A magnet array holder that accelerates assembly and improves alignment in vacuum electronic devices.

Abstract

This invention provides a magnet array holder and assembly method that accelerate assembly and improve alignment in vacuum electronic devices. [Solution] A magnet array holder 202 is configured to hold magnetic and / or non-magnetic components in order to form a magnet array, wherein the magnet array is configured to operate one or more electron beams within a vacuum electronic device when assembled, and the magnet array holder 202 comprises a set of slots 214 configured to receive magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, a set of pockets 216 for receiving magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, and one or more mounting interfaces configured to connect the magnet array holder 202 to a vacuum electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to vacuum electronic devices, and more particularly, provide a magnet array unit holder that accelerates the assembly and improves the alignment in vacuum electronic devices when operating at millimeter wave frequencies and above.

Background Art

[0002] Vacuum electronic devices utilize the interaction between one or more electron beams generated within an interaction region and one or more electromagnetic waves. The structure of a vacuum electronic device requires incorporating metallic materials, ceramic materials, magnetic materials, and / or other types of materials within a single assembly. The assembly encloses a vacuum chamber or cavity where the interaction between the electron beam(s) and electromagnetic wave(s) takes place. Examples of vacuum electronic devices include, but are not limited to, particle accelerators, klystrons, gyrotrons, gyro-klystrons, traveling wave tubes (TWTs), gyro-TWTs, backward wave oscillators, magnetrons, crossed-field amplifiers, free electron lasers, ubi-trons, and the like.

[0003] Propagation of an electron beam through the beam tunnel of a vacuum electronic device has conventionally been achieved using magnetic fields and / or electrostatic fields. In vacuum electronic devices operating at millimeter and near-terahertz frequencies, magnetic fields are mainly used. Permanent magnets, electromagnets, and periodic magnet arrays are generally employed to confine the beam within the beam tunnel.

[0004] Difficulties arise when assembling and preparing vacuum electron devices for operation. First, the beam tunnel, magnetic centerline, and beam entry point are often misaligned due to manufacturing and assembly irregularities. This difficulty is particularly pronounced in higher frequency devices. Second, the quality of the magnetic material is typically insufficient to ensure that the magnetic domains of individual magnets are aligned with the design domain with the required precision, resulting in non-uniformity in the magnetic field. Therefore, after manufacturing a vacuum electron beam device, a specialist engineer spends considerable time (e.g., several months) adjusting (trimming) the magnetic field around the vacuum electron device to achieve optimal beam transmission. Furthermore, the magnetic materials commonly used in vacuum electron devices have the highest grade magnetization intensity and are therefore extremely difficult to handle. The attractive and repulsive forces of the magnetic material can be strong enough to cause fracture or unfolding of the magnetic material from its proper location, making assembly not only inefficient but also dangerous for the assembly worker.

[0005] Finally, magnets are generally fixed with some kind of adhesive, which requires a long curing time, and due to this long curing time, considerable effort is required to hold the magnets precisely in the correct position. This delays the assembly process and introduces further inaccuracies. Furthermore, the adhesive can introduce inaccuracies in the placement of magnetic components due to variations in the thickness of the adhesive bond. Misalignment can be linear, angular, height, and numerous other types of defects. Magnet arrays assembled in the conventional manner deviate from the design to a considerable extent, and therefore may result in a magnetic field profile far from ideal. This problem is exacerbated in devices operating at high frequencies or in devices requiring small magnetic component sizes (from millimeter to sub-millimeter scale), because the tolerances of the bond generally remain the same, and therefore significant non-uniformity accumulates. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The system and method will help in the construction of vacuum electronic devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Disclosed herein are magnet array holders, magnet array assemblies, and corresponding methods. Magnet arrays enable improved electron beam confinement, focusing, and other types of operations in vacuum electronic devices. Magnet array holders enable accelerated assembly of magnet arrays and are particularly suitable for automated production of vacuum electronic devices. In some embodiments, magnet array holders utilize mechanical fixtures that support and / or control the precise placement of each magnetic and non-magnetic component while minimizing the accumulation of tolerances. Magnet array holders also assist in controlling the shape and size of the magnetic and non-magnetic components themselves. Magnet array holders also support the insertion of magnetic and non-magnetic components from one direction, simplifying process automation. Magnet array holders are further suitable for holding and assembling periodic permanent magnet arrays, Halbach magnet arrays, Wiggler arrays, quadrupole magnet arrays, bipolar magnet arrays, and combinations of multiple types of magnet arrays (e.g., periodic permanent magnet arrays and quadrupole or bipolar magnet arrays). The magnetic material of the magnetic component may include ferromagnetic, diamagnetic, and paramagnetic materials. A magnet array holder is used to fix the arrangement of permanent magnets and electromagnets, thereby achieving the desired arrangement accuracy and magnetic circuit performance. Non-magnetic components may be used to separate the magnetic components at a desired distance that affects the magnetic circuit characteristics.

[0008] In some embodiments, the magnet array holder enables the assembly of highly ferromagnetic components that may experience attractive or repulsive forces during assembly, thereby avoiding significant difficulties in manipulating and positioning these components correctly. The magnet array holder significantly facilitates the manual assembly of magnet arrays and also facilitates the automation of assembly processes using robotic operation (e.g., pick-and-place systems).

