ELECTRODYNAMIC COMBUSTION SYSTEM WITH VARIABLE GAIN ELECTRODES

Abstract

Technologies are presented for selecting an electrode gain value for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction. For example, a system can include one or more electrodes, an electrode gain selector configured to select an operative electrode gain value for the one or more electrodes, and a power supply operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes. The power supply can be configured to apply the electricity to the combustion reaction via the one or more electrodes at the operative electrode gain value.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/693,742, entitled “ELECTRODYNAMIC COMBUSTION SYSTEM WITH VARIABLE GAIN ELECTRODES”, filed Aug. 27, 2012; which, to the extent not inconsistent with the disclosure herein, is incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Electricity may be applied via one or more electrodes to a combustion reaction to cause a detectable effect in the combustion reaction.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, a combustion system includes one or more electrodes configured to apply electricity to a combustion reaction with a plurality of coupling efficiencies. Coupling efficiency is also referred to as electrode gain herein. A higher coupling efficiency (higher electrode gain) can correspond to reduced resistance between the electrode and the combustion reaction, a higher proportion of ions ejected by the electrode captured by the combustion reaction, and/or a larger electric field proximate to the combustion reaction. A lower coupling efficiency (lower electrode gain) can correspond to greater resistance between the electrode and the combustion reaction, a lower proportion of ions ejected by the electrode being captured by the combustion reaction, and/or a reduced electric field proximate to the combustion reaction.

Electrode gain/electrode coupling efficiency can be modified for the purpose of controlling current draw, changing an operating mode of the combustion system, for accommodating a change in size of a combustion reaction, for applying electricity from time-varying electrode positions, and/or to change an effective voltage “seen by” the combustion reaction without changing a power supply output voltage applied to the one or more electrodes, to name a few examples. Moreover, electrode shape and impedance can affect pulse spectra, and the electrode gain can be selected to filter a harmonic content of a time-varying waveform.

An electrode gain selector is operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes, the electrode gain selector being configured to select the electrode gain/electrode coupling efficiency. In one embodiment, the electrode gain selector is configured to couple one of a plurality of electrodes to the combustion reaction. For example, the electrode gain selector can operate as a M×N switch configured to variably couple a plurality of electrodes to one or more voltage nodes of a power supply. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode gain selector can operate as a waveform function generator or a low or medium voltage switch selected to couple low or medium voltage input signals to one or more of a plurality of amplifier channels (each amplifier channel can be operatively coupled to a respective electrode or electrode array).

In an embodiment, the system includes a plurality of electrodes having two or more respective coupling efficiencies to the combustion reaction, and the electrode gain selector causes a voltage to be applied to one or another of the plurality of electrodes. In another embodiment, the system includes at least one electrode having two or more selectable coupling efficiencies with the combustion reaction, and the electrode gain selector includes an electrode actuator configured to cause an electrode to be presented to the combustion reaction with a selected coupling efficiency. The system includes an electrode gain selector configured to select an electrode gain value for one or more electrodes. The system can include a power supply operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes.

For example, the electrode gain selector can consist essentially of an M×N switch. In one embodiment, the M×N switch is 2×1. Alternatively M and/or N can alternatively be larger numbers, as selected by the system engineer.

In one example, the electrode gain selector includes an electrode selector. The electrode selector can be used to determine connectivity between the power supply and one or more particular electrodes respectively having the desired coupling efficiency with the combustion reaction.

In another example, the electrode gain selector includes an electrode actuation controller. The electrode actuation controller controls an electrode actuator, and the electrode actuator causes the electrode to be actuated to a configuration having the desired coupling efficiency.

In an embodiment, the electrode gain selector affects an electrical power environment applied to the combustion reaction. In combination, the electrode gain selector, a high voltage power supply, the electrode, and optionally an electronic controller operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector form an electrodynamic combustion control system.

According to an embodiment, a method is provided for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain. The applied electricity can be in the form of charge(s), voltage(s), and/or electric field(s). The method can include selecting an operative electrode gain value for one or more electrodes. The method can include applying electricity to a combustion reaction via the one or more electrodes at the operative electrode gain value. The method can include sensing at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction. The method can include determining a relationship between the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction and a plurality of electrode gain values that include the operative electrode gain value. The method can include selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the plurality of electrode gain values according to the relationship between the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction and the plurality of electrode gain values.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram depicting a system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting a system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting an electrode assembly that can include the one or more electrodes, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram depicting a collection of electrodes with various surface geometries, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5A is a flow chart illustrating a method for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a flow chart illustrating a method for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an electrode gain selector configured as an electrode actuation controller and an actuator, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. Other embodiments may be used and/or other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.

The efficacy with which one or more electrodes couple to a combustion reaction to deliver (or receive) electricity to (from) the combustion reaction has been found to determine the magnitude of desired effects in the combustion reaction, or even whether a desired effect will occur. The efficacy of electrode-to-combustion reaction coupling can be viewed as an electrode coupling efficiency. Moreover, electrode coupling efficiency can be selected or modulated to apply a desired effect to the combustion reaction as a function of “gain” controlled at least in part by the electrode coupling efficiency. Electrode coupling efficiency to a combustion reaction depends on factors that can be measured, that can be predicted based on electrode geometry, that can be predicted based on instantaneous combustion reaction geometry, that can be predicted based on previous measured effect magnitude, that can be predicted based on a time series of previous electrode gain values, and/or that is a function of one or more parameters associated with the combustion reaction.

