Description:[0028] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0029] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0030] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the disclosure, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).
[0031] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0032] In some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[0033] The present invention relates to a device, a system and a method for effective and sustainable heating in environments beyond Earth, employing a Low-Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) core.
[0034] According to an embodiment, the device, the system and the method utilize a Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) core with hydrogen isotopes and a metallic catalyst to generate heat with minimal power input, ensuring high energy efficiency and safety. The core has a unique structure so that the device will be operational even at as low a temperature as -100°C and as low a vacuum as 10-14 mBar. The whole device is prepared with MIL-grade material. The system incorporates a thermally conductive heat exchanger and an IoT-enabled control system for uniform heat distribution, real-time monitoring, and dynamic adjustments to maintain optimal thermal conditions in space habitats. Fail-safe mechanisms are also implemented to enhance system reliability and safety.
[0035] According to an embodiment, the generated heat can be distributed uniformly through a thermally conductive heat exchanger, which is optimized for extraterrestrial conditions and incorporates advanced insulation to minimize heat loss in vacuum environments. The extraterrestrial conditions comprise at least one of the lunar surfaces, Martian surfaces, asteroid surfaces, cometary surfaces, or deep space environments.
[0036] According to an embodiment, the device an/or system and/or method may adhere to the locations at which the heat is required and hence no question of heat distribution will occur. There will be distributed heating systems based on the heating requirement. As the heat transfer is through conduction, vacuum and low gravity would not affect the performance. The device is directly fixed to the surface where heat is required and the heat transfer will be done by conduction.
[0037] According to another embodiment, the surface of the device will be coated with radiation shielding coatings which will also prevent loss of heat. An IoT-enabled control system may monitor environmental conditions and adjust the heating output dynamically, allowing for remote control and automation through a centralized interface. Safety is enhanced by implementing automatic shutoff mechanisms that can be triggered in case of anomalies detected by the IoT-enabled control system.
[0038] According to another embodiment, the system may operate with an input power ranging from 10W to 500W, producing a thermal energy output of 100W to 1000kW, making it suitable for applications in long-duration space missions and extraterrestrial habitats. The LENR core may utilize hydrogen isotopes such as protium, deuterium, or tritium, and metallic catalysts like nickel, rhodium, titanium, tantalum, and palladium or other transition metals, ensuring adaptability to various space conditions.
[0039] According to another embodiment, once the LENR reaction is initiated the device can be controlled and used for any applications and at any power input level, based on the requirement of the heat. Hence, the reaction will be initiated in ground and the device can be used for heating the electronic components in space vehicles.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 1, it illustrates a flowchart detailing a method (100) for providing efficient and sustainable heating in extraterrestrial environments. This method leverages a Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) core to generate substantial heat with minimal power input, ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability. The LENR core utilizes hydrogen isotopes and a metallic catalyst to produce heat through nuclear interactions, while avoiding harmful radiation or hazardous byproducts, making it ideal for human habitats in space, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] The flowchart begins with step 102, which involves generating heat using the LENR core. This step sets the foundation for the entire heating process by utilizing the unique properties of LENR technology to achieve significant thermal output with low energy consumption. Following this, step 104 focuses on distributing the generated heat uniformly using a thermally conductive heat exchanger optimized for extraterrestrial environments. This heat exchanger incorporates advanced insulation to minimize heat loss in vacuum conditions, ensuring that the heat is effectively utilized in the challenging conditions of space.
[0042] Step 106 involves monitoring environmental conditions and dynamically adjusting the heating output using an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled control system. This system allows for real-time monitoring and remote control, providing flexibility and automation through a centralized interface. The IoT-enabled control system ensures that the heating output is responsive to changing environmental conditions, maintaining optimal performance and energy efficiency. Finally, step 108 implements automatic shutoff mechanisms in case of anomalies detected by the IoT-enabled control system. This safety feature is essential for preventing potential malfunctions or hazards, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of the heating system in space environments.
[0043] Overall, the flowchart in FIG. 1 encapsulates a comprehensive method for efficient heating in space, integrating advanced technologies and safety measures to address the unique challenges of extraterrestrial environments. The method's adaptability to space conditions, sustainability, and enhanced safety features make it suitable for long-duration space missions and extraterrestrial habitats.
[0044] As indicated in FIG. 2, it illustrates a block diagram of a system (200) designed for efficient and sustainable heating in extraterrestrial environments. The system comprises several key components, each playing a role in achieving the desired functionality. At the core of the system is the Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) Core (202), which is responsible for generating substantial heat with minimal power input. This core utilizes hydrogen isotopes and a metallic catalyst to facilitate nuclear interactions, producing heat without harmful radiation or hazardous byproducts. The LENR core is designed to operate efficiently in space conditions, making it suitable for long-duration missions and extraterrestrial habitats, according to an embodiment of the present invention
[0045] According to an embodiment, the heat generated by the LENR core is distributed uniformly by a Heat Exchanger (204), which is optimized for space environments. This heat exchanger incorporates advanced insulation to minimize heat loss in vacuum conditions, ensuring that the heat is effectively utilized. The design of the heat exchanger may involve thermally conductive materials such as copper or composites, which are selected for their ability to maintain thermal efficiency in challenging conditions. The integration of these materials supports the system's adaptability to space conditions.
