Omnivorous solar thermal thruster, cooling systems, and thermal energy transfer in rockets
US11391246B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 26, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jul 19, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 26, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/44
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Omnivorous solar thermal thrusters and adjustable cooling structures are disclosed. In one aspect, a solar thermal rocket engine includes a solar thermal thruster configured to receive solar energy and one or more propellants, and heat the one or more propellants using the solar energy to generate thrust. The solar thermal thruster is further configured to use a plurality of different propellant types, either singly or in combination simultaneously. The solar thermal thruster is further configured to use the one or more propellants in both liquid and gaseous states. Related structures can include valves and variable-geometry cooling channels in thermal contact with a thruster wall.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.