Patent Application
20240158106
The present invention relates generally to fusion energy generation techniques. In particular, the present invention provides a system and method for fusion energy using a high intensity pulse laser generation system, and related methods. More particularly, the present invention provides the laser generation system for fusion configured in a satellite system. Merely by way of example, the invention can be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for power, spaceships, travel, other vehicles for air, land, and water, defense applications (e.g., satellite, aerospace, land and missile defense, submarines, boats), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communication and/or data applications.
Fusion energy is a type of energy production that occurs when two atomic nuclei fuse together, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. It is considered a potential source of clean and abundant energy, as the fuel for fusion reactions (mainly hydrogen) is abundant on Earth and the reactions produce no greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants.
There are two main approaches to achieving fusion reactions: inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and magnetic confinement fusion (MCF).
Inertial confinement fusion (ICF) involves using high-energy lasers or particle beams to compress and heat a small pellet of hydrogen fuel, causing it to fusion. The fuel is typically a mixture of deuterium and tritium, two isotopes of hydrogen. The fuel is contained within a small, spherical capsule called a hohlraum, which is placed at the center of a chamber filled with high-energy lasers or particle beams. When the lasers or particle beams are fired at a surface of inside of the hohlraum, they generate X-rays that uniformly heat and compress the fuel inside the hohlraum. This causes the fuel to reach the necessary temperature and pressure conditions for fusion to occur.
The main advantage of ICF is that it can potentially produce fusion reactions with a relatively small amount of fuel and at a relatively low cost. However, the process is still in the experimental stage and there are significant technical challenges to overcome before it can be considered a practical source of energy.
Magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) involves using strong magnetic fields to contain and heat a plasma (a hot, ionized gas) of hydrogen fuel, causing it to fuse. The most common type of MCF is called tokamak fusion, which uses a toroidal (doughnut-shaped) chamber to contain the plasma. The plasma is held in the center of the chamber by strong magnetic fields, which are created by running current through a set of coil windings around the chamber. The plasma is heated by injecting energy into it, either through particle beams or through electromagnetic waves.
The main advantage of MCF is that it has the potential to produce fusion reactions on a larger scale, making it more suitable for generating electricity. However, it is a more complex and costly process than ICF and there are still significant technical challenges to overcome before it can be considered a practical source of energy.
Both ICF and MCF have made significant progress in recent years and there are several experimental facilities around the world working on these technologies. However, achieving sustained fusion reactions with net energy production (meaning the energy produced by the fusion reactions is greater than the energy required to initiate and sustain the reactions) remains a major technical challenge.
There are also other approaches to fusion energy being explored, such as magnetized target fusion and muon-catalyzed fusion. However, these approaches are still in the early stages of development and it is not yet clear if they will be viable as a source of energy.
From the above, fusion energy has the potential to be a clean and abundant source of energy, but significant technical challenges must be overcome before it can be considered a practical source of energy.
According to the present invention, techniques related generally to fusion energy generation are provided. In particular, the present invention provides a system and method for fusion energy using a high intensity pulse laser generation system, and related methods. More particularly, the present invention provides the laser generation system for fusion configured in a satellite system. Merely by way of example, the invention can be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for power, spaceships, travel, other vehicles for air, land, and water, defense applications (e.g., satellite, aerospace, land and missile defense, submarines, boats), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communication and/or data applications.
In an example, the present invention provides a reactor system for a space application. The system has a reactor comprising a fusion material, and at least one satellite system positioned in an orbit above a geographical location of a planet. In an example, the satellite system is operably coupled to the reactor including the fusion material.
In an example, the system has an optical cavity being maintained in a vacuum of 300 Torr and less and characterized by a length of free space of 10 meters to 10 kilometers and positioned with the satellite system. In an example, the optical cavity is configured to increase an intensity of a laser beam comprising a pulse from a certain of energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity propagating on a first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 milli Joule to 1 Mega Joule on the first optical path. In an example, the system forms a resonator including the optical cavity.
In an example, the system has an optical path modification device coupled to the optical cavity. In an example, the optical path modification device is configured to repeatedly change a spatial direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to cause the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to change a direction to a second optical path that is outside of the first optical path to interact with the fusion material after using a several of mirrors. The optical path modification device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path generating a high intensity pulse laser.
