Vacuum arc plasma thrusters with inductive energy storage driver
US6818853B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 2003 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 30, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03H1/0087
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for producing a vacuum arc plasma source device using a low mass, compact inductive energy storage circuit powered by a low voltage DC supply acts as a vacuum arc plasma thruster. An inductor is charged through a switch, subsequently the switch is opened and a voltage spike of Ldi/dt is produced initiating plasma across a resistive path separating anode and cathode. The plasma is subsequently maintained by energy stored in the inductor. Plasma is produced from cathode material, which allows for any electrically conductive material to be used. A planar structure, a tubular structure, and a coaxial structure allow for consumption of cathode material feed and thereby long lifetime of the thruster for long durations of time.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.