Abstract: A spheromak is a plasma of ions and electrons formed into a toroidal shape. A spheromak plasma can include electrons and ions of nearly equal amounts such that it is essentially charge neutral. It contains large internal electrical currents and their associated internal magnetic fields arranged so that the forces within the spheromak are nearly balanced. The spheromak described herein is observed to form around an electric arc in partial atmosphere, and is observed to be self-stable with no external magnetic containment.
Abstract: Electrons are arranged so they circulate along a spiral path in a vacuum. The path has a hollow symmetrical shape which is defined by a surface of a toroid. The shape is controllable by a magnetic field and the electrons can be contained within the shape. A containing force can be created by external electromagnetic fields, ions within the vacuum, or by interactions between the orbiting electrons themselves. The contained electrons store energy for later retrieval.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 31, 2000
Date of Patent:
September 9, 2003
Assignee:
Electron Power Systems, Inc.
Inventors:
D. Clint Seward, III, Chiping Chen, Richard J. Temkin
Abstract: The propulsion system of the present invention includes charged particles held in a containment structure at high temperatures. Propellant is injected into the containment system where it collides elastically with the charged particles. The propellant is heated until it achieves a high velocity. It can then be ejected to produce thrust. The propulsion system can include thrusters to propel, for example, space launch vehicles and jet aircraft.