In the present disclosure, application of electricity to or receipt of electricity from a combustion reaction are described as being equivalent, for the sake of simplicity. Thus, except for cases where there is a measurable difference described herein, a case where a given electrode is at least transiently held at a positive voltage is intended to also describe a case where the electrode is at least transiently held at a negative voltage.

In the present disclosure, gain is intended to relate to a measured amount of an effect as a function of applied voltage, or to an inverse or negative function of an amount of voltage required to cause a given magnitude of the effect. More electrode coupling gain can cause a larger effect for a given voltage or can cause a given effect at reduced voltage compared to a lower coupling gain case.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a combustion system 100 configured to operate at least in part as a function of a selected electrode gain value, according to an embodiment. The combustion system 100 includes a burner 102 and one or more electrodes 110 configured to apply electricity to a combustion reaction 104 supported by the burner 102. A power supply 106 is operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes 110 and is configured to supply the electricity to the one or more electrodes 110. The combustion system 100 includes an electrode gain selector 108 configured to select an electrode coupling efficiency between the electrode(s) 110 and the combustion reaction 104.

According to an embodiment, applying electricity to the combustion reaction 104 can include applying a positive voltage and/or a negative voltage to the combustion reaction 104. According to another embodiment, applying electricity to the combustion reaction 104 can include closing a circuit to receive electricity from the combustion reaction 104.

In the system 100, the applied electricity affects a measurable response in the combustion reaction 104.

In some embodiments, the combustion reaction 104 is at least partially controlled by selecting an operative electrode gain value for applying electricity to the combustion reaction 104.

The system 100 includes one or more electrodes 110. An electrode gain selector 108 is configured to select the operative electrode gain value for the electrode(s) 110, relative to the combustion reaction 104. A power supply 106 is operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes 110.

The power supply 106 can be configured to apply electricity to the combustion reaction 104 via the one or more electrodes 110. The electrode(s) 110 applies the electricity to the combustion reaction 104 at the operative electrode gain value. For example, the electrode(s) 110 can apply the electricity in a combustion volume 103, at the burner/fuel source 102. For example, the power supply 106 can be configured to apply a charge to the combustion reaction 104 via the one or more electrodes 110. The charge can be at the operative electrode gain value for the combustion reaction 104 in a combustion volume 103, at a burner and/or fuel source 102. The power supply 106 can be configured to apply a voltage to the combustion reaction 104 via the one or more electrodes 110. The voltage can be at the operative electrode gain value for the combustion reaction 104 in a combustion volume 103, at a burner, and/or fuel source 102. The power supply 106 can be configured to apply an electric field to the combustion reaction 104 via the one or more electrodes 110. The electric field can be at the operative electrode gain value for the combustion reaction 104 in a combustion volume 103, at a burner, and/or fuel source 102.

According to some embodiments, the burner or fuel source 102 can be conductively coupled to the power supply 106 such that the one or more electrodes 110, the power supply 106, and the burner or fuel source 102 can together define a circuit element configured to form a complete circuit in contact with the combustion reaction 104. A sensor 114 can be configured to sense at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction 104. A controller 112 can be operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector 108 and the combustion sensor 114. The controller 112 can be configured to direct the electrode gain selector 108 to select the operative electrode gain value according to at least one parameter of the combustion reaction 104 sensed by the combustion sensor 114.

The system 100 for selecting an electrode coupling efficiency for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction 104 can include a controller 112 operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector 108, configured to control the electrode gain selector 108 to apply an electrode coupling efficiency sequence responsive to a predetermined pattern selection held in an operatively coupled non-transitory controller readable medium. Alternatively, the coupling sequence can be received in a transitory instruction stream generated by and received from network hardware. According to an embodiment, the controller 112 can be configured to direct the electrode gain selector 108 to select the operative electrode gain value according to the at least one parameter of the combustion reaction 104 sensed by the combustion sensor 114. The combustion sensor 114 can be configured to sense at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction 104.

The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction 104 can include an electrode control system, according to an embodiment. The electrode control system can include a microcontroller, an electrode actuation controller operatively coupled to the microcontroller, an actuator operatively coupled to the electrode actuation controller, and an asymmetric electrode. The asymmetric electrode can be operatively coupled to the actuator and configured for rotation, sliding, harmonic deflection, or other movement along or around an axis of symmetry.

In various examples, the one or more parameters can include a temperature, a pressure, and/or an irradiance. In other examples, the one or more parameters can include a charge, a voltage and/or an electric field. The one or more parameters can include an electrode gain, for example, the operative electrode gain value. The one or more parameters can include an electrode position and/or an electrode orientation. The one or more parameters can include a fuel concentration, flow rate, and/or consumption rate. The one or more parameters can include an oxidant concentration, an oxidant flow rate, and/or an oxidant consumption rate. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more parameters can include a combustion product concentration, product flow rate, and/or product production rate.

In some embodiments, a fuel flow meter 116 configured to sense fuel flow rate to the burner 102 can be operatively coupled to the controller 112. The controller 112 can be configured according to at least one parameter of the combustion reaction 104 to direct the electrode gain selector 108 to select the operative electrode gain value. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 112 can be configured according to at least one parameter of the combustion reaction 104 to direct the flow meter 116 to control a fuel flow rate.