[0009] The magnet array holder precisely positions the magnetic components in the correct locations relative to each other and to other magnet arrays that require alignment. The positioning of the magnetic components can be precisely manufactured within the magnet holder by using state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques to directly transmit this precision to the magnetic component assembly on the vacuum electronic device with consistent accuracy. The magnet array holder can securely hold each magnetic component individually, allowing the magnet array to be constructed without the need to hold each magnet in place while the adhesive sets. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder and the corresponding method for assembling the magnet array eliminate reliance on achieving a uniform adhesive thickness, whether it is the assembly of individual components or the assembly between components.

[0010] The magnet array holder is particularly useful for flat magnet structures used in sheet electron beam devices or devices employing wiggler magnets or undulator magnets. In other cases, the magnet array holder can be adapted for application to round, hollow, spiral, dispersed, focused, and multi-beam magnet structures.

[0011] The present invention further provides an automated computer implementation method for designing a magnet array holder for precisely manipulating electron beams in vacuum electronic devices, employing mechanical features that precisely position, secure, and accelerate assembly of magnetic components. The magnet array holder may employ sections for capturing magnetic and non-magnetic components, marking sections for aligning the polarity of magnets, heights, height variations, sections of various lengths for holding and positioning magnetic and non-magnetic components, further sections for combining multiple types of magnetic components, depths designed for positioning magnets, single features for positioning individual magnetic components and magnet arrays relative to other external magnetic and non-magnetic features, fixtures for shielding further magnetic components, sections for combining depth with walls of other components, designs for predicting minimum and maximum magnet misalignment, misalignment calculations for modeling magnetic circuit performance, and methods for various permanent magnets and permanent electromagnets.

[0012] The magnet array retainers and techniques disclosed herein are useful for achieving high-quality alignment and are particularly useful for the manufacture of vacuum electronic devices at millimeter-wave and near-THz frequencies. Vacuum electronic devices using the magnet array retainers designed herein can be configured to amplify electromagnetic signals at frequencies ranging from 1 GHz to 1000 GHz and up to 3 THz and / or 30 THz.

[0013] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a magnet array holder configured to hold magnetic and / or non-magnetic components in order to form a magnet array, the magnet array being configured to operate one or more electron beams within a vacuum electronic device when assembled, the magnet array holder comprising a set of slots configured to receive magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, a set of pockets configured to receive magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, and one or more mounting interfaces (such as holes, pins, adhesives, fasteners, welds, mounting materials, etc.) configured to connect the magnet array holder to a vacuum electronic device. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 may be integrated as part of a vacuum electronic device 100.

[0014] Each slot in a set of slots may have a first shape, and each pocket in a set of pockets may have a second shape different from the first shape. Each pocket in a set of pockets may have a bridging portion across the pocket. Each pocket in a set of pockets may include a mark indicating the orientation of a magnetic component to assist in the alignment of the magnetic component. The mark may include a written key. Each pocket may have a size, shape and position that controls the size, shape and position of the magnetic and non-magnetic components it accepts. Each slot may have a size, shape and position that controls the size, shape and position of the magnetic and non-magnetic components it accepts. The magnetic array holder may further comprise a set of further parts configured to accept further magnetic or non-magnetic components. Each part in the set of further parts may include a mark indicating the orientation of a magnetic component to assist in the alignment of further magnetic components. At least one slot in a set of slots may extend through the magnetic array holder. The magnetic array holder may hold both magnetic and non-magnetic components. The magnetic array holder may hold only magnetic components. The magnet array holder can hold only a portion of the magnetic circuit necessary for the operation of the vacuum electronic device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for assembling a magnet array configured to manipulate one or more electron beams within a vacuum electronic device, the method comprising preparing a magnet array holder configured to hold magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, the magnet array holder comprising a set of slots configured to receive magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, a set of pockets to receive magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, and one or more fixing or mounting interfaces connecting to a vacuum electronic device, the preparation comprising arranging at least a pair of magnetic or non-magnetic components in a set of slots adjacent to a particular pocket of the set of pockets, and arranging a particular magnetic component in a particular pocket of the set of pockets, the pair of magnetic or non-magnetic components acting as a wall supporting the insertion of the particular magnetic component.

[0016] Each pocket in a set of pockets may have a bridging portion across the pockets. Each set of slots may be configured to receive each non-magnetic component. Each set of slots may be configured to receive magnetic components having an up-and-down polarity orientation. Placing a particular magnetic component in a particular pocket may include orienting the polarity of the magnetic component according to a mark. The magnetic array holder may further include a set of further portions configured to receive further magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, and the method may further include placing further magnetic components in the further portions. Placing further magnetic and / or non-magnetic components may include orienting their polarity according to a mark.