In an example, the system has at least a pair of mirror devices. At least one of the mirror devices is configured on the satellite system. In an example, each of the mirror devices has a mirror surface area of 1 cm2 and 100,000 m2, and is configured with the optical path modification device and provided within the first optical path. In an example, at least one the mirror device is configured to change a spatial position of the mirror device being coupled to the propagation of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a timing device configured with the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device such that the timing device is configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam between at least the pair of mirrors such that each cycle of the laser beam progressively increases an intensity of a pulse of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a spatial driver device coupled to the timing device and the at least one mirror device configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after the predetermined number of cycles.
In an example, the present invention includes a high-intensity short-pulse laser generation system. The system has a resonator and an optical path changing device coupled to the resonator. The resonator is configured to, by causing at least a part of laser light outputted from a light source to circulate or make a round trip along a first optical path having been determined in advance, enhance an intensity of the laser light propagating along the first optical path. The optical path changing device is coupled to the resonator is configured to, by changing a propagation direction of the laser light propagating along the first optical path repeatedly at a predetermined timing, cause the laser light propagating along the first optical path to propagate onto a second optical path that is not on the first optical path, thereby generating high-intensity short-pulse laser light onto the second optical path.
Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize other variations, modifications, and alternatives.
Depending upon the example, the present invention can achieve one or more of these benefits and/or advantages. In an example, the present invention provides a fusion energy system configured with a high intensity pulse laser system in a compact and spatially efficient system and related methods. In an example, the high intensity pulse laser system provides enough energy to ignite and sustain fusion energy configured in a space application. In an example, the present invention offers advantages of generating fusion power through an efficient size, weight, and cost using the present high intensity lasers in space. These and other benefits and/or advantages are achievable with the present device and related methods. Further details of these benefits and/or advantages can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the invention may be realized by reference to the latter portions of the specification and attached drawings.
In order to more fully understand the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings are not to be considered limitations in the scope of the invention, the presently described embodiments and the presently understood best mode of the invention are described with additional detail through use of the accompanying drawings in which:
In an example, according to the present invention, techniques related generally to fusion energy generation are provided. In particular, the present invention provides a system and method for fusion energy using a high intensity pulse laser generation system, and related methods. More particularly, the present invention provides the laser generation system for fusion configured in a satellite system. Merely by way of example, the invention can be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for power, spaceships, travel, other vehicles for air, land, and water, defense applications (e.g., satellite, aerospace, land and missile defense, submarines, boats), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communication and/or data applications.
In an example, the present invention is configured with a satellite system. In an example, a satellite is a man-made object that is designed to orbit the Earth or another celestial body. It is typically launched into space using a rocket and can be used for a variety of purposes, including communication, weather forecasting, navigation, and scientific research.
Time of flight (TOF) sensors are used to measure the distance between the satellite and other objects, such as the ground or other satellites. These sensors can be used to determine the satellite's position and velocity, as well as to track the movement of other objects.
Thrusters are used to maneuver the satellite in orbit. These can be chemical thrusters, which use propellant to generate thrust, or electric thrusters, which use electricity to ionize a gas and create thrust.
Communication is an essential part of a satellite's function. Satellites use a variety of methods to communicate with the ground, including radio waves, microwaves, and laser beams. They may also use antennas to transmit and receive signals.
Processors are used to control the satellite's functions and to process data that is collected by the satellite's sensors. These can range from simple microcontrollers to more advanced computer systems.
Other features that may be included on a satellite include solar panels to provide power, sensors to collect data on the environment or celestial bodies, and payloads such as cameras or scientific instruments. Some satellites may also be equipped with shields to protect against radiation or other environmental hazards. Further details of the present laser fusion system as applied to a satellite system can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
In an example, the second satellite system is configured with a driver device coupled to an optical path modification device, which changes the propagation of a high intensity pulsed laser beam from the first optical path to a second optical path. The second optical path is directed to a target within a fusion reactor system to interact with the target to initial a fusion reaction. As shown, a plurality of other high intensity pulsed laser beams can be directed to the target concurrently with the high intensity pulsed laser beam from the first optical path between the first satellite system and the second satellite system. Further details of the present system can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
In an example, the present invention provides a reactor system for a space application. The system has a reactor comprising a fusion material, e.g., fuel pellet, hohlraum with fusion material. The system has at least one satellite system positioned in an orbit above a geographical location of a planet. In an example, the satellite system is operably coupled to the reactor including the fusion material, as shown.
In an example, the system has an optical cavity being maintained in a vacuum of 300 Torr and less and characterized by a length of free space of 10 meters to 10 kilometers and positioned with the satellite system. In an example, the optical cavity is configured to increase an intensity of a laser beam comprising a pulse from a certain of energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity propagating on a first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 Milli-Joule to 1 Mega-Joule on the first optical path.
