Satellite with integral thrusters
US11174048B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 2019 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF05D2230/31
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A satellite has thrusters that are integral parts of its frame. The frame defines cavities therein where thrusters are located. The thrusters may include an electrically-operated propellant and electrodes to activate combustion in the electrically-operated propellant. The frame may be additively manufactured, and the propellant and/or the electrodes may also be additively manufactured, with the frame and the propellant and/or the electrodes also being manufactured in a single process. In addition the thrusters may have nozzle portions through which combustion gases exit the thrusters. The thrusters may be located at corners and/or along edges of the frame, and may be used to accomplish any of a variety of maneuvers for the satellite. The satellite may be a small satellite, such as a CubeSat satellite, for instance having a volume of about 1 liter, and a mass of no more than about 1.33 kg.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.