Method and apparatus for small satellite propulsion
US9228570B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jan 5, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 20, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF03H1/0093
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In a propulsion system, an electrohydrodynamic (EHD) body force is used to control the flow of a propellant through a micro channel, expansion slot, plenum chamber, or other flow region and thereby increase the specific impulse created by a propulsion system. In an embodiment, a plurality of electrodes are arranged and powered to create a plasma discharge, which can impart an EHD body force to a fluid. Various configurations of electrodes can be used to control the flow of the fluid into, out of, or through the flow region. In an embodiment, the use of EHD body forces can reduce, or substantially eliminate, shear forces on the surface of a plenum chamber, micro channel, or expansion slot of the propulsion system, resulting in a smooth flow of the propellant and increased thrust.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.