SMART Fusion Generator with Tilted Superconducting Coils
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current fusion generators face challenges in achieving a continuous steady-state plasma confinement due to plasma instability, leading to issues like edge localized modes (ELMs) and other instabilities, which hinder the development of viable fusion energy sources capable of achieving a high energy gain factor (Q) beyond breakeven.
Innovation Solution
A Superconducting, Minimum-Aspect-Ratio Torus (SMART) fusion generator design featuring a spherical tokamak configuration with tilted toroidal field coils, high-temperature superconducting tape or ribbon, and advanced materials like graphene and graphite-fiber wraps, along with a machine-learning system to predict and stabilize plasma dynamics, aiming to achieve a Q=40 energy output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional fusion generators are used, then plasma confinement is attempted, but plasma instability occurs leading to ELMs and other instabilities that prevent continuous steady-state operation
Solution Approach 1:
The toroidal field coil is divided into multiple segments or sections, each independently adjustable. This segmentation allows localized control of magnetic field strength and configuration, enabling stabilization of plasma instabilities in specific regions without affecting the entire plasma column, thus achieving continuous steady-state operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic adjustment of toroidal field coil currents in real-time to respond to plasma instability conditions. The coil configuration and current distribution can be modified on-the-fly to counteract developing instabilities such as ELMs, maintaining plasma stability and enabling continuous operation
2Duration of action of stationary object
If toroidal field coil stress is not reduced, then coil longevity decreases, but applying pre-stress requires additional structural components and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
A pre-stress structure is incorporated into the toroidal field coil assembly that applies compressive pre-loading to the coil windings before operation begins. This preliminary action counteracts the tensile stresses generated during plasma operation, preventing coil degradation and extending longevity without requiring complex active control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The toroidal field coil structure utilizes composite materials combining superconducting wire elements with reinforcing structural materials. This composite construction provides both the electrical functionality and the mechanical strength needed to withstand operational stresses, reducing the need for additional pre-stress structures and simplifying the overall design
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 SMART design enhances plasma stability and magnetic field strength, increases the longevity of toroidal field coils, and enables a continuous steady-state operation, achieving a Q=40 energy output while reducing stress on components and improving fusion energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a toroidal field coil formed of a high-temperature superconducting tape or ribbon
Implementation Method 2
plurality of coils, wherein the plurality of coils include a poloidal field coil and a toroidal field coil
Implementation Method 3
the toroidal field coil may be tilted at an angle along a toroidal field coil axis
Implementation Method 4
a graphite-fiber or graphene wrap configured to provide rigidity to one or more portions of the generator
Implementation Method 5
Fusion is a reaction in which two atomic nuclei (such as isotopes of hydrogen) fuse together to form a heavier nucleus (such as a helium nucleus). This process is performed continuously within stars such as our own Sun. During this process, some mass of the hydrogen is converted into energy and given off in the form of heat and light
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to a fusion generator that includes a spherical housing. The generator may include a plurality of coils. The plurality of coils may include a poloidal field coil and a toroidal field coil formed of a high-temperature superconducting tape or ribbon. The toroidal field coil may be tilted at an angle along a toroidal field coil axis. The generator may include a graphite-fiber or graphene wrap configured to provide rigidity to one or more portion of the generator.