RF combiner arrangement for an RF amplifier arrangement for a particle accelerator, an RF amplifier arrangement of this type, and a particle accelerator of this type

Abstract

An RF combiner arrangement (2) comprises a multiplicity of signal paths (20), wherein each signal path (20) has a signal conductor (21), an input connection contact (22) for the hot-swappable connection of an amplifier module (3), and a signal interruption apparatus (23). The individual signal conductors (21) are electrically connected to one another at a summation point (24). The respective signal interruption apparatus (23) is designed to be operated in a first operating mode and in a second operating mode. The respective signal interruption apparatus (23) is designed to interrupt the power flow on the respective signal conductor (21) from the summation point (24) in the direction of the respective input connection contact (22) in the first operating mode. The respective signal interruption apparatus (23) is designed to allow the power flow between the respective input connection contact (22) and the summation point (24) in the second operating mode.

Description

[0001] RF combiner arrangement for an RF amplifier arrangement for a particle accelerator, such an RF amplifier arrangement and such a particle accelerator

[0002] The invention relates to an RF combiner arrangement for an RF amplifier arrangement for a particle accelerator, such an RF amplifier arrangement and such a particle accelerator.

[0003] Operating a particle accelerator requires very high power levels. This power is provided by at least one RF amplifier array. Such an RF amplifier array must be capable of generating high output power while simultaneously maintaining high availability, because the particle accelerator operates continuously.

[0004] Important elements of such an RF amplifier array are an RF combiner array and a multitude of amplifier modules. The RF combiner array adds the output powers of the respective amplifier modules. In the described application area within a particle accelerator, various special cases arise. The RF amplifier array is often operated with very high reflection, i.e., with a load VSWR of up to "infinite." The output power is then almost completely reflected. This can lead to damage to the RF amplifier array and thus to damage to individual amplifier modules.

[0005] Furthermore, if the output signal of the individual amplifier modules is asymmetrical in phase and / or amplitude, a power flow can occur between the amplifier modules. The resulting reverse bias at the amplifier module outputs adds to the portion of the power reflected at the output of the RF amplifier array. The reverse bias can easily be several times the transmit power of an amplifier module.

[0006] When using a large number of amplifier modules, which are necessary to provide the required total power for the particle accelerator, it is not yet possible to ensure a correspondingly high availability of the power supply.

[0007] It is therefore the object of the present invention to create a possibility to provide a secure energy supply which can also be used, for example, for particle accelerators in which the special cases mentioned above occur.

[0008] The object is achieved by the RF combiner arrangement according to claim 1, the RF amplifier arrangement according to claim 21 and the particle accelerator according to claim 35. Further developments according to the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0009] The RF combiner arrangement according to the invention can be used in particular in an RF amplifier arrangement, which in turn can be used to operate a particle accelerator. The RF combiner arrangement comprises a plurality of signal paths, each signal path comprising: a) a signal conductor for transmitting an RF signal; b) an input terminal contact for hot-swappable connection of an amplifier module; and c) a signal interruption device.

[0010] The signal conductors run from their respective input connection contact to a summing point where they are electrically connected to one another. There is an output connection contact which is electrically connected to the summing point, wherein a load can be connected to the output connection contact and to which the RF signals on the individual signal conductors can be output in summed form. The respective signal interruption device is designed to be operated in a first operating mode and in a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the respective signal interruption device is designed to interrupt the power flow on the respective signal conductor from the summing point in the direction of the respective input connection contact.In the second operating mode, the respective signal interruption device is designed to allow power flow between the respective input connection contact and the summation point. It is particularly advantageous that amplifier modules that are replaceable via a "hot-swap" connection can be connected to the RF combiner arrangement. This means nothing other than that a respective amplifier module can be replaced during ongoing operation of the RF combiner arrangement, i.e. during ongoing operation of the RF amplifier arrangement with such an RF combiner arrangement. The amplifier modules can therefore be plugged and unplugged during ongoing operation. This is possible in particular because a signal interruption device is provided which can operate in the first operating mode and in the second operating mode.In the first operating mode, the power flow on the respective signal conductor is interrupted. In this case, the amplifier module can then be disconnected. In this operating mode of the respective signal interruption device, reflected power and / or reverse bias no longer pose a stress problem for the connector and no longer pose a risk to the operating personnel. At the same time, redundancy is increased by the fact that a large number of amplifier modules can be connected to the RF combiner arrangement, with the RF combiner arrangement adding the output powers of these amplifier modules at a summation point.If an amplifier module fails, it can be replaced during operation via the "hot-swap" connection. This ensures that no power is applied to the input terminal of the defective amplifier module, regardless of the operating state of the RF combiner arrangement or the load connected to the RF combiner arrangement. The other, non-defective amplifier modules are designed and provide such an output power that the operation of the particle accelerator is not impaired when at least one defective amplifier module is replaced.

[0011] The RF combiner arrangement according to the invention comprises an RF combiner. An RF combiner is understood to mean, in particular, a microwave power combiner which is designed to combine a plurality of input powers (from different amplifier modules) to a common output power. For this purpose, such an RF combiner comprises the respective signal conductors, a summation point, as well as the output connection contact and the respective input connection contacts. The RF combiner is designed, in particular, to combine RF signals with a frequency of at least 1 MHz, 50 MHz, 100 MHz, 200 MHz, 300 MHz, 400 MHz, 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz or at least

[0012] 1 GHz. The RF combiner is preferably also designed to receive input powers from the respective amplifier modules of at least 500 W, 1 kW,

[0013] 2 kW, 3 kW, 4 kW, or at least 5 kW. The RF combiner arrangement therefore includes the RF combiner and the respective signal interruption devices.

