Radially Expanded Plasma Flow Pulsing for Uniform Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plasma generating devices and power supply systems are inadequate for generating plasma flows with uniform characteristics over a substantial distance, leading to unpredictable and undesirable results in applications such as medical treatments due to changes in the active zone and device positioning.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate a predominantly radially expanded plasma flow by applying a predetermined energy pattern to a plasma-generating gas, alternating between a base plasma flow and a pulse plasma flow with specific temperature and density characteristics, ensuring uniform properties over a distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a constant direct current (DC) is applied to generate continuous plasma flow, then the plasma flow properties remain stable over time, but the flow cannot be optimized for applications requiring variable characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic pulsing of the plasma flow using a power supply that alternates between different power levels. The plasma flow is pulsed at frequencies ranging from 1 Hz to 100 kHz, creating variable flow characteristics while maintaining temporal stability through controlled repetition. This resolves the contradiction by enabling both stability (through periodic repetition) and adaptability (through variable pulse parameters).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of plasma flow properties by varying parameters such as pulse width, duty cycle, and power level in real-time. The system transitions from static continuous flow to dynamically adjustable pulsed flow, allowing optimization for different applications while maintaining stable operation within each mode through controlled parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If volumetrically oscillating plasma flows are generated to change flow properties, then the plasma can be adapted for different applications, but the effect on the treated surface becomes unpredictable and the device position becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes physical parameters of the plasma flow including temperature, velocity, and density through controlled pulsing rather than volumetric oscillation. By adjusting pulse width, power level, and frequency, the system achieves adaptability for different applications while maintaining predictable effects on the treated surface through controlled parameter variation rather than uncontrolled volumetric changes.
3Productivity
If existing plasma generating devices are used to generate plasma flows, then plasma can be produced, but the devices cannot maintain uniform plasma characteristics over substantial distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic pulsing with carefully controlled duty cycles and frequencies to maintain uniform plasma characteristics over distance. The repeated pulsing creates a steady-state distribution of plasma properties along the flow path, ensuring consistency at the treatment site regardless of distance from the generator.
4Adaptability or versatility
If pulsed plasma or intermittent plasma flow is generated, then the plasma flow properties can be varied, but the flow periodically ceases which may not be optimal for continuous treatment applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic pulsing where the plasma flow alternates between active and inactive states with controllable duty cycles. By adjusting the duty cycle (ratio of pulse duration to total period), the system can maintain effective treatment duration while still providing property variation during the active phase, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and continuous operation.
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 method and device produce plasma flows with uniform characteristics, reducing the risk of unpredictable treatment effects and extending the life of device components by maintaining consistent plasma properties, suitable for applications requiring stable plasma delivery.
Implementation Method 1
The application of energy results in a substantial temperature increase of the plasma-generating gas, which in turn, results in ionization of the plasma-generating gas particles.
Implementation Method 2
Plasma may be generated by means of applying energy to the plasma-generating gas flowing through a plasma-generating device. The application of energy results in a substantial temperature increase of the plasma-generating gas, which in turn, results in ionization of the plasma-generating gas particles.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods generating a plasma flow are disclosed. A method may include applying energy that alternates between being at a base level for a first duration and at a pulse level for a second duration according to a controlled pattern, generating a plasma flow having a directional axis, and discharging the plasma flow alternating between a base configuration and a pulse configuration according to the controlled pattern. The plasma flow in the base configuration may have (1) a first temperature at the outlet and (2) a first flow front that advances along the directional axis. The plasma flow in the pulse configuration may have (1) a second temperature at the outlet that is greater than the first temperature and (2) a second flow front that advances along the directional axis at a speed greater than the first flow front.