DC Pass RF Surge Suppressor with Non-Linear Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices are vulnerable to damage from electrical energy surges caused by RF interference, conductive noise, and lightning, requiring a compact, low-insertion-loss, and low-voltage-standing-wave-ratio (VSWR) surge suppression solution to protect them effectively.
Innovation Solution
A DC pass RF surge suppressor with a housing, input and output conductors, a non-linear protection device, a capacitor in series, and spiral inductors that divert surge energy to ground, while maintaining a low VSWR and insertion loss across specific frequency ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surge protection devices are used, then surge protection is provided, but the device size is large and insertion loss is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the protection circuit by using a non-linear resistor with voltage-dependent resistance characteristics. This allows the device to maintain small physical dimensions while providing effective surge protection, as the non-linear resistance dynamically adapts to block surge currents without requiring large protective components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the surge protection function in a specific non-linear resistance element within the RF signal path. This localized approach allows the majority of the device to remain compact while the non-linear resistor provides targeted surge protection at the critical point where surge currents enter the protected equipment.
2Reliability
If traditional surge protection devices are used, then surge protection is provided, but insertion loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a non-linear resistor whose resistance dynamically changes based on the applied voltage. During normal RF operation, the resistance remains low to minimize insertion loss and allow signal passage. During surge conditions, the resistance automatically increases to block surge currents, thus dynamically optimizing both signal transmission and protection functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-linear resistance element changes its electrical parameter (resistance value) in response to voltage levels. This parameter change allows the device to present low insertion loss at normal operating voltages while providing high impedance protection at surge voltage levels, effectively resolving the contradiction between protection capability and signal loss.
3Reliability
If traditional surge protection devices are used, then surge protection is provided, but VSWR increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-linear resistor dynamically adjusts its resistance to maintain impedance matching across varying voltage conditions. During normal operation, it presents a resistance that maintains low VSWR for optimal RF signal transmission. During surges, it transitions to a high-resistance state that diverts surge current while minimizing disruption to the RF signal path, thus maintaining VSWR stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-linear resistance element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides surge protection, maintains low insertion loss, and stabilizes VSWR. This multi-functionality is achieved through its voltage-dependent characteristics that automatically adapt to different operating conditions, making a single component effective for multiple performance requirements.
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
Effectively protects electronic devices from surges by diverting electrical energy to ground, minimizing damage and maintaining optimal RF performance within specified frequency ranges.
Implementation Method 1
a non-linear protection device positioned in the opening of the housing for diverting surge energy to a ground
Implementation Method 2
a capacitor connected in series with the input conductor and the output conductor
Implementation Method 3
a first spiral inductor having an inner edge connected to the input conductor and an outer edge coupled to the non-linear protection device
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for protecting hardware devices is disclosed. A DC pass RF surge suppressor includes a housing defining a chamber having a central axis, the housing having an opening to the chamber, an input conductor disposed in the chamber of the housing and extending substantially along the central axis of the chamber, an output conductor disposed in the chamber of the housing and extending substantially along the central axis of the chamber, a non-linear protection device positioned in the opening of the housing for diverting surge energy to a ground, a capacitor connected in series with the input conductor and the output conductor, a first spiral inductor having an inner edge connected to the input conductor and an outer edge coupled to the non-linear protection device, and a second spiral inductor having an inner edge connected to the output conductor and an outer edge coupled to the non-linear protection device.