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Experiments on Ion Beam Deflection Using Ion Optics with Slit Apertures

Experiments on Ion Beam Deflection Using Ion Optics with Slit Apertures

Authors :
Yasushi Okawa
Yukio Hayakawa
Shoji Kitamura
Source :
Japanese Journal of Applied Physics. 43:1136
Publication Year :
2004
Publisher :
IOP Publishing, 2004.

Abstract

An experimental investigation on ion beam deflection by grid translation was performed. The ion beam deflection in ion optics is a desired technology for ion thrusters because thrust vector control utilizing this technique can eliminate the need for conventional gimbaling devices and thus reduce propulsion system mass. A grid translation mechanism consisting of a piezoelectric motor, a ceramic lever, and carbon-based grids with slit apertures was fabricated and high repeatability in beam deflection characteristics was obtained using this mechanism. Results showed that the beam deflection angle was proportional to the grid translation distance and independent of slit width and grid voltage. A numerical simulation successfully reproduced the beam deflection characteristics in a qualitative and quantitative sense. A maximum beam deflection angle of approximately plus or minus 6 degrees, which was comparable to that of the ordinary gimbaling devices used in space, was obtained without a severe drain current. Therefore, the beam deflection by grid translation is promising as a thrust vectoring method in ion thrusters.

Details

ISSN :
13474065 and 00214922
Volume :
43
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Japanese Journal of Applied Physics
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........608199917aca36f1f7551a081237011b
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1143/jjap.43.1136