DISTANCE-OLDCASH CARRYING CONSTRUCTION

DETECTOR OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

A detector of electromagnetic radiation (RL) is described. The detector comprises: -an oriented polycrystalline layer (2) of thermoelectric material, -a substrate (1) superimposed on the top surface of the oriented polycrystalline layer so that the back surface (10) is in contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer, -first and second electrodes spaced the one from the other and in electrical contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer. The substrate comprises at least one ceramic layer and the oriented polycrystalline layer has a crystal orientation at an angle comprised between 30 degrees and 5 degrees relative to a normal to the top surface of the substrate.

METHOD FOR THE PREPARATION AND PASSIVATION OF THE END MIRRORS OF A HIGH EMISSIVE POWER SEMICONDUCTOR LASER AND RELATED LASER DEVICE

The present invention relates to a process for the treatment of the facets of a semiconductor laser, capable of inhibiting their degradation during the high power operation and to the relative laser device. The invention provides for a process to be carried out in high vacuum condition, capable of removing contaminants and the products of reaction between the atmosphere and the constituents of the semiconductor laser. At the same time, a process of hydrogen diffusion leading to passivation (inactivation) of deep electron energy levels, responsible for various undesired processes of non-radiative recombination, is carried out. Moreover, a protective dielectric layer capable of preventing the contact between the semiconductor surface and the atmosphere is applied.

Halbleiterlaser mit niedrigem Schwellstrom und zugehöriges Herstellungsverfahren

Deployable support structure

A support structure (1) is provided comprising a plurality of curved surfaces A, B hingedly interconnected along their edges such as to provide effective deployment in two separate stages. Preferably, the structure has only two curved surfaces hingedly interconnected at a single non-planar hinge line. In FIG. 1(a), the two sheets A, B are coplanar in that they lie in the same horizontal plane, permitting the structure to be in a flat, first stage deployment position. In Figure (b), the structure is fully deployed in a second stage deployment position by bringing sheet A out of plane through some angle in relation to the position of sheet B, resulting in both sheets becoming curved. The structure has utility in various space-based as well as terrestrial reflective and absorbing applications, and bears definite advantage in terms of weight saving, high stiffness and well-defined surface precision.

Reversibly deformable structure

The invention relates to a reversibly deformable structure comprising a flexible substrate, preferably in the form of a strip, wire or plate, and at least one multistable element connected to and spaced apart from the substrate via a support arrangement of triangular trusses which may flex in use. The multistable element preferably changes its length resulting in the substrate curving. The multistable element has at least a first passively stable configuration and a second passively stable configuration which is different to the first configuration. When the multistable element is arranged from a first configuration towards the second configuration, a corresponding change in the shape of the substrate occurs. The multistable element and the substrate together provide a first stable structure configuration and at least a second stable structure configuration. At least five multistable elements may be provided on the substrate. Later embodiments relate to a method of forming multistable elements ...

Herstellungsverfahren von Laserstrukturen mit seitlicher Begrenzung und niederem Schwellstrom.

Optimized actuators for ultra-thin mirrors

A method and apparatus for correcting error modes of a deformable mirror, including selecting or targeting one or more target error modes of a deformable mirror; and designing a pattern and/or shape of one or more electrodes, wherein the pattern and/or shape of the electrodes are designed to optimally correct the target error modes when the electrodes are disposed on the deformable mirror via an active material. Also disclosed is a deformable structure, including a composite shell including a plurality of plies each including carbon fibers embedded in a resin; a nanolaminate comprising individual nanolayers attached to a first side of the composite shell; an actuation structure attached to a second side of the composite shell; and a flexible electrode routing layer attached to the actuation structure.

Laser with semiconductor with modulation in profit

a) La présente invention concerne un laser à semi-conducteur à modulation en gain et au processus de fabrication qui s'y rapportent. b) Les lasers conventionnels montrent une émission lumineuse présentant un pic à une fréquence déterminée et d'autres pics de moindre intensité à des fréquences proches. L'invention propose une structure laser capable de limiter dans une large mesure les émissions secondaires tout en maintenant un rendement de conversion courant-lumière élevé. Ces caractéristiques s'obtiennent au moyen d'une variation longitudinale périodique dans la bande interdite de l'élément actif. En opérant ainsi on obtient un laser présentant une modulation en gain positive. c) L'invention apporte une amélioration aux lasers à semi-conducteur multimodes. a) The present invention relates to a gain modulation semiconductor laser and related manufacturing process. b) Conventional lasers show light emission with a peak at a specific frequency and other peaks of lesser intensity at close frequencies. The invention provides a laser structure capable of limiting the secondary emissions to a large extent while maintaining a high current-to-light conversion efficiency. These characteristics are obtained by means of a periodic longitudinal variation in the forbidden band of the active element. By operating in this way, a laser is obtained having a positive gain modulation. c) The invention provides an improvement to multimode semiconductor lasers.

LARGE APERTURE DEPLOYABLE REFLECTARRAY ANTENNA

A deployable reflectarray has a plurality of strips arranged in quadrants forming the reflectarray. The copper ground plane and the copper dipoles are supported by facesheets made of epoxy reinforced by quartz fibers. The copper ground plane is separated from the copper dipoles by S-shaped springs made of epoxy reinforced by quartz fibers, which allow folding and deployment of the reflectarray.

Expandable/collapsible structures

FAST DETECTOR OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

A detector of electromagnetic radiation (RL) is described. The detector comprises: - a substrate (1), - an oriented polycrystalline layer (2) of thermoelectric material deposited on the top surface (10) of the substrate, - first and second electrodes spaced the one from the other and in electrical contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer. The substrate comprises at least one ceramic layer and the oriented polycrystalline layer has a crystal orientation at an angle comprised between 30 degrees and 55 degrees relative to a normal to the top surface of the substrate.

