Pulse Multiplexer Relay-Capacitor Circuit for High-Power Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IRE generators face challenges in efficiently switching high voltage and current pulses between multiple electrodes due to the need for high-rated switches, which are expensive, while low-cost switches are inadequate for the task.
Innovation Solution
A multiplexer system using low-rated relays in parallel and series configurations, combined with capacitors, to distribute the high voltage and current, allowing efficient switching of IRE pulses without damaging the components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-rated switches are used to switch high voltage and current pulses, then the switching capability and reliability are improved, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the high voltage and current switching task into multiple segments by using several low-rated switches (e.g., four switches rated for 500V and 2A each) instead of a single high-rated switch. Each switch handles a portion of the total load, allowing the system to achieve high voltage and current switching capability while using only low-cost, low-rated components. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliability through distributed switching while avoiding the complexity and cost of high-rated switches.
2Ease of manufacture
If low-cost switches are used, then the cost is reduced, but the switching capability is insufficient for high voltage and current pulses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple low-rated switches in parallel and series configurations to achieve the required high voltage and current switching capability. By merging the capabilities of several low-cost switches, the system attains the power handling capacity of a high-rated switch without incurring the associated cost. For example, four low-rated switches working together can handle the same total power as a single high-rated switch, resolving the contradiction between cost and switching power capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If low-rated switches are used in parallel and series configurations, then the cost is reduced and switching capability is achieved, but the circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces capacitors as intermediary elements to manage the complexity of the multi-switch configuration. These capacitors are strategically placed in the circuit to handle voltage distribution, current balancing, and transient response, thereby simplifying the control requirements for the low-rated switches. The capacitors act as mediators that absorb stress and regulate power flow, reducing the complexity of coordinating multiple switches while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
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 efficient and cost-effective switching of high voltage and current pulses between multiple electrodes, ensuring reliable operation and reducing the need for expensive high-rated switches.
Implementation Method 1
A multiplexer system using low-rated relays in parallel and series configurations, combined with capacitors, to distribute the high voltage and current
Data Source
AI summary
A switching assembly for transferring trains of pulses includes a first and second assembly terminal, a first and second set of relays, a first and second capacitor and a controller to concurrently activate the first and second set to connect the first and the second assembly terminals to transfer the trains of pulses. The relays of the first set and the first capacitor are connected in parallel. The relays of the second set connect and the second capacitor are connected in parallel.