High-Voltage Pulse Generator Discharge Circuit for nsPEF Charge Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) generators lack effective control over pulse generator charge state, posing risks to operators, patients, and test subjects, and are inefficient in delivering high voltage pulses due to limitations in switch technology, leading to low impedance and reduced energy delivery.
Innovation Solution
A tunable, high-voltage nsPEF generator system utilizing a Marx-switch stack hybrid circuit with power MOSFETs and a discharge circuit that includes multiple stages with serially connected switches, allowing for controlled discharge and increased output voltage with fewer stages, reducing the risk of damage and improving energy delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional switch technology is used to generate high voltage pulses, then the pulse generator can deliver high voltage, but the impedance is high and energy delivery is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/semiconductor switch technology with a plasma-based switch system. The plasma switch uses ionized gas to conduct high voltage pulses, eliminating the high impedance limitations of solid-state switches. This substitution enables low impedance operation and improved energy delivery to the load while maintaining high voltage capability.
2Ease of operation
If nsPEF generators operate without effective charge state control, then the system can function, but the risk of damage to operators and patients increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that continuously monitors the charge state of the pulse generator and automatically adjusts operating parameters to maintain safe charge levels. The system includes sensors that detect charge state and control circuits that modulate the plasma switch and power supply to prevent dangerous charge accumulation, thereby protecting operators and patients while maintaining full system functionality.
3Power
If multiple stages are used to increase output voltage, then the voltage can be increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters of the switch system by using plasma instead of solid-state materials. This parameter change allows a single plasma switch stage to achieve voltage levels that would traditionally require multiple cascaded stages, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high output voltage capability. The plasma medium's unique properties enable direct high voltage switching without the need for series stacking.
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
The system achieves high efficiency, low impedance, and variability in pulse duration, enabling safe and effective delivery of nsPEF pulses for cancer treatment by reducing the risk of damage and improving energy delivery to patients.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of inductive elements configured to generate the control signals for the serially connected switches, where each inductive element is configured to generate a control signal for one of the serially connected switches in response to one or more input signals at one or more of the control input terminals
Data Source
AI summary
A high voltage pulse generator with a discharge circuit is disclosed. The discharge circuit is configured to selectively discharge a pulse generator stage and may include one or more discharge switches and a discharge resistor. A method of operation of the pulse generator is also disclosed, including discharging the pulse generator via a discharge circuit.