Ultralight Photovoltaic Power Generation Tiles

Systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the invention provide a photovoltaic concentrator tile for a space-based solar power (SBSP) system including constituent components thereof. In a number of embodiments, the photovoltaic concentrator tile include a one photovoltaic cell, a reflector, a power transmitter and circuitry configured to perform a variety of control functions. Embodiments also provide compactible structures, materials for improving thermal emissivity, and methods and mechanisms for manufacturing and using these components. 1. A photovoltaic power generation tile comprising:a ground layer comprising an integrated circuit;a photovoltaic cell connected to the integrated circuit to allow transference of energy from the photovoltaic cell through the integrated circuit;a reflector comprising a reflective face located on a reflector body, where the reflective face directs incoming light toward the photovoltaic cell; anda power transmitting layer comprising a power transmitter, wherein the power transmitting layer is attached to the ground layer using a strut, and wherein the power transmitter is connected to the integrated circuit.2. The photovoltaic power generation tile of further comprising a thermally emissive surface disposed upon the reflector.3. The photovoltaic power generation tile of claim 2 , wherein the thermally emissive layer comprises a polyimide.4. The photovoltaic power generation tile of claim 3 , wherein the thermally emissive layer further comprises a metallic layer claim 3 , wherein the polyimide layer is disposed on the reflector claim 3 , and the metallic layer is disposed on the polyimide layer such that the polyimide layer separates the reflector and the metallic layer.5. The photovoltaic power generation tile of claim 4 , further comprising:a second polyimide layer disposed on the metallic layer; anda second metallic layer disposed on the second polyimide layer.6. The photovoltaic power generation tile of claim ...

Halbleiterlaser mit niedrigem Schwellstrom und zugehöriges Herstellungsverfahren

ENTFALTBARE TRAGKONSTRUKTION

Dual-matrix composite embedded conductors and deployable structures

An antenna having a body that includes a plurality of rigid sections separated by a plurality of flexible sections and at least one conductor attached to the rigid and flexible sections. The flexible sections forming hinges that connect rigid sections together to permit the body to be configured into a conical configuration from a substantially flat trapezoid configuration.

Mirrors Transparent to Specific Regions of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

Systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the invention implement mirrors that are more transparent to specific regions of the electromagnetic spectrum (e.g. the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum) relative to conventional metallic mirrors (e.g. mirrors made form aluminum or silver). In one embodiment, a space-based solar power system includes: a photovoltaic material; and a mirror that is—relative to a 10 μm thick sheet of aluminum—more transparent to at least one of a substantial portion of the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum and a substantial portion of the radio wave region of the electromagnetic spectrum; where the mirror is configured to focus incident visible light onto the photovoltaic material. 1. A space-based solar power system comprising:a photovoltaic material; anda mirror that is—relative to a 10 μm thick sheet of aluminum—more transparent to at least one of a substantial portion of the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum and a substantial portion of the radio wave region of the electromagnetic spectrum;wherein the mirror is configured to focus incident visible light onto the photovoltaic material.2. The space-based solar power system of claim 1 , wherein the mirror comprises alternating layers of high refraction index materials and low refraction index materials.3. The space-based solar power system of claim 2 , wherein the alternating layers of high refraction index and low refraction index materials are disposed on a polymer membrane.4. The space-based solar power system of claim 2 , wherein a plurality of the high refraction index materials comprise the same material claim 2 , and a plurality of the low refraction index materials comprise the same material.5. The space-based solar power system of claim 2 , wherein the alternating layers of high refraction index and low refraction index materials are configured such that incident light reflects off of the constituent interfaces and ...

Systems and Methods for Performing Shape Estimation Using Sun Sensors in Large-Scale Space-Based Solar Power Stations

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. In many embodiments, a reference signal is distributed within the space-based solar power station to coordinate the phased array. In several embodiments, determinations of the relative locations of the antennas in the array are generated by an array of sun sensors that estimate the shape of the module to evaluate the phase shift and/or amplitude modulation to apply to the reference signal at each power transmitter. 1. A space-based solar power station comprising:a plurality of unconnected satellite modules disposed in space in an orbital array formation;a plurality of power generation tiles disposed on each of the plurality of satellite modules;at least one photovoltaic cell disposed on each of the power generation tiles; and an antenna; and', 'control electronics that controls at least the phase of a radio frequency power signal that feeds the antenna so that the power transmitter is coordinated with power transmitters on other power generation tiles to form a phased array; and', 'at least one sun sensor disposed on the satellite module that is in signal communication with a microcontroller, where the microcontroller is in signal communication with the control electronics in each of the at least one power transmitter and provides a phase offset signal to the control electronics in each of the at least one power transmitter based upon at least one signal received from the at least one sun sensor., 'at least one power transmitter collocated with the at least one photovoltaic cell on each of the power generation tiles and in signal communication therewith such ...

Herstellungsverfahren von Laserstrukturen mit seitlicher Begrenzung und niederem Schwellstrom.

Large-scale space-based solar power station: packaging, deployment and stabilization of lightweight structures

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom, and/or compactible structures and deployment mechanisms used to form and deploy such satellite modules and power generation tiles associated therewith are provided. Each satellite module and/or power generation tile may be formed of a compactable structure and deployment mechanism capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station and reliably deploy it once in orbit.