[0017] The disclosures described herein provide an example of applying a slotting technique to a rectangular magnet assembly. The same technique, using slot depth and various component heights, can be employed in cylindrical symmetrical magnet and non-magnetic assemblies. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This figure shows components of an exemplary vacuum electronic device, such as an exemplary traveling wave tube (TWT), according to some embodiments of the present invention, and illustrates an exemplary magnet array fixed to the exemplary vacuum electronic device. [Figure 2a] This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2b] This is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2c] These are a top view and a bottom view of an exemplary magnet array holder according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2d] This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2e] This is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2f]Top and bottom views of an exemplary magnet array section according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2g] Side view of an exemplary magnet array section according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2h] Cross-sectional side view of an exemplary magnet array section according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3a] Top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section holder according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3b] Top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section holder with one magnetic component disposed therein according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3c] Top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section holder with one magnetic component and one non-magnetic component disposed therein according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3d] Top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section holder with all magnetic components and all non-magnetic components disposed therein according to some first embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4a] Top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4b] Bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4c] Bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section according to some third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4d] Top and bottom views of an exemplary magnet array section holder according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4e] Top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section holder according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4f] Bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array section holder according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4g] Bottom view of an exemplary magnet array section holder according to some third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4h]This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder according to several third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4i] This is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder according to several third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4j] These are a top view and a bottom view of an exemplary magnet array according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4k] This is a side view of an exemplary magnet array according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4l] This is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary magnet array according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4m] This is a bottom view of an exemplary magnet array according to several third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5a] This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5b] This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder in which a single magnetic component is disposed, according to some second embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5c] This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder, according to some second embodiments of the present invention, which contains one magnetic component and one non-magnetic component. [Figure 5d] This is a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder, according to some second embodiments of the present invention, in which all magnetic and all non-magnetic components are arranged. [Figure 6a] This is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder containing a single magnetic component, according to some third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 6b] This is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array holder, in which all magnetic components are located, according to some third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7a] This is a side view of an exemplary upper magnet array according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7b] This is a side view of an exemplary bottom magnet arrangement according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7c] This is an exemplary cross-sectional side view of an upper magnet array according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7d] This is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary bottom magnet arrangement according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] Disclosed herein are magnet array holders, magnet array assemblies, and corresponding methods. Magnet arrays enable improved electron beam confinement, focusing, and other types of operations in vacuum electronic devices. Magnet array holders enable accelerated assembly of magnet arrays and are particularly suitable for automated production of vacuum electronic devices. In some embodiments, magnet array holders utilize mechanical fixtures to support and / or control the precise placement of each magnetic and non-magnetic component while minimizing the accumulation of tolerances. Magnet array holders also assist in controlling the shape and size of the magnetic and non-magnetic components themselves. Magnet array holders also support the insertion of magnetic and non-magnetic components from one direction, simplifying process automation. Magnet array holders are further suitable for holding and assembling periodic permanent magnet arrays, Halbach magnet arrays, Wiggler arrays, quadrupole magnet arrays, bipolar magnet arrays, and combinations of multiple types of magnet arrays (e.g., periodic permanent magnet arrays and quadrupole magnet arrays or bipolar magnet arrays). The magnetic material of the magnetic component may include ferromagnetic, diamagnetic, and paramagnetic materials. A magnet array holder can be used to fix the arrangement of permanent magnets and electromagnets, thereby achieving the desired arrangement accuracy and magnetic circuit performance. Non-magnetic components may be used to separate the magnetic components at a desired distance that affects the magnetic circuit performance.

[0020] In some embodiments, the magnet array holder enables the assembly of highly ferromagnetic components that may experience attractive or repulsive forces during assembly, thereby avoiding significant difficulties in manipulating and positioning these components correctly. The magnet array holder significantly facilitates the manual assembly of magnet arrays and also facilitates the automation of assembly processes using robotic operation (e.g., pick-and-place systems).

[0021] The magnet array holder precisely positions the magnetic components in the appropriate locations relative to each other and to other magnet arrays that require alignment. The magnet array holder can securely capture each magnetic component individually, allowing the magnet array to be constructed without the need to hold each magnet in place while the adhesive hardens. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder and the corresponding method for assembling the magnet array eliminate reliance on achieving a uniform adhesive thickness, whether it is the assembly of individual components or the assembly between components.

[0022] The magnet array holder is particularly useful for flat magnet structures used in sheet electron beam devices or devices employing wiggler magnets or undulator magnets. In other cases, the magnet array holder can be adapted for application to round, hollow, spiral, dispersed, convergent, and multi-beam magnet structures.

[0023] The present invention further provides an automated computer-aided assembly method for designing a magnet array holder for precisely manipulating electron beams in vacuum electronic devices, employing mechanical features that precisely position, secure, and accelerate assembly of magnetic components. The magnet array holder may employ parts for capturing magnetic and non-magnetic components, markings for aligning the polarity of magnets, height, height variation, and length variation of parts for holding and positioning magnetic and non-magnetic components, further parts for combining multiple types of magnetic components, depths designed for positioning magnets, single features for positioning individual magnetic components and magnet arrays relative to other external magnetic and non-magnetic features, fixtures for shielding further magnetic components, parts for combining depth with walls of other components, designs for predicting minimum and maximum magnet misalignment, calculations for misalignment to model magnetic circuit performance, and methods for various permanent magnets and permanent electromagnets.

