Rectangular Waveguide Curved Sections Pillar Rows

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current terahertz waveguide devices require complex and precise assembly processes, leading to high costs and reduced reliability, as they need to maintain precise alignment of multiple parts to confine electromagnetic fields effectively, which is challenging for repeatability and ease of manufacturing.

Innovation Solution

A novel rectangular waveguide design with curved sections and parallel rows of pillars allows for easier assembly and manufacturing, providing amplification of electromagnetic waves via electron beam interaction, with the ability to operate from 10 to 2000 GHz, and features a simpler vacuum pumping process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If folded waveguides, staggered double grating waveguides or sine waveguides are used, then high power generation over wide spectrum is achieved, but assembly complexity and manufacturing precision requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoutput powerVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The waveguide is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. Each section contains standardized features for alignment and connection, reducing the overall assembly complexity while maintaining the ability to generate high power over wide spectrum ranges

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs curved waveguide sections with specific radii of curvature to simplify the assembly process. The curved geometry provides natural alignment features and reduces the precision requirements compared to sharp corners or complex folded structures, while still achieving the desired electromagnetic field confinement for high power generation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

2Reliability

If precision assembly processes are used to maintain alignment, then electromagnetic field confinement is improved, but manufacturing cost and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectromagnetic field confinementVSAvoidmanufacturing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Alignment features and positioning elements are pre-integrated into the waveguide sections during manufacturing. Reference surfaces, locating pins, and alignment marks are built into the structure beforehand, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly alignment procedures while ensuring reliable electromagnetic field confinement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The waveguide structure incorporates self-aligning features such as tapered interfaces, interference fits, and gravity-assisted positioning that automatically ensure proper alignment during assembly without requiring external jigs or precision equipment, thereby improving both manufacturing ease and field confinement reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple precision parts are used, then wave propagation is maintained, but repeatability and reliability decrease due to misalignment risks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidassembly repeatability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple waveguide sections are designed with complementary mating features that merge into a unified continuous structure when assembled. The joining interfaces incorporate keyway features, flanged connections, and interlocking elements that ensure repeatable alignment and maintain wave propagation characteristics across assembly boundaries, improving reliability and repeatability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 design enhances gain, output power, and manufacturing ease while reducing assembly complexity, making it suitable for applications like particle accelerators and improving performance across various frequency bands.

Implementation Method 1

providing amplification of an electromagnetic wave via interaction with an electron beam in a linear interaction channel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectron beam interaction: Electron Beam

Data Source

PatentUS10229807B2Amplification of electromagnetic waves via interaction with an electron beam by using a waveguide having a linear interaction channel with curved parts and including rows of pillars extending through the waveguide

Publication Date: 2019.03.12 UNIV OF LANCASTER

AI summary

The present invention is a rectangular waveguide providing amplification of an electromagnetic wave via interaction with an electron beam in a linear interaction channel where the electron beam enters the waveguide at a first curved part of the waveguide, traverses the linear interaction channel and exits the waveguide at a second curved part of the waveguide.