Microwave Generator Spark Gap Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In microwave antenna arrays, the asynchronous ignition of spark gaps due to varying line lengths and electrode wear leads to desynchronization of capacitive discharge currents, resulting in non-superimposed microwave fields, which complicates the detection of radiation density and effective range.
Innovation Solution
Individual spark gap responses are synchronized by mechanically adjusting electrode separations and dielectric pressures, with optoelectronic detection and control systems ensuring simultaneous ignition, allowing for phase-aligned microwave emission and iterative energy optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If spark gaps are used to discharge capacitive resonators in an antenna array, then high-energy microwave fields can be emitted, but the stochastic and systematic variations in spark gap response times cause desynchronization of discharge currents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-adjusting the electrode separations and dielectric pressures in the spark gaps before operation. This allows the system to be configured in advance so that all spark gaps ignite simultaneously when the Marx generator discharges, ensuring synchronized discharge currents across all resonators without requiring real-time control during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different line lengths are used to connect resonators to the Marx generator, then the antenna array can be configured flexibly, but systematic delay time influences cause desynchronization of spark gap ignition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the electrode separation distance and dielectric pressure in each spark gap to compensate for the different line lengths. By varying these parameters, the ignition timing of each spark gap is tuned so that despite different electrical path lengths, all gaps ignite simultaneously, maintaining synchronization while allowing flexible array configuration.
3Productivity
If spark gap electrodes are operated over time, then the antenna array can be used repeatedly, but electrode wear causes lengthening of spark gaps and progressive desynchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the electrode separations adjustable rather than fixed. This allows the system to adapt to electrode wear over time by re-adjusting the separations to maintain proper spark gap lengths and ignition synchronization. The adjustable nature enables the system to remain synchronized throughout its operational life despite cumulative wear effects.
4Loss of time
If the electrode separation in spark gaps is reduced, then the spark gap ignites earlier in the charging cycle, but this causes desynchronization with other resonators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing each spark gap to have a different electrode separation distance tailored to its specific requirements. Instead of using a uniform separation for all gaps, each gap's separation is individually optimized and adjusted so that despite local variations in line length and electrical characteristics, all gaps ignite simultaneously, achieving synchronization through localized customization.
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 synchronization enhances the effective range and intensity of microwave energy emission by ensuring all antennas emit in phase, enabling precise control and optimization of microwave energy distribution.
Implementation Method 1
the occurrence of the light flash when the respective spark gap is ignited to be detected optoelectronically
Implementation Method 2
the occurrence of the light flash when the respective spark gap is ignited
Data Source
AI summary
In order to make it possible to direct sufficient microwave energy at a target with an electronic device which is to be interfered with or to be destroyed, the beams (7) from at least two antenna arrays (10) are focused on an effective area (8) in the vicinity of that target, preferably from a vehicle (3) which is equipped with these arrays (10). For effective super-imposition of the emitted microwave energy (7) in the emission direction of in each case one of the arrays (10), the use of an arc for discharging the capacitance (43) of the resonator via its spark gap (13) is observed, and is recorded quasi-continuously optoelectronically. The electrode separation of the spark gap (13) or the fluid pressure of the dielectric in the vicinity of the spark gap (13) is then varied by control elements such that all of the spark gaps (13) in an array (10) ignite virtually at the same time, so that their discharge current pulses which lead to the emission of the microwave energy (7) start virtually in phase.