Variable Rotating Capacitor for Synchrocyclotron Frequency Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF resonators in synchrocyclotrons face issues with localized temperature rises due to non-homogeneous power density in electrodes, leading to mechanical deformations and inefficiencies in frequency modulation.
Innovation Solution
A variable rotating capacitor (RotCo) with circumferentially-distributed rotor and stator electrodes, where the rotor has a cylindrical cage with radially-projecting poles and stator electrodes are single metal plates, allowing for even power distribution and reduced mechanical deformations, optimizing capacitance and reducing overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional RotCo with radially-extending electrodes is used, then frequency modulation capability is achieved, but localized temperature rises occur due to non-homogeneous power density
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into multiple circumferentially-distributed rotor electrodes and stator electrodes, each contributing to the overall capacitance. This segmentation distributes the power density more uniformly across all electrode segments, preventing localized overheating while maintaining the frequency modulation capability through their collective variable capacitance effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the local geometry of electrodes from radially-extending to axially-extending plates with specific spacing arrangements. This local quality change ensures more uniform electromagnetic field distribution and power density across the electrode surfaces, eliminating the concentrated heating zones that occur with radial electrode configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RotCo with radially-extending electrodes is used, then frequency modulation is achieved, but mechanical deformations occur due to thermal effects
Solution Approach 1:
The rotor is segmented into multiple independent axially-extending electrode plates distributed circumferentially. This segmentation allows each plate to maintain its own thermal and mechanical stability, reducing cumulative thermal deformations that would affect the overall rotor structure and electrode spacing in radial configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrode geometry parameter from radial extension to axial extension, and adjusts the spacing parameters between electrodes. These parameter changes result in more uniform thermal distribution that prevents differential thermal expansion and maintains mechanical stability of the rotor-stator assembly during operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If stack of stator electrodes is used, then capacitance variation is achieved, but power density becomes non-homogeneous causing overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The stator is segmented into multiple axially-extending electrode plates distributed circumferentially rather than stacked radially. This segmentation distributes the electromagnetic energy absorption and heat generation uniformly across all stator electrode segments, maintaining thermal reliability while achieving capacitance variation through the combined effect of all segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a radial stacking arrangement to an axial extension arrangement with circumferential distribution. This dimensional change from radial to axial orientation, combined with circumferential spacing, creates more uniform power density distribution across the electrode surfaces, preventing overheating while maintaining capacitance modulation capability.
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 RotCo design enhances the stability and robustness of the rotor, allowing for more efficient frequency modulation with reduced localized overheating and mechanical deformations, maintaining capacitance stability during high-speed rotation and thermal changes.
Implementation Method 1
each rotor electrode being adapted to face at least one stator electrode during rotation of the rotor in order to form a capacitor
Implementation Method 2
This assembly forms a circuit that resonates at a defined frequency... adapted to modify a resonant frequency of the synchrocyclotron as a function of time
Data Source
AI summary
A variable rotating capacitor or RotCo 5 that can be connected via a transmission line 3 to the dee 2 of a synchrocyclotron 1 so as to adjust a resonant frequency of the synchrocyclotron as a function of time and which comprises a cylindrical rotor 10 and a cylindrical stator 20 that are coaxial with the Z axis. The rotor comprises a plurality of circumferentially-distributed rotor electrodes 11 extending parallel to its rotation axis Z. The stator comprises a plurality of circumferentially-distributed stator electrodes 21 extending parallel to the rotation axis Z. Each stator electrode 21 consists of a single metal plate and all said plates are distributed over one and the same stator circumference 25. This makes it possible for the RF currents in the electrodes to be better distributed and thus reduces the local overheating.The present invention also relates to a synchrocyclotron comprising such a RotCo.