Spacecraft Propulsion Using Quantum-Printed Propellants
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Solution Overview
Problem
Long distance space travel is hindered by the challenges of supplying sufficient fuel, air, and managing heat for sustained journeys.
Innovation Solution
The use of Nagel Quantum Effect Devices (NQEDs) to instantiate or quantum print materials like hydrogen, oxygen, and xenon, which are used as propellants, combined with advanced propulsion systems, including chemical, atomic, and electric thrusters, to enable long-range space travel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If traditional fuel storage methods are used for long distance space travel, then the vehicle can operate for limited distances, but the vehicle requires carrying large amounts of fuel which increases launch mass and limits range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning fuel storage facilities along the spacecraft's trajectory. Fuel depots are established at strategic locations before the spacecraft arrives, allowing the vehicle to refuel during its journey without carrying all necessary fuel from Earth. This enables extended mission duration while reducing initial launch mass requirements.
2Duration of action of moving object
If large fuel tanks are carried to extend range, then the vehicle can travel longer distances, but the vehicle's mass increases and requires more energy to accelerate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing fuel depots at intermediate locations along the trajectory before the spacecraft arrives. This allows the vehicle to acquire fuel in situ rather than carrying all fuel from launch, significantly reducing the mass of fuel storage systems required on the spacecraft while extending its operational range.
3Speed
If conventional propulsion systems are used, then the vehicle can achieve controlled thrust, but the vehicle cannot sustain high speeds indefinitely due to fuel consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing a network of fuel depots along the spacecraft's intended trajectory. These depots contain stored propellant that the spacecraft can access during its journey, enabling sustained high-speed operation and extended mission duration without being limited by the initial fuel load carried from Earth.
4Reliability
If the spacecraft carries all necessary fuel from Earth, then the vehicle can operate independently, but the launch mass becomes prohibitively large for interplanetary or interstellar travel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing fuel depots at strategic locations along the trajectory before the spacecraft arrives. This allows the vehicle to maintain operational independence through access to pre-positioned fuel resources while avoiding the prohibitive launch mass that would result from carrying all necessary fuel from Earth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses fuel depots as intermediary structures that mediate between Earth-based fuel production and the spacecraft's propulsion needs. These depots serve as intermediate storage points where fuel is transferred from Earth-launch vehicles to the main spacecraft, reducing the mass burden on both the launch system and the interplanetary vehicle while maintaining operational independence.
Data Source
AI summary
A long range vehicle capable of space travel uses quantum effects such as quantum printing or instantiation to produce consumables during travel. The long range vehicle comprises a transport shell, a propulsor disposed in or on the shell, and at least one Nagel Quantum Effect Device (NQED) operatively coupled to the propulsor, the at least one NQED providing imprinted material to the propulsor.