[0014] The summation point can be a common (single) summation point where the individual signal conductors converge. It can also be a cascaded summation point, where the powers of all signal conductors are added together at the end. In this case, the powers of the signal conductors would be added one after the other to form a common total power.

[0015] The signal conductors are electrically connected to each other at the summation point. The term "electrical" also includes an electromagnetic connection. Thus, the RF combiner arrangement can be a waveguide combiner or a cavity combiner, or the RF combiner arrangement can include one, whereby the summation of the individual RF signals occurs via their wave propagation and not via an electrical conductor.

[0016] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal interruption device is designed to be converted into the first operating mode via a mechanical means and / or an electrical means. Alternatively or additionally, the respective signal interruption device is designed to be converted into the second operating mode via the mechanical means and / or the electrical means. This allows the appropriate operating mode to be selected in a particularly simple manner before the respective amplifier module is removed or plugged in.

[0017] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the mechanical means is a (single- or multi-part) control rod. The control rod can be brought into contact with and out of contact with the respective signal interruption device (in particular or exclusively) when the amplifier module is connected. This allows the operating mode of the respective signal interruption device to be changed. If the respective signal interruption device is in the first operating mode, it can change to the second operating mode and vice versa.

[0018] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the electrical means is a control signal. The respective signal interruption device is designed to receive the control signal from the respective amplifier module and / or from a higher-level control unit, as a result of which the respective signal interruption device changes the operating mode. By means of a higher-level control unit, which can be integrated in a control center, for example, the signal interruption device can be controlled in such a way that it changes to the first operating mode, as a result of which a power flow between the amplifier module and the summation point of the RF combiner arrangement is interrupted. A user can then remove the respective amplifier module (without having to fear voltage arcing) and replace it with another amplifier module.The control signal can, for example, also be generated by a user pressing a button before disconnecting the respective amplifier module. Additionally or alternatively, the control signal can also be generated directly by the respective amplifier module if the respective amplifier module detects that a defect exists (for example, by means of a self-monitoring routine).

[0019] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal interruption device is designed to detect a removal process of the respective amplifier module. In this case, the signal interruption device changes to the first operating mode, specifically before the electrical connection for transmitting the RF signal at the input connection contact between the RF combiner arrangement and the respective amplifier module is severed. Additionally or alternatively, the respective signal interruption device is designed to change to the first operating mode in the event of a defective amplifier module at the respective input connection contact. Additionally or alternatively, the signal interruption device is designed to change to the first operating mode when a corresponding control command is present.

[0020] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the control command can be transmitted to the respective signal interruption device by the mechanical means and / or the electrical means.

[0021] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal path comprises a signal connection contact for the hot-swappable connection of the respective amplifier module. The respective signal connection contact is designed such that when the respective amplifier module is removed from the RF combiner arrangement, the contact between the respective signal connection contact and the amplifier module is broken (in time) before the contact between the respective input connection contact and the amplifier module is broken. This allows the signal interruption device to detect a removal process of the amplifier module at an early stage. After such detection, the signal interruption device switches to the first operating mode. This ensures that reflected power and / or reverse bias do not act on the input connection contact.In principle, it would also be conceivable for such a removal process to be detected by the respective amplifier module, with the respective amplifier module switching off its at least one power amplifier in such a situation. In principle, it is also possible for the respective amplifier module to be designed to switch off its at least one power amplifier if the respective signal interruption device switches to the first operating mode.

[0022] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, a locking device is provided for each signal path. The respective locking device is designed to engage with the respective amplifier module in the second operating mode of the respective signal interruption device in such a way that the latter is locked against (accidental) removal. The respective locking device is also designed to release the respective amplifier module in the first operating mode of the respective signal interruption device so that it can be removed from the RF combiner arrangement. This prevents a user from accidentally removing the wrong amplifier module, which could cause problems for the redundancy if one amplifier module fails.For this purpose, the locking device preferably comprises a locking element that can be brought into direct engagement with the respective amplifier module (for example, via an electromagnet). In principle, the locking element can also be brought into indirect engagement with the respective amplifier module, for example, by the locking element preventing the movement of a control rod, which in turn rests against the respective amplifier module and prevents the amplifier module from being removed.

[0023] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the input connection contact in the respective signal path is a coaxial connection contact. This provides additional shielding and increases protection against contact with the inner conductor. In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal interruption device is designed to short-circuit the respective signal conductor to a reference ground in the first operating mode. This prevents reflected power and / or reverse bias from being applied to the input connection contact. This "short-circuiting" can be achieved by establishing a galvanic connection to a reference ground. Whether or not the respective signal conductor is additionally separated is a further development.

[0024] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the signal interruption device is designed to separate the signal conductor upon short-circuiting, so that the input connection contact is galvanically isolated from the summing point. In this case, the segment of the signal conductor that comes from the summing point is connected to the reference ground. This segment is no longer galvanically connected to the input connection contact. In principle, it would also be conceivable for the input connection contact to also be additionally connected to a reference ground.

