Need guidance about thrusters

In summary, the conversation suggests designing a light weight platform with thrusters to smoothly descend from a height of 5-10m carrying 60-100kg weight. It is recommended to use a quadcopter with powerful motors, but using thrusters alone would be inefficient for such heavy weights. A crane or movable stage would be more efficient and stable options.
  • #1
koustov
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0
i need to design a light weight platform(capable of carrying 60-100kg weight) with some kind of thrusters so that it can go down smoothly through air from about 5-10m of height to ground level. can anyone tell me what kind of thrusters i should use??
 
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  • #2
Sounds like a job for a quadcopter, using more powerful than usual motors.
 
  • #3
What if i want to make it by adding thrusters only??
quadcopter for such heavy weights will not be that efficient.
 
  • #4
Thrusters are one of the most inefficient things you can use.
Something like a crane would be perfect, a movable stage would be extremely efficient as well. You also avoid all stability issues, powering issues, wind issues and so on.
 
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Likes Danger
  • #5
mfb said:
Something like a crane would be perfect, a movable stage would be extremely efficient as well. You also avoid all stability issues, powering issues, wind issues and so on.
For sure, if it doesn't need a lot of lateral mobility. In fact, the stablest system might be something like a flagpole.
 

1. What are thrusters and how do they work?

Thrusters are devices used to generate thrust, or a pushing force, in order to propel a spacecraft or other vehicle through space. They typically work by expelling a high-velocity stream of gas or plasma in one direction, causing the spacecraft to move in the opposite direction.

2. What types of thrusters are commonly used in spacecraft?

There are several types of thrusters commonly used in spacecraft, including chemical, electric, and nuclear. Chemical thrusters use a chemical reaction to generate thrust, while electric thrusters use electricity to accelerate a propellant. Nuclear thrusters use the energy from a nuclear reaction to generate thrust.

3. How do scientists determine which type of thruster to use for a specific mission?

The type of thruster chosen for a specific mission depends on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the spacecraft, the distance it needs to travel, and the amount of thrust required. Scientists also consider the efficiency, reliability, and cost of each type of thruster when making their decision.

4. How long can a thruster function before needing to be replaced or refueled?

The lifespan of a thruster depends on the type of thruster and the specific mission it is being used for. Some thrusters, such as chemical thrusters, may only last for a few minutes before needing to be replaced or refueled. Others, such as electric or nuclear thrusters, can function for much longer periods of time before needing maintenance.

5. Are there any safety concerns associated with using thrusters?

There are some safety concerns associated with using thrusters, particularly with chemical and nuclear thrusters. Chemical thrusters can release toxic gases and are at risk of explosion, while nuclear thrusters pose a risk of radiation exposure. Therefore, strict safety protocols and regulations are in place to ensure the safe use of thrusters in spacecraft.

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