[0046] An IoT-enabled Control System (206) is included to monitor environmental conditions and dynamically adjust the heating output. This control system allows for remote control and automation through a centralized interface, providing flexibility and ease of operation. The IoT capabilities enable real-time monitoring and adjustments, ensuring that the system can respond to changing conditions and maintain optimal performance. The control system's ability to interface with other components, such as the LENR core and heat exchanger, is crucial for maintaining the system's overall efficiency and sustainability.
[0047] Safety is a concern in the design of this system, and Automatic Shutoff Mechanisms (208) are incorporated to ensure safe operation. These mechanisms are triggered in case of anomalies detected by the IoT-enabled control system, such as deviations in temperature, pressure, or hydrogen flow. Built-in sensors continuously monitor these parameters, and the automatic shutoff mechanisms act as a fail-safe to prevent potential hazards. The specific sensors used would be thermocouples and RTDs would be used to monitor the temperatures of the core and surfaces at different locations and hydrogen gas sensors to understand the behaviour of the device. Also, a pressure gauge to monitor the gas pressure inside the device.
[0048] This focus on safety makes the system ideal for human hydrogen/deuterium gas is used in the device. The device will have a control valve and the same will automatically evacuate completely the hydrogen/deuterium gas at the time of overheating or any uncontrollable situations. This will work based on the feedback from the temperature and pressure sensors.
[0049] Overall, the components of the system (200) are interconnected to provide a cohesive solution for heating in extraterrestrial environments. The LENR core, heat exchanger, IoT-enabled control system, and automatic shutoff mechanisms work together to deliver efficient, sustainable, and safe heating, addressing the challenges of space missions and habitats. The block diagram in FIG. 2 effectively represents the structural and functional relationships among these components, illustrating how they contribute to the system's objectives.
[0050] Referring now to FIG. 3, a layered assembly of LENR driven energy efficient device (300) for heating exrraterrestrial environments. This assembly within the device (300) may be designed to operate efficiently in extraterrestrial environments. The assembly comprises several key components, each contributing to the system's functionality and efficiency.
[0051] The storage plate (302) is positioned at the top of the assembly and may serve as a foundational layer for storing or distributing heat. Below this, the mesh (304), likely composed of Nickel and Palladium, is crucial for facilitating the Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) by acting as a metallic catalyst. This mesh may enhance the heat generation process by interacting with hydrogen isotopes. The connector slot (306) is strategically placed to enable connections with the LENR core (202) and/or the IoT-enabled control system (206), ensuring seamless integration and communication within the system.
[0052] The heating element (308) is a component that may directly contribute to the heat generation and distribution process. It is supported by the support plate of the reactor (312), which provides structural stability and may assist in maintaining optimal positioning of the heating element. The backing plate for the heater (314) is located at the base of the assembly, potentially serving as a protective layer that supports the overall structure and aids in heat retention. The heat generation can be controlled by controlling the power input to the device and the power input can be controlled by the surface/core temperature feedback.
[0053] A tube (310) is connected to the storage plate, which may be used for filling hydrogen, a key element in the LENR process. This tube ensures the continuous supply of hydrogen isotopes, facilitating sustained nuclear interactions and heat production. The entire assembly is designed to minimize heat loss and ensure uniform heat distribution, which is essential for maintaining efficiency in the vacuum conditions of space.
[0054] The interaction between these components is vital for the system's operation. The mesh (304) and heating element (308) work together to generate and distribute heat, while the connector slot (306) and tube (310) ensure proper integration and functionality. The support and backing plates (312, 314) provide necessary structural support, enhancing the durability and reliability of the system in harsh extraterrestrial environments. This assembly exemplifies the system's adaptability to space conditions, sustainability, and enhanced safety, as it produces no harmful radiation or hazardous byproducts.
TABLE I
Tested at Room Temperature
Voltage (V) Surface Temperature Inside Foam Temperature Bottom Temperature Ambient Temperature
0 23.5 25.7 25.7 27
6 57.1 62.2 58.6 27
12 117.5 145.4 133.4 27
12 159.2 167.3 140.7 27

TABLE II
Tested in a vacuum oven with 80 degrees.