[0025] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the length of the signal conductor from the point of the short circuit to the summation point is:

[0026] — + -, where N > 1 and NEN . 2 4

[0027] X is the wavelength of the RF signal output by the respective amplifier modules. This reflects the RF signal back toward the summing point.

[0028] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal interruption device is designed to separate the respective signal conductor in the first operating mode without short circuits, so that the input connection contact is galvanically isolated from the summation point.

[0029] In a further development of the HF combiner arrangement, the length of the signal conductor from the (short-circuit-free) separated point to the summation point is:

[0030] X is the wavelength of the RF signal output by the respective amplifier modules. This reflects the RF signal back toward the summing point.

[0031] In principle, a mixed operation would also be conceivable, whereby at least one signal interruption device switches a short circuit and at least one other signal interruption device carries out a short-circuit-free separation of the respective signal conductor.

[0032] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal interruption device comprises an electronically controllable semiconductor switch, in particular in the form of at least one PIN diode. This enables very fast switching operations. The use of at least one MOSFET as a semiconductor switch would also be conceivable. A detector device is preferably provided which is designed to detect a current zero crossing, wherein the signal interruption device separates the signal conductor at the detected or interpolated current zero crossing in order to have to switch the lowest possible power. Alternatively, the respective signal interruption device can also comprise a mechanical switch.

[0033] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the mechanical switch is preloaded by means of a spring device. The preloaded spring device comprises at least one spring, wherein the spring force is dimensioned such that it can trigger the mechanical switch, whereby the respective signal conductor is interrupted and / or whereby a corresponding short circuit is added to the respective signal conductor. The spring device can also comprise two springs, whereby one spring is designed to open the signal conductor and wherein another spring is designed to add a short circuit to a segment of the signal conductor.

[0034] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the respective signal interruption device comprises an electric motor or an electromagnet. The mechanical switch can be controlled via the electric motor or the electromagnet (similar to a relay).

[0035] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the RF combiner arrangement comprises a housing, wherein the respective signal conductors and the respective signal interruption devices are arranged together within the housing. In this case, the structure of the RF combiner arrangement is very compact. Alternatively, the RF combiner arrangement comprises a plurality of housings, wherein parts of the respective signal conductors, along with the summation point, are arranged in a common housing, and wherein the respective signal interruption devices are each arranged in a separate housing. In this case, the RF combiner would be arranged in one housing, and the respective signal interruption devices would each be arranged in their own housing.

[0036] In a further development of the RF combiner arrangement, the RF combiner arrangement is preferably free of active components arranged in the respective signal paths and conducting RF signals along the respective signal paths. Active components include, for example, power amplifiers and circulators. This ensures that the service life of the RF combiner arrangement is maximized, with components that are more susceptible to failure during operation being arranged in the respective hot-swappable amplifier modules.

[0037] The RF amplifier arrangement according to the invention comprises at least one RF combiner arrangement. The RF amplifier arrangement also comprises a plurality of amplifier modules. Preferably, the RF amplifier arrangement comprises more than 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more than 9 amplifier modules, the RF signals of which are added via a common RF combiner arrangement. This means nothing other than that more than 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more than 9 amplifier modules are connected to each RF combiner arrangement. The amplifier modules are each electrically connected to an input connection contact of the RF combiner arrangement. An amplifier module is therefore connected to each input connection contact. Each amplifier module also comprises at least one power amplifier.

[0038] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the respective amplifier module comprises a circulator.

[0039] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the circulator of the respective amplifier module is designed to divert a power flow, which flows from the RF combiner arrangement in the direction of the respective amplifier module, into a load. In this way, reflected power and / or a reverse bias is diverted into the load. The load is dimensioned such that it can absorb several times the RF power of an amplifier module. In principle, it would be conceivable for the respective amplifier module to be designed to detect whether power is diverted to the load which is above a threshold value and, if this is the case, to control the signal interruption device such that the respective signal interruption device switches to the first operating mode.

[0040] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the circulator of the respective amplifier module is arranged downstream of the power amplifier of the respective amplifier module in the signal transmission direction from the respective amplifier module to the RF combiner arrangement. This ensures that reflected power and / or reverse bias are diverted by the circulator into the load and that the reflected power and / or reverse bias do not damage the power amplifier.

[0041] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, all of the connections of the respective amplifier module are arranged on the side of the amplifier module that faces the RF combiner arrangement. This is in particular the rear side of the amplifier module. One of these connections is preferably the connection that is connected to the input connection contact. Furthermore, one of these connections is preferably the connection that is connected to the respective signal connection contact (if a signal connection contact is provided on the RF combiner arrangement). In principle, connections for cooling water supply / discharge can also be arranged in this way.

[0042] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, an electric motor or an electromagnet is provided for the respective signal interruption device. The electric motor or the electromagnet is arranged in the direction of the RF combiner arrangement or in the respective amplifier module. The electric motor or the electromagnet is designed to switch on the short circuit and / or to interrupt the respective signal line. Because the service life of the electric motor or the electromagnet is longer than the service life of an amplifier module, the electric motor or the electromagnet can also be integrated into the RF combiner arrangement. In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the respective amplifier module comprises a release button. The respective signal interruption device is designed to switch to the first operating mode when the release button on the respective amplifier module is actuated.The release button is preferably arranged on the front, the front being the side opposite the back on which the connections of the amplifier module are arranged. The signal interruption device is preferably also designed to change to the second operating mode when the release button is actuated again. The signal interruption device is preferably designed to change the operating mode each time the release button is actuated. Additionally or alternatively, unlocking can also take place when the release button is actuated, so that the respective amplifier module can be pulled off the RF combiner arrangement. The release button can thus be in contact with the locking device.

