EP0341107A1 - Travelling-wave tube with a coupling arrangement between its delay line and external microwave circuits - Google Patents

Travelling-wave tube with a coupling arrangement between its delay line and external microwave circuits Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0341107A1
EP0341107A1 EP89401031A EP89401031A EP0341107A1 EP 0341107 A1 EP0341107 A1 EP 0341107A1 EP 89401031 A EP89401031 A EP 89401031A EP 89401031 A EP89401031 A EP 89401031A EP 0341107 A1 EP0341107 A1 EP 0341107A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
delay line
wave tube
traveling wave
line
coupling
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Granted
Application number
EP89401031A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0341107B1 (en
Inventor
Jacques Tikes
Dominique Henry
Joel Le Fur
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Thales SA
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Thomson CSF SA
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J23/00—Details of transit-time tubes of the types covered by group H01J25/00
    • H01J23/36—Coupling devices having distributed capacitance and inductance, structurally associated with the tube, for introducing or removing wave energy
    • H01J23/40—Coupling devices having distributed capacitance and inductance, structurally associated with the tube, for introducing or removing wave energy to or from the interaction circuit
    • H01J23/48—Coupling devices having distributed capacitance and inductance, structurally associated with the tube, for introducing or removing wave energy to or from the interaction circuit for linking interaction circuit with coaxial lines; Devices of the coupled helices type
    • H01J23/50—Coupling devices having distributed capacitance and inductance, structurally associated with the tube, for introducing or removing wave energy to or from the interaction circuit for linking interaction circuit with coaxial lines; Devices of the coupled helices type the interaction circuit being a helix or derived from a helix