Voltage (V) Top surface Bottom Surface Ambient Temperature
0 69.3 70.3 80
6 101.4 96.4 80.2
6 102.7 97.7 80.2

TABLE III
Covered with ceramic wool
Voltage (V) Top surface Bottom Surface Ambient Temperature
12 179 154.8 80
12 213 164.9 84.4
6 128.7 110.3 80
12 205.2 148 0

[0055] The test reports detail the performance evaluation of a system under varying voltage conditions and environments, including room temperature and a vacuum oven at 80°C. In room temperature tests, measurements were taken for surface temperature, foam temperature, bottom temperature, and ambient temperature across different voltage inputs. For instance, at 6V, the surface temperature was 57.1°C, foam temperature was 62.2°C, and bottom temperature was 58.6°C, while at 12V, these values reached up to 159.2°C, 167.3°C, and 140.7°C, respectively. Under vacuum oven conditions at 80°C, tests on top and bottom surfaces showed elevated temperatures, with notable variations when covered with ceramic wool for insulation. At 12V, the top surface reached 213°C, while the bottom surface peaked at 164.9°C. These results demonstrate the thermal response and insulation effectiveness of the system under controlled conditions. The present invention achieves an efficiency of 95% to 98% in extraterrestrial environments with Zero harmful emissions or radioactive byproducts. Further, it is reliable as it operates consistently under vaccum and microgravity for extended durations.
[0056] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “includes” and “including” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C … and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc. The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the appended claims.
[0057] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims. 
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A method (100) for providing efficient and sustainable heating in extraterrestrial environments, comprising:
generating (102) substantial heat with minimal power input using a Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) core, wherein the LENR core utilizes hydrogen isotopes and a metallic catalyst to generate heat through nuclear interactions while producing no harmful radiation or hazardous byproducts;
distributing (104) the generated heat uniformly using a thermally conductive heat exchanger optimized for extraterrestrial environments, wherein the thermally conductive heat exchanger incorporates advanced insulation to minimize heat loss in vacuum conditions;
monitoring (106) environmental conditions and dynamically adjusting the heating output using an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled control system, wherein the IoT-enabled control system enables remote control and automation through a centralized interface; and
implementing (108) automatic shutoff mechanisms in case of anomalies detected by the IoT-enabled control system.
2. The method (100) of claim 1, wherein the LENR core operates with an input power ranging from 10W to 500W to produce a thermal energy output ranging from 100W to 1000kW, depending on the application.
3. The method (100) of claim 1, wherein the hydrogen isotopes comprise at least one of protium, deuterium, or tritium, and the metallic catalyst comprises at least one of nickel, palladium, platinum, titanium, tantalum, or other transition metals.
4. The method (100) of claim 1, further comprising monitoring temperature, pressure, and hydrogen flow using built-in sensors, wherein the automatic shutoff mechanisms are triggered based on the monitored temperature, pressure, and hydrogen flow exceeding predetermined thresholds.
5. A system (200) for providing efficient and sustainable heating in extraterrestrial environments, comprising:
a Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) core (202) configured to generate substantial heat with minimal power input, wherein the LENR core utilizes hydrogen isotopes and a metallic catalyst to generate heat through nuclear interactions while producing no harmful radiation or hazardous byproducts;
a thermally conductive heat exchanger (204) optimized for extraterrestrial environments, configured to distribute the generated heat uniformly, wherein the thermally conductive heat exchanger incorporates advanced insulation to minimize heat loss in vacuum conditions;
an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled control system (206) configured to monitor environmental conditions and dynamically adjust the heating output, wherein the IoT-enabled control system is configured to enable remote control and automation through a centralized interface; and
automatic shutoff mechanisms (208) configured to be triggered in case of anomalies detected by the IoT-enabled control system.
6. A device (300) for providing efficient and sustainable heating in extraterrestrial environments, comprising:
a Low Energy Nuclear Reaction (LENR) core configured to generate substantial heat with minimal power input, wherein the LENR core utilizes hydrogen isotopes and a metallic catalyst to generate heat through nuclear interactions while producing no harmful radiation or hazardous byproducts;
a thermally conductive heat exchanger optimized for extraterrestrial environments, configured to distribute the generated heat uniformly, wherein the thermally conductive heat exchanger incorporates advanced insulation to minimize heat loss in vacuum conditions;
an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled control system configured to monitor environmental conditions and dynamically adjust the heating output, wherein the IoT-enabled control system is configured to enable remote control and automation through a centralized interface; and
automatic shutoff mechanisms configured to be triggered in case of anomalies detected by the IoT-enabled control system.
7. The system and device of claims 6 or 7, wherein the LENR core (202) is configured to operate with an input power ranging from 10W to 500W to produce a thermal energy output ranging from 100W to 1000kW, depending on the application.
8. The system and device of claims 6 or 7, wherein the hydrogen isotopes comprise at least one of protium, deuterium, or tritium, and the metallic catalyst comprises at least one of nickel, palladium, platinum, titanium, tantalum, or other transition metals.
9. The system and device of claims 6 or 7, further comprising built-in sensors configured to monitor temperature, pressure, and hydrogen flow, wherein the automatic shutoff mechanisms (208) are configured to be triggered based on the monitored temperature, pressure, and hydrogen flow exceeding predetermined thresholds.
10. The system and device of claims 1, 6, or 7, wherein the extraterrestrial environments comprise at least one of lunar surfaces, Martian surfaces, asteroid surfaces, cometary surfaces, or deep space environments.