[0043] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the respective amplifier module comprises a control unit, wherein the control unit is designed to monitor the functioning of the amplifier module. For example, the control unit can be designed to monitor various voltages on a circuit board of the respective amplifier module. The control unit is designed to control the respective signal interruption device in such a way that it switches to the first operating mode when a fault is detected in the respective amplifier module. In a next step, the user can remove the defective amplifier module from the RF combiner arrangement and replace it with a functioning amplifier module.

[0044] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the control unit of the respective amplifier module is also designed to transmit a detected error to a higher-level control device. For example, the higher-level control device can be a control room, where the error is displayed to a user. The user is thus informed of the defect and can replace the defective amplifier module.

[0045] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the respective amplifier module comprises at least one indicator, wherein the indicator is designed to indicate whether or not a fault is present in the respective amplifier module. This makes it particularly easy for a user to locate the defective amplifier module. The indicator is preferably arranged on the front of the respective amplifier module and is visible to a user when the respective amplifier module is in the assembled state.

[0046] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the indicator of the respective amplifier module is a light source, particularly in the form of an LED. Particularly preferably, a defect in the amplifier module is indicated by a red light, and a functional amplifier module is indicated by a missing or green light.

[0047] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the respective amplifier module comprises cooling water connections for supplying and removing cooling water. The power amplifier of the respective amplifier module is cooled in particular by means of the cooling water. Additionally or alternatively, the load into which reflected power and / or a reverse bias is diverted can also be cooled. The cooling water connections can be arranged on the side of the amplifier module on which the connections for connecting the amplifier module to the input connection contact are provided. In this case it would be the rear. Alternatively, the cooling water connections can also be provided on the opposite side (front), i.e. on the side where, for example, the release button is arranged. The respective amplifier module is preferably connected to the cooling water circuit via a click connection.The cooling water connections are preferably free of screw connections.

[0048] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the respective amplifier module comprises a control rod, wherein the control rod is arranged so as to be movable on the respective amplifier module. The control rod is preferably arranged so as to be at least or exclusively axially displaceable. The control rod runs from the respective amplifier module in the direction of the RF combiner arrangement and can be coupled to the respective signal interruption device. In a first position of the control rod, the control rod is decoupled from the respective signal interruption device and the respective signal interruption device is designed in this first position of the control rod to assume the first operating mode. For example, if the control rod does not intervene, the mechanical switch can be triggered via the spring arrangement.In this case, the respective signal conductor can be connected to a short circuit and / or the respective signal conductor can be separated. In a second position of the control rod, the control rod is coupled to the respective signal interruption device and the respective signal interruption device is designed in this second position of the control rod to assume the second operating mode. In principle, it would also be conceivable for the signal interruption device to assume the first operating mode when the control rod is in the second position and for the signal interruption device to assume the second operating mode when the control rod is in the first position.

[0049] In a further development of the RF amplifier arrangement, the control rod is arranged on the respective amplifier module in such a way that it can be pulled out of the amplifier module by a user to assume the first position. The control rod is arranged on the respective amplifier module in such a way that it can be pushed into the amplifier module by the user to assume the second position. This makes it particularly easy to replace the respective amplifier module. The control rod is pulled out (at least partially) (preferably only an axial movement) in order to then remove the amplifier module. The new amplifier module is then inserted and the control rod pushed in (preferably only an axial movement), wherein after insertion the respective signal interruption device changes over to the second operating mode.The particle accelerator according to the invention comprises at least one RF amplifier arrangement as described above. The particle accelerator also comprises at least one RF resonator. The at least one RF amplifier arrangement is connected to the at least one RF resonator for transmitting the summed RF signals. If one amplifier module fails, the other amplifier modules continue to operate normally. The defective amplifier module can be easily removed while the other amplifier modules are in operation, without reflected power and / or reverse bias damaging the input connection contact and preventing the insertion of a new amplifier module. This allows the particle accelerator to continue operating properly.

[0050] Various embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example with reference to the drawings. Like objects have the same reference numerals. The corresponding figures of the drawings show in detail:

[0051] Figures 1, 2, 3: various embodiments of an RF amplifier arrangement with an RF combiner arrangement and a plurality of amplifier modules;

[0052] Figure 4: a rack system comprising a plurality of RF amplifier arrangements;

[0053] Figure 5: an exemplary embodiment of an amplifier module;

[0054] Figures 6A, 6B: an embodiment of a signal interruption device which disconnects a signal conductor without causing a short circuit when an amplifier module is removed;

[0055] Figures 7A, 7B, 7C: another embodiment of a signal interruption device which interrupts a signal path when an amplifier module is removed and adds a short circuit;

[0056] Figure 8: an embodiment of an RF amplifier arrangement, with an RF combiner, a signal interruption device and an amplifier module, all housed in different housings; and

[0057] Figure 9: an exemplary embodiment of a particle accelerator with a plurality of RF amplifier arrangements.