FAST DETECTOR OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

A detector of electromagnetic radiation (RL) is described. The detector comprises: 1. Detector of electromagnetic radiation , comprising:a substrate,an oriented polycrystalline layer of thermoelectric material deposited on the top surface of the substrate,first and second electrodes spaced the one from the other and in electrical contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer,wherein said substrate comprises at least one ceramic layer and said oriented polycrystalline layer has a crystal orientation at an angle comprised between 30 degrees and 55 degrees relative to a normal to the top surface of the substrate.2. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein said substrate is a ceramic layer.3. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein said substrate comprises a metallic layer which has been previously electrically passivated by a ceramic layer.4. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein said substrate has a crystal orientation different from that of the polycrystalline layer.5. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein at least one strip formed by the oriented polycrystalline layer which extends between the first and the second electrodes.6. The detector according to claim 5 , comprising a plurality of strips wherein each strip is formed by the oriented polycrystalline layer claim 5 , said strips of the plurality of strips are spaced apart and are parallel to each other claim 5 , the plurality of strips extending between the first and the second electrodes.7. The detector according to claim 1 , comprising a plurality of strips wherein each strip is formed by the oriented polycrystalline layer claim 1 , said strips of the plurality of strips are spaced apart and are parallel to each other claim 1 , said strips of the plurality of strips being arranged in succession from a first strip to the n-th strip claim 1 , each strip of the plurality of strips having a first extremity and a second extremity claim 1 , the first electrode being connected to first extremity ...

Large-scale space-based solar power station: multi-scale modular space power

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Each solar power station includes a plurality of satellite modules. The plurality of satellite modules each include a plurality of modular power generation tiles including a photovoltaic solar radiation collector, a power transmitter and associated control electronics. The power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. Each satellite module may be formed of a compactable structure capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station.

Compactable power generation arrays

Compactable power generation arrays are provided. The compactable power generation arrays may include a structural substrate body having an array of solar concentrators configured to receive and re-direct solar radiation onto a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells. In many other embodiments the PV cells may be disposed upon a back surface of each of the solar concentrators such that an adjacent solar concentrator is configured to re-direct solar radiation onto the PV cell disposed on the back surface of the adjacent solar concentrator.

Fast detector of electromagnetic radiation

A detector of electromagnetic radiation (RL) is described. The detector comprises:a substrate (1),an oriented polycrystalline layer (2) of thermoelectric material deposited on the top surface (10) of the substrate,first and second electrodes spaced the one from the other and in electrical contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer. The substrate comprises at least one ceramic layer and the oriented polycrystalline layer has a crystal orientation at an angle comprised between 30 degrees and 55 degrees relative to a normal to the top surface of the substrate.

nrz-modulated semiconductor laser

The present invention relates to an nrz-modulated semiconductor laser and a method for production of the same. Known lasers have light emission, the intensity scope of which has a high-intensity peak at a specific frequency and further lower-intensity peaks at secondary frequencies located in the vicinity of this specific frequency. The invention specifies a laser structure which limits secondary-frequency emissions to a large extent and therefore sustains high efficiency in current/light conversion. Features of this type are achieved by virtue of a longitudinal periodic variation of the energy band gap of the optically active layer (QACT). A laser with positive modulation of its intrinsic amplification (nrz-modulation) is thereby obtained. ...

Systems and methods for performing shape estimation using sun sensors in large-scale space-based solar power stations

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. In many embodiments, a reference signal is distributed within the space-based solar power station to coordinate the phased array. In several embodiments, determinations of the relative locations of the antennas in the array are generated by an array of sun sensors that estimate the shape of the module to evaluate the phase shift and/or amplitude modulation to apply to the reference signal at each power transmitter.

Large-Scale Space-Based Solar Power Station: Power Transmission Using Steerable Beams

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. In many embodiments, a reference signal is distributed within the space-based solar power station to coordinate the phased array. In several embodiments, determinations of the relative locations of the antennas in the array are utilized to evaluate the phase shift and/or amplitude modulation to apply the reference signal at each power transmitter. 1. A space-based solar power station comprising:a plurality of unconnected satellite modules disposed in space in an orbital array formation;a plurality of power generation tiles disposed on each of the plurality of satellite modules;at least one photovoltaic cell disposed on each of the power generation tiles; and an antenna; and', 'control electronics that controls at least the phase of a radio frequency power signal that feeds the antenna so that the power transmitter is coordinated with power transmitters on other power generation tiles to form a phased array., 'at least one power transmitter collocated with the at least one photovoltaic cell on each of the power generation tiles and in signal communication therewith such that an electrical current generated by the collection of solar radiation by the at least one photovoltaic cell powers the at least one power transmitter, where each of the at least one power transmitters comprises2. The space-based solar power station of claim 1 , wherein the control electronics further controls the amplitude of the radio frequency power signal that feeds the antenna so that the power transmitter is coordinated with power transmitters on other power generation tiles.3. The space- ...

