Ultra Compact Energy Efficient High Voltage Switches for Switching Very Small Energy Stores

Radiance proposes to create a low loss critical power conditioning element, a miniature switch, which is integral to munitions capable of generating electronic kill mechanisms in addition to blast and impact damage. Inherent in the switch is the requirement that they must be capable of sustaining severe g-loading, meet stringent efficiency and volume requirements, and have appropriate shelf life. We are unaware of any ultra-compact, low loss, miniature switch, approximately 1 inch diameter , that can function in an explosive-driven, pulsed-power system capable of hundreds kilovolts output voltage at hundreds of megawatts power levels. We propose to develop two unique switch concepts, one based on a miniature detonator to shock a dielectric insulator to conductivity and a second hermetically sealed gas switch that have the potential to meet the stated requirements. These switches could be enabling for many of the advanced DoD non-conventional warheads. The switch design concepts envision a completely self-contained, inert-until-used switch with requisite energy store for switching. It is possible to build ultra compact single shot/multiple shot switches that are compact, efficient, and inexpensive. These units have applications in impulse radar, flash x-ray systems, high-power RF systems, and as overvoltage protection in sensitive electronics.