According to several embodiments, a fuel flow meter 116 can be operatively coupled to a burner or fuel source 102 and can be configured to sense and/or control a fuel flow rate to the burner or fuel source 102. A controller 112 can be operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector 108 and the fuel flow meter 116. The controller 112 can be configured according to the fuel flow rate sensed by the fuel flow meter 116. The controller 112 can direct the electrode gain selector 108 to select the operative electrode gain value. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 112 can direct the flow meter 116 to control the fuel flow rate.

The operative electrode gain value may be determined, at least in part, by a distance between one or more electrodes 110 and a center of the combustion volume 103. Additionally or alternatively, the operative electrode gain value may be determined, at least in part, by a temperature and/or by a pressure at one or more electrodes 110. The operative electrode gain value may be determined, at least in part as a function of a surface geometry of one or more electrodes 110.

For electrodes 110 intended to operate as corona electrodes (e.g., as a charge source for the combustion reaction 104), “electrode gain value” as used herein may be understood at least in part by considering Peek's law:

$e_v=m_vg_v\partial r\ln \left(\frac{S}{r}\right).$

The symbol e_v in Peek's law represents the “corona inception voltage” (CIV), the voltage difference (in kilovolts) that can initiate a visible corona discharge at the electrodes. The values for e_v and gain can be inversely related, e.g., as e_v decreases, gain increases, and as e_v increases, gain decreases.

The symbols m_v and r in Peek's law collectively represent a variety of factors relating to the shape and surface geometry of the electrodes. The symbol m_v can represent an empirical, unitless irregularity factor that accounts for surface roughness of the electrodes. For example, for smooth, polished electrodes, m_v is 1. For roughened, dirty or weathered electrode surfaces, m_v can be 0.98 to 0.93, and for cables, m_v can be 0.87 to 0.83. For wire electrodes, or electrodes ending in a curved tip, r represents the radius of the wires or the curved tip.

The symbol δ in Peek's law represents the distance between the electrodes, for example, the distance between the one or more electrodes 110 and a conductive plasma of the combustion reaction 104 and/or the burner or fuel source 102, if grounded.

The symbol δ in Peek's law represents factors relating to air density, pressure, and temperature where b=pressure in centimeters of mercury, and T=temperature in Kelvin. At standard temperature and pressure, δ is 1:

$\partial =\frac{3.92b}{T}$

The symbol g_v in Peek's law represents a “visual critical” potential gradient, where g₀ represents a “disruptive critical” potential gradient, about 30 kV/cm for air:

$g_v=g_0\partial \left(1+\frac{0.301}{\sqrt{\partial r}}\right)$

The electrode gain value can be inversely related to m_v. For example, rougher electrodes can lead to higher electrode gain values. While from Peek's law the relationship with r can be less clear than for m_v, experimental work has shown that sharper electrodes can lead to higher electrode gain values.

The electrode gain value can be inversely related to b, for example, lower pressures may lead to higher electrode gain values. The electrode gain value can be related to T, for example, higher temperatures may lead to higher electrode gain values. The electrode gain value can be inversely related to δ, for example, lower δ may lead to higher electrode gain values. The electrode gain value may be inversely related to S, for example, reducing the distance between the one or more electrodes 110 and a conductive plasma of the combustion reaction 104 and/or the burner or fuel source 102, if grounded, may lead to higher electrode gain values. The electrode gain value can be determined at least in part by one or more of: a distance between the one or more electrodes 110 and a center of the combustion volume 103; a temperature at the one or more electrodes 110; a pressure at the one or more electrodes 110; and/or a surface geometry of the one or more electrodes 110.

As used herein, the term “operative”, when applied to a value or parameter, for example, in the term “operative electrode gain value”, can mean a value or parameter that is selected, applied, sensed, measured, or presently existing, or is a subject of a selecting, applying, sensing, or measuring operation. For example, an operative electrode gain value may be selected from a plurality of electrode gain values, where the plurality of electrode gain values include the operative electrode gain value and one or more additional electrode gain values.

According to various embodiments, the one or more electrodes 110 can include a first electrode 110a configured for application to the combustion reaction 104 at a first distance from a center of the combustion volume 103. The first electrode 110a may have a first electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction 104 according, at least in part, to the first distance. A second electrode 110b may be configured for application to the combustion reaction 104 at a second distance from a center of the combustion volume 103. The second electrode 110b may have a second electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction 104 according, at least in part, to the second distance. The electrode gain selector 108 may be configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value by selecting the first electrode 110a or the second electrode 110b.

According to some embodiments, the one or more electrodes 110 may include a third electrode 110c configured for application to the combustion reaction 104 at a third distance from the center of the combustion volume 103. The third electrode 110c may have a third electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction 104 according to, at least in part, the third distance. The electrode gain selector 108 may be configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value by selecting among the first electrode 110a, the second electrode 110b, and the third electrode 110c.

In several examples, the first, second, and third electrodes 110a, 110b, and 110c, and the corresponding first, second and third distances can be configured such that the first electrode 110a operates as a high gain electrode compared to the second electrode 110b and the third electrode 110c. The corresponding first, second and third distances can be configured such that the second electrode 110b operates as a medium gain electrode compared to the first electrode 110a and the third electrode 110c. The corresponding first, second and third distances can be configured such that the third electrode 110c operates as a low gain electrode compared to the first electrode 110a and the second electrode 110b.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting a system 200 for selecting an electrode gain value for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction 104, according to an embodiment.

The gain controller 108 can be configured as an electrode actuation/gain controller 204. The electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control an electrode actuator 202 operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes 110. The electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to select the operative electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator 202 to position the one or more electrodes 110 at a selected distance with respect to the combustion volume 103 corresponding to the operative electrode gain value, for example, the first distance, the second distance, or the third distance.