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a traveling wave tube comprising a delay line contained in a sheath. It relates more particularly to a device for coupling between the delay line of the tube and external circuits either for injection or for extracting microwave energy from the tube.
  • the invention is particularly suitable for progressive wave power tubes, with a wide band, the delay line of which is in a helix. It also applies to tubes whose delay line is derived from the propeller such as the delay lines known under the names “ring and bar” or “ring and loop” in English.
  • a traveling wave or TOP tube generally consists of: - an electron gun which produces a long and fine electron beam, - a delay line contained in a sheath, where the interaction takes place between the electron beam and a microwave wave.
  • This delay line is provided with an injection device and a device for extracting microwave energy, - a focal point with permanent magnets, placed around the delay line over its entire length.
  • This focuser creates a magnetic induction in the interaction zone between the electron beam and the microwave wave, - a collector capable of collecting the electron beam.
  • the injection of microwave energy, at the input of the delay line is generally done via a coaxial connector, the level of energy injected being low.
  • the extraction of the amplified energy at the output of the delay line can be done either by means of a molded waveguide or by means of a coaxial element. It depends on the energy level present at the output of the delay line.
  • the external circuits for injecting and extracting microwave energy are specially designed to seal the vacuum inside the traveling wave tube.
  • a coupling device between the delay line of a traveling wave tube and the external microwave circuits is known, for example, from French patent No. 2,485,801-B filed on June 27, 1980.
  • the delay line is a propeller. At least one of its ends is connected to an external circuit.
  • This external circuit includes a transmission line having an internal conductive core. The connection is made via a coupling finger.
  • the coupling finger is integral with one side of the internal conductive core of the transmission line. On the other side, the coupling finger is soldered to the end of the propeller.
  • the transmission line is either a molded waveguide, the internal conductive core being the molding, or a coaxial line, the internal conductive core being the central conductor of this line.
  • the present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks. It proposes to make the delay line and the external circuits for injecting or extracting microwave energy from a traveling wave tube mechanically independent.
  • the coupling finger previously secured to the internal conductive core of the transmission line will now be secured to a conductive part.
  • the conductive part is fixed to the sheath surrounding the delay line.
  • the coupling finger is integral with the conductive part and is fixed to the end of the delay line. It is through the external surface of the part that the electromagnetic coupling takes place between the delay line and the conductive core of the transmission line.
  • the assembly of the TOPs using the device according to the invention it is possible to identify any faults in the component elements, either the delay line or the focusing device or the external circuits, before the final assembly. It is possible to make measurements between the delay line and the external circuits without these parts being permanently assembled. Only defective items will be discarded. The manufacturing cost of the TOP using in this coupling device will be reduced.
  • the present invention therefore relates to a traveling wave tube comprising a cylindrical sheath containing a delay line and a coupling device between the delay line and an external microwave circuit, the microwave circuit comprising a transmission line having an internal conductive core.
  • the coupling device comprises: a conductive piece placed at one end of the delay line and having a coupling finger projecting towards the inside of the sleeve and fixed to the end of the delay line, the part being brazed at one end of the sheath and the internal conductive core of the transmission line having one end situated opposite the external surface of the part, the electromagnetic microwave coupling taking place between the external surface of the part and the internal conductive core.
  • the end of the internal conductive core of the transmission line is placed near the coupling finger.
  • a narrow gap is arranged between the end of the internal conductive core of the transmission line and the external surface of the conductive part. This interval eliminates problems of poor contact.
  • This narrow interval is preferably about 0.1 millimeter.
  • the conductive part will preferably have the shape of a ring embedded around the sheath.
  • the external microwave circuit preferably comprises a molded waveguide, the internal conductive core being the molding or a coaxial line, the internal conductive core being the central conductor of the coaxial line.
  • Figure 1 is a partial view in longitudinal section of a traveling wave tube according to the prior art.
  • FIG. 2 is a cross section in the plane AA ′ of the traveling wave tube shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 1 is also a longitudinal section in the plane BB ′ of FIG. 2.
  • the traveling wave tube shown comprises a delay line 1 and an external circuit 40 for extracting microwave energy from the tube.
  • the delay line 1 consists of a propeller 10 of axis XX ′.
  • Rods 11 ensure the centering of the propeller 10 in a cylindrical metal sleeve 2.
  • the sheath 2 provides vacuum sealing of the interior of the traveling wave tube. It is generally worn to a mass.
  • the rods 11 can be made of quartz, alumina, glucin, boron nitride, etc. They can be brazed or clamped against the propeller 10.
  • the traveling wave tube also includes a focusing device 20.
  • the delay line 1 is disposed inside the focusing device 20. It is constituted by the succession, along the axis XX ′ of permanent magnets 22 alternating and of polar masses 21 These permanent magnets 22 and these polar masses 21 are annular, surround the cylindrical sheath 2 and extend beyond its length.
  • An external circuit 40 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube is coupled to the delay line 1.
  • this external circuit consists of a rectangular and molded waveguide 4. Its axis is perpendicular to the XX ′ axis.
  • This waveguide 4 passes through the focusser 20 until it is in contact with the sheath 2.
  • the width of the waveguide is contained, in the thickness along the axis XX ′, of one of the magnets 22.
  • the waveguide 4 has a molding 5 over its entire length. It projects perpendicularly to one of the long sides of the waveguide 4 in the middle.
  • the molding 5 is extended on the side of the delay line 1 by a coupling finger 55.
  • the sheath 2 has, on the side where the waveguide 4 arrives, an opening 23 allowing the passage of the coupling finger 55.
  • the finger coupling 55 extends to the delay line 1 and is brazed at the end 12 of the propeller 10.
  • the waveguide 4 can be constituted by the assembly of a U-shaped part 42, comprising the molding 5, and of a part 41 forming a cover.
  • the pole pieces can be welded or brazed to the molded waveguide 4.
  • the assembly of all these elements is carried out in several stages: positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device 20 adjacent to the cover 41 of the waveguide 4. positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device 20 adjacent to the part 42 of the waveguide 4 comprising the molding 5. - soldering of the propeller 10 on the rods 11 then in the sleeve 2. brazing of the propeller assembly 10 sheath 2 in the part of the focusing device 20 connected to the cover 41 of the waveguide 4. - Assembly of the two parts 41, 42 of the waveguide 4 and junction by soldering the end 12 of the propeller 10 and the coupling finger 55. This last solder is very difficult to carry out because it is not easy access.
