초록 ▼

A microelectrical mechanical system (MEMS) microthruster array is disclosed. The MEMS microthruster array of the present invention can be used for maintaining inter satellite distance in small satellites. One microthruster array includes numerous microthruster propulsion cells, each having a vacuum

A microelectrical mechanical system (MEMS) microthruster array is disclosed. The MEMS microthruster array of the present invention can be used for maintaining inter satellite distance in small satellites. One microthruster array includes numerous microthruster propulsion cells, each having a vacuum enclosed explosive igniter disposed on one side by a breakable diaphragm and having a propellant-filled chamber on the opposite side of the diaphragm. Upon explosion of the explosive igniter, the first diaphragm breaks, which, together with the explosion of the explosive igniter, causes the propellant to expand rapidly, thereby providing exhaust gases which are ejected from an exterior face of the microthruster propulsion array, thereby providing a small unit of thrust.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A microthruster having a plurality of propulsion cells, wherein each of the propulsion cells comprise:a first cavity; an explosive igniter disposed within said first cavity; a second cavity separated from said first cavity by a first diaphragm, wherein said first diaphragm is cooperatively dimens

1. A microthruster having a plurality of propulsion cells, wherein each of the propulsion cells comprise:a first cavity; an explosive igniter disposed within said first cavity; a second cavity separated from said first cavity by a first diaphragm, wherein said first diaphragm is cooperatively dimensioned with said igniter to break upon the explosion of said explosive igniter; and a propellant disposed in said second cavity, said propellant selected to expand rapidly in response to said igniter exploding through said broken first diaphragm.