According to some embodiments, a sensor 114 (which may include a combustion reaction sensor) can be configured to detect pressure at a location in the combustion volume 103. Additionally or alternatively, the combustion reaction sensor 114 can be configured to detect a temperature at the location in the combustion volume 103.

In several examples, the controller 112 can be operatively coupled to the electrode actuator 202, the combustion reaction 104, sensor 114, and the electrode gain selector 108. The controller 112 can be configured to select the operative electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator 202. The electrode actuator 202 can position the one or more electrodes 110 with respect to the pressure at the location in the combustion volume 103. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode actuator 202 can position the one or more electrodes 110 with respect to the temperature at the location in the combustion volume 103. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode gain selector 108 can be configured to select the operative electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator 202 to position the one or more electrodes 110 at a selected distance with respect to the center of the combustion volume 103, for example, the first distance, the second distance, or the third distance.

A fuel flow sensor 116 can optionally operate as the sensor 114 or in combination with a second sensor 114.

FIG. 3 is a diagram depicting an electrode assembly 300 that includes the one or more electrodes 110, according to various embodiments. The electrode assembly 300 includes an electrode 110 configured to extend into the combustion volume 103 through a combustion volume chassis 304. The electrode assembly 300 includes an electrode bearing 306 that supports the electrode assembly 300 at the combustion volume chassis 304. The electrode bearing 306 can be configured to support rotational and/or translational motion of the one or more electrodes 110 with respect to one or more of a first axis 312, a second orthogonal axis (not shown), and/or a third orthogonal axis (not shown). For example, the electrode bearing 306 can be configured to permit translational motion along the first axis 312 as indicated by translational motion arrow 314. The translational motion can function to bring the one or more electrodes 110 into or out of the combustion volume 103 and thereby closer to or further from the combustion reaction 104. The electrode bearing 306 can be configured to permit rotational motion, e.g., about the first axis 312 as indicated by rotational motion arrow 316. The rotational motion can function together with a rotationally variant feature 302 to bring the one or more electrodes 110 closer or further to the combustion reaction 104. The rotationally variant feature 302 can be configured with a rotational variance with respect to the first axis 312 such that rotation about the first axis 312 can bring the one or more electrodes 110 closer to or further from the center of the combustion volume 103. The translational motion arrow 314 and the rotational motion arrow 316 can represent actuator modes of motion, for example, actuator modes of the electrode actuation/gain controller 204.

Accordingly, in various examples, the electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control the electrode actuator 202 to translate the one or more electrodes 110 along the first axis 312. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control the electrode actuator 202 to translate the one or more electrodes 110 independently along the two mutually orthogonal axes (not shown). Additionally or alternatively, the electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control the electrode actuator 202 to translate one or more electrodes 110 independently along the three mutually orthogonal axes (not shown).

In some embodiments, the electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control the electrode actuator 202 to independently rotate the one or more electrodes 110 about the first axis 312. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control the electrode actuator 202 to independently rotate the one or more electrodes 110 about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis 312. In other examples, the electrode actuation/gain controller 204 can be configured to control the electrode actuator 202 to independently rotate the one or more electrodes 110 about three mutually orthogonal axes (not shown).

According to several embodiments, the rotationally variant feature 302 can include the one or more electrodes 110. The rotationally variant feature 302 can be with respect to an axis such as the first axis 312, such that rotation of the one or more electrodes 110 by the electrode actuator 202 changes the operative electrode gain value according to rotation. The rotationally variant feature 302 can be rotationally variant with respect to the two mutually orthogonal axes, such that rotation of the one or more electrodes 110 by the electrode actuator 202 about either or both of the two mutually orthogonal axes changes the operative electrode gain value according to the rotation. The rotationally variant feature 302 can be rotationally variant with respect to the three mutually orthogonal axes, such that rotation of the one or more electrodes 110 by the electrode actuator 202 about one, two, or three of the three mutually orthogonal axes changes the operative electrode gain value according to rotation.

According to various embodiments, the rotationally variant feature 302 can be configured such that rotation of the one or more electrodes 110 can change the operative electrode gain value. The operative electrode gain value can be changed by changing the distance between the one or more electrodes 110 and the center of the combustion volume 103; for example, according to the combination of the rotation and the rotationally variant feature 302.

Additionally or alternatively, the operative electrode gain value can be changed by positioning the electrode 110 to switch between application of various electrode surface geometries to the combustion reaction 104. For example, application of a first surface geometry 402 (see FIG. 4) and application of a second surface geometry 404 of the one or more electrodes 110 can select the operative electrode gain value from among a first electrode gain value corresponding to the first surface geometry and a second electrode gain value corresponding to the second surface geometry.

In some examples of the electrode assembly 300, an insulating layer 308 can be included on the one or more electrodes 110. Additionally or alternatively, an electrode bearing 306 can be included and can be configured to mount the one or more electrodes 110 in a combustion volume chassis 304. The electrode bearing 306 can facilitate the translational or rotational motion.