[0024] The magnet array retainers and techniques disclosed herein are useful for achieving high-quality alignment, and are particularly useful for the manufacture of vacuum electronic devices at millimeter-wave and near-THz frequencies. Vacuum electronic devices using the magnet array retainers designed herein can be configured to amplify electromagnetic signals at frequencies ranging from 1 GHz to 1000 GHz.

[0025] Figure 1 shows components of an exemplary vacuum electronic device 100 according to several embodiments of the present invention, for example, an exemplary traveling wave tube (TWT) 100, the exemplary traveling wave tube (TWT) 100 having a magnet array 110 (magnet array assembly) fixed to the exemplary traveling wave tube (TWT) 100. Although Figure 1 is shown in relation to a TWT, the magnet array 110 as herein may be used in any vacuum electronic device 100 that uses a magnet assembly to manipulate one or more electron beams in an interaction region.

[0026] The TWT100 includes a TWT gun 102, which is configured to generate one or more electron beams (transmitted in the z direction). The TWT gun 102 may be used for sheet beams, hollow beams, pencil beams, dispersion beams, multiple beams, etc. The TWT100 further includes an interaction circuit, which includes an RF input window 104, an RF output window 106, and two magnet arrays 110, which are configured to guide and shape one or more electron beams through the interaction circuit. The two magnet arrays 110 include an upper magnet array 110 shown on the top of the TWT100 and a bottom magnet array shown as a mirror image on the bottom of the TWT100. The bottom magnet array 110 is not clearly shown in Figure 1, but iron shielding portions of both the upper and bottom magnet arrays 110 are shown. The TWT100 further includes a TWT collector 108, which is configured to collect one or more electron beams transmitted through the TWT100.

[0027] Figure 2a shows an exemplary top perspective view of a magnet array 110 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array 110 includes a magnet array holder 202, a magnetic component 204 disposed within a portion of the magnet array holder 202, a non-magnetic component 206 disposed within a portion of the magnet array holder 202, and an iron shielding portion 208 disposed on the front edge of the magnet array holder (the side of the TWT 100 adjacent to the TWT gun 102).

[0028] The magnet array holder 202 can be made from a non-magnetic material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy, titanium or a titanium alloy, copper or a copper alloy, or stainless steel. Magnetic materials may be used to produce all or part of the magnet array holder 202 to achieve the desired magnetic circuit characteristics and thus the magnetic field.

[0029] These parts provide exemplary mechanical features for precisely securing magnetic and non-magnetic components in appropriate locations. Exemplary parts (specifically, those shown in at least Figures 2d and 2e) may be slots, pockets, notches, or other types of receiving features (e.g., with guide rails). In some embodiments, the magnetic component 204 may be located in a pocket, and the non-magnetic component 206 may be located in a slot. Alternatively, both may be located in pockets or slots, the magnetic component 204 may be located in pockets and / or slots, and / or the non-magnetic component 206 may be located in pockets and / or slots. Any combination is possible.

[0030] Each section (pocket, slot, or notch) controls the position, size, and orientation of the magnetic component 204 and / or non-magnetic component 206. Position and size include length, depth, width, vertical position (y-axis), lateral position (x-axis), longitudinal position (z-axis), etc. Sections can be mounted symmetrically or asymmetrically to achieve the desired result. The position and size of each section, as well as the corresponding magnetic component 204 and non-magnetic component 206 placed within each section, can be shaped to achieve the desired magnetic interaction circuit performance.

[0031] The magnetic components 204 and non-magnetic components 206 can be fixed to their respective locations without requiring the direct application of adhesive. In some embodiments, if adhesive is added, the adhesive does not affect the placement of the magnetic components 204 and / or non-magnetic components 206. In some embodiments, each location may be configured to accept two or more magnetic components 204, two or more non-magnetic components 206, and / or combinations of magnetic components 204 and non-magnetic components 206.

[0032] It should be understood that the heights of the magnetic component 204 and / or non-magnetic component 206 can vary to create a desired gap between the individual magnetic component 204 and non-magnetic component 206. The automated assembly process can utilize the extra height to grip the magnetic component 204 and non-magnetic component 206 and insert them into their respective positions. By employing height variations, the magnetic component 204 and / or non-magnetic component 206 can be inserted in a desired order. The heights of the magnetic component 204 and / or non-magnetic component 206 can also be shaped to achieve the desired magnetic interaction circuit performance.

[0033] The depth of the magnetic component 204 and the non-magnetic component 206, as well as the length, height, and width, can be used to provide a further level of separation and alignment between the various types of magnetic component 204 and / or non-magnetic component 206 in the assembly. The walls of the part can be configured to act as an additional constraint on the magnetic component 204 while it is being inserted into the part and after it has been inserted into the part. The depth can provide positional accuracy.

[0034] As shown in the figure, the exposed side of the exemplary magnet array 110 includes an alternating sequence of magnetic components 204 and non-magnetic components 206 along the length of the magnet array holder 202, but other sequences are possible based on the desired magnetic interaction circuit performance. As shown in the figure, the magnetic components 204 are arranged such that their upper surfaces terminate vertically in a single plane higher than the non-magnetic components 206, and the non-magnetic components 206 also terminate in a single plane.