In an example, the system has an optical path modification device coupled to the optical cavity. In an example, the optical path modification device is configured to repeatedly change a spatial direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to cause the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to change a direction to a second optical path that is outside of the first optical path to interact with the fusion material after using a several of mirrors. The optical path modification device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path generating a high intensity pulse laser to be directed to a target.
In an example, the system has at least a pair of mirror devices. At least one of the mirror devices is configured on the satellite system. In an example, each of the mirror devices has a mirror surface area of 1 cm2 and 100,000 m2, and is configured with the optical path modification device and provided within the first optical path. In an example, at least one the mirror device is configured to change a spatial position of the mirror device being coupled to the propagation of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a timing device configured with the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device such that the timing device is configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam between at least the pair of mirrors such that each cycle of the laser beam progressively increases an intensity of a pulse of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a spatial driver device coupled to the timing device and the at least one mirror device configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after the predetermined number of cycles. Further details of the satellite system are found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
In an example, each satellite has a laser fusion system, which can be physically connected to each other with structural materials, e.g., beams and pillars to immobilize mutual position of components on different satellites. In an example, physical structures can be used, along with systems for fixing a distance between at least two satellites with or without such physical structures. Other variations, combinations, and modifications to such connection systems can be included.
In an example, each of the satellite system is configured with a support beam, which couples the satellite systems together, as shown. The support beam can be made of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics (CFRP), aluminum alloy, and other lightweight materials. The support beam is coupled to a position detector including a time of flight sensor. In an example, the time of flight sensor includes a laser device and sensing device to monitor and adjust the position between the satellite systems. The piezo actuator can be configured to adjust mutual position of satellites in an example.
In an example, a mechanical cavity dumper is a device that is used to change the direction and path of an optical beam, such as a laser beam, from a first path to a second path. The cavity dumper is configured with an optical cavity, which is a closed or partially closed space that is designed to reflect light, which is a movable component that can be inserted into the cavity to reflect the beam in an example.
In an example, a mechanically movable cavity dumper can be mounted on separate satellite from the satellites holding mirrors configuring the first optical path or other optical paths, which is described in more detail below.
In an example, the cavity includes a reflective material, such as a mirror, and is shaped in a way that allows the beam to be reflected multiple times as it travels through the cavity. To change the direction and path of the beam, the dumper element is moved into the cavity in a specific position, causing the beam to be reflected in a different direction. This allows the beam to be redirected from its original path to a new path, such as the second path.
In an example, the present invention includes a high-intensity short-pulse laser generation system. The system has a resonator and an optical path changing device coupled to the resonator. The resonator is configured to, by causing at least a part of laser light outputted from a light source to circulate or make a round trip along a first optical path having been determined in advance, enhance an intensity of the laser light propagating along the first optical path. The optical path changing device is coupled to the resonator is configured to, by changing a propagation direction of the laser light propagating along the first optical path repeatedly at a predetermined timing, cause the laser light propagating along the first optical path to propagate onto a second optical path that is not on the first optical path, thereby generating high-intensity short-pulse laser light onto the second optical path.
In an example, the resonator includes a first optical system disposed on the first optical path, and the optical path changing device is configured to change the propagation direction of the laser light by at least driving the first optical system in accordance with the predetermined timing.
In an example, the first optical system includes at least one pair of reflection mirrors that defines the first optical path of Fabry-Perot resonant cavity by reflecting the laser light outputted from the light source on the first optical path, and the optical path changing device is configured to, by driving a drive reflection mirror that is at least one of the at least one reflection mirror, insert the drive reflection mirror into the inside of the cavity in accordance with the timing, thereby reflecting the high-power laser light to change the propagation direction of the high-power laser light.
A spatial driver device coupled to the timing device and the optical path modification device being configured such that a drive reflection mirror is inserted into the inside of the cavity to reflect the high-power laser beam to change a direction of propagation of the laser beam repeatedly, thereby causing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path changing the laser beam to the second optical path.
In an example, the optical path changing device insert the drive reflection mirror into the inside of the cavity to change the propagation direction of the high-power laser light with the repetition rate from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds.
