Electrostatic dust- collection systems that comprise wire grids connected to lightweight, low-power high-voltage sources have been invented for preventing the accumulation of dust on surfaces. Intended originally for use in keeping spacecraft solar panels free of dust, these systems could also be used on Earth to keep dust off such critical surfaces as those of semiconductor surfaces that await processing, highly sensitive optical instruments, and optoelectronic devices.
The wire grid in a system of this type is strung over the surface to be kept clean, then charged to a high potential to remove any dust from the surface by electrostatic attraction. Unlike prior systems developed to keep surfaces free of dust, systems of this type both contain no moving parts and can operate unattended.
This work was done by Brian Wilcox, R. Scott Cozy, and Mike Newell of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Electrostatic Systems Keep Dust Off Surfaces
(reference NPO-20788) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document discusses the invention of electrostatic dust-collection systems developed by Brian Wilcox, R. Scott Cozy, and Mike Newell at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). These systems are designed to prevent dust accumulation on critical surfaces, particularly in space applications, such as keeping spacecraft solar panels clean. However, their utility extends to Earth-based applications, including semiconductor surfaces awaiting processing and sensitive optical instruments.
The electrostatic systems utilize wire grids connected to lightweight, low-power high-voltage sources. These grids are strategically positioned over the surfaces that need to be kept clean. When charged to a high potential, the grids create an electrostatic attraction that effectively removes dust particles from the surfaces below. This method is advantageous because it eliminates the need for moving parts, allowing the systems to operate unattended, which is particularly beneficial in environments where constant monitoring is impractical.
The document emphasizes the innovative nature of these systems, highlighting their potential to enhance the cleanliness of surfaces critical to various technological processes. The absence of moving parts not only reduces maintenance requirements but also increases reliability, making these systems suitable for long-term use in both space and terrestrial applications.
The work was conducted under NASA's sponsorship, and the document serves as a technical support package detailing the invention's significance and potential applications. It also includes a notice clarifying that references to specific commercial products or manufacturers do not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government or JPL.
Overall, the electrostatic dust-collection systems represent a significant advancement in dust management technology, combining efficiency, reliability, and ease of use. Their development reflects ongoing efforts to improve the performance and longevity of critical surfaces in both space exploration and various high-tech industries on Earth.
