Coiled Transmission Line Modulators

Current modulators for linear accelerators rely on antiquated technology, and a new generation of compact, reliable modulators is essential to provide better capital and life cycle cost efficacies for the accelerator community. This project will demonstrate the feasibility of producing Coiled Transmission Line Modulators to satisfy the demanding requirements for current and future accelerator applications. In particular, a versatile ¿direct drive - pulse power engine¿ ¿ which will generate high repetition rate, precise, flat top, high voltage pulses in a compact, robust and reliable, light weight package ¿ will be validated. This quantum leap in pulse power technology will be enabled by the invention of unique nano-ceramic polymer Coiled Transmission Lines (CTL¿s), which intrinsically store the energy and shape the pulse without any additional components. When configured in a Marxed voltage multiplication circuit and switched with solid-state, photon initiated thyristors, the CTL modulators will represent the ultimate in compact, high-efficacy pulse generators. Moreover, the system promises to provide substantial savings in both capital and life cycle cost, principally because the topology has minimal parts, is easily manufactured, and should yield good electrical efficacy. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the accelerator applications, the advanced solid state modulators should have both military and commercial applications. Military applications include directed energy weapons, high power microwaves, high power lasers, electromagnetic guns and launchers, and electron beam accelerators. For the commercial sector, the technology should contribute to advances in radar, X-ray sources, etc.