Smart, Laser Igniter for Reaction-Control-System Thrusters

A team of Duncan Technologies and Aerojet Propulsion Division will develop a smart laser ignition system for reaction control system (RCS) thrusters using O/H propellants. The system will provide ignition to multiple thrusters enabling accurate sequencing of RCS engine clusters. A single laser firing unit will deliver laser light through optical fibers to laser ignition assemblies mounted in multiple RCS thrusters. The laser energy will heat a target in the laser ignition assemblies above the autoignition temperature of O/H mixtures. Laser ignition assemblies will be designed for use in torch type igniters and resonator cavities. The latter type of igniter can potentially eliminate the requirement for valves dedicated to igniter propellant control, instead relying on propellants from the main thruster valves. Elimination of these valves simplifies RCS thruster operation, reduces weight, and decreases system complexity. Built-in-test systems will verify system readiness and ignition. Advanced optical diagnostics for measurement of mixture ratio, pressure, and combustion stability can be incorporated into the system. An embedded processor will control laser firing, BIT functions, and communications with the propulsion or vehicle controller via a MIL-STD 1553B digital bus interface.