Linear Transformer Driver Using Harmonics for Flat-Top Pulses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear transformer drivers (LTDs) generate high power pulses with sine-shaped outputs, which are not suitable for applications requiring flat or trapezoidal pulses, such as radiography, where a pulse with a fixed voltage (flat top) is desired.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a combination of standard power delivery modules (SPDMs) and modified power delivery modules (MPDMs) connected in parallel, where MPDMs generate pulses approximately three times the frequency of SPDMs, resulting in a combined pulse with a substantially flat top, achieved by configuring the MPDMs to deliver pulses with a frequency three times that of the SPDMs and using a ferrite core to block the pulse from grounding, forcing it across a plastic insulator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If standard power delivery modules are used to generate high power pulses, then high power output is achieved, but the pulse waveform is sine-shaped which is not suitable for applications requiring flat top pulses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines standard power delivery modules (SPDMs) that generate fundamental frequency pulses with modified power delivery modules (MPDMs) that generate third harmonic pulses. By merging these two types of modules in parallel, the system produces a combined waveform that maintains high power output while achieving a flat top shape through constructive interference of the fundamental and third harmonic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the power delivery modules by configuring MPDMs to operate at three times the frequency of SPDMs. This parameter change in frequency allows the generation of third harmonic pulses that, when combined with fundamental frequency pulses from SPDMs, create the desired flat top waveform shape while maintaining high power output.
2Shape
If multiple power delivery modules are combined to achieve flat top waveform, then pulse shape is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power delivery system into two distinct functional groups: SPDMs that generate fundamental frequency pulses and MPDMs that generate third harmonic pulses. This segmentation allows each module type to be optimized for its specific function, with SPDMs providing the main power output and MPDMs providing the harmonic content needed for waveform shaping, thereby achieving flat top pulses with a manageable increase in complexity.
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
This configuration enables the generation of high power pulses with a flat top, suitable for applications like radiography, by effectively combining sinusoidal pulses from SPDMs and MPDMs to produce a waveform with a flattened top, enhancing the suitability of LTDs for specific applications.
Implementation Method 1
using a ferrite core to block the pulse from grounding
Implementation Method 2
Linear Transformer Drivers (LTD) are a class of accelerators that are capable of generating high current, high voltage pulses
Data Source
AI summary
A linear transformer driver includes at least one ferrite ring positioned to accept a load. The linear transformer driver also includes a first, second, and third power delivery module. The first power delivery module sends a first energy in the form of a first pulse to the load. The second power delivery module sends a second energy in the form of a second pulse to the load. The third power delivery module sends a third energy in the form of a third pulse to the load. The linear transformer driver is configured to form a flat-top pulse by the superposition of the first, second, and third pulses. The first, second, and third pulses have different frequencies.