Abstract: A user requests safekeeping of an important document, such as a will, a trust instrument or an insurance policy, via a cloud-based system. The system maintains information relating to storage of the document. In an embodiment, the document is encrypted and securely uploaded to a database. In other embodiments, the document alternatively or additionally can be stored in a physical storage facility (e.g., as a paper document) and the database can maintain indexing and metadata corresponding to the stored document. In various embodiments, at least one condition can be established for release of the document, such as the death of a testator. In an embodiment, a likelihood of the condition being satisfied is assessed using searches of publicly available information, including analysis of free form text for keywords weighted according to probabilities. Further inquiry is made to confirm the condition, such as by calling, texting, or via email.

Abstract: A linear gridless ion thruster (LGIT) is provided to serve as an ion source for spacecraft propulsion or plasma processing. The LGIT is composed of two stages: (1) an ionization stage composed of a hollow cathode, anode, and cusp magnetic field circuit to ionize the propellant gas; and (2) an acceleration stage composed of a downstream cathode, upstream anode, and a radial magnetic field circuit to accelerate ions created in the ionization stage. The LGIT replaces grids used in conventional ion thrusters (Kaufman guns) to accelerate ions with Hall-current electrons as in the case with conventional Hall thrusters.

Abstract: A linear gridless ion thruster (LGIT) is provided to serve as an ion source for spacecraft propulsion or plasma processing. The LGIT is composed of two stages: (1) an ionization stage composed of a hollow cathode, anode, and cusp magnetic field circuit to ionize the propellant gas; and (2) an acceleration stage composed of a downstream cathode, upstream anode, and a radial magnetic field circuit to accelerate ions created in the ionization stage. The LGIT replaces grids used in conventional ion thrusters (Kaufman guns) to accelerate ions with Hall-current electrons as in the case with conventional Hall thrusters.