Abstract: Energy conversion systems that may employ control grid electrodes, acceleration grid electrodes, inductive elements, multi-stage anodes, and emissive carbon coatings on the cathode and anode are described. These and other characteristics may allow for advantageous thermal energy to electrical energy conversion.

Abstract: A bi-directional direct current (DC) solid state power controller (SSPC) architecture and control method. The SSPC protects a DC distribution system by isolating both the positive and negative buses independently in case of short circuit or ground fault. The SSPC architecture includes two self-heal interleaved capacitors and includes a fast, soft-charging control technique that provides line-isolated charging of the DC bulk capacitor to avoid inrush current when powering up the DC distribution system. The soft-charging function alternately charges one of the two interleaved capacitors, while the other capacitor discharges to the DC bulk capacitor. Repetitive switching results in a charging and discharging process that increases the voltage of the DC bulk capacitor prior to powering up the DC distribution system, while keeping the DC power source isolated from the load.

Abstract: A power module includes a plurality of switching devices. The switching devices are electrically coupled in parallel and triggered by a common gate signal. The switching devices are further attached to a substrate that includes a first coil and a second coil formed around a common axis to define a common mode choke in a gate path and a Kelvin source/emitter path of each of the switching devices.

Abstract: A semiconductor package includes a semiconductor die having a control transistor and a sync transistor, an integrated output inductor having a winding around a core, and coupled to the semiconductor die, where the winding includes a plurality of top conductive clips connected to a plurality of bottom conductive clips. The control transistor and the sync transistor are configured as a half-bridge. The integrated output inductor is coupled to a switched node of the half-bridge. At least one of the plurality of top conductive clips and the plurality of bottom conductive clips includes a partially etched portion and a non-etched portion. The semiconductor die is attached to the integrated output inductor by a die attach material. The semiconductor die and the integrated output inductor are encapsulated in a molding compound.

Abstract: A power converter including at least one switching device is presented. The power converter is configured to convert an input parameter to an output parameter by periodically activating and deactivating the switching device. The switching device includes: (i) a chamber including an ionizable gas; (ii) a cathode and an anode defining a discharge gap disposed in the chamber; (iii) a magnet assembly configured to generate a first magnetic field such that a plasma is maintained in the discharge gap; and (iv) an electromagnet configured to generate, in response to a deactivation signal, a second magnetic field such that at least a portion of the plasma in the discharge gap is disrupted to deactivate the switching device. A method of power conversion and a switching device are also presented.

Abstract: An autoclave may be reconfigured to accommodate differently shaped parts by relatively rotating portions of the autoclave.

Abstract: A circuit for using a high voltage gate driver IC (HVIC) for regulation of external floating voltage sources without use of regulation circuits. The circuit including high and low switches; at least one external voltage source coupled to the high and low switches; an HVIC having at least one internal charge pumping voltage source circuit, the HVIC being coupled to gate terminals of the high and low switches; and at least one charge pumping capacitor coupled to the at least one internal charge pumping voltage source circuit for regulating the external voltage of at least one external voltage source.

Abstract: A micro power converter with multiple outputs includes a semiconductor substrate with a semiconductor integrated circuit formed thereon, a thin film magnetic induction unit, and a capacitor. The thin film magnetic induction unit is formed of a plurality of thin film magnetic induction components formed on magnetic insulation substrates, and a magnetic isolation layer is provided for magnetically isolating the thin film magnetic induction components with each other.

Abstract: A high-repetition rate switch for delivering short duration, high-power electrical pulses from a pulsed-charged dc power supply. The present invention utilizes a microwave-generating device such as a magnetron that is capable of producing high-power pulses at high-pulse repetition rates and fast-pulse risetimes for long periods with high reliability. The rail-gap electrodes provide a large surface area that reduces induction effects and minimizes electrode erosion. Additionally, breakdown is initiated in a continuous geometric fashion that also increases operating lifetime of the device.