Transformer-Coupled Pulse Modules for Compact High-Voltage Pulses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high voltage pulse generators for PEF applications are inefficient in terms of component count, size, cost, and pulse edge speed, often requiring complex configurations and additional components to achieve desired voltage levels.
Innovation Solution
A high voltage pulse generator unit with a primary side featuring one or several windings and a transformer, coupled with a secondary side comprising multiple windings and pulse module units (PMUs), each containing a winding and a switching element. This design allows for efficient power handling, reduced component count, and faster pulse edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple power supplies are used to generate high voltage for PEF applications, then the desired voltage levels can be achieved, but the device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the high voltage generation system into multiple independent pulse module units (PMUs) on the secondary side, each handling a portion of the total power. Each PMU contains its own winding and switching element, allowing the system to achieve high voltage through modular segmentation rather than using a single complex power supply configuration.
2Power
If multiple power supplies are configured in series connection, then composite voltage is achieved, but the arrangement size and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple secondary windings and PMUs are integrated around a single primary winding transformer core. This nesting approach allows multiple voltage-generating elements to occupy a compact spatial arrangement, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining the composite voltage capability through series connection of secondary windings.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard components are used on the primary side, then cost and size are reduced, but the power level capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power handling function between the primary side (single standard transformer with standard components) and the secondary side (multiple PMUs with switching elements). This segmentation allows the primary side to use cost-effective standard components while the secondary side modules can be configured to achieve higher power levels through parallel or series combinations.
4Reliability
If voltage is divided over multiple independent circuits, then safety and isolation are improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests multiple independent PMU circuits within a unified transformer structure, where each PMU operates as an isolated voltage division circuit on the secondary side. This nested configuration provides galvanic isolation between voltage divisions while sharing the primary side transformer and control infrastructure, thereby improving safety without linearly increasing the total component count.
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 proposed design achieves a compact, cost-effective, and efficient high voltage pulse generation with faster pulse edges, reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI), and improved safety and isolation, making it suitable for PEF applications.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer and a secondary side, wherein the primary side comprises a winding and wherein the secondary side comprises multiple windings
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention describes a high voltage pulse generator unit comprising a primary side, a transformer and a secondary side, wherein the primary side comprises a winding and wherein the secondary side comprises multiple windings and multiple pulse module units (PMUs), and wherein each PMU comprises the winding and a switching element.