2.4 Structural Integrity Field System

The mechanical integrity of the physical spaceframe is augmented by the structural integrity field (SIF) system. This system provides a network of forcefield segments that compensate for propulsive and other structural load factors that otherwise exceed the design limits of the spaceframe. The SIF applies forcefield energy directly to field conductive elements within the spaceframe and increases the loadbearing capacity of the structure.

Field generation for the SIF is provided by three field generators located on Deck 11 in the Primary Hull and by two generators located on Deck 32 in the Secondary Hull. Each generator consists of a cluster of twenty 12 MW graviton polarity sources feeding a pair of 250 millicochrane subspace field distortion amplifiers. Heat dissipation on each unit is provided by a pair of 300,000 megajoules per hour (MJ/hr) continuous-duty liquid helium coolant loops. Two backup generators are located in each hull, providing up to twelve hours of service at 55% of maximum rated power. Normal duty cycle on generators is thirty-six hours online, with nominal twenty-four hours degauss and scheduled maintenance time. Graviton polarity sources are rated for 1,500 operating hours between routine servicing of superconductive elements.

The output of each SIF generator is directed by means of a network of molybdenum-jacketed triphase waveguides which distributes the field energy throughout the spaceframe. SIF conductivity elements are incorporated into all major structural members. When energized by the SIF, the load-bearing capacity of these conductive structural elements is increased by up to 125,000%. Secondary feeds also provide for reinforcement of the vehicle's external shell.

Cruise Mode operating rules require at least one field generator to be active at all times in each hull, although the Flight Control Officer may call for activation of a second generator when extreme maneuvers are anticipated. During Alert modes, all operational units are brought to hot standby for immediate activation. Reduced Power Mode rules permit a single field generator to feed the entire spaceframe using the field conduit umbilical connect between the primary and engineering sections.

Fairly early on, Rick did a drawing for our writers showing the Enterprise superimposed over a map of the Paramount Studios lot. This was fun because it gave us for the first time a concrete idea of how big the ship "really" is. A bit later, though, we started to think of some of the implications of this enormous size. We began to realize that it would be pretty difficult for a structure that size to maintain its rigidity and form, especially under the tremendous accelerations that impulse and warp drive would likely entail. (We envisioned the main impulse engines firing, squashing the ship like a partially deflated blimp. This might actually be a valid way for a space vehicle to operate, but it would probably look pretty silly on film.) Because of this, we came up with the "structural integrity field," which we envision as a powerful forcefield that helps to hold the ship together.