1.4 Inertial Damping System

Operating in parallel with the SIF is the inertial damping field system. This system generates a controlled series of variable-symmetry forcefields that serve to absorb the inertial forces of space flight that'd otherwise cause fatal damage to crewmembers. The IDF is generated separately from the SIF, but is connected to the same computer control systems and is fed by a parallel series of waveguides that are then conducted through gravitic plating.

The IDF operates by maintaining a low-level forcefield throughout the habitable volume of the ship. This field averages 85 millicochranes with field differential limited to 3.47 nanocochranes\meter, per SFRA standard 352.12 for crew exposure to subspace fields.

As acceleration effects are anticipated, this field is distorted along a vector diametrically opposed to the velocity change. The IDF thereby absorbs the inertial potential, dissipating it away partly into storage batteries and partly as heat.

There is a small characteristic lag time for the shifting of IDF direction and the required intensity. This lag usually varies with the net acceleration, but the average time is 85 microseconds for 'normal' impulse maneuvers. Flux generation for the IDF is provided by five field generators located on deck 9 in the Forward Saucer section, five on deck 9 in the Rear saucer section, three in the bridge component and nine in the Engineering section. Each generator consists of a cluster of 12 600 kW graviton polarity sources feeding three 170 millicochrane subspace field distortion amplifiers. A pair of continuous-duty liquid-helium coolant loops handles heat dissipation on each unit. Three backup generators are located in each hull, providing up to 15 hrs of service at 52% of maximum rated power. Normal duty cycle on generators is 74 hrs online, with nominal 8 hrs degauss and scheduled maintenance time. Graviton polarity sources are rated for 4200 operating hours between routine servicing of superconductive elements.

Cruise Mode operating rules require at least two generators be active at all times in each hull. During Alert modes, all operational units are brought to standby for immediate activation. Reduced power mode rules permit only three generators to feed the entire spaceframe, using the field conduit umbilical connect between the three sectors.