Micro-propulsion system for satellite includes reservoir in substrate with orifice and electrical resistance for ejecting charged solid particles

摘要

The system is constructed within three substrate layers to provide minimal overall size. The micro-propulsion system comprises a first substrate (1) within which there is a reservoir (2) for the propellant solid. The reservoir includes one end with a conical section (3) converging towards an orifice (4) forming the neck of a nozzle. A second substrate (5) is solidly attached to the surface of the first substrate and is machined to produce, for each reservoir (2) a membrane (9) on which there is an electrical resistance (8). The second substrate also includes a supply circuit for the electrical resistance. A third substrate (10) overlies the second and is machined in order to provide a divergent orifice aligned with that of the reservoir formed in the first substrate.