In several embodiments, the electrode gain selector 108 can be configured as a thermal controller, which can include an electrode thermal element 310 operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes 110. The electrode gain selector 108 can be configured to select the operative electrode gain value at the one or more electrodes 110 by controlling the electrode thermal element 310 to heat or cool the one or more electrodes 110. The electrode thermal element can be, for example, a resistive heating element, a thermoelectric element, or the like.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram depicting a collection 400 of electrodes with various surface geometries, according to various embodiments. Different electrode surface geometries can lead to different electrode gain values. For example, a relatively sharper electrode surface geometry, such as a tip with a relatively smaller radius of curvature, can have a higher electrode gain value compared to a less sharp electrode surface geometry having a relatively larger radius of curvature. For example, the surface electrode geometry 406 can have a higher gain value compared to the surface electrode geometry 404 and the surface electrode geometry 402. Also, the surface electrode geometry 404 can have a higher electrode gain value compared to the surface electrode geometry 402.

In various examples, the one or more electrodes 110 (see FIG. 1) can include a first surface geometry 402 such that application of the first surface geometry 402 to the combustion reaction 104 can be characterized by a first electrode gain value, according to an embodiment. The one or more electrodes 110 can include a second surface geometry 404 such that application of the second surface geometry 404 to the combustion reaction 104 can be characterized by a second electrode gain value. The electrode gain selector 108 can be configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value. The electrode gain selector 108 can control the electrode actuator 202 (see FIG. 2) to position the one or more electrodes 110 to apply the corresponding first surface geometry 402 to the combustion reaction 104. Additionally or alternatively, the electrode gain selector 108 can control the electrode actuator 202 to position the one or more electrodes 110 to apply the corresponding second surface geometry 404 to the combustion reaction 104.

In some examples, the one or more electrodes 110 can include a third surface geometry 406 such that application of the third surface geometry 406 to the combustion reaction 104 can be characterized by a third electrode gain value. The electrode gain selector 108 can be configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value. The electrode gain selector 108 can control the electrode actuator 202 to position the one or more electrodes 110 to apply the corresponding surface geometry to the combustion reaction 104. The electrode actuator 202 can position one or more electrodes to apply the corresponding surface geometry selected from a group consisting of the first surface geometry 402, the second surface geometry 404, and the third surface geometry 406.

FIG. 5A is a flow chart illustrating a method 500A including steps 504 and 510 for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain, according to various embodiments. The method 500A can include step 504, an operative electrode gain value is selected for one or more electrodes. The method 500A can also include step 510, electricity is applied to a combustion reaction via the one or more electrodes at the operative electrode gain value. In step 510, electricity can be applied to the combustion reaction by applying a charge, a voltage and/or an electric field.

FIG. 5B is a flow chart illustrating a method 500B for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain, according to various embodiments. In addition to the steps of method 500A depicted in FIG. 5A, method 500B can include steps 502, 506, and 508. For example, in step 502 at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction is sensed. In step 506 a relationship is determined between the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction and a plurality of electrode gain values. The plurality of electrode gain values can include the operative electrode gain value.

In several examples, step 508 includes selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the plurality of electrode gain values. The selection may be made according to the relationship between at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction and the plurality of electrode gain values. The selection may consider various of the one or more parameters.

For example, the one or more parameters may a include temperature, a pressure, an irradiance, a charge, a voltage and/or an electric field. The one or more parameters may include an electrode gain, for example, the operative electrode gain value. Additional examples of the one or more parameters can include an electrode position and/or an electrode orientation. The one or more parameters can include a fuel concentration, flow rate, and/or consumption rate. The one or more parameters may include an oxidant concentration, flow rate, and/or consumption rate. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more parameters may include a combustion product concentration, flow rate and/or production rate.

In various examples, step 508 can include collection of the operative electrode gain value and the fuel flow rate. Step 508 can include selection of the operative electrode gain value. Additionally or alternatively, step 508 can include controlling the fuel flow rate to control the combustion reaction. Additionally or alternatively, step 508 can include selecting the operative electrode gain value and controlling the fuel flow rate to control the combustion reaction.

In some examples, step 508 can include selecting the operative electrode gain value at least in part by selecting a distance between one or more electrodes and a center of the combustion volume, by selecting a temperature at the one or more electrodes, by selecting a pressure at the one or more electrodes, and/or be selected by selecting a surface geometry of the one or more electrodes.

In several examples of step 508, selecting the distance between one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume may include providing a first electrode to the combustion reaction at a first distance from the center of the combustion volume. The first electrode can have a first electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according, at least in part, to the first distance. Selecting the distance between the one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume can include providing a second electrode to the combustion reaction at a second distance from the center of the combustion volume. The second electrode can a second electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according, at least in part, to the second distance. Step 508 can include selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value by selecting the first electrode or the second electrode.

Selecting the distance between one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume may further include providing a third electrode to the combustion reaction at a third distance from the center of the combustion volume. The third electrode may have a third electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according, at least in part, to the third distance. Step 508 may include selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value by selecting among the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode. According to some embodiments, the first, second, and third electrodes at the first, second, and third distances may be such that the first electrode is a high gain electrode compared to the second electrode and the third electrode. The second electrode can be a medium gain electrode compared to the first electrode and the third electrode. The third electrode can be a low gain electrode compared to the first electrode and the second electrode.

In various examples, the operation 508 of selecting the operative electrode gain value may further include controlling an electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes. The electrode actuator can position the electrodes with respect to the combustion volume at a location corresponding to the operative electrode gain value. Controlling the electrode actuator to position one or more electrodes can include translating the one or more electrodes along an axis. For example, the one or more electrodes can be translated along a first axis. Some examples can include translating or more electrodes independently along two mutually orthogonal axes. Several examples can include translating one or more electrodes independently along three mutually orthogonal axes.

