Current reversal prevention circuit for a pulsed gas discharge laser
US5940421A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 1997 |
| Grant date | Aug 17, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 15, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01S3/225
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A simple, novel pulse power circuit is described, which improves the net coupling efficiency of a pulse power system used to drive a gas discharge laser, and minimizes current reversal and electrode erosion. The circuit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, incorporates a saturable inductor. Contrary to conventional saturable inductor configurations, in which the saturable inductor is either not saturated or is presaturated in a reverse direction, in the present circuit the saturable inductor is presaturated in the forward direction. The saturable inductor is inserted between the final stage capacitor of a pulse power circuit and a gas discharge load, where it allows forward current but effectively blocks reverse current through the load. Elimination of reverse discharge current reduces electrode erosion and improves discharge chamber life.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.