Paper Authors on Tour - Joseph M. Brady

A Propulsion Device for Spacecraft

Abstract

A new class of heat engine has been developed which directly converts thermal/kinetic energy to a sustained accelerative vector force without the discharge of reaction mass. These engines rely upon the properties of a gas in steady-state flow in a recirculating duct and the manipulation of the density and velocity of this gas by thermal management. None of Newton’s principles are violated, and mass, energy, and momentum are all conserved. The method has advanced through NASA Technology Readiness Level 4 (breadboard validation in the laboratory) by means of the development and evaluation of seven prototypes. This presentation will describe the theory of operation, the design, and the test results of the latest prototypes.

Biography

Joseph M. Brady received a BSEE (power generation and distribution) from Texas Tech in 1962. His professional career includes design and management responsibilities for a conventional steam turbine power plant project, nuclear isotope imaging systems, computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanning systems, cardiac diagnostic systems, artificially intelligent microscopy systems, and related medical diagnostic devices. He has also pursued research opportunities in other fields, and has authored numerous scientific and technical papers. These include presentations at the SAE World Congress, the SAE Aero Tech Congress, and the SAE Small Engine Technology Conference. He holds patents in medical imaging, high efficiency spark ignition engine design, and now in space propulsion. Bradyne is his fourth high technology venture.

Restrictions:  Will limit driving to 300 miles one-way; flights only within North America.

Equipment needs:  Digital projection equipment for Powerpoint presentation; screen.