[0058] Figures 1, 2 and 3 show an RF amplifier arrangement 1. The RF amplifier arrangement 1 comprises at least one RF combiner arrangement 2 and a plurality of amplifier modules 3. In the exemplary embodiment, the RF amplifier arrangement 1 comprises seven amplifier modules 3. There may also be fewer or more amplifier modules 3. Thus, the RF amplifier arrangement 1 may comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven or more than seven amplifier modules 3. Each amplifier module 3 preferably comprises at least one power amplifier 4. Further preferably, each amplifier module 3 comprises one or more of the following elements: an input amplifier 5, a phase shifter 6, an adjustable attenuator 7, an intermediate amplifier 8, a directional coupler 9 and a circulator 10.

[0059] Preferably, an input signal to be amplified is fed to an input amplifier 5 of the respective amplifier module 3. An output of the input amplifier 5 is connected to the phase shifter 6. The phase shifter 6 has the task of ensuring that the respective amplifier modules 3 output an RF signal which each has the same phase position. An output of the phase shifter 6 can be connected to the adjustable attenuation device 7. The adjustable attenuation device 7 comprises one or more attenuation elements. The adjustable attenuation device 7 is designed to ensure that the RF signal has or maintains a certain level. An output of the adjustable attenuation device 7 is connected to an intermediate amplifier 8. An output of the intermediate amplifier 8 is connected to the power amplifier 4. An output of the power amplifier 4 is connected to the directional coupler 9.An output of the directional coupler 9 is connected to the circulator 10. A first output of the circulator 10 is connected to a load (not shown). A second output of the circulator 10 is connected to an RF output 11 of the amplifier module 3.

[0060] The circulator 10 is designed to divert a power flow, which flows from the RF combiner arrangement 2 toward the respective amplifier module 3, to a load. The circulator 10 is arranged downstream of the power amplifier 4 in the signal transmission direction from the respective amplifier module 3 to the RF combiner arrangement 2.

[0061] The respective amplifier module 3 also comprises a control unit 12. The control unit 12 is designed to control the phase shifter 6 and the adjustable attenuation device 7. By controlling the adjustable attenuation device 7, the power amplifier 4, in particular, can be operated with a constant gain and, in particular, in the linear range. The same can also apply to the input amplifier 5 and the intermediate amplifier 8. In principle, the control unit 12 can also control the power amplifier 4, the input amplifier 5, and the intermediate amplifier 8.

[0062] The control unit 12 is preferably also designed to be connected to a higher-level control center (not shown). This can be done via a bus system 13. The control unit 12 of the respective amplifier module 3 can transmit corresponding information (for example, status information) via the amplifier module 3 to the higher-level control center or receive and execute control commands from the higher-level control center.

[0063] The respective amplifier modules 3 can also communicate with each other via the bus system 13. If a control unit 12 detects a defect and shuts down the power amplifier 4, this information can be transmitted directly to the other amplifier modules 3 or indirectly, for example, via the higher-level control center. The other amplifier modules 3 are now configured to increase their output power so that the RF amplifier arrangement 1 continues to provide the same RF power.

[0064] The respective amplifier module 3 also comprises an electrical supply device 14. This electrical supply device 14 is connected to a power supply 15 and is designed to supply the individual components of the amplifier module 3 with an electrical voltage. This is done via a power supply connection 28. The power supply 15 itself is preferably provided by redundant power supplies (not shown).

[0065] Preferably, all amplification modules 3 are constructed identically and further preferably connected to the same voltage supply 15.

[0066] The respective amplifier module 3 preferably comprises cooling water connections 16, via which cooling water can be supplied to and removed from the respective amplifier module 3. The cooling water can be used, in particular, to cool the power amplifier 4, the adjustable damping device 7, and the load (not shown) connected to the circulator 10.

[0067] The RF amplifier arrangement 1 also comprises an RF splitter 17. The RF splitter 17 comprises an input connection to which an RF signal to be amplified is fed. This RF signal preferably has exactly a single frequency. This RF signal to be amplified is provided at multiple outputs. The RF splitter 17 preferably comprises as many outputs as there are amplifier modules 3. An amplifier module 3 is connected to each output of the RF splitter 17. The RF splitter 17 is preferably constructed using printed circuit board technology.

[0068] The individual amplifier modules 3 are connected to the RF combiner arrangement 2 via their respective RF output 11. The respective amplified RF signal can be transmitted from the respective amplifier module 3 to the RF combiner arrangement 2 via this connection.

[0069] The RF combiner arrangement 2 comprises a plurality of signal paths 20. Each signal path 20 comprises a signal conductor 21 which serves to transmit the RF signal. The signal conductor 21 can also be designed as a waveguide. Each signal path 20 also comprises an input connection contact 22 for the hot-swappable connection of the respective amplifier module 3. Each signal path 20 also comprises a signal interruption device 23. The respective amplifier module 3 is connected by its respective RF output 11 to the respective input connection contact 22.

[0070] The signal conductors 21 of the plurality of signal paths 20 run from their respective input terminal contact 22 to a summation point 24 where they are electrically connected.

