Catalytically activated transient decomposition propulsion system
US7757476B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 22, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 20, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 17, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02K9/68
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A catalytically activated transient decomposition propulsion system provides thrust by decomposing flow controlled propellant in contact with a catalyzing agent using a fixed volume of liquid propellant that is placed in contact with the catalyst within the decomposition chamber by a calibrated flow control valve. After injecting the liquid propellant into the decomposition chamber, the valve returns to the closed position while surface tension holds the liquid within the decomposition chamber until complete decomposition and exhaust of the warm gaseous products through a converging and diverging nozzle occurs. The increasing and decreasing transient pressure in the decomposition chamber changes each cycle in response to flow control valve actuation as the decomposition process is repeated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.