In an example, as shown, the optical path changing device includes a rotating portion configured to be able to rotate at a predetermined speed along a predetermined rotation axis, and a coupling portion that couples the rotating portion and the drive reflection mirror. In an example, the coupling portion is configured to determine a speed of the drive reflection mirror by controlling a distance from the center of the rotation to the mirror, there by inserting the drive reflection mirror into the inside of the cavity with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to change the propagation direction of the high-power laser light, thereby causing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path changing the laser beam to the second optical path. The repetition rate from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds is determined by the rotation speed of motor such as RPM.
In an example, when the Fabry Perot cavity length is 150 m, the round trip time of the laser beam is 1 microsecond. After 100,000 times round trip, the intensity of the input laser light source is increased up to 100,000 times with the repetition rate of 0.1 seconds. Then, the high-power pulse laser is extracted by the high reflection mirror every 0.1 second with the frequency of 10 Hz with rotation speed of motor of 600 RPM. In an example, a 1 meter size mirror has to pass the cavity within 1 micro second because next laser pulse will occur every 1 microsecond. In order to satisfy the aforementioned conditions, the disk diameter is 32 kilometers to increase the speed of a drive reflection mirror using a 600 RPM rotation motor and, then 1 m size mirror is attached to disk circumference, in this example.
In an example, the disk diameter ranges from 10 kilometers to 500 kilometers. In an example, the size of a high reflection mirror ranges 0.5 meter to 10 meters. In an example, the rotation speed of the disk ranges from 300 RPM to 10,000 RPM. In an example, the cavity has a length ranging from 10 meters to 10 kilometers. Other ranges can also be used depending on the application.
In an example of
In an example, the present system couples a high-power pulse laser system to a fusion reactor to create a high-power energy source to initiate and perpetuate a fusion reaction. As an example, laser fusion is a process in which energy is generated through the fusion of atomic nuclei. The process occurs when the nuclei of two or more atoms are brought together and collide at high temperatures and high pressures, causing them to fuse together and release a large amount of energy. In the laser fusion process in an example, a high-energy laser beam is used to compress and heat a small pellet of fuel, typically a mixture of deuterium and tritium (two isotopes of hydrogen). The laser beam creates a shockwave that compresses the fuel, causing it to reach temperatures and pressures high enough for fusion to occur. During the fusion process, the atomic nuclei of the fuel atoms combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy. This energy can then be harnessed and used to generate electricity, as noted previously. Further details of the present fusion system, and in particularly a high-power laser are provided throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
As an example, a high-power laser is a device that produces a highly concentrated and focused beam of light with a high level of power. The light produced by a high-power laser can have a variety of properties, such as wavelength, intensity, and coherence, which depend on the specific design and construction of the laser.
One type of high-power laser is the solid-state laser, which is made of a solid gain medium that is pumped by an external energy source, such as a flashlamp or another laser. The gain medium is typically a crystal or glass rod that is doped with a rare earth element, such as neodymium or ytterbium, to amplify the laser beam. Solid-state lasers are highly efficient and can produce high power outputs, making them ideal for many industrial and scientific applications.
Another type of high-power laser is the gas laser, which uses a gas as the gain medium. Gas lasers can be further classified based on the type of gas used, such as helium-neon lasers, carbon dioxide lasers, and argon lasers. Gas lasers are highly reliable and have a long lifespan, making them suitable for continuous operation.
A high-power laser can also be a hybrid of the two aforementioned types, such as a fiber laser, which uses a doped fiber as the gain medium. Fiber lasers are highly efficient and can produce very high power outputs, making them ideal for many industrial and scientific applications.
There are many factors that contribute to the performance and efficiency of a high power laser, such as the gain medium, pump source, resonator design, and cooling system. The design and construction of a high-power laser can greatly impact its performance and suitability for a specific application. As an example, a high power laser is a highly concentrated and focused beam of light with a high level of power, used in a wide range of applications.
In an example, the present invention provides a high intensity pulse laser generation system. In an example, a high intensity pulse laser is a type of laser that produces a highly concentrated and focused beam of light with a high level of power, but with a pulse duration that is much shorter than the average pulse duration of a continuous wave laser. The short pulse duration of a high intensity pulse laser allows for high peak power and the ability to deliver energy to a target in a very short period of time.
In an example, one type of high intensity pulse laser is the Q-switched laser, which uses a mechanical or electro-optical modulator to rapidly switch the laser beam on and off. This allows the laser to produce very short pulses, with pulse durations ranging from nanoseconds to picoseconds. Q-switched lasers are highly efficient and can produce very high peak powers, making them ideal for many industrial and scientific applications. Another type of high intensity pulse laser is the mode-locked laser, which uses a nonlinear optical element, such as a saturable absorber or a passive mode locker, to generate short pulses. Mode-locked lasers can produce very short pulses, with pulse durations ranging from femtoseconds to picoseconds. They are highly stable and can produce very high peak powers, making them ideal for many scientific and research applications.