[0071] A load can be connected to an output connection contact 25 which is electrically connected to the summing point 24. The RF signals of the individual signal conductors 21 are added together and output to this load. The respective signal interruption device 23 is designed to be operated in a first operating mode and in a second operating mode. The respective signal interruption device 23 is designed to interrupt the power flow on the respective signal conductor 21 from the summing point 24 in the direction of the respective input connection contact 22 in the first operating mode. The respective signal interruption device 23 is designed to allow the power flow between the respective input connection contact 22 and the summing point 24 in the second operating mode.

[0072] In Figure 1, the respective signal interruption device 23 is designed to be converted into the first operating mode or into the second operating mode via an electrical means. In this case, the electrical means is a control signal, which in Figure 1 is generated by the respective amplifier module 3 and transmitted to the respective signal interruption device 23. The control signal is preferably generated by the control unit 12 of the respective amplifier module 3. The connection for transmitting the control signal between the respective amplifier module 3 and the respective signal interruption device 23 is shown in dashed lines in Figure 1. In principle, the control signal can also be generated by a higher-level control unit, which is integrated, for example, in a control center.

[0073] The control unit 12 of the respective amplifier module 3 is preferably designed to monitor the functioning of the amplifier module 3. The control unit 12 is then designed to, in the event of a detected error in the respective amplifier module 3, the respective TI

[0074] Signal interruption device 23 is controlled such that it switches to the first operating mode. In this case, a power flow on the respective signal conductor 21 from the summing point 24 in the direction of the respective input connection contact 22 is interrupted. Subsequently, the respective amplifier module 23 can then be safely removed from the RF combiner arrangement 2. Damage to the input connection contact 22 does not occur.

[0075] The respective signal interruption device 23 can comprise an electronically controllable semiconductor switch, in particular in the form of at least one PIN diode.

[0076] In principle, the respective signal interruption device 23 can also comprise a mechanical switch, which is actuated in particular by an electric motor or an electromagnet. This electric motor or this electromagnet can be controlled by the control signal. This electric motor or this electromagnet can be provided in the RF combiner arrangement 2. They can also be arranged in the respective amplifier module 3. Preferably, there is a separate electric motor or a separate electromagnet for each signal interruption device 23.

[0077] The RF combiner arrangement 2 comprises a housing, wherein the signal conductors 21 and the signal interruption devices 23 are arranged together within this housing. The housing is preferably made of metal or a metal alloy, or comprises such a metal alloy. This allows generated heat to be efficiently dissipated. The signal paths 20 are preferably free of a circulator and a power amplifier.

[0078] Preferably, all connections of the respective amplifier module 3 are arranged on a rear side of the amplifier module 3, wherein the rear side of the respective amplifier module 3, in the assembled state, points in the direction of the RF combiner arrangement 2. These connections are, in particular, the RF output 11. Preferably, these connections also include the power supply connections 28 of the amplifier module 3 and the data connection 29 to the bus system 13. In principle, the cooling water connections 16 can also be arranged on the rear side.

[0079] The respective signal interruption device 23 is preferably designed to detect a removal operation of the respective amplifier module 3 and to switch to the first operating mode before the electrical connection for transmitting the RF signal at the input connection contact 22 between the RF combiner arrangement 2 and the respective amplifier module 3 is severed.

[0080] For this purpose, the respective signal path 20 preferably comprises a signal connection contact. The respective signal connection contact is designed such that, when the respective amplifier module 3 is removed from the RF combiner arrangement 2, it is first released before the contact between the respective RF output 11 and the respective input connection contact 22, via which the RF signal is transmitted, is released. The respective signal interruption device 23 can also be designed to switch to the first operating mode in the event of a defective amplifier module 3.

[0081] In principle, the respective signal interruption device 23 can also be designed to switch to the first operating mode when a corresponding control command is present, which is generated, for example, by the control center.

[0082] In contrast to the RF combiner arrangement 2 in Figure 1, the RF combiner arrangement 2 in Figure 2 shows that the respective signal interruption device 23 is designed to be transferred into the first or second operating mode via a mechanical means. The mechanical means in this case is a control rod 26. This control rod 26 can be brought into contact with and out of contact with the respective signal interruption device 23 when an amplifier module 3 is connected, whereby the respective signal interruption device 23 changes the operating mode.

[0083] The control rod 26 is movably arranged on the respective amplifier module 3. The control rod 26 runs from the respective amplifier module 3 in the direction of the RF combiner arrangement 2 and can be coupled to the respective signal interruption device 23. In a first position of the control rod 26, the control rod is decoupled from the respective signal interruption device 23, and the respective signal interruption device 23 is designed in this first position of the control rod 26 to assume the first operating mode. In a second position of the control rod 26, the control rod 26 is coupled to the respective signal interruption device 23, and the respective signal interruption device 23 is designed in this second position of the control rod 26 to assume the second operating mode.

[0084] The control rod 26 is arranged on the respective amplifier module 3 in such a way that it can be pulled out of the amplifier module 3 by a user to assume the first position. Conversely, the control rod 26 is arranged on the respective amplifier module 3 in such a way that it can be pushed into the amplifier module 3 by the user to assume the second position.

[0085] Referring to Figure 3, it is shown that the RF combiner arrangement 2 comprises a plurality of housings. Parts of the respective signal conductors 21 together with the summing point 24 are arranged in a common housing. In contrast, the respective signal interruption devices 23 are arranged in a respective separate housing. In particular, the RF combiner 27 of the RF combiner arrangement 2 is accommodated in its own housing, whereas the respective signal interruption devices 23 are arranged in (each) separate housings. The input connection contacts 22 are arranged in the housings of the signal interruption devices 23. The RF combiner 27 can be a waveguide combiner or a cavity combiner, wherein this is preferably an aluminum die-cast part and / or an aluminum milled part.