In some examples, the operation 508 may include controlling the electrode actuator to position one or more electrodes. Positioning one or more electrodes may include independently rotating one or more electrodes about the first axis. Additionally or alternatively, positioning one or more electrodes may include independently rotating one or more electrodes about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. Additionally or alternatively, positioning one or more electrodes may include rotating one or more electrodes independently about three mutually orthogonal axes.

In several examples of operation 508, controlling the electrode actuator to position one or more electrodes may include rotating a rotationally variant feature. Rotating a rotationally variant feature of the one or more electrodes may be performed with respect to the axis. Additionally or alternatively, rotating the rotationally variant feature of the one or more electrodes may be performed with respect to the two mutually orthogonal axes. Additionally or alternatively, rotating the rotationally variant feature of the one or more electrodes may be performed with respect to the three mutually orthogonal axes. Rotating the rotationally variant feature of the one or more electrodes may include rotation sufficient to select the operative electrode gain value according to rotation of the rotationally variant feature.

In various examples, controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes may include rotating the rotationally variant feature sufficient to change the operative electrode gain value as part of operation 508. The operative electrode gain value may be changed by changing a distance between one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume. Additionally or alternatively, the operative electrode gain value may be changed by switching between applying to the combustion reaction a first surface geometry and a second surface geometry of the one or more electrodes, thereby switching between a first electrode gain value corresponding to the first surface geometry and a second electrode gain value corresponding to the second surface geometry.

In several examples, the operation 508 may include sensing one or more pressures at a location in the combustion volume that corresponds to the operative electrode gain value. Additionally or alternatively, the operation 508 may include sensing one or more temperatures at a location in the combustion volume that corresponds to the operative electrode gain value. The operation 508 may include selecting the operative electrode gain value by positioning one or more electrodes at the location in the combustion volume that corresponds to the pressure. Additionally or alternatively, selecting the operative electrode gain value may include positioning one or more electrodes at the location in the combustion volume that corresponds to the temperature. Selecting the operative electrode gain value may further include heating or cooling one or more electrodes to a temperature corresponding to the operative electrode gain value.

In some examples, the operation 508 may include providing one or more electrodes with a first surface geometry that corresponds to a first electrode gain value upon application to the combustion reaction. Additionally or alternatively, the operation 508 may include providing one or more electrodes with a second surface geometry that corresponds to a second electrode gain value upon application to the combustion reaction. Selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value may include applying the corresponding one of the first surface geometry or the second surface geometry to the combustion reaction.

Additionally or alternatively, the operation 508 may include providing one or more electrodes with a third surface geometry that corresponds to a third electrode gain value upon application to the combustion reaction. Selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value may include applying the corresponding one of the first surface geometry, the second surface geometry, or the third surface geometry to the combustion reaction

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an electrode gain selector system 601 wherein the electrode gain selector 602 is configured as an electrode actuation controller 204 and an actuator 604, according to an embodiment. A power supply 106 is operatively coupled to an actuatable electrode 110. A controller 112 can carry a program configured to cause the electrode gain selector 602 to apply a voltage/power environment 606 to a combustion system 607. The combustion system 607 can be considered to include or be separate from the electrodynamic system. 610. In an embodiment the electrode 110 can include a respective shape at a plurality of actuatable angles (or lengths) as a shape magazine. The respective shape at the plurality of actuatable angles (or lengths) be viewed as a type of generalization of the rotationally variant feature 302. The electrode actuation controller 204 can control the corresponding electrode shape applied to the combustion reaction 104.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A combustion system, comprising:

a burner;

one or more electrodes configured to apply electricity to a combustion reaction supported by the burner;

a power supply operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes and configured to supply the electricity to the one or more electrodes; and

an electrode gain selector configured to select an electrode coupling efficiency between the combustion reaction and at least one of the one or more electrodes.

2. The combustion system of claim 1, wherein applying electricity to the combustion reaction includes applying a positive voltage to the combustion reaction.

3. The combustion system of claim 1, wherein applying electricity to the combustion reaction includes applying a negative voltage to the combustion reaction.

4. The combustion system of claim 1, wherein applying electricity to the combustion reaction includes closing a circuit to receive electricity from the combustion reaction.

5. An electrode control system, comprising:

a microcontroller;

an electrode actuation controller operatively coupled to the microcontroller;

an actuator operatively coupled to the electrode actuation controller; and

an asymmetric electrode operatively coupled to the actuator and configured for rotation, sliding, harmonic deflection, or other movement along or around an axis of symmetry.

6. A system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction, comprising:

one or more electrodes;

an electrode gain selector configured to select an operative electrode gain value for the one or more electrodes; and

a voltage source operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes,

wherein the voltage source is configured to apply the charge, the voltage, or the electric field via the one or more electrodes at the operative electrode gain value to the combustion reaction in a combustion volume at a burner or fuel source.

7. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 6, further comprising the burner or fuel source.

8. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 7, wherein the burner or fuel source is conductively coupled to the voltage source such that the one or more electrodes, the voltage source, and the burner or fuel source together define a circuit element configured to form a complete circuit in contact with the combustion reaction.

9. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 6, further comprising:

a combustion sensor configured to sense at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction; and

a controller operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector and the combustion sensor,

wherein the controller is configured to direct the electrode gain selector to select the operative electrode gain value according to the at least one parameter of the combustion reaction sensed by the combustion sensor.