There are many factors that contribute to the performance and efficiency of a high intensity pulse laser, such as the gain medium, pump source, resonator design, and pulse generation method. The design and construction of a high intensity pulse laser can greatly impact its performance and suitability for a specific application. In an example, a high intensity pulse laser is a type of laser that produces a highly concentrated and focused beam of light with a high level of power and a very short pulse duration. It is used in a wide range of applications. In an example, the present invention provides a high intensity pulse laser generation system and related methods as described throughout the present specification and more specifically below.
In an example, an intensity of the input laser is added to increase an intensity level of the laser beam propagating in the triangular path from a first intensity level, a second intensity level, and so on to an Nth intensity level. The intensity is increased until a desired intensity level is achieved. Once the desired intensity level has been achieved, the actuator moves the flat mirror from a first position to a second position spatially to change the beam path from the first optical path to the second optical path. In an example, the second optical path changes a spatial location of a reflection point on the mirror coupled to the actuator to direct the beam from the mirror to a reflection point on the curved mirror to an outward path for a high intensity pulse laser beam. In an example, the high intensity pulse laser beam is multiple times an intensity of the input laser beam.
As shown, the system uses both high reflection flat and curved optical mirror devices with a reflectivity of more than 99.99% or 99.999% to minimize an optical loss. In an example, a high reflection optical mirror is a device that reflects light in a specific direction. The device has a flat or curved surface, coated with a high reflective material, such as dielectric materials, or, metal materials, e.g., aluminum, silver, or gold. The preferred high reflection optical mirror is a dielectric distributed Brag Reflector (DBR). In an example, the shape and curvature of the mirror determine the direction and intensity of the reflected light.
As shown, there are several types of high reflection optical mirrors, each with specific properties and uses. Flat mirrors, also known as plane mirrors, have a flat reflecting surface and are used to reflect light in a straight line. In an example, concave mirrors have a curved inward reflecting surface and are used to focus light to a single point. In an example, convex mirrors have a curved outward reflecting surface and are used to spread out light over a wider area. In an example, optical mirrors can also be coated with specialized coatings, such as dielectric coatings or metallic coatings, to enhance their reflective properties and reduce surface defects, which causes optical absorption resulting in optical damages. These coatings can improve the efficiency and performance of the mirror, making it suitable for a specific application.
As shown, the actuator is magneto-strictive actuator in an example. In an example, a magneto-strictive actuator is a device that uses the magnetostriction effect to produce a controlled movement or displacement. The actuator has a magneto-strictive material, such as iron, cobalt, or nickel, and a magnetic field source, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. A preferred example of a magneto-strictive material is shown in
When the magneto-strictive material is subjected to a magnetic field, it experiences a change in shape or dimensions, which results in a mechanical displacement. By controlling the strength and orientation of the magnetic field, the displacement of the magneto-strictive actuator can be precisely controlled. In a preferred example, magneto-strictive actuators have a number of properties that make them well-suited for fast actuation applications. They have a high response speed, low power consumption, and a high force-to-weight ratio, which allows them to produce large displacements with minimal input power. The response time of nanoseconds is much faster than that of milliseconds of piezo materials. In addition, magneto-strictive actuators have a high fatigue resistance and can operate over a wide temperature range, making them suitable for use in a variety of environments. Magneto-strictive actuators are highly reliable and can operate continuously without the need for maintenance, making them an attractive choice for many fast actuation applications.
In an example, various factors can impact the performance and efficiency of a magneto-strictive actuator, such as the type and composition of the magneto-strictive material, the design and strength of the magnetic field source, and the mechanical design of the actuator. The specific design and construction of a magneto-strictive actuator can impact its performance and suitability for a specific application.
In an example, the actuator is coupled to an electric coil to generate a magnetic field to spatially change the magneto-strictive material. In an example, an electric coil, also known as an inductor or a solenoid, is a device that generates a magnetic field when an electric current is passed through it. The coil is generally a length of wire, typically made of copper or aluminum, wound into a cylindrical or rectangular shape. The number of turns and the diameter of the wire determine the strength of the magnetic field produced by the coil. Various factors can impact the performance and efficiency of an electric coil, such as the type and size of the wire, the number of turns, and the shape of the coil. The specific design and construction of an electric coil can greatly impact its performance and suitability for a specific application.
