Deflector shields operate by creating a layer, or layers, of energetic distortion containing a high concentration of gravitons around the object to be protected. The shield contains six sections: forward, starboard, port, aft, dorsal, and ventral. Shield energies are emitted from a network of "grid" emitters laid out on the starship's hull. Regenerative shields use a secondary network of generators which supplement the power lost from a shield facing which has taken damage and keeps that shield intact in the event that the primary generator fails.