Compactable Power Generation Arrays

Compactable power generation arrays are provided. The compactable power generation arrays may include a structural substrate body having an array of solar concentrators configured to receive and re-direct solar radiation onto a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells. In many other embodiments the PV cells may be disposed upon a back surface of each of the solar concentrators such that an adjacent solar concentrator is configured to re-direct solar radiation onto the PV cell disposed on the back surface of the adjacent solar concentrator. 1. A compactable power generation array comprising:at least one structural substrate body;an array of at least two solar concentrators disposed on the at least one structural substrate body, each of the at least two solar concentrators comprising a curved body having a front reflector surface and a back surface, and a first edge pivotably connected to said structural substrate body through at least one resilient connector and a second edge disposed opposite said first edge;at least one photovoltaic cell disposed on at least a portion of the back surface of each of the solar concentrators;wherein the at least two solar concentrators are deployable between a compacted configuration wherein the first and second edges and the curved body of each of the at least two solar concentrators are positioned parallel to the plane of the at least one structural substrate body and a deployed configuration wherein the second edge and curved body of each of the at least two solar concentrators are positioned out of plane from the plane of the at least one structural substrate body;wherein said resilient connector is placed under stress through the application of a holding force when the solar concentrator is disposed in the compacted configuration such that the solar concentrator articulates to the deployed configuration upon removal of the holding force; andwherein when disposed in the deployed configuration, each of the solar concentrators is ...

Deployable structural units and systems

Deployable units and systems made of deployable units are described. The units have a retractable brace transitioning from a retracted condition to a deployed condition through a gravity driven movement, a latching arrangement contacting the brace and keeping the brace in position when the brace is in the deployed condition, and a guiding arrangement to guide the movement of the brace. The systems comprise plural deployable units to be arranged in a building structure, each unit to be located in a respective bay per story space of the building structure.

Lightweight Structures for Enhancing the Thermal Emissivity of Surfaces

Systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the invention implement textured metasurfaces that can provide for enhanced thermal emissivity. In one embodiment, a lightweight solar power generator includes: at least one photovoltaic cell including a photovoltaic material; at least one concentrator, configured to focus incident solar radiation onto the photovoltaic material; and at least one textured metasurface characterized by its inclusion of a plurality of microstructures, each having a characteristic lateral dimension of between approximately 1 μm and approximately 100 μm patterned thereon; where the at least one textured metasurface is disposed such that it is in thermal communication with at least some portion of the lightweight solar power generator that generates heat during the normal operation of the lightweight solar power generator, and is thereby configured to dissipate heat generated by the at least some portion.

Large-scale space-based solar power station: power transmission using steerable beams

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. In many embodiments, a reference signal is distributed within the space-based solar power station to coordinate the phased array. In several embodiments, determinations of the relative locations of the antennas in the array are utilized to evaluate the phase shift and/or amplitude modulation to apply the reference signal at each power transmitter.

Large-Scale Space-Based Solar Power Station: Multi-Scale Modular Space Power

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Each solar power station includes a plurality of satellite modules. The plurality of satellite modules each include a plurality of modular power generation tiles including a photovoltaic solar radiation collector, a power transmitter and associated control electronics. The power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. Each satellite module may be formed of a compactable structure capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station. 1. A space-based solar power station comprising:a plurality of unconnected satellite modules disposed in space in an orbital array formation;a plurality of power generation tiles disposed on each of the plurality of satellite modules;at least one photovoltaic cell disposed on each of the power generation tiles; an antenna; and', 'control electronics that controls the phase of a radio frequency power signal that feeds the antenna so that the power transmitter is coordinated with power transmitters on other power generation tiles to form a phased array., 'at least one power transmitter collocated with the at least one photovoltaic cell on each of the power generation tiles and in signal communication therewith such that an electrical current generated by the collection of solar radiation by the at least one photovoltaic cell powers the at least one power transmitter, where each of the at least one power transmitters comprises2. The space-based solar power station of claim 1 , wherein satellite modules are disposed in a geosynchronous orbit.3. The space-based solar power station of claim 1 , ...

Deployable support structure

A support structure ( 1 ) is provided comprising a plurality of curved surfaces A, B hingedly interconnected along their edges such as to provide effective deployment in two separate stages. Preferably, the structure has only two curved surfaces hingedly interconnected at a single non-planar hinge line. In FIG. 1 (a), the two sheets A, B are coplanar in that they lie in the same horizontal plane, permitting the structure to be in a flat, first stage deployment position. In Figure (b), the structure is fully deployed in a second stage deployment position by bringing sheet A out of plane through some angle in relation to the position of sheet B, resulting in both sheets becoming curved. The structure has utility in various space-based as well as terrestrial reflective and absorbing applications, and bears definite advantage in terms of weight saving, high stiffness and well-defined surface precision.

Large-Area Structures for Compact Packaging

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom, and/or compactible structures and deployment mechanisms used to form and deploy such satellite modules and power generation tiles associated therewith are provided. Each satellite module and/or power generation tile may be formed of a compactable structure and deployment mechanism capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station and reliably deploy it once in orbit. 1. A space-based solar power station comprising: a plurality of structural elements moveably interconnected such that the dimensional extent of the satellite modules in at least one axis is compactible;', an antenna, and', 'control electronics that controls the phase of a radio frequency power signal that feeds the antenna so that the power transmitter is coordinated with power transmitters on other power generation tiles to form a phased array; and, 'a plurality of power generation tiles disposed on each of the plurality of moveable elements, each of the power generation tiles having at least one photovoltaic cell and at least one power transmitter collocated thereon, the at least one photovoltaic cell and power transmitter in signal communication such that an electrical current generated by the collection of solar radiation by the at least one photovoltaic cell powers the at least one power transmitter, and where each of the at least one power transmitters comprises], 'a plurality of unconnected compactible satellite modules disposed in space in an orbital array formation, wherein each of the compactible satellite modules compriseswherein the external perimeter of each of the modules have straight edges such that the module defines a straight-edged geometric shape.2. The space-based solar power station of claim 1 , ...