[0086] Figure 4 shows a rack system 30 comprising a plurality of RF amplifier assemblies 1. In this case, each RF amplifier assembly 1 comprises seven amplifier modules 3. The respective amplifier modules 3 comprise a handle 31, via which they can be pulled out of the rack system 30. In this exemplary embodiment, the cooling water connections 16 are arranged on the front of the respective amplifier modules 3. The individual RF amplifier assemblies 1 are stacked one above the other in the rack system 30, wherein, in this embodiment, corresponding cooling water distributors 32 are arranged between two RF amplifier assemblies 1.

[0087] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of an amplifier module 3. Shown are the handle 31, the control rod 26, as well as the RF output 11, the power supply connection 28, and the data connection 29. The RF output 11, the power supply connection 28, and the data connection 29 are located on the rear side of the amplifier module 3. The cooling water connections 16 are not shown in this embodiment.

[0088] The respective amplifier module 3 preferably includes an indicator 33. The indicator 33 is designed to indicate whether or not a fault is present in the respective amplifier module 3. The indicator 33 of the respective amplifier module 3 is preferably a (monochrome or multi-chrome) light source, in particular in the form of an LED. If the respective amplifier module 3 is defective, this can be visually indicated to the user by the indicator 33. It would also be possible for the current operating mode of the signal interruption device 23 to be visually indicated to the user.

[0089] In principle, it would also be conceivable for the respective amplifier module 3 to include a release button. The respective signal interruption device 23 would then be designed to transition to the first operating mode upon actuation of the release button on the respective amplifier module 3.

[0090] Figures 6A and 6B show an exemplary embodiment of the RF combiner arrangement 2, from which a possible mode of operation of the signal interruption device 23 emerges. The signal interruption device 23 is designed in this case to disconnect a signal conductor 21 without causing a short circuit when the respective amplifier module 3 is removed. In this case, the input connection contact 22 is galvanically isolated from the summation point 24. The length of the signal conductor 21 from the disconnected point to the summation point 24 is:

[0091] X is the wavelength of the RF signal which the respective amplifier modules 3 output.

[0092] In this case, this separation is effected via a mechanical switch. The mechanical switch is preloaded via a spring device 34. The spring device 34 comprises at least one spring. As soon as the control rod 26 is disengaged from the signal interruption device 23, the spring device 34 actuates the mechanical switch such that the signal conductor 21 is separated without a short circuit.

[0093] Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C show a further exemplary embodiment of the RF combiner arrangement 2, from which a possible mode of operation of the signal interruption device 23 emerges. In this case, the signal interruption device 23 is designed to separate and short-circuit a signal conductor 21 when the respective amplifier module 3 is removed. In this case, the input connection contact 22 is galvanically isolated from the summation point 24. The length of the signal conductor 21 from the short-circuited point to the summation point 24 is:

[0094] NA A

[0095] — + where N > 1 and NEN 4

[0096] X is the wavelength of the RF signal which the respective amplifier modules 3 output.

[0097] In this case, this separation is effected via a mechanical switch. The mechanical switch is pre-tensioned via a spring device 34. The spring device 34 comprises at least one spring. As soon as the control rod 26 is disengaged from the signal interruption device 23, the spring device 34 actuates the mechanical switch such that the signal conductor 21 is separated. At the same time, contact is made with a reference ground, whereby the segment of the signal conductor 21 extending from the summing point 24 to the separated point is short-circuited.

[0098] In principle, it would also be conceivable that the mechanical switch and thus the signal interruption device 23 is designed to galvanically connect a reference ground to the respective signal conductor 21 without disconnecting the respective signal conductor 21.

[0099] Instead of the spring device 34, an electric motor or an electromagnet can also be used, the control rod 26 then preferably being replaced by a control signal. Figure 8 shows a further exemplary embodiment of an RF amplifier arrangement 1, which comprises an RF combiner arrangement 2 and an amplifier module 3. The RF combiner arrangement 2 comprises an RF combiner 27 and a signal interruption device 23. The exemplary embodiment from Figure 8 corresponds, for example, to that from Figure 3, according to which the RF combiner 27 and the respective signal interruption devices 23 are accommodated in different housings. By axially displacing the control rod 26, the signal interruption device 23 changes over to the first operating mode. The amplifier module 3 can be removed in this case.

[0100] Preferably, the respective amplifier module 3 is only fastened to the housing in which the respective signal interruption device 23 is located. The respective amplifier module 3 is preferably not fastened in the housing of the RF combiner 27. The voltage supply connection 28 and / or the data connection 29 of the respective amplifier module 3 can also be connected to a corresponding connection in the housing of the respective signal interruption device 23. However, the RF amplifier arrangement 1 preferably comprises a backplane (not shown) which comprises the corresponding connections.In this case, the RF output 11 of the respective amplifier module 3 is connected to the input connection contact 22 on the housing of the respective signal interruption device 23, whereas the voltage supply connection 28 and / or the data connection 29 is connected to the backplane, which runs outside the housing of the respective signal interruption device 23. Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a particle accelerator 40 with a plurality of RF amplifier arrangements 1 arranged in a rack system 30. The particle accelerator 40 comprises a plurality of RF resonators 41. The respective RF resonators 41 are preferably each connected to an output connection contact 25 of an RF amplifier arrangement 1. The RF resonators 41 represent the load which is connected to the respective RF amplifier arrangement 1.If an amplifier module 3 fails, the other amplifier modules 3 of the RF amplifier arrangement 1 can continue to supply the respective RF resonator 41 with energy. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments. Within the scope of the invention, all described and / or illustrated features can be combined with one another as desired.