10. The system for selecting an electrode coupling efficiency for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction of claim 6, further comprising:

a controller operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector, configured to control the electrode gain selector to apply an electrode coupling efficiency sequence responsive to a predetermined pattern selection held in an operatively coupled non-transitory controller readable medium.

11. The system for selecting an electrode coupling efficiency for applying electricity to control a combustion reaction of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to direct the electrode gain selector to select the operative electrode gain value according to the at least one parameter of the combustion reaction sensed by the combustion sensor.

12. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 9, wherein the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction includes one or more of: a temperature, a pressure, an irradiance, a charge, a voltage, an electric field, an electrode gain, an electrode position, an electrode orientation, a fuel concentration, a fuel flow rate, a fuel consumption rate, an oxidant concentration, an oxidant flow rate, an oxidant consumption rate, a combustion product concentration, a combustion product flow rate, or a combustion product production rate.

13. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 9, further comprising:

a fuel flow meter operatively coupled to the controller, wherein the controller is configured according to the at least one parameter of the combustion reaction to:

direct the electrode gain selector to select the operative electrode gain value; and/or

direct the flow meter to control a fuel flow rate.

14. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 13, wherein the fuel flow meter senses the fuel flow rate.

15. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 6, further comprising:

a fuel flow meter operatively coupled to a burner or fuel source and configured to sense and control a fuel flow rate to the burner or fuel source; and

a controller operatively coupled to the electrode gain selector and the fuel flow meter,

wherein the controller is configured according to the fuel flow rate sensed by the fuel flow meter to:

direct the electrode gain selector to select the operative electrode gain value; and/or

direct the flow meter to control the fuel flow rate.

16. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 6, wherein the operative electrode gain value is determined at least in part by one or more of:

a distance between the one or more electrodes and a center of the combustion volume; a temperature at the one or more electrodes;

a pressure at the one or more electrodes; and/or

a surface geometry of the one or more electrodes.

17. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 16, wherein the one or more electrodes includes:

a first electrode configured for application to the combustion reaction at a first distance from a center of the combustion volume such that the first electrode has a first electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according at least in part to the first distance; and

a second electrode configured for application to the combustion reaction at a second distance from the center of the combustion volume such that the second electrode has a second electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according at least in part to the second distance,

wherein the electrode gain selector is configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value by selecting the first electrode or the second electrode.

18. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 17, wherein the one or more electrodes includes:

a third electrode configured for application to the combustion reaction at a third distance from the center of the combustion volume such that the third electrode has a third electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according at least in part to the third distance,

wherein the electrode gain selector is configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value by selecting among the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode.

19. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 18, wherein the first, second, and third electrodes and the first, second and third distances are configured such that the first electrode is a high gain electrode compared to the second electrode and the third electrode, the second electrode is a medium gain electrode compared to the first electrode and the third electrode, and the third electrode is a low gain electrode compared to the first electrode and the second electrode.

20. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 16, wherein the gain controller is configured as an electrode actuation/gain controller, further comprising:

an electrode actuator operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes and the electrode actuation/gain controller, wherein the electrode actuation/gain controller is configured to select the operative electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes with respect to the combustion volume at a selected distance corresponding to the operative electrode gain value.

21. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 20, further comprising:

a combustion reaction sensor configured to detect one or more of a pressure and/or a temperature at a location in the combustion volume; and

a controller operatively coupled to the electrode actuator, the combustion reaction sensor, and the electrode gain selector,

wherein the controller is configured to select the operative electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes with respect to the pressure and/or the temperature at the location in the combustion volume.

22. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 21, wherein the electrode gain selector is configured to select the operative electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes at a selected distance with respect to the center of the combustion volume.

23. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 20, wherein the electrode actuation/gain controller is configured to control the electrode actuator to translate the one or more electrodes along a first axis, independently along two mutually orthogonal axes, or independently along three mutually orthogonal axes.

24. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 23, wherein the electrode actuation/gain controller is configured to control the electrode actuator to independently rotate the one or more electrodes about the first axis or about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis.

25. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 20, wherein the electrode actuation/gain controller is configured to control the electrode actuator to rotate the one or more electrodes about an axis, independently about two mutually orthogonal axes, or independently about three mutually orthogonal axes.

26. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 25, further comprising a rotationally variant feature of the one or more electrodes with respect to the axis, the two mutually orthogonal axes, or the three mutually orthogonal axes, such that rotation of the one or more electrodes by the electrode actuator changes the operative electrode gain value according to rotation of the rotationally variant feature.

27. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 26, wherein the rotationally variant feature is configured such that rotation of the one or more electrodes changes the operative electrode gain value by one or more of:

changing a distance between the one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume; and

positioning the one or more electrodes to switch between application to the combustion reaction of a first surface geometry and a second surface geometry of the one or more electrodes, thereby selecting the operative electrode gain value from among a first electrode gain value corresponding to the first surface geometry and a second electrode gain value corresponding to the second surface geometry.

28. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 20, further comprising an insulating layer on the one or more electrodes.

29. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 20, further comprising an electrode bearing configured to mount the one or more electrodes in a combustion volume chassis.

30. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 20, wherein the electrode gain selector is configured as a thermal controller, further comprising: an electrode thermal element operatively coupled to the one or more electrodes, wherein the electrode gain selector is configured to select the operative electrode gain value at the one or more electrodes by controlling the electrode thermal element to heat or cool the one or more electrodes.

31. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 14, wherein:

the one or more electrodes includes a first surface geometry such that application of the first surface geometry to the combustion reaction is characterized by a first electrode gain value;

the one or more electrodes further includes a second surface geometry such that application of the second surface geometry to the combustion reaction is characterized by a second electrode gain value; and

the electrode gain selector is configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes to apply the corresponding one of the first surface geometry or the second surface geometry to the combustion reaction.

32. The system for selecting an electrode gain value for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction of claim 31, wherein:

the one or more electrodes includes a third surface geometry such that application of the third surface geometry to the combustion reaction is characterized by a third electrode gain value; and

the electrode gain selector is configured to select the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value by controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes to apply the corresponding one of the first surface geometry, the second surface geometry, or the third surface geometry to the combustion reaction.

33. A method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain, comprising:

selecting an operative electrode gain value for one or more electrodes; and

applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to a combustion reaction via the one or more electrodes at the operative electrode gain value.

34. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 33, further comprising:

sensing at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction;

determining a relationship between the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction and a plurality of electrode gain values that include the operative electrode gain value; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the plurality of electrode gain values according to the relationship between the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction and the plurality of electrode gain values.

35. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 34, wherein the at least one parameter associated with the combustion reaction includes one or more of: a temperature, a pressure, an irradiance, a charge, a voltage, an electric field, an electrode gain, an electrode position, an electrode orientation, a fuel concentration, a fuel flow rate, a fuel consumption rate, an oxidant concentration, an oxidant flow rate, an oxidant consumption rate, a combustion product concentration, a combustion product flow rate, or a combustion product production rate.

36. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 35, further comprising:

collecting the operative electrode gain value and the fuel flow rate; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value and/or controlling the fuel flow rate to control the combustion reaction.

37. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 32, further comprising selecting the operative electrode gain value at least in part by one or more of:

selecting a distance between the one or more electrodes and a center of the combustion volume;

selecting a temperature at the one or more electrodes;

selecting a pressure at the one or more electrodes; and/or

selecting a surface geometry of the one or more electrodes.

38. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 37, wherein selecting the distance between the one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume includes:

providing a first electrode to the combustion reaction at a first distance from the center of the combustion volume such that the first electrode has a first electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according at least in part to the first distance;

providing a second electrode to the combustion reaction at a second distance from the center of the combustion volume such that the second electrode has a second electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according at least in part to the second distance; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value by selecting the first electrode or the second electrode.

39. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 37, wherein selecting the distance between the one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume further includes:

providing a third electrode to the combustion reaction at a third distance from the center of the combustion volume such that the third electrode has a third electrode gain value with respect to the combustion reaction according at least in part to the third distance; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value by selecting among the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode.

40. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 39, further comprising providing the first, second, and third electrodes at the first, second, and third distances such that the first electrode is a high gain electrode compared to the second electrode and the third electrode, the second electrode is a medium gain electrode compared to the first electrode and the third electrode, and the third electrode is a low gain electrode compared to the first electrode and the second electrode.

41. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 37, wherein selecting the operative electrode gain value further comprises controlling an electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes with respect to the combustion volume at a location corresponding to the operative electrode gain value.

42. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 41, wherein controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes includes translating the one or more electrodes along a first axis, independently along two mutually orthogonal axes, or independently along three mutually orthogonal axes.

43. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 42, wherein controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes includes independently rotating the one or more electrodes about the first axis or about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis.

44. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 41, wherein controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes includes rotating the one or more electrodes about an axis, independently about two mutually orthogonal axes, or independently about three mutually orthogonal axes.

45. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 44, wherein controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes includes rotating a rotationally variant feature of the one or more electrodes with respect to the axis, the two mutually orthogonal axes, or the three mutually orthogonal axes, sufficient to select the operative electrode gain value according to rotation of the rotationally variant feature.

46. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 45, wherein controlling the electrode actuator to position the one or more electrodes includes rotating the rotationally variant feature sufficient to change the operative electrode gain value by one or more of:

changing a distance between the one or more electrodes and the center of the combustion volume; and

switching between applying to the combustion reaction a first surface geometry and a second surface geometry of the one or more electrodes, thereby switching between a first electrode gain value corresponding to the first surface geometry and a second electrode gain value corresponding to the second surface geometry.

47. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 41, further comprising:

sensing one or more of a pressure and/or a temperature at a location in the combustion volume that corresponds to the operative electrode gain value; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value by positioning the one or more electrodes at the location in the combustion volume that corresponds to the pressure and/or the temperature.

48. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 37, wherein selecting the operative electrode gain value further comprises heating or cooling the one or more electrodes to a temperature corresponding to the operative electrode gain value.

49. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 37, further comprising:

providing the one or more electrodes with a first surface geometry that corresponds to a first electrode gain value upon application to the combustion reaction;

providing the one or more electrodes with a second surface geometry that corresponds to a second electrode gain value upon application to the combustion reaction; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value and the second electrode gain value by applying the corresponding one of the first surface geometry or the second surface geometry to the combustion reaction.

50. The method for applying a charge, a voltage, or an electric field to control a combustion reaction using electrode gain of claim 49, further comprising:

providing the one or more electrodes with a third surface geometry that corresponds to a third electrode gain value upon application to the combustion reaction; and

selecting the operative electrode gain value from among the first electrode gain value, the second electrode gain value, and the third electrode gain value by applying the corresponding one of the first surface geometry, the second surface geometry, or the third surface geometry to the combustion reaction.