Coilable Thin-Walled Longerons and Coilable Structures Implementing Longerons and Methods for Their Manufacture and Coiling

Multi-functional coilable thin-walled structures that can be implemented within space-based satellite modules, and methods for their manufacture are provided. Multi-functional coilable thin-walled structures are comprised of at least one longeron that is capable of rolling and collapsing upon itself. In some embodiments, the coilable thin-walled longeron is a flange longeron. The flange longeron contains at least two major regions: a web and a plurality of flanges. The web region comprises portions of flanges that are bonded to one another. The plurality of flanges separate from one another on the same end of the web region. The plurality of flanges are similar in thickness and shape.

METHOD FOR PREPARING AND PASSIVATING END MIRROR OF HIGH EMISSIVE POWER SEMICONDUCTOR LASER AND RELATED LASER DEVICE

PURPOSE: To provide a semiconductor laser facet treatment process, with which a semiconductor laser facet can be inhibited from being degraded during the high power operation, and a related laser device. CONSTITUTION: A process, with which contaminants and the products of reaction between the atmosphere and the constituents of semiconductor laser can be removed, is provided on high vacuum conditions. At the same time, a hydrogen diffusion process is executed for performing passivation (inactivation) at deep electron energy levels responsible for various undesired non-radiation recombination processes. Further, a protective dielectric layer is applied for preventing the contact between the semiconductor surface and the atmosphere. COPYRIGHT: (C)1996,JPO ...

Large aperture deployable reflectarray antenna

A deployable reflectarray has a plurality of strips arranged in quadrants forming the reflectarray. The copper ground plane and the copper dipoles are supported by facesheets made of epoxy reinforced by quartz fibers. The copper ground plane is separated from the copper dipoles by S-shaped springs made of epoxy reinforced by quartz fibers, which allow folding and deployment of the reflectarray.

Large-area structures for compact packaging

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom, and/or compactible structures and deployment mechanisms used to form and deploy such satellite modules and power generation tiles associated therewith are provided. Each satellite module and/or power generation tile may be formed of a compactable structure and deployment mechanism capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station and reliably deploy it once in orbit.

Large-Scale Space-Based Solar Power Station: Packaging, Deployment and Stabilization of Lightweight Structures

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom, and/or compactible structures and deployment mechanisms used to form and deploy such satellite modules and power generation tiles associated therewith are provided. Each satellite module and/or power generation tile may be formed of a compactable structure and deployment mechanism capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station and reliably deploy it once in orbit. 1. A space-based solar power station comprising: a plurality of structural elements moveably interconnected such that the dimensional extent of the satellite modules in at least one axis is compactible;', an antenna; and', 'control electronics that controls the phase of a radio frequency power signal that feeds the antenna so that the power transmitter is coordinated with power transmitters on other power generation tiles to form a phased array., 'a plurality of power generation tiles disposed on each of the plurality of moveable elements, each of the power generation tiles having at least one photovoltaic cell and at least one power transmitter collocated thereon, the at least one photovoltaic cell and power transmitter in signal communication such that an electrical current generated by the collection of solar radiation by the at least one photovoltaic cell powers the at least one power transmitter, and where each of the at least one power transmitters comprises], 'a plurality of unconnected compactible satellite modules disposed in space in an orbital array formation, wherein each of the compactible satellite modules comprises2. The space-based solar power station of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of structural elements have a finite thickness and are foldable relative to each other by one of the following z- ...

Actively Controlled Spacecraft Deployment Mechanism

An actively controlled deployment mechanism with a plurality of centrally controlled rollers as well as outer rollers that are configured to apply a pressure across the compactable portion of the deployable structure. The active control can be implemented though control motors and control loops programmed to control the rotation of the rollers. Additionally, the actively controlled deployment reduces the need for bulky and heavy booms with high tension guide wires for the deployment of the structure. 1. A deployment mechanism comprising; 'a plurality of compaction rollers releasably disposed within a support structure, wherein the central assembly is connected to a drive motor and configured to rotate about a central axis;', 'a central assembly wherein the central assembly further comprises;'}a plurality of roller arm assemblies wherein each of the roller arm assemblies further comprises a tension controlled outer roller having an elongated body with a first end and a second end; anda plurality of membranes having a first end and a second end wherein the second end is connected to each of the compaction rollers and the first end is connected to a tension controlled roller such that the rotation of the central assembly applies a tension on each of the plurality of membranes.2. The deployment mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the support structure further comprises a top rotational plate and bottom rotational plate wherein the top and bottom rotational plates plate hold the plurality of compaction rollers around the central axis and wherein both the top and bottom rotational plates have a centrally located aperture where each of the plurality of rollers is concentrically located around the aperture.3. The deployment mechanism of claim 2 , further comprising a lower support plate connected to the central assembly such that it supports the central assembly and allows the central assembly to rotate about the central axis wherein the central axis is located concentrically ...

DEPLOYABLE STRUCTURAL UNITS AND SYSTEMS

Deployable units and systems made of deployable units are described. The units have a retractable brace transitioning from a retracted condition to a deployed condition through a gravity driven movement, a latching arrangement contacting the brace and keeping the brace in position when the brace is in the deployed condition, and a guiding arrangement to guide the movement of the brace. The systems comprise plural deployable units to be arranged in a building structure, each unit to be located in a respective bay per story space of the building structure. 1. A deployable unit configured to assume a retracted condition and a deployed condition , comprising:a retractable brace having a retracted condition and a deployed condition, wherein transition from the retracted condition to the deployed condition occurs through gravity driven movement of the brace;a latching arrangement, the latching arrangement contacting the brace and keeping the brace in position when the brace is in the deployed condition; anda guiding arrangement to guide the gravity driven movement of the brace.2. The deployable unit of claim 1 , further comprising:a wire connected with the brace and configured to hold the brace in place when the brace is in the retracted condition and to assist the gravity driven movement of the brace during the transition from the retracted condition to the deployed condition of the brace, the wire having a wrapped condition when the brace is in the retracted condition and an elongated condition when the brace is in the deployed condition.3. The deployable unit of claim 2 , wherein the brace comprises an engagement rod and wherein the wire is connected with the brace through connection of the wire with the engagement rod claim 2 , and wherein the latching arrangement is triggered through contact of the latching arrangement with the engagement rod.4. The deployable unit of claim 2 , further comprising a sensor associated with the wire claim 2 , the sensor controlling the ...