Claims

Patent claims 1. RF combiner arrangement (2) for an RF amplifier arrangement (1) for a particle accelerator (40) with the following features: - a plurality of signal paths (20) , each signal path (20) comprising: a) a signal conductor (21) for transmitting an RF signal; b) an input terminal contact (22) for hot-swapping an amplifier module (3); and c) a signal interruption device (23) ; - the signal conductors (21) of the plurality of signal paths (20) run from their respective input terminal contacts (22) to a summation point (24) where they are electrically connected; - an output terminal contact (25) which is electrically connected to the summing point (24), wherein a load can be connected to the output terminal contact (25), to which the RF signals on the individual signal conductors (21) can be added and output; - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to be operated in a first operating mode and in a second operating mode; - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to interrupt the power flow on the respective signal conductor (21) in the first operating mode to interrupt the summation point (24) in the direction of the respective input terminal contact (22); - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to allow the flow of power between the respective input terminal contact (22) and the summation point (24) in the second operating mode.

2. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to claim 1, characterized by the following features: - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to be switched to the first operating mode by mechanical and / or electrical means; and / or - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to be switched to the second operating mode via the mechanical means and / or the electrical means, wherein - the mechanical means, in particular a control rod (26), which, when the amplifier module (3) is connected, can be brought into and out of contact with the respective signal interruption device (23), thereby changing the operating mode of the respective signal interruption device (23), and / or - the electrical means is in particular a control signal, wherein the respective signal interruption device (23) is configured to receive the control signal from the respective amplifier module (3) and / or a higher-level control unit, thereby changing the operating mode of the respective signal interruption device (23).

3. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following features: - The respective signal interruption device (23) is configured to: a) detect a disconnection process of the respective amplifier module (3) and switch to the first operating mode before the electrical connection for transmitting the RF signal at the input terminal contact (22) between the RF combiner arrangement (2) and the respective amplifier module (3) is interrupted; and / or b) switch to the first operating mode in the event of a defective amplifier module (3) at the respective input terminal contact (22); and / or c) switch to the first operating mode when a corresponding control command is present.

4. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to claim 3, characterized by the following features: - the respective signal path (20) includes a signal connection contact for the hot-swapable connection of the respective amplifier module (3) ; - The respective signal connection contact is designed such that when the respective amplifier module (3) is removed from the RF combiner arrangement (2), the contact between the respective signal connection contact and the amplifier module (3) is broken before the contact between the respective input connection contact (22) and the amplifier module (3) is broken, whereby the respective signal interruption device (23) detects a removal of the amplifier module (3).

5. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to one of the previous instructions Sayings characterized by the following features: A locking device is provided for each signal path (20); - the respective locking device is designed to engage with the respective amplifier module (3) in the second operating mode of the respective signal interruption device (23) and to lock it against removal; - the respective locking device is designed to release the respective amplifier module (3) in the first operating mode of the respective signal interruption device (23) so that it can be removed from the RF combiner arrangement (2).

6. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following features: - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to short-circuit the respective signal conductor (21) with a reference ground in the first operating mode, wherein - the respective signal interruption device (23) is in particular designed to galvanically connect a reference ground to the respective signal conductor (21) without disconnecting the respective signal conductor (21), and / or - the signal interruption device (23) is specifically designed to disconnect the signal conductor (21) when short-circuited, so that the input terminal contact (22) is galvanically isolated from the summation point (24).

7. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to claim 6, characterized by the following feature: - a length of the signal conductor (21) from the point of the The short circuit to the summation point (24) is: N / A — + where N > lundN EN 2 4 8. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following feature: - the respective signal interruption device (23) is designed to disconnect the respective signal conductor (21) in the first operating mode without short circuits, so that the input terminal contact (22) is galvanically isolated from the summation point (24).

9. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to claim 8, characterized by the following feature: - the length of the signal conductor (21) from the point of separation to the summation point (24) is:

10. RF combiner arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the following feature: - the signal paths (21) are free of a circulator (10) and a power amplifier (4) .

11. RF amplifier arrangement (1) comprising at least one RF combiner arrangement (2) according to one of the preceding claims and a plurality of amplifier modules (3) comprising the following features: - the amplifier modules (3) are each electrically connected to an input terminal contact (22) of the RF combiner arrangement (2); - the amplifier modules (3) include at least one power amplifier (4) .

12. RF amplifier arrangement (1) according to claim 11, characterized by the following feature: - each amplifier module (3) comprises a circulator (10) .

13. Particle accelerator (40) with at least one RF amplifier arrangement (1) according to one of claims 11 to 12, characterized by the following features: - at least one RF resonator (41) is provided; - the at least one RF amplifier arrangement (1) is connected to the at least one RF resonator (41) for the transmission of the summed RF signals.

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