This inventor holds 1 USPTO granted patent. Top assignee: Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation. Active years: 2020.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2020
Title: Kurt Shaffer - Innovator in Microwave Electrothermal Thrusters
Introduction
Kurt Shaffer is a notable inventor based in Hermosa Beach, CA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of propulsion technology, particularly through his innovative work on microwave electrothermal thrusters.
Latest Patents
Kurt Shaffer holds a patent for a control system for a microwave electrothermal thruster. This patent describes a microwave electrothermal thruster (MET) and its control system, which utilizes a dielectric resonator oscillator (DRO) in conjunction with a GaN MMIC-based Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA). The system generates microwave energy, which is transferred to a thrust chamber to heat a propellant that exits a nozzle, thereby providing thrust. The control system is designed to use feedback for autonomous control of the MET, allowing for a variety of propellants, including hydrazine, ammonia, and water.
Career Highlights
Kurt Shaffer is currently employed at Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, where he continues to advance his work in aerospace technology. His innovative approach to propulsion systems has positioned him as a key figure in the industry.
Collaborations
Kurt has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Daniel R. Sherman and Edward Lukas, contributing to the development of advanced technologies in their field.
Conclusion
Kurt Shaffer's work in microwave electrothermal thrusters exemplifies innovation in propulsion technology. His contributions are paving the way for future advancements in aerospace engineering.