Spacecraft propulsion devices and systems with microwave excitation
US11527387B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2021 |
| Grant date | Dec 13, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 6, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/44
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A multi-mode thruster system for use in a spacecraft includes a microwave source; a cavity coupled to the microwave source and including a first inlet to receive a first fluid and a second inlet to receive a second fluid; and a nozzle provided at one end of the cavity. The thruster operates in a microwave electrothermal thruster (MET) mode to (i) generate a standing wave in the cavity using the microwave source and (ii) raise a temperature of the first fluid to generate a first hot gas that exits the cavity via the nozzle to generate thrust. The thruster operates in a chemical propulsion mode to (i) produce a reduction-oxidation reaction between the first fluid and the second fluid and (ii) generate a second hot gas that exits the cavity via the nozzle to generate thrust.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.