversion and enabling higher overall system efficiency.
2Reliability
If photovoltaic panels are used for energy generation, then electric energy can be produced, but the panels have a limited service life of 5-15 years requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the energy generation function into separate components: orbiting satellites that generate and transmit microwave energy, and ground-based or space-based receivers that convert the energy to electricity. This segmentation allows the satellites to be replaced independently without replacing the entire energy generation system, and the receivers can remain in place indefinitely, significantly improving system reliability and reducing replacement complexity.
3Power
If oversized solar-panel power generation systems are used to meet high power requirements, then sufficient energy can be supplied, but the system size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces microwave energy transmission as an intermediary mechanism between the power source (orbiting satellites) and the power consumer (ground-based or space-based systems). This allows high power to be transmitted wirelessly over long distances without requiring the power generation system to be physically located near the consumer, enabling high power output with minimal system mass at the consumption point.
4Power
If nuclear generators are used to provide high power, then sufficient energy can be generated, but the system complexity and safety concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the nuclear power generation function from the system and replaces it with solar-powered satellites that transmit microwave energy. This eliminates the need for nuclear materials and associated safety systems while maintaining the capability to provide high power output, significantly reducing system complexity and safety concerns.
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 energy transmission to regions not reached by solar radiation, ensuring continuous power supply unaffected by solar eclipses and extending the energy availability without the need for physical replacements.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting it in the form of a beam 25 of coherent electromagnetic waves, preferably in the form of a laser beam 25
Implementation Method 2
a receiving satellite 20...converted by a suitable device 22, which transforms such electromagnetic energy into electric current for on-board use
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a method for wireless transmission of energy in space, wherein a constellation of transmitting satellites orbiting around a celestial body, such as the planet (P) Earth or the Moon (L), are equipped with a laser apparatus for sending a beam of coherent electromagnetic waves to an orbiting satellite or another receiving target, such as a mobile vehicle or a fixed base on said generic celestial body, in order to transmit energy thereto. The total power transmitted is divided among the orbiting satellites in the constellation, resulting in less contraindications than in the case of a single transmitting system with equivalent total power. The advantage of such division among a constellation of satellites mainly consists of shorter periods of solar eclipse, since sunlight is necessary for the operation of the transmission system. The receiving target or satellite converts the beam of electromagnetic waves into electric energy.