In an example, the actuator also has a housing, inertial mass, and fixed screw for spatial adjustments. The actuator also has a magneto-strictive material that moves 0.01 to 2 mm, in an example, but can be other lengths. The material has a flat surface that is coupled directly to a backside of the mirror surface. In a preferred example, the flat surface is roughly equal in area as the backside surface of the mirror surface. The material can be affixed using a glue, or mechanically attached on the backside surface in other examples.
In an example, an intensity of the input laser is added to increase an intensity level of the laser beam propagating in the triangular path from a first intensity level, a second intensity level, and so on to an Nth intensity level. The intensity is increased until a desired intensity level is achieved. Once the desired intensity level has been achieved, the actuator moves the flat mirror from a first position to a second position spatially to change the beam path from the first optical path to the second optical path. In an example, the second optical path changes a spatial location of a reflection point on the mirror coupled to the actuator to direct the beam from the mirror to a reflection point on the curved mirror to an outward path for a high intensity pulse laser beam. In an example, the high intensity pulse laser beam is multiple times an intensity of the input laser beam. As shown and will be described, the various elements that make up a system for changing the beam direction from a first beam path to the second beam path are referred to as a cavity dumper. The term cavity dumper will be interpreted according to the specification, as well as meanings understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Further details of a cavity dumper device are described in more detail below.
As shown, information and/or feedback from the light source are fed into a processing platform. The processing platform can be a suitable computer-based processor, controller, or other type of processor. Examples of feedback can include signals from the light source and the photodiodes to detect the transmitted light from the backside of each mirror which are not shown in
The information from the processing platform is fed into a timing device. The timing device is configured with a clock signal, which is configured with the information, to generate an electronic signal or signals for the driver device. The driver device includes a physical field generator that generates, for example, a magnetic field or an electric field to cause a spatial change of a spatial region in a material such as a magneto-strictive, piezo electric, or other material to output mechanical force to move a spatial position of a movable mirror. The movement of the spatial position of the mirror causes the laser beam to change from the first optical path to the second optical path, or any other optical path. In an example, the driver device can be called a spatial driver device since it drives a mechanical member in free space.
In an example, a computer for controlling a drive, which is a high-speed driver, also known as a “drive computer,” is a specialized device that is used to control and monitor the operation of a high-speed driver, such as the actuator. In an example, the drive computer typically includes a microprocessor or microcontroller, which is a type of central processing unit (CPU) that is responsible for controlling the operation of the drive. The drive computer also includes input/output (I/O) interfaces, which allow it to receive input signals from sensors or other devices and to output control signals to the drive. In an example, the drive computer may also include memory for storing data and instructions, as well as various other hardware and software components that enable it to perform its functions. Some drive computers may also include additional features, such as communication interfaces for communicating with other devices or systems, or built-in diagnostic tools for monitoring and troubleshooting the drive. Further details of the present system and method are described below.
In an example, the present high intensity pulse laser system can be configured with a laser fusion system for generating energy. As an example, laser fusion is a process that uses lasers to initiate and sustain a nuclear fusion reaction, which is a process that releases energy by combining atomic nuclei. This process has the potential to provide a virtually limitless and clean source of energy. In laser fusion, a beam of high-energy lasers is used to create a plasma, which is a hot, ionized gas that is composed of free electrons and atomic nuclei. The plasma is then compressed and heated to extremely high temperatures and pressures, causing the atomic nuclei to fuse together and release energy. An example of laser fusion is inertial confinement fusion (ICF). In ICF, a laser beam is used to create a shock wave that compresses a small pellet of fusion fuel. Further details of laser fusion are described in more detail below.
As show in an example of
As show in an example of
In an example, the present invention provides a reactor system for a space application. The system has a reactor comprising a fusion material, and at least one satellite system positioned in an orbit above a geographical location of a planet. In an example, the satellite system is operably coupled to the reactor including the fusion material.
In an example, the system has an optical cavity being maintained in a vacuum of 300 Torr and less and characterized by a length of free space of 50 meters to 10 kilometers and positioned with the satellite system. In an example, the optical cavity is configured to increase an intensity of a laser beam comprising a pulse from a certain of energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity propagating on a first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 milli Joule to 1 Mega Joule on the first optical path.
