Laser Controlled Semiconductor Armature for Electromagnetic Launchers.
Abstract
An electromagnetic launcher or railgun includes a projectile or armature which is comprised of an optically activated semiconductor switch device including a body of bulk semiconductor material, such as gallium arsenide (GaAs) or gallium arsenide doped with chromium (Cr: GaAs), located between a pair of rails across which is connected a relatively high current source. A source of optical energy, such as a pulsed laser, directs optical energy to at least one surface of the semiconductor switch device where the conductivity of the semiconductor body, is thereby increased and current from the source is transformed between the rails through the semiconductor body, causing an electromagnetic Lorentz type drive force to be built up behind the armature, which is set into motion and rapidly accelerated along the rails. (emk)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 16, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADD014435
Entities
People
- Lawrence J. Bovino
- Louis J. Jasper Jr.
- Maurice Weiner
Organizations
- United States Department of the Air Force