Magnetic Spark Gap Triggering Without External Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spark gap triggers require external power and control mechanisms, making them complex and prone to errors, and they do not efficiently utilize the magnetic fields generated in high voltage or high current circuits.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic induction device that includes inductive voltage generators and a triggering electrode in a spark gap, where magnetic flux induces a voltage to trigger the spark gap switch, eliminating the need for external power and control by leveraging the existing circuit's magnetic field and geometric configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional spark gap triggers are used, then the spark gap can be triggered, but external power and control mechanisms are required, increasing device complexity and susceptibility to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger electrode utilizes the magnetic field already present in the high voltage or high current circuit to induce its own triggering voltage, eliminating the need for external power sources and control mechanisms. The circuit's own magnetic energy serves the dual purpose of operation and self-triggering, thereby simplifying the overall system and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field generated by the high voltage or high current circuit serves multiple functions: it provides the operating energy for the circuit and simultaneously serves as the triggering mechanism for the spark gap. This multi-functionality eliminates separate triggering components and reduces system complexity.
2Reliability
If conventional spark gap triggers are used, then the spark gap can be triggered, but external power sources are required, increasing the risk of power failures and control errors
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger electrode harvests energy from the circuit's own magnetic field to generate the triggering voltage, making the system self-sufficient and independent of external power sources. This eliminates the risk of external power failures affecting the triggering function.
3Reliability
If the trigger electrode is positioned close to the spark gap, then efficient magnetic coupling is achieved, but the risk of electrical breakdown increases
Solution Approach 1:
A dielectric material is introduced between the trigger electrode and the spark gap to prevent direct electrical contact and breakdown. This intermediary allows the trigger electrode to be positioned close to the spark gap for efficient magnetic coupling while the dielectric barrier prevents harmful electrical discharge.
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 simplifies spark gap triggering, ensures reliable timing, and reduces the risk of control errors and external power failures, as it harnesses the circuit's magnetic energy to generate a high voltage for switch closure, making it suitable for various applications including lightning protection.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic flux induces a voltage into the electrode responsive to the second inductor magnetically coupled to the first inductor
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic induction device is provided for triggering an electric spark discharge in response to a variable voltage. The device includes an inductor; a resistor series having first and second resistors; and a discharge device. These are arranged in a receiver circuit in which the inductor, the resistor series and the spark gap are disposed in parallel. The inductor connects between the first and second resistors to a gate electrode of the discharge device. Magnetic flux induces a current into the electrode responsive to the receiver circuit temporarily overlapping the inductor, thereby inducing the spark.