In an example, the system has an optical path modification device coupled to the optical cavity. In an example, the optical path modification device is configured to repeatedly change a spatial direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to cause the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to change a direction to a second optical path that is outside of the first optical path to interact with the fusion material after using a several of mirrors and lens. The optical path modification device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path generating a high intensity pulse laser.
In an example, the system has at least a pair of mirror devices. At least one of the mirror devices is configured on the satellite system. In an example, each of the mirror devices has a mirror surface area of 1 cm2 and 100,000 m2, and is configured with the optical path modification device and provided within the first optical path. In an example, at least one the mirror device is configured to change a spatial position of the mirror device being coupled to the propagation of the laser beam.
In another example, the present system includes a high-speed rotation motor configured to change the direction of the propagation of the laser beam from the first optical path to a second optical path, or any other desirable optical path.
In an example, the system has a timing device configured with the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device such that the timing device is configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam between at least the pair of mirrors such that each cycle of the laser beam progressively increases an intensity of a pulse of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a spatial driver device coupled to the timing device and the at least one mirror device configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after the predetermined number of cycles.
In an example, the optical path modification device includes a nonlinear optical element that converts a pulse photon energy of laser beam input into a nearly doubled or tripled pulse photon energy of laser beam.
In an example, the fusion material contains elements with a proton number of 10 or less. In an example, the fusion material contains at least one of deuterium and tritium with a proton number of one.
In an example, the reactor comprises at least one radiation output body and a material housing. In an example, the radiation output body is configured to output a pulsed electromagnetic wave having a wavelength of at least X-rays or shorter when irradiated by the high intensity pulsed laser, such that the fusion material is configured to cause the fusion reaction when irradiated with the pulsed electromagnetic waves, and the material housing section is configured to house the radiation output body and the fusion material, and to enable irradiation of the high-intensity pulse laser to the housed radiation output body.
In an example, the system has a neutron absorption unit and a power generation unit such that the neutron absorber is configured to generate thermal energy by absorbing at least a neutron beam of radiation produced from the fusion material by a fusion reaction and such that the power generation unit is configured to be able to convert the heat generated into electrical energy.
In an example, the system has a supply unit configured to provide an electrical energy to at least the laser light source.
In an example, the high intensity pulse laser beam irradiates the fusion material directly or indirectly.
In an example, the spatial driver device comprises a magneto strictive material that is in mechanical contact with a backside of the mirror devices that is adjusted or monolithically integrated with the backside of the mirror device. In an example, the mechanical contact is made using a surface region of the magneto strictive material and a backside of the mirror device, the mechanical contact between the surface region of the magneto strictive material and the backside surface are substantially matched in area.
In an example, the magneto strictive material is characterized by a thickness of a volume structure configured to spatially changed along a plane of the magneto strictive material parallel to and facing a backside of the mirror device by modulating a magnetic field spatially with and coupled to the magnetic strictive material such that the mirror device is configured to tilt from a first angle to a second angle measured from a direction normal to the mirror surface area of the mirror device; wherein the first angle to the second angle ranges from 0.1 degree to 5 degrees.
In an example, the magneto strictive material is characterized by a thickness of a volume structure configured to change from a first thickness to a second thickness along an entire volume provided between a first surface region and a second surface region of the magneto strictive material coupled to a backside of the mirror device by applying a uniform magnetic field to the magnetic strictive material such that the mirror device changes a position of the laser beam from the first optical path to the second optical path by changing a spatial location of an incidence of the laser beam on the mirror device from a first location of the mirror surface area to a second location of the mirror surface area.
In an example, the pair of mirrors comprise, respectively, a flat mirror device and a curved mirror device. In an example, the flat mirror is adjusted with the magneto strictive material, and the curved mirror device is configured with the first mirror device to change the direction of the laser beam from the first optical path to the second optical path.
In an example, the laser beam of the light source has a wavelength range from 1020 nm to 1070 nm. Each of the mirror devices has a reflectance to the laser beam of 99.99% or more in an example.
In an example, the light source comprises a semiconductor laser light source containing an AlInGaN-based compound. Other light sources can also be used depending upon the application.
In an example, the pulse intensity of laser beam generated is at least 103 times greater than a pulse intensity of the laser beam from the light source.
In an example, the optical path modification device is configured such that an optical element of a mirror is capable of changing a direction of propagation of the laser beam repeatedly enters and withdraws from the first optical path, thereby causing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to the optical element changes the laser beam to the second optical path. In an example, the optical element of mirror is configured to repeatedly enter and withdraw from the first optical path by rotating about a rotation center axis or off axis to extract the laser beam to second optical path by changing the direction of the laser beam of the first optical path.
