10
Ring-WideUpgrade to Resilient Topology
The single cable evolves into a six-cable ladder topology with cross-links every 500-1000m. This is the transition from 'minimum viable' to 'operational infrastructure.' The ladder topology survives 1-2 cable severings with load redistribution and enables self-repair via tether payload delivery.
Specifications
Configuration6 × 0.5mm Zylon cables, ladder topology
Cross-linksEvery 500-1000 m
Total rotor mass~75 tonnes
Stator capacity3,000 kg (34 stations)
Annual throughput1,200+ tonnes
Fault toleranceSurvives 1-2 cable breaks
Open Questions
- ?How are parallel cables deployed alongside the existing rotor? Sequential spooling?
- ?What's the cross-link attachment mechanism at 8 km/s relative to ground?
- ?What triggers the transition? Mass threshold? Failure event? Planned milestone?