Conformal DBD Electrode Assembly for Electric Field Stress Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DBD systems for generating high-voltage cold plasma (HVCP) have a short service life due to electrical field stresses on the dielectric material, leading to inefficient reactive gas production and limited scalability for large-scale disinfection.
Innovation Solution
The development of an innovative electrode assembly with a conformal dielectric and optimized electrode design, including rounded edges and corners, along with a reactive gas generator and regulator system, to extend the service life of the electrode assembly and enhance reactive gas production efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional DBD systems are used with flat electrodes and standard dielectric materials, then the system can generate high-voltage cold plasma, but the service life is short due to electrical field stresses on the dielectric material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by rounding the edges and corners of the electrode. This spherical/curved geometry redistributes the electrical field stress more evenly across the dielectric material, preventing stress concentration at sharp edges and corners. The rounded electrode design directly addresses the electrical field stress problem while maintaining plasma generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying conformal dielectric coatings specifically to the electrode surfaces and edges. This conformal coating approach ensures uniform dielectric protection across the entire electrode surface, including curved edges and corners, providing localized reinforcement where electrical field stresses are most intense.
2Productivity
If traditional electrode designs are used, then the system can produce reactive gas, but the production efficiency is limited and scalability for large-scale disinfection is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the electrode into multiple segments or sections, each optimized for specific functions. This segmented design allows for improved reactive gas production in certain areas while managing electrical field distribution across different zones, enhancing overall productivity without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode assembly is designed with multi-functionality, serving both plasma generation and reactive gas production functions simultaneously. The conformal dielectric structure and rounded edges enable the same electrode to optimize both electrical field management and chemical reaction efficiency, improving productivity without requiring separate specialized components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The improved electrode assembly and reactive gas generation system significantly extend the service life of the DBD system, enabling more efficient and cost-effective production of reactive gas for large-scale disinfection and product treatment.
Implementation Method 1
Plasma, a fourth state of matter distinguished from gas, liquid and solid, may be produced through electrical discharge, for example electrical discharge through a gas
Implementation Method 2
HVCP may be prepared using non-equilibrium breakdown of a gas, using voltages preferably of 30 kV to 500 KV, typically at a frequency of 50 or 60 Hz with a DBD system
Implementation Method 3
Plasmas have been used for decontamination and sterilization. Plasma, a fourth state of matter distinguished from gas, liquid and solid
Implementation Method 4
Existing DBD systems for generating high-voltage cold plasma (HVCP) have a short service life due to electrical field stresses on the dielectric material
Data Source
AI summary
An electrode assembly, comprising (a) a conductive electrode, having (i) a first electrode surface, (ii) a second electrode surface, opposite the first electrode surface, (iii) an electrode edge, connecting the first and second electrode surfaces, and (iv) an electrode tab, for making an electrical connection to the electrode. The electrode assembly further comprises (b) a dielectric, enclosing the first and second electrode surfaces and the electrode edge, and (c) a first working surface, on the first electrode surface, wherein the dielectric is present between the first working surface and the first electrode surface. The dielectric is conformal with the first electrode surface, the second electrode surface and the electrode edge.