DEFORMABLE MIRRORS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

A deformable mirror is configured to be deformed by surface-parallel actuation. In one embodiment, the deformable mirror includes a first piezoelectric active layer on a first surface of a substrate. The first piezoelectric active layer has a substantially uniform thickness across the first surface of the substrate. The mirror also includes a first electrode layer on the first piezoelectric active layer. The first electrode layer has a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first pattern and has a substantially uniform thickness across the first piezoelectric active layer. The mirror may further include a second piezoelectric layer on the first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer on the second piezoelectric layer. The electrodes of the first and second electrode layers are configured to supply a voltage to the piezoelectric active layers upon actuation to thereby locally deform the shape of the mirror to correct for optical aberrations. 1. A deformable mirror , comprising:a substrate;a first piezoelectric active layer on a first surface of the substrate, the first piezoelectric active layer having a substantially uniform thickness across the first surface of the substrate; anda first electrode layer on the first piezoelectric active layer, the first electrode layer having a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first pattern, the first electrode layer having a substantially uniform thickness across the first piezoelectric active layer.2. The deformable mirror of claim 1 , further comprising:a second piezoelectric active layer on the first electrode layer; anda second electrode layer on the second piezoelectric layer, the second electrode layer having a plurality of electrodes arranged in a second pattern.3. The deformable mirror of claim 2 , wherein the first pattern of electrodes on the first electrode layer is different than the second pattern of electrodes on the second electrode layer.4. The deformable mirror of claim 2 , wherein one of the first or ...

THIN FILM BI-MATERIAL LATTICE STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

A micro-scaled bi-material lattice structure includes a frame comprising a first material having a first coefficient of expansion and defining a plurality of unit cells. The bi-material lattice structure further includes a plurality of plates comprising a second material having a second coefficient of expansion different from the first coefficient of expansion. One of the plates is connected to each unit cell. The bi-material lattice structure has a third coefficient of expansion different from both the first coefficient of the expansion and the second coefficient of expansion, and the bi-material lattice structure has a thickness of about 100 nm to about 3000 microns. 1. A bi-material lattice structure , comprising:a frame comprising a first material having a first coefficient of expansion and defining a plurality of unit cells; anda plurality of plates comprising a second material having a second coefficient of expansion different from the first coefficient of expansion,wherein one of the plurality of plates is connected to each of the plurality of unit cells, the bi-material lattice structure has a third coefficient of expansion different from both the first coefficient of the expansion and the second coefficient of expansion, and the bi-material lattice structure has a thickness of about 100 nm to about 3000 microns.2. The bi-material lattice structure of claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the bi-material lattice structure is about 100 nm to about 2000 nm.3. The bi-material lattice structure of claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the bi-material lattice structure is about 100 microns to about 300 microns.4. The bi-material lattice structure of claim 1 , wherein the coefficient of expansion is a coefficient of thermal expansion or a coefficient of piezeoelectric expansion.5. The bi-material lattice structure of claim 1 , wherein the coefficient of expansion is a coefficient of thermal expansion.6. The bi-material lattice structure of claim 5 , wherein the ...

Large-Scale Space-Based Solar Power Station: Efficient Power Generation Tiles

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Each solar power station includes a plurality of satellite modules. The plurality of satellite modules each include a plurality of modular power generation tiles including a photovoltaic solar radiation collector, a power transmitter and associated control electronics. Numerous embodiments relate to efficient power generation tiles. In one embodiment, an efficient power generation tile includes: at least one photovoltaic material; and at least one concentrator that redirects incident solar radiation towards a photovoltaic material such that the photovoltaic material experiences a greater solar flux relative to the case where the photovoltaic material experiences unaltered solar radiation. 1. An efficient power generation tile comprising:at least one photovoltaic material; andat least one concentrator that redirects incident solar radiation towards a photovoltaic material such that the photovoltaic material experiences a greater solar flux relative to the case where the photovoltaic material experiences unaltered solar radiation.2. The efficient power generation tile of claim 1 , further comprising structures having characteristic dimensions between approximately 1 μm and 100 μm that are disposed on a surface in thermal communication with one of: at least one photovoltaic material and a concentrator.3. The efficient power generation tile of claim 1 , wherein the at least one concentrator comprises a reflector and a substrate.4. The efficient power generation tile of claim 3 , wherein the reflector comprises one of: aluminum claim 3 , silver claim 3 , a dielectric material claim 3 , and combinations thereof.5. The efficient power generation tile of claim 4 , wherein the substrate comprises KAPTON polyimide.6. The efficient power generation tile of claim 5 , ...

Rapid Design of Deployable Antennas for CubeSats

A system and method for designing an antenna wherein a plurality of antenna designs are visually compared using performance metric plots that distinguish between geometries that meet all requirements and designs that do not.

