Curved Marx Generator Layout for Low-Inductance HPEM Pulses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-power electromagnetic (HPEM) pulse generators face limitations in increasing the range of HPEM systems without scaling antennas, due to physical and structural constraints that result in increased inductance and decreased charging current when trying to use higher voltages, which is not practically scalable.
Innovation Solution
The spatial arrangement of capacitors in a non-straight configuration, such as a ring or S shape, reduces the distance between output poles, minimizing supply line inductance and allowing for a more compact design that maximizes charging current and achieves higher Marx voltage overshoot, enabling increased overvoltage at the DS resonator without scaling the antenna.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the distance between output poles is increased to accommodate more capacitors in series for higher Marx voltage, then the charging voltage is improved, but the supply line inductance increases and charging current decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by arranging capacitors in a circular or arc-shaped configuration rather than a straight line. This allows the output poles to be positioned closer together spatially while still accommodating the required number of capacitors in series, thereby reducing supply line inductance while maintaining high Marx voltage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear arrangement of capacitors to a two-dimensional circular or curved arrangement. This dimensional change allows the system to achieve both high voltage (through series connection of multiple capacitors) and short supply line distance (by positioning output poles close together in the curved configuration).
2Volume of moving object
If the Marx generator is made more compact to reduce space requirements, then the device complexity is reduced, but the capacitor arrangement becomes more difficult and inductance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circular or curved arrangement of capacitors provides a systematic and regular pattern that simplifies the mechanical mounting and electrical connections. Each capacitor follows the same geometric pattern, making the assembly process more standardized and less complex despite the compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the structural support function and the electrical connection function into a unified circular framework. The same curved structure that provides mechanical support also serves as the electrical connection path, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device complexity.
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
This configuration allows for a significant increase in the range of HPEM systems by achieving higher charging voltages and field generation without the need for larger antennas, while ensuring safety and reducing space requirements through a compact housing with insulation gas and metal EMC protection.
Implementation Method 1
a Marx generator having a plurality of capacitors that are connected in series between two output poles, wherein a Marx voltage is provided between the output poles during operation of the Marx generator
Implementation Method 2
a DS resonator having two input poles, wherein each of the input poles is connected to one of the output poles by a respective supply line
Data Source
AI summary
A pulse generator for generating an HPEM pulse includes a Marx generator having a plurality of capacitors that are connected in series between two output poles, providing a Marx voltage between the output poles during operation of the Marx generator. A DS resonator has two input poles and each of the input poles is connected to a respective one of the output poles by a respective supply line. The capacitors are physically disposed along a profile line having two ends at each of which a respective one of the output poles is located. A distance between the output poles is smaller than a longitudinal extent of the Marx generator along the profile line.