Thrust-quantitatively-controllable and self-neutralizable kaufman ion thruster and use method thereof

US12338805B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Space Engineering University · CN

Inventors

• Siyin Zhou · Beijing, CN
• Wansheng Nie · Beijing, CN
• Yunfan Yang · Shanghai, CN
• Zitong Wang · Lo Wu, CN
• Xinhui Lin · Beijing, CN
• Danyang Li · Beijing, CN
• Peng Wang · Longbeilingcun, CN

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 4, 2023
• Grant date: Jun 24, 2025
• Expiry date: Oct 23, 2043

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02E30/10
• WIPO field: Engines, pumps, turbines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of space electric propulsion of spacecrafts, and discloses a thrust-quantitatively-controllable and self-neutralizable Kaufman ion thruster and a use method thereof. The Kaufman ion thruster includes a discharge chamber, a central cathode, a gas supply assembly, a steel magnetic assembly, an insulating barrier and a grid system, wherein the central cathode is coaxially inserted in the center of a front panel; the gas supply assembly includes an electronegative working substance gas source, a conventional working substance gas source, N electronegative working medium gas supply pipes and N working medium gas supply pipes; the insulating barrier includes a central connecting rod and 2N fins. Self-neutralization can be achieved without the need of neutralizers. In addition, the center-oriented thrust modes can be used for spacecraft orbit control; and the eccentric thrust mode can be used for spacecraft attitude adjustment.