DETECTOR OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

A detector of electromagnetic radiation (RL) is described. The detector comprises: 1. Detector of electromagnetic radiation , comprising:an oriented polycrystalline layer of thermoelectric material,a substrate superimposed on the top surface of the oriented polycrystalline layer so that the back surface is in contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer,first and second electrodes spaced the one from the other and in electrical contact with the oriented polycrystalline layer,wherein said substrate comprises at least one ceramic layer and said oriented polycrystalline layer has a crystal orientation at an angle comprised between 30 degrees and 55 degrees relative to a normal to the top surface of the substrate.2. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein said substrate is a ceramic layer.3. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein said substrate comprises a metallic layer which has been previously electrically passivated by a ceramic layer.4. The detector according to claim 1 , wherein said substrate has a crystal orientation different from that of the polycrystalline layer.5. The detector according to claim 1 , comprising at least one strip formed by the oriented polycrystalline layer which extends between the first and the second electrodes.6. The detector according to claim 1 , comprising a plurality of strips wherein each strip is formed by the oriented polycrystalline layer claim 1 , said strips of the plurality of strips are spaced apart and are parallel to each other claim 1 , said strips of the plurality of strips being arranged in succession from a first strip to the n-th strip claim 1 , each strip of the plurality of strips having a first extremity and a second extremity claim 1 , the first electrode being connected to first extremity of the first strip of the plurality of strips and the second electrode being connected to the second extremity of the n-th strip of the plurality of strips claim 1 , the second extremity of each strip of the plurality ...

OPTIMIZED ACTUATORS FOR ULTRA-THIN MIRRORS

A method and apparatus for correcting error modes of a deformable mirror, including selecting or targeting one or more target error modes of a deformable mirror; and designing a pattern and/or shape of one or more electrodes, wherein the pattern and/or shape of the electrodes are designed to optimally correct the target error modes when the electrodes are disposed on the deformable mirror via an active material. Also disclosed is a deformable structure, including a composite shell including a plurality of plies each including carbon fibers embedded in a resin; a nanolaminate comprising individual nanolayers attached to a first side of the composite shell; an actuation structure attached to a second side of the composite shell; and a flexible electrode routing layer attached to the actuation structure. 1. A method of correcting error modes of a deformable mirror , comprising:selecting or targeting one or more target error modes of a deformable mirror; and the electrodes are disposed on the deformable mirror via an active material, and', 'the active material deforms the deformable mirror in response to one or more biases applied to the electrodes., 'the pattern and/or shape of the electrodes are designed to optimally correct the target error modes when, 'designing a pattern and/or shape of one or more electrodes, wherein2. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the target error modes are expressed as a sum of Zernike modes each having an amplitude,the target error modes are selected based on the amplitude of the Zernike mode and/or by selecting the more dominant error modes.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pattern and shape of the electrodes are designed by simulating the effect of varying the shape and pattern on correcting the target error modes and selecting the best shape and best pattern to correct the one or more target error modes.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the simulating includes parameterizing the shape of the electrodes.5. The method of claim 1 , ...

Large-area structures for compact packaging

METHOD FOR THE PREPARATION AND PASSIVATION OF THE HIGH-EMISSION SEMICONDUCTOR LASER TERMINAL MIRRORS AND RELATED DEVICE

LASER STRUCTURE MANUFACTURING PROCESS WITH LOW THRESHOLD LATERAL BORDER CURRENT AND RELATED LASER DEVICES SO OBTAINED.

Process to manufacture laser structures with lateral confinement at very low threshold current and relevant laser devices so obtained

A process for producing a multilayer device which emits coherent luminous radiation (laser radiation) upon the application of electric power. The device consists of a substrate, a first epitaxial layer, an active layer having a composition which emits luminous radiation of a desired wavelength, an optical and electric confinement layer, a further optical and electric confinement layer and an electric contact layered structure. To concentrate current flow through the active layer, the adjacent layer is implanted with ions of transition elements, preferably Co or Fe, which, when annealed by thermal treatment, have a high resistivity.

APPARATUS FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF THE FINAL POINT OF THE LASER ENGRAVING PROCESS ON MULTILAYER SOLAR CELLS AND ITS METHOD.

Systems and methods for performing shape estimation using sun sensors in large-scale space-based solar power stations

Semiconductor laser with low threshold current and related manufacturing process

A semiconductor laser including a substrate (SU), means for reducing the lateral current flow (CL1D1,CL1UD,CL1D2) and means forming the active elements (GU1,ACT,GU2), wherein said means for reducing the lateral current flow are composed by at least three layers of which the external ones (CL1D1,CL1D2) are entirely doped and the internal layers (CL1UD) are doped only in the zones lateral to the active element so that these layers reduce the side current flow.

Expandable/collapsible structures

An angulated element comprises two pivotally interconnected angulated rods (11, 12) which embrace a constant angle as the element is folded and expanded. Each rod has first and second portions, the length of the respective first portions of the rods being substantially the same, the length of the respective second portions of the rods being substantially the same, the angles between the first and second portions of the respective rods being different. Structures formed from the elements are also provided.

Large-scale space-based solar power station: multi-scale modular space power

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Each solar power station includes a plurality of satellite modules. The plurality of satellite modules each include a plurality of modular power generation tiles including a photovoltaic solar radiation collector, a power transmitter and associated control electronics. The power transmitters can be coordinated as a phased array and the power generated by the phased array is transmitted to one or more power receivers to achieve remote wireless power generation and delivery. Each satellite module may be formed of a compactable structure capable of reducing the payload area required to deliver the satellite module to an orbital formation within the space-based solar power station.

