Date of Award

Summer 1968

Document Type

Thesis - Restricted

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Ishii, Thomas K.

Second Advisor

Sedivy, Jan K.

Third Advisor

Szews, Alfred P.

Abstract

Theoretical and experimental analysis of a laser driven motor system is performed. A self-commutating optically energized motor system is able to transmit optical energy over long distances and convert the optical energy to mechanical rotational motion at the receiving end. A survey of the state-of-the-art of lasers and photovoltaic devices is reviewed. The choice of both components is made by optimizing the over-all system. Further study is made on optimizing the photovoltaic device, a silicon solar cell. Six motor systems are constructed using various types and configurations of solar cells. A miniature motor is used in analyzing the effect of having a current source as an energy converter. A model proposed for the optical motor system. The change in speed with distance from the laser output for each motor shows the degree of optimization.

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