[0035] The magnet array retainer 202 can be configured for vacuum electronic devices operating at various frequencies, but it particularly benefits devices operating between 25 GHz and 1 THz. The magnet array retainer 202 is particularly suitable for electronic devices ranging in size from micrometers to millimeters, and therefore supports the fabrication and alignment required for electron beam propagation through interaction circuits. The magnet array 110 can be configured to amplify electromagnetic signals having frequencies ranging from 1 GHz to 25 GHz, 25 GHz to 100 GHz, 100 GHz to 250 GHz, 250 GHz to 500 GHz, or 500 GHz to 1000 GHz. Other frequency ranges are also possible.

[0036] The magnet array holder 202 is illustrated to include slots 214 throughout the entire magnet array holder 202, but in some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 may include a hard floor on the bottom side of the magnet array holder 202, for example, to prevent non-magnetic components 206 from extending beyond the floor.

[0037] The disclosures described herein provide an example of applying a slotting technique to a rectangular magnet assembly. The same technique, using slot depth and various component heights, can be applied to cylindrical symmetrical magnets and non-magnetic assemblies.

[0038] Figure 2b shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array 110 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. Further magnetic components 210 may be included to combine multiple types of magnetic circuits. Further magnetic components 210 may be quadrupole and / or bipolar magnetic components 210 configured to add further magnetic control to one or more electron beams. Further magnetic components 210 may be located within pocket-type sections (shown in detail in Figure 2e). As shown, further magnetic components 210 may be located as an array of two further components 210 below each magnetic component 204 of a series of magnetic components 204. Further magnetic components 210 may be located in any other location, e.g., above, next to, etc., as shown below.

[0039] In some embodiments, magnetic components 204 and non-magnetic components 206 are configured to control one or more electron beams in the y-direction. In some embodiments, a further magnetic component 210 is configured to control one or more electron beams in the x-direction.

[0040] Figure 2c shows a top view and a bottom view of a magnet array holder 202 according to several first embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] In some embodiments, as shown, the upper side of the magnet array holder 202 includes a slot 214 for receiving a non-magnetic component 206 and a pocket 216 for receiving a magnetic component 204. In some embodiments, as shown, the bottom side of the magnet array holder 202 includes a pocket 218 for receiving a further (quadripolar) magnetic component 210. The slot 214, pocket 216 and pocket 218 may collectively be referred to as part 228.

[0042] Marks 212 are added to the pockets 216 of the magnet array holder 202 to identify the polarity of the magnets of the magnetic component 204 placed therein, allowing the assembler to align the marks 212 during the assembly process to ensure the correct magnetic orientation. Marks 212 may be added to either or both the magnetic component 204 and the magnet array holder 202. It will be understood that the marks 212 may include written marks 212 or physical marks 212 (i.e., keys) to ensure the correct orientation of the magnetic component 204 during assembly.

[0043] In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the markings 212 on the upper (exposed) side of the magnet array holder 202 indicate an alternating pattern in which north-facing and south-facing magnetic components 204 are arranged in the pocket 216. In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the markings 212 on the bottom side (side relative to the TWT 100) of the magnet array holder 202 indicate an array in which further south-facing, north-facing, or opposite-facing (quadrupole) magnetic components 204 are arranged in the pocket 218.

[0044] In some embodiments, the size and shape of each slot 214 may be the same, the size and shape of each pocket 216 may be the same, and the size and shape of each pocket 218 may be the same. In some embodiments, the size and shape of each slot 214, pocket 216, and pocket 218 may be the same or different. In some embodiments, there may be variations in the size and shape of each slot 214, each pocket 216, and each pocket 218. Any combination is possible.

[0045] The mounting fixture may also be useful for aligning further external magnetic components outside the magnet array portion 110, such as magnetic shielding. Additional external pockets or notches and alignment features may be added to position and secure the magnetic components in place. The external magnetic components may be part of a complete or partial magnetic circuit.

[0046] Figure 2d shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 202 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 202 includes an alternating sequence of slots 214 for receiving non-magnetic components 206 and pockets 216 for receiving magnetic components 204. The magnet array holder 202 further includes one or more (in this case, three) mounting interfaces 220 (e.g., rectangular projections having screw holes as shown, or further or alternatively, pins, adhesives, fasteners, welds, mounting materials, etc.) for securing the magnet array holder 202 to the vacuum electronic device 100. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 may be integrated as part of the vacuum electronic device 100.

[0047] Figure 2e shows a bottom perspective view of a magnet array holder 202 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 202 includes an array of pockets 216 for receiving further magnetic components 210 (e.g., quadrupole magnetic components).

[0048] Figure 2f shows a top view and a bottom view of a magnet array section 110 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the magnet array section 110 includes holes 224 for aligning the magnet array section 110.

[0049] Figure 2g shows a side view of a magnet array 110 according to one of the first embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the magnet array 110 includes a magnet array holder 202, which has an iron shielding portion 208 attached to its leading edge, followed in this embodiment by alternating magnetic components 204 and non-magnetic components 206. Other patterns of magnetic components 204 and non-magnetic components 206 are also possible to achieve the desired interaction.