Deployable support structure

A support structure (1) is provided comprising a plurality of curved surfaces A, B hingedly interconnected along their edges such as to provide effective deployment in two separate stages. Preferably, the structure has only two curved surfaces hingedly interconnected at a single non-planar hinge line. In Figure 1 (a), the two sheets A, B are coplanar in that they lie in the same horizontal plane, permitting the structure to be in a flat, first stage deployment position. In Figure (b), the structure is fully deployed in a second stage deployment position by bringing sheet A out of plane through some angle in relation to the position of sheet B, resulting in both sheets becoming curved. The structure has utility in various space-based as well as terrestrial reflective and absorbing applications, and bears definite advantage in terms of weight saving, high stiffness and well-defined surface precision.

Deployable structural units and systems

Deployable units and systems made of deployable units are described. The units have a retractable brace transitioning from a retracted condition to a deployed condition through a gravity driven movement, a latching arrangement contacting the brace and keeping the brace in position when the brace is in the deployed condition, and a guiding arrangement to guide the movement of the brace. The systems comprise plural deployable units to be arranged in a building structure, each unit to be located in a respective bay per story space of the building structure.

Deployable support structure

A support structure (1) is provided comprising a plurality of curved surfaces A, B hingedly interconnected along their edges such as to provide effective deployment in two separate stages. Preferably, the structure has only two curved surfaces hingedly interconnected at a single non-planar hinge line. In Figure 1 (a), the two sheets A, B are coplanar in that they lie in the same horizontal plane, permitting the structure to be in a flat, first stage deployment position. In Figure (b), the structure is fully deployed in a second stage deployment position by bringing sheet A out of plane through some angle in relation to the position of sheet B, resulting in both sheets becoming curved. The structure has utility in various space-based as well as terrestrial reflective and absorbing applications, and bears definite advantage in terms of weight saving, high stiffness and well-defined surface precision.

Elektromagnetinės spinduliuotės detektorius

Self-deployable antenna

A self-deployable antenna and/or antenna array that is made up of one or more antenna elements. Each of the antenna elements has a structural base that supports portions of the antenna and can be positioned between a stored configuration for compaction and a deployed configuration for transmitting. The antenna elements and structural base can be part of a base substrate that provides a base support for the antenna and/or antenna array to be compacted and deployed.

Rapid design of deployable antennas for cubesats

A system and method for designing an antenna wherein a plurality of antenna designs are visually compared using performance metric plots that distinguish between geometries that meet all requirements and designs that do not.

Large-scale space-based solar power station: efficient power generation tiles

Metodo per la preparazione e la passivazione degli specchi terminali di laser a semiconduttore ad alta potenza di emissione e relativo dispositivo

Laser a semiconduttore a bassa corrente di soglia e relativo processo di costruzione

Processo di fabbricazione di strutture laser con confinamento laterale a bassissima corrente di soglia e relativi dispositivi laser cosi' ottenuti

Metodo diagnostico per la determinazione dell'alcool etilico

Entfaltbare tragkonstruktion

Detector de radiación electromagnética

Se describe un detector de radiación electromagnética (RL). El detector comprende: -una capa policristalina orientada (2) de material termoeléctrico, -un sustrato (1) superpuesto a la superficie superior de la capa policristalina orientada de modo que la superficie posterior (10) esté en contacto con la capa policristalina orientada, - primer y segundo electrodos espaciados entre sí y en contacto eléctrico con la capa policristalina orientada. El sustrato comprende al menos una capa cerámica y la capa policristalina orientada tiene una orientación cristalina en un ángulo comprendido entre 30 grados y 5 grados con respecto a una normal a la superficie superior del sustrato. (Traducción automática con Google Translate, sin valor legal)

Large-scale space-based solar power station: efficient power generation tiles

A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Each solar power station includes a plurality of satellite modules. The plurality of satellite modules each include a plurality of modular power generation tiles including a photovoltaic solar radiation collector, a power transmitter and associated control electronics. Numerous embodiments relate to efficient power generation tiles. In one embodiment, an efficient power generation tile includes: at least one photovoltaic material; and at least one concentrator that redirects incident solar radiation towards a photovoltaic material such that the photovoltaic material experiences a greater solar flux relative to the case where the photovoltaic material experiences unaltered solar radiation.

Rapid design of deployable antennas for cubesats

A system and method for designing an antenna wherein a plurality of antenna designs are visually compared using performance metric plots that distinguish between geometries that meet all requirements and designs that do not.

Metodo per il raffreddamento operativo degli specchi terminali di laser a semiconduttore ad alta potenza di emissione e relativo dispositivo

Metodo diagnostico per la determinazione dell'alcool etilico

Ultralight photovoltaic power generation tiles

Systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the invention provide a photovoltaic concentrator tile for a space-based solar power (SBSP) system including constituent components thereof. In a number of embodiments, the photovoltaic concentrator tile include a one photovoltaic cell, a reflector, a power transmitter and circuitry configured to perform a variety of control functions. Embodiments also provide compactible structures, materials for improving thermal emissivity, and methods and mechanisms for manufacturing and using these components.

Metodo per il raffreddamento operativo degli specchi terminali di laser a semiconduttore ad alta potenza di emissione e relativo dispositivo

Actively controlled spacecraft deployment mechanism

An actively controlled deployment mechanism with a plurality of centrally controlled rollers as well as outer rollers that are configured to apply a pressure across the compactable portion of the deployable structure. The active control can be implemented though control motors and control loops programed to control the rotation of the rollers. Additionally, the actively controlled deployment reduces the need for bulky and heavy booms with high tension guide wires for the deployment of the structure.

Detector of electromagnetic radiation