Exchangeable Plasma Handpiece for Modular Base Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plasma devices for industrial use are limited in their ability to easily switch between different plasma modes and nozzle configurations, requiring separate devices for various applications, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular plasma device design featuring an exchangeable handpiece with a base unit that includes a power supply, gas flow rate adjustment, and user input controls, allowing for different plasma modes and nozzle configurations by connecting various handpieces with distinct electrode and nozzle structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a small-sized plasma generator is used, then the device size is reduced, but the treatment area is limited to local areas only
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma device is divided into a base unit and an exchangeable handpiece. The handpiece contains different nozzle types (pin type for local treatment, large area type for extensive treatment) that can be swapped based on treatment requirements, allowing a compact base to provide both localized and large-area plasma treatment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed as a universal platform that can support multiple handpiece types through a standardized connector. This allows a single compact device to perform both local (pin type) and large-area plasma treatment by simply exchanging the handpiece, eliminating the need for separate devices for different treatment scales.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate plasma generation devices are purchased for different purposes, then plasma treatment capabilities for various modes are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit serves as a universal platform with standardized electrical and gas connections that can accommodate multiple handpiece types. Users can switch between pin type and large area nozzles by simply exchanging handpieces, providing versatile plasma treatment capabilities without requiring multiple separate devices or complex configuration changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of plasma treatment capabilities through hot-swappable handpieces. The standardized connector enables quick exchange of nozzles during operation, allowing the device to adapt to different treatment requirements (local vs. large area) without shutting down or undergoing complex reconfiguration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used for different plasma modes, then plasma mode versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized handpiece connector allows users to switch between different plasma modes (pin type for local treatment, large area type for extensive treatment) by simply plugging and unplugging handpieces. This maintains plasma mode versatility while significantly improving ease of operation compared to managing multiple separate devices.
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
Enables flexible use of desired plasma modes and nozzle shapes with a single base unit, reducing the need for multiple devices and simplifying operations, while allowing for efficient plasma treatment of various surface areas.
Implementation Method 1
a boosting transformer configured to boost the AC signal
Implementation Method 2
an electrode structure configured to receive the boosted AC signal and the gas and form plasma
Implementation Method 3
form plasma by receiving the boosted AC signal and the gas
Implementation Method 4
a remote mode in which the plasma is discharged to a nozzle by the pressure of generated and introduced gas
Implementation Method 5
a direct mode in which the plasma is accelerated and discharged by an electric field
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a plasma device which includes: a base including a power supply unit configured to receive electric power and form an AC signal, a gas flow rate adjustment unit configured to receive gas and control a flow rate of output gas, an input unit configured to receive an input of a user, and a controller configured to control the power supply unit and the gas flow rate adjustment unit according to the input; and a handpiece including a boosting transformer configured to boost the AC signal, an electrode structure configured to receive the boosted AC signal and the gas and form plasma, a switch configured to receive a plasma discharge signal of the user, and a nozzle configured to discharge the formed plasma, wherein the handpiece is connected to the base via a connector and is exchangeable.