[0050] Figure 2h shows a cross-sectional side view of a magnet array 110 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array 110 in Figure 2h helps to show the depth, height position and height of the magnetic component 204 and the non-magnetic component 206. In some embodiments, as shown, the magnetic component 204 rests on a series of bridging sections 226 disposed at the bottom of the magnet array holder 202, and the non-magnetic component 206 extends between the bridging sections 226, past the bridging sections 226, and completely to the bottom surface of the magnet array holder 202 (or, in some embodiments, beyond the bottom surface). In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 includes a series of bridging sections below the non-magnetic component 206 but does not include a series of bridging sections below the magnetic component 204. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 may include a series of bridging sections below the combination of (e.g., some or all of each) the magnetic component 204 and the non-magnetic component 206. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 may include a series of ceiling sections in place of or in addition to the bridging section, particularly when the magnetic components 204 and / or non-magnetic components 206 are assembled from below rather than from above. Similarly, in some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 may include walls in place of or in addition to the bridging section or ceiling section, particularly when the magnetic components 204 and / or non-magnetic components 206 are assembled from the side rather than from above or below. Other orientations are possible. Various combinations of orientations are also possible.

[0051] Figures 3a to 3d illustrate exemplary assembly steps of a magnet array 110 using an exemplary magnet array holder 202. Figure 3a shows a top perspective view of the magnet array holder 202 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the iron shielding portion 208 is attached to the front edge of the magnet array holder 202. Figure 3b shows a top perspective view of the magnet array holder 202 according to some first embodiments of the present invention, where one magnetic component 204 is positioned adjacent to the iron shielding portion 208, and the magnetic component 204 can function as a fixture for inserting the following components. Figure 3c shows a top perspective view of the magnet array holder 202 according to some first embodiments of the present invention, where one magnetic component 204 and one non-magnetic component 206 positioned adjacent to the magnetic component 204 can function as a fixture for inserting the following components. Figure 3d shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 202 according to one of the first embodiments of the present invention, in which all magnetic components 204 and all magnetic components 206 are arranged inside to form a magnet array 110.

[0052] In some embodiments, the pattern for assembling the magnet array 110 begins with inserting non-magnetic components 206 or at least a pair of magnetic components 206 into each slot 214. Since the non-magnetic components 206 do not interfere with each other, they can be inserted with little or no effort. Next, the magnetic components 204 can be inserted into the pockets 216 between the pairs of non-magnetic components 206. The pairs of non-magnetic components 206 can support the attractive and repulsive forces during insertion to establish a fixture / wall for the magnetic components 204, thereby reducing the risk of the magnetic components 204 (which may be brittle) breaking and the risk of the magnetic components 204 moving forward. It will be understood that the pattern may be similar to that of assembling the magnet array 400, which includes an alternating sequence of magnetic components with polarity oriented vertically and magnetic components with polarity oriented horizontally. The pattern may begin by placing magnetic components that can be polarized up / down or left / right within the slots, and then magnetic components that can be polarized left / right or up / down may be added between each pair of components that can be polarized up / down.

[0053] Assembly time is accelerated by approximately 10 times compared to conventional assembly. Alignment is predictable and can be accurately calculated. This allows for detailed study of the effects of tolerances on individual magnetic components 204 and the magnet array holder 202 itself, as this study relates to the design of the magnetic circuit and the performance of the magnetic field generated to manipulate the electron beam.

[0054] Figure 4a shows a top perspective view of an exemplary magnet array 400 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. Like the magnet array 110, the magnet array 400 includes a magnet array holder 402, an iron shielding portion 408, magnetic components 404 in pockets, and non-magnetic components 406 in slots. The magnet array 400 is similar to the magnet array 110 except that the shapes of the magnet array holder 402, magnetic components 404, non-magnetic components 406, and iron shielding portion 408 are different.

[0055] Figure 4b shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array 400 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 402 does not include additional pockets on the bottom side for further magnetic components (e.g., quadrupole magnetic components).

[0056] Figure 4c shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary magnet array 410 according to several third embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array 410 may include the same upper side as the magnet array 400. However, the magnet array 410 may include a magnet array holder 412 having a different bottom side, the bottom side including an additional pocket configured to receive a further (quadripolar) magnetic component 414 to be housed inside.

[0057] Figure 4d shows top and bottom views of a magnet array holder 402 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, as shown, the upper side of the magnet array holder 402 includes a slot 418 for receiving a non-magnetic component 406 and a pocket 420 for receiving a magnetic component 404. The slot 418 and pocket 420 may collectively be referred to as part 428. Marks 416 are added to the pocket 420 of the magnet array holder 402 to identify the polarity of the magnets of the magnetic component 404 placed therein, allowing the assembler to align the marks 416 during the assembly process to ensure the correct orientation of the magnets. Marks 416 may be added to either or both the magnetic component 404 and the magnet array holder 402. It will be understood that the marks 416 may include written marks 416 or physical marks 416 (i.e., keys) to ensure the correct orientation of the magnetic component 404.

[0058] In some embodiments, as shown in the figure, the mark 212 on the upper (exposed) side of the magnet array holder 202 indicates an alternating pattern in which north-facing magnetic components and south-facing magnetic components 204 are arranged in the pocket 216.

