The quantum Otto mobile and its applications to directed energy
Conference Paper
Overview
Research
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
We show that it is possible to improve the efficiency of a laser system by adding a classical heat engine cycle to the laser gas that can remove both thermal and vibrational energy from the gas. A rapid pulsed CO 2 laser/gas expansion cycle engine and a continuous CO 2 laser, Stirling or Brayton cycle engine are analyzed. We derive a theoretical total energy recovery efficiency for a CO 2 laser combined with a classical heat engine of 89%. Then, several distinctly different functional laser-coupled heat engine designs will be evaluated to determine the viability of these concepts in practice. Ultimate practical device efficiencies are projected to reach 75% efficiency.