Lightning Rod Priming Device Using Focused Electromagnetic Radiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lightning protection systems, particularly those using high-voltage discharges and very high intensity pulsed lasers, are costly, restrictive in synchronization, and not commercially viable for widespread use due to the high expense of manufacturing and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method and installation for a lightning rod that uses focused electromagnetic radiation, preferably light with a wavelength between 80 nm and 900 nm, to create a peak effect at the collector electrode's free end, allowing efficient air ionization with low intensity radiation, which can be continuously emitted or automatically triggered based on electric field measurements or optical detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-voltage discharges or very high intensity pulsed lasers are used to trigger corona effect and accelerate ascending tracer formation, then the lightning protection efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/electrical high-voltage discharge systems with a simple optical system (light source). This substitution achieves the same corona triggering effect through photoionization rather than electrical breakdown, dramatically simplifying the device while maintaining protection efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses inexpensive, readily available light sources (such as LEDs or simple lamps) instead of expensive, complex high-voltage generators or pulsed lasers. These simple light sources can be easily replaced if needed, reducing both initial cost and maintenance complexity.
2Productivity
If high-voltage discharges or very high intensity pulsed lasers are used to trigger corona effect, then the ascending tracer formation is accelerated, but the synchronization requirements become more restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
Replacing the complex timing-synchronized electrical discharge system with a continuous or easily controlled light source removes the stringent synchronization requirements. Light can be emitted continuously or triggered with simple electrical signals that do not require precise timing coordination with the lightning discharge process.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source can be positioned and configured in advance to illuminate the lightning rod tip continuously or be ready to trigger immediately when needed. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex real-time synchronization systems that would be required for high-voltage discharges.
3Reliability
If very high intensity pulsed lasers are used to create ionizing channels, then the lightning protection capability is enhanced, but the manufacturing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention substitutes expensive pulsed lasers with inexpensive light sources such as LEDs, incandescent lamps, or simple fluorescent bulbs. These common components are mass-produced and readily available, making the lightning protection system economically viable for widespread deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex optical system of pulsed lasers is replaced with a simple electrical-optical system using standard light sources. This substitution maintains the photoionization mechanism while dramatically reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
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 solution enables efficient air ionization and accelerated formation of ascending tracers with reduced manufacturing costs and greater flexibility in synchronization, making it more practical and cost-effective than previous solutions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electromagnetic radiation is emitted which is focused in a focusing plane on said free end of the collector electrode or in the immediate vicinity of said free end of the collector electrode
Implementation Method 2
at least one electromagnetic radiation is emitted which is focused in a focusing plane on said free end of the collector electrode or in the immediate vicinity of said free end of the collector electrode
Implementation Method 3
When the energy of the electron is sufficient, it can, by colliding with an atom, tear off another electron, and so on, accelerating the ionization of the air in the vicinity of the asperity by a phenomenon called 'electronic avalanche'
Data Source
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AI summary
The installation for protecting against lightening comprises a lightening rod and a priming device. The lightening rod comprises a collecting electrode (1) which comprises a free end (1d) making it possible to create a tip effect. The priming device comprises a source (2) of electromagnetic radiation and optical means of focussing (4) making it possible to focus the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the source (2) onto said free end (1d) of the collecting electrode (1) or in immediate proximity to said free end (1d) of the collecting electrode (1).