[0059] Figure 4e shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 402 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 402 includes an alternating sequence of slots 418 for receiving non-magnetic components 406 and pockets 420 for receiving magnetic components 404. The magnet array holder 402 further shows a bridging portion at the bottom of the pockets 420.

[0060] Figure 4f shows a bottom perspective view of a magnet array holder 402 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 402 does not include an array of pockets for receiving further magnetic components (e.g., quadrupole magnetic components). The magnet array holder 402 shows an opening for a slot for receiving a non-magnetic component 406.

[0061] Figure 4g shows a bottom view of a magnet array holder 412 according to some third embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, as shown, the bottom of the exemplary magnet array holder 412 includes a pocket 424 for receiving a further (quadripolar) magnetic component 414.

[0062] Marks 422 may be added to the pockets 424 of the magnet array holder 402 to identify the polarity of the magnets of the magnetic component 414 placed inside, allowing the assembler to align the marks 414 during the assembly process to ensure the correct orientation of the magnets. Marks 414 may be added to either or both the magnetic component 414 and the magnet array holder 412. It will be understood that the marks 422 may include written marks 422 or physical marks 422 (i.e., keys) to ensure the correct orientation of the magnetic component 414. In some embodiments, as shown in the figures, the marks 422 on the bottom side of the magnet array holder 412 (the side facing the TWT 100) indicate a pattern in which further (quadripolar) magnetic components 414 facing south, north, or opposite directions are placed in the pockets 424.

[0063] Figure 4h shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 412 according to several third embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 412 includes an alternating sequence of slots 418 for receiving non-magnetic components 406 and pockets 420 for receiving magnetic components 404.

[0064] Figure 4i shows a bottom perspective view of a magnet array holder 412 according to several third embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array holder 412 includes an array of pockets 424 for receiving further magnetic components 414 (e.g., quadrupole magnetic components).

[0065] Figure 4j shows a top view and a bottom view of a magnet array section 400 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the magnet array section 400 includes holes 420 for aligning the magnet array section 110.

[0066] Figure 4k shows a side view of a magnet array section 400 / 410 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the magnet array section 400 / 410 includes a magnet array section holder 402 / 412, which has an iron shielding section 408 attached to its leading edge, followed in this embodiment by alternating magnetic components 404 and non-magnetic components 406. Other patterns of magnetic components 404 and non-magnetic components 406 are also possible to achieve the desired interaction.

[0067] Figure 4l shows a cross-sectional side view of a magnet array section 400 / 410 according to some second embodiments of the present invention. The magnet array section 400 / 410 in Figure 4l helps to show the depth, height position and height of the magnetic component 404 and the non-magnetic component 406. In some embodiments, as shown, the magnetic component 404 rests on top of a series of bridging sections 434 disposed at the bottom of the magnet array section holder 402, and the non-magnetic component 406 extends completely between the bridging sections 434, past the bridging sections 434, to the bottom surface of the magnet array section holder 402 (or, in some embodiments, past the bottom surface of the magnet array section holder 202).

[0068] Figure 4m shows a bottom view of a magnet array section 410 according to several third embodiments of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the magnet array section 410 includes holes 432 for aligning the magnet array section 410.

[0069] Figures 5a to 5d illustrate exemplary assembly steps of a magnet array 400 using an exemplary magnet array holder 402. Figure 5a shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 402 according to some first embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the iron shielding portion 408 is attached to the front edge of the magnet array holder 402. Figure 5b shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 402 having one magnetic component 404 according to some first embodiments of the present invention, the magnetic component 404 being positioned adjacent to the iron shielding portion 408 and potentially acting as a fixture for inserting the following components. Figure 5c shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 402 according to some first embodiments of the present invention, where one magnetic component 404 and one non-magnetic component 406 positioned adjacent to the magnetic component 404 may act as a fixture for inserting the following components. Figure 5d shows a top perspective view of a magnet array holder 402 having all magnetic components 404 and all non-magnetic components 406 according to some first embodiments of the present invention, in which the magnetic components 404 and non-magnetic components 406 are arranged inside to form a magnet array 400.

[0070] Similar to Figures 3a to 3d, in some embodiments, the pattern for assembling the magnet array 400 begins by inserting non-magnetic components 406 or at least a pair of non-magnetic components 406 into each slot 418. Since the non-magnetic components 406 do not interfere with each other, they can be inserted with little or no effort. Next, the magnetic components 404 can be inserted into the pocket 420 between the pair of non-magnetic components 406. The pair of non-magnetic components 406 can assist in the insertion to establish a fixture / wall for the magnetic components 404, thereby reducing the risk of the magnetic components 404 (which may be brittle) breaking and the risk of the magnetic components 404 moving forward. It will be understood that the pattern may be similar to that of an assembly of the magnet array 400 including magnetic components polarized up and down and magnetic components polarized left and right in an alternating order. The pattern may begin by placing magnetic components oriented in an up-and-down or left-and-right direction, or at least a pair of magnetic components oriented in an up-and-down direction, within a slot, and then magnetic components oriented in a left-and-right or up-and-down direction may be added between each pair of components oriented in an up-and-down or left-and-right direction.