In an example, the present invention provides a high intensity short pulse laser generation system for a space application. The system has a first satellite system capable of being positioned in an orbit above a geographical location of a planet and a second satellite system within a vicinity of the first satellite system.
In an example, the system has an optical cavity being maintained in a vacuum of 300 Torr and less and characterized by a length of free space of 10 meters to 10 kilometers and positioned with the aerospace vehicle, the optical cavity being configured to increase an intensity of a laser beam comprising a pulse from a certain of energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity propagating on a first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoule to 1 Mega Joule on the first optical path.
In an example, the system has an optical path modification device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path modification device being configured to repeatedly change a spatial direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to cause the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to change a direction to a second optical path that is outside of the first optical path to interact with the fusion material after using a several of mirrors and lens. In an example, the optical path modification device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path generating a high intensity pulse laser to interact with the fusion material. In an example, the optical path modification device is configured such that an optical element of mirror capable of changing a direction of propagation of the laser beam repeatedly enters and withdraws from the first optical path, thereby causing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to the optical element of mirror changes the laser beam to the second optical path.
In an example, the system has at least a pair of mirror devices. In an example, at least one of the mirror devices is configured on the satellite system. Each of the mirror devices has a mirror surface area of 1 cm2 and 100000 m2, and configured with the optical path modification device and provided within the first optical path. In an example, at least one the mirror device configured to change a spatial position of the mirror device being coupled to the propagation of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a timing device configured with the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device such that the timing device is configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam between at least the pair of mirrors such that each cycle of the laser beam progressively increases an intensity of a pulse of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a spatial driver device coupled to the timing device and the at least one mirror device configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after the predetermined number of cycles.
In an example, the present invention provides a high intensity short pulse laser generation system for a space application. The system has a first satellite system capable of being positioned in an orbit above a geographical location of a planet and a second satellite system within a vicinity of the first satellite system. The system also has a laser generation system coupled to the first satellite system.
In an example, the laser generation system has an optical cavity being maintained in a vacuum of 300 Torr and less and characterized by a length of free space of 50 meters to 10 kilometers and positioned with the first satellite system, the optical cavity being configured to increase an intensity of a laser beam comprising a pulse from a certain of energy power intensity to a higher energy power intensity propagating on a first optical path by circulating or reciprocating at least a portion of the laser beam from a light source having a pulse energy output power of 0.001 millijoule to 1 Mega Joule on the first optical path
In an example the system has an optical path modification device coupled to the optical cavity, the optical path modification device being configured to repeatedly change a spatial direction of the laser beam propagating on the first optical path at a predetermined timing ranging from 0.001 microseconds to 3 seconds with the response time from 1 picosecond to 30 microseconds to cause the laser beam propagating on the first optical path to change a direction to a second optical path that is outside of the first optical path thereby the optical path modification device is configured to propagate the laser beam on the second optical path generating a high intensity pulse laser, the optical path modification device being configured such that an optical element is capable of changing a direction of propagation of the laser beam repeatedly by entering and withdrawing from the first optical path, thereby causing the laser beam propagating on the first optical path changing the laser beam to the second optical path.
In an example, the system has at least a pair of mirror devices, at least one of the mirror devices configured on the satellite system, each of the mirror devices having a mirror surface area of 1 cm2 and 100000 m2, and configured with the optical path modification device and provided within the first optical path, at least one the mirror device configured to change a spatial position of the mirror device being coupled to the propagation of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a timing device configured with the optical path mechanism and having a predetermined frequency to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device such that the timing device is configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device after a predetermined number of cycles of the laser beam between at least the pair of mirrors such that each cycle of the laser beam progressively increases an intensity of a pulse of the laser beam.
In an example, the system has a spatial driver device coupled to the timing device and the at least one mirror device configured to adjust the spatial position of the mirror device to move the spatial position of the mirror device from a first position to a second position after the predetermined number of cycles.
In an example, the optical element is configured to repeatedly enter and withdraw from the first optical path by rotating about a rotation center axis of off axis extending in the first direction.
While the above is a full description of the specific examples, various modifications, alternative constructions and equivalents may be used. As an example, the packaged device can include any combination of elements described above, as well as outside of the present specification. Therefore, the above description and illustrations should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present invention which is defined by the appended claims.
This application is related to and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63/424,779, filed on Nov. 11, 2022, commonly assigned, and hereby incorporated in its entirety for all purposes.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63424779 | Nov 2022 | US |
