Reconfigurable Spacecraft Power Unit for Thruster and Bus Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacecraft power processing units are large and heavy, consuming excessive space and weight due to separate units for thrusters and on-board systems, with limited utility outside of thruster operations.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable power processing unit that can switch between high voltage, low current output for thrusters and low voltage, high current output for on-board electronics, reducing the need for multiple units by integrating both functions into a single, adaptable system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distinct power processing units are used for thrusters and on-board systems, then power requirements for both systems can be met, but spacecraft weight and space requirements increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The power processing unit is designed to perform multiple functions by switching between different configurations. It can operate as a high voltage power processing unit for thruster operations and as a low voltage power processing unit for on-board electronic systems, eliminating the need for separate dedicated units for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The power processing unit incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capability through switchable connections that allow it to change its operational state. The unit can transition between high voltage/low current mode and low voltage/high current mode based on the operational requirements, making it adaptable rather than static.
2Reliability
If distinct power processing units are used for thrusters and on-board systems, then specific power requirements are satisfied, but spacecraft volume and space utilization increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of separate high voltage power processing unit and low voltage power processing unit into a single integrated unit. By combining these functions, the total volume required for power processing equipment is reduced while maintaining the ability to satisfy both high voltage thruster requirements and low voltage on-board system requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified power processing unit serves multiple purposes through configuration switching, replacing what would traditionally require two separate voluminous units. This multi-functional approach optimizes space utilization on the spacecraft.
3Reliability
If high voltage power processing units are dedicated to thrusters, then thruster operations are supported, but the units provide minimal utility when thrusters are not operated
Solution Approach 1:
The power processing unit dynamically adapts its configuration based on operational needs. When thrusters are not operating, the unit switches to low voltage mode to support on-board electronic systems, ensuring continuous utility rather than remaining idle or providing limited functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The unit is designed with universal applicability to serve both thruster power needs and on-board system power needs. This eliminates the period of minimal utility by ensuring the unit can always provide appropriate power processing for the current operational requirements of the spacecraft.
Data Source
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AI summary
A reconfigurable power processing unit for a spacecraft including a plurality of power modules. Each of the power modules includes a first power source and a second power source. The first power source and the second power source are configured to be in series in a first state and in parallel in a second state. A plurality of contactors connect each power module to at least one of another power module in the plurality of power modules and a power processing output and are configured to control the state of the power modules.