US 12,365,491 B2 · Low gravity power distribution system and device

Abstract

This invention is embodied in a system and method for transferring energy and mass (supplies) in low-gravity environments. Broadly, the preferred system comprises a launcher, a receiver, and a capsule. The capsule is used to transfer a payload (e.g., supplies) between the launcher and a receiver. In addition, the receiver converts a portion of the payload's kinetic energy to potential energy via regenerative braking and stores the energy for later use. The stored energy can be used at the receiver end for applications such as powering habitats, mining operations, life-support systems, etc. In some instances, a portion of the stored energy can be used to re-launch the payload. Launchers and receivers can be established in different spatial network configurations in lower gravity environments such as in a circle with a centrally located launcher, a launcher downstream of a chain of receivers, or other configurations.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A device for launching and receiving a payload in a low-gravity environment, the device comprising:

a shaft positioned along a central axis and connected between a pair of frames,
a rotary arm connected to the shaft by roller bearings,
the rotary arm comprising a first spoke and a first magnet-activated actuator on a first distal end, the first magnet-activated actuator positioned at a first radial distance from the shaft, and
a bridge rotatably connected to the shaft, the bridge comprising a first magnetic element, the first magnetic element positioned on the bridge at the first radial distance from the shaft,
wherein the device is configured to release a payload from the first distal end via actuation of the magnetic element.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Low gravity power distribution system and device

Life of this patent

Low gravity power distribution system and device

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20