Dual-mode chemical-electric thrusters for spacecraft
US7703273B2 · kind B2 · utility
3Cited by
6References
36Claims
0Family size
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 3, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 27, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03H1/0087
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Spacecraft thrusters capable of dual-mode operation, and a method of applying propulsion to a spacecraft using a dual-mode thruster are provided. In one embodiment, the thrusters of the current invention can operate as a chemical motor to provide high thrust and low propellant exhaust velocity to achieve fast maneuverability, or as an electric propulsion thruster to provide low thrust and high exhaust velocity to perform maneuvers with a minimal amount of propellant.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.