Electrical drive system for rocket engine propellant pumps
US6457306B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 13, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 1, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 13, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/002
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A liquid propellant supply system (10) according to the invention is electrical in nature and avoids the need for a gas generator and a turbine assembly. In particular, the system (10) includes an electrical power source (12), a controller (14) and a motor (18) for driving the pump (20). The electrical power source (12) provides electrical power sufficient for high power, limited duration applications such as for launch vehicle applications. For launch vehicle applications, the power source (12) is preferably capable of providing very high power for at least 60 seconds. A number of different types of electrical power sources may be employed in this regard. For example, the power source (12) may include high energy density batteries, supercapacitors, or counter rotating flywheels. Multiple counter rotating motors may be employed in order to minimize precessional forces. The invention thereby eliminates problematic high pressure plumbing, reduces overall mass and allows for convenient mass flow rate throttling, as well as safe abort options.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.