[0071] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate exemplary assembly steps of a magnet array 410 using an exemplary magnet array holder 412. Figure 6a shows a bottom perspective view of a magnet array holder 412 containing one magnetic component 414, according to some third embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6b shows a bottom perspective view of a magnet array holder 412 containing all magnetic components 414, according to some third embodiments of the present invention.

[0072] Figures 7a to 7d show exemplary upper and lower magnet arrays 700 and 702 that establish the confinement and operation of one or more electron beams. The arrangement of individual magnetic components 404 relative to the upper and lower magnet arrays 702 may be critical to the performance of the vacuum electronic device 100. Figure 7a shows a side view of the upper magnet array 700 according to several embodiments of the present invention. Magnet arrays 110, 400 and 410 are examples of the upper magnet array 700, respectively. Figure 7b shows a side view of the lower magnet array 702 according to several embodiments of the present invention. Magnet arrays 110, 400 and 410 are examples of the lower magnet array 702, respectively. Figure 7c shows a cross-sectional side view of the upper magnet array 700 according to several embodiments of the present invention. Figure 7d shows a cross-sectional side view of the lower magnet array 702 according to several embodiments of the present invention.

[0073] In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 / 402 / 412 may support only magnetic components. In some embodiments, non-magnetic partitions may be constructed within the magnet array holder 202 / 402 / 412 in place of some or all of the non-magnetic components. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 / 402 / 412 may be designed to include only a portion of the interaction circuit, allowing other magnets to be placed elsewhere, for example, on one or more second magnet array holders, on the vacuum electronic device itself, etc. In some embodiments, the magnet array holder 202 / 402 / 412 may include magnetic portions in place of some of the magnetic components. In some embodiments, various portions 202 / 402 / 412 may be designed to accept alternating sets of magnetic components 204 / 404 and non-magnetic components 206 / 406 of opposite poles. Other combinations are possible.

[0074] The above description of preferred embodiments of the present invention is merely illustrative, and other variations and modifications of the embodiments and methods are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting. The present invention is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. A magnet array holder configured to hold magnetic and / or non-magnetic components in order to form a magnet array, wherein the magnet array is configured to operate one or more electron beams within a vacuum electronic device when assembled, and the magnet array holder comprises a set of slots configured to receive the magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, A set of pockets for receiving the magnetic component and / or the non-magnetic component, The magnet array holder is configured to be connected to a vacuum electronic device by one or more mounting interfaces. A holder for a magnet array section.

2. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein each slot in the set of slots has a first shape, and each pocket in the set of pockets has a second shape different from the first shape.

3. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein each pocket in the set of pockets has a bridging portion that crosses the pocket.

4. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein each pocket in the set of pockets includes a mark indicating the orientation of the magnetic component in order to assist in the alignment of the magnetic component.

5. The aforementioned mark is the key that is written on it, as described in claim 4, for the magnet array holder.

6. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein each pocket has a size, shape and position that controls the size, shape and position of the magnetic component and the non-magnetic component to be received therein.

7. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein each slot has a size, shape and position that controls the size, shape and position of the magnetic component and the non-magnetic component to be received therein.

8. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, further comprising a set of further parts configured to receive further magnetic or non-magnetic components.

9. The magnet array holder according to claim 8, wherein each part of the set of further parts includes a mark indicating the orientation of the magnetic parts in order to assist in the alignment of the further magnetic parts.

10. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein at least one slot of the set of slots extends through the magnet array holder.

11. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein the magnet array holder holds both the magnetic component and the non-magnetic component.

12. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein the magnet array holder holds only the magnetic components.

13. The magnet array holder according to claim 1, wherein the magnet array holder holds only a portion of the interaction circuit of the vacuum electronic device.

14. A method for assembling a magnet array configured to manipulate one or more electron beams within a vacuum electronic device, wherein the method is: To prepare a magnet array holder configured to hold magnetic components and / or non-magnetic components, wherein the magnet array holder comprises a set of slots configured to receive the magnetic components and / or non-magnetic components, a set of pockets configured to receive the magnetic components and / or non-magnetic components, and one or more mounting interfaces configured to connect to the vacuum electronic device, To arrange at least one pair of the magnetic components or the non-magnetic components in a set of slots adjacent to a specific pocket in the set of pockets, To place a specific magnetic component in a specific pocket of the set of pockets. A method comprising the pair of magnetic or non-magnetic components acting as a wall supporting the insertion of the particular magnetic component.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein each pocket in the set of pockets has a bridging portion that crosses the pocket.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein each slot in the set of slots is configured to receive its respective non-magnetic component.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein each slot in the set of slots is configured to receive a magnetic component having an up-and-down polarity orientation.

18. The method according to claim 14, wherein placing a specific magnetic component in the specific pocket includes orienting the polarity of the magnetic component according to a mark.

19. The method according to claim 14, wherein the magnet array holder further comprises a set of further portions configured to receive further magnetic and / or non-magnetic components, and further comprises arranging further magnetic components within the further portions.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the arrangement of the further magnetic and / or non-magnetic components includes orienting them according to the markings.

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