  • FIG. 3 represents a partial view in longitudinal section according to the invention of a traveling wave tube.
  • FIG. 4 is a cross section in the plane AA ′ of the traveling wave tube shown in FIG. 3.
  • FIG. 3 is also a longitudinal section in the plane BB ′ of FIG. 4.
  • the traveling wave tube shown comprises a delay line 1 of axis XX ′ and an external circuit 40 for extracting microwave energy from the tube.
  • the delay line 1 is a propeller line 10.
  • the propeller 10 is held by rods 11 in a metal sleeve 2.
  • An external circuit 40 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube is coupled to the delay line 1.
  • This circuit is a molded waveguide 4. Its axis is perpendicular to the XX ′ axis.
  • This waveguide 4 passes through the focalizer until it is in contact with the sheath 2.
  • the waveguide 4 has over its entire length a molding 5. But in this embodiment, the molding 5 does not have, on the side of the coupling with delay line 1, coupling finger as in the prior art.
  • the waveguide 4 may consist of a cover 41 and of a U-shaped part 42 comprising the molding 5.
  • a conductive part 36 is placed at one end of the delay line 1 on the side of the coupling with the external circuit 40 for extracting microwave energy from the traveling wave tube. It is brazed to the sleeve 2.
  • the part 36 has the shape of a ring embedded in the outer wall of the sleeve 2.
  • a coupling finger 35 is integral with the conductive part 36. This coupling finger 35 projects inwardly of the sleeve 2 and is brazed at the end 12 of the helix.
  • the sheath 2 always has an opening 23 in the region of the coupling with the external circuit 40 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube. This opening 23 is located near the coupling finger 35.
  • a narrow gap 37 is arranged between the end of the molding 5 placed on the side of the delay line 1 and the outer surface of the ring 36 located at the coupling finger 35. There is no longer any mechanical contact between the propeller 10 and the molding 5 and the electromagnetic coupling is provided by capacitive effect between the outer surface of the conductive ring 36 and the molding 5.
  • a conductive piece in the form of a ring is simple to make and assemble.
  • Couplings could be made in frequency bands going from the decimetric band to the millimeter band while keeping the same narrow interval 37.
  • the value of this interval is approximately 0.1 millimeter.
  • An interval of 0.1 millimeter is easily achievable with a satisfactory tolerance.
  • the assembly of the TOPs comprising a coupling device according to the invention is simplified: the assembly steps are as follows: positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device adjacent to the cover 41 of the waveguide 4, positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device adjacent to the molded part 42 of the waveguide 4, - brazing of the propeller 10 on the rods 11 then in the sleeve 2-ring assembly 36.
  • the ring 36 is brazed beforehand on the sleeve 2.
  • the end of the propeller 10 is brazed with the coupling finger 35 to this step.
  • Figures 5a and 5b show in longitudinal section two variants of the ring 36.
  • the ring 36 shown in Figure 5a is more particularly suited to the case where the propeller 10 and the molding 5 are located on the same side of the axis of the waveguide 4.
  • the ring 36 shown in Figure 5b is more particularly suited to the case where the propeller 10 and the molding 5 are located on either side of the axis of the waveguide 4.
  • Figures 6a, 6b, 6c show that it is possible to vary, in height, the position of the ring 36 relative to that of the molding 5. This variation makes it possible to adjust the characteristic impedance.
  • the finger 35 and the molding 5 have the same height.
  • the finger 35 is lower than the molding 5
  • the finger 35 is higher than the molding 5.
  • FIG. 7 represents a partial view in longitudinal section of another embodiment of a traveling wave tube according to the invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a cross section in the plane AA ′ of the traveling wave tube shown in FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section in the plane BB ′ of FIG. 8.
  • the traveling wave tube shown comprises a delay line 1 of axis XX ′ and an external circuit 60 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube.
  • the two figures represent only an area in the vicinity of the end of the delay line 10, the rest of the construction possibly being identical to what has been described in FIGS. 1 and 2. In particular, the focusing device is not shown .
  • the external circuit 60 for extracting energy from the tube is a coaxial line 50. It consists of a central conductor 52 and an external conductor 54 in the form of a hollow cylinder, separated by a dielectric 51.
  • the axis of the coaxial line is perpendicular to the axis XX ′ of the delay line 1.
  • the coaxial line 50 crosses the focusing device until it is in contact with the sleeve 2.
  • the sleeve 2 has an opening 23 in the coupling zone with the coaxial line 50.
  • a narrow gap 37 is arranged between the end 53 of the central conductor 52 placed on the side of the delay line 1 and the outer surface of the ring 36, at the level of the coupling finger 35.
  • the invention is equally applicable to the coupling of the external microwave energy extraction circuit, as has just been described, as to the external circuit of injection of the microwave energy into the delay line.
  • the part carrying the coupling finger will be on the other side of the delay line, on the side of the electron gun.
  • the external energy injection circuit is generally a coaxial line.
  • the coupling will be identical to what has been described in FIGS. 7 and 8.
  • the invention also applies to traveling wave tubes, the delay line of which is a structure derived from the helix, for example composed of rings connected to one another by bars. These structures are known under the names “ring and bar” or “ring and loop” in English.
  • the traveling wave tube comprising the coupling device according to the invention can be used as a cross-field amplifier.
  • the bandwidth of the junction can be widened up to approximately 67% (i.e. one octave) with a standing wave ratio less than 1.7.

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Abstract

It includes a cylindrical sleeve (2) containing a delay line (1) and an arrangement for coupling between the delay line (1) and an external circuit (40) for extracting or injecting microwave energy. <??>This external circuit includes a transmission line (4) possessing an internal conductive core (5). <??>A conductive part (36) is placed at one end of the delay line (1). It possesses a coupling finger (35) projecting towards the inside of the sleeve (2) and brazed to the end (12) of the delay line (1). The conductive part (36) is brazed to the sleeve (2). <??>Coupling between the delay line (1) and the external circuit occurs between the part (36) and the internal conductive core (5) of the transmission line (4). This coupling is contactless, a narrow gap (37) being allowed between the outside surface of the part (36) situated on the coupling finger (35) side and the internal conductive core (5). <??>Applications to broadband travelling-wave power tubes. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne un tube à onde progressive comprenant une ligne à retard contenue dans un fourreau. Elle concerne plus particulièrement un dispositif de couplage entre la ligne à retard du tube et des circuits externes soit d'injection, soit d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube.The present invention relates to a traveling wave tube comprising a delay line contained in a sheath. It relates more particularly to a device for coupling between the delay line of the tube and external circuits either for injection or for extracting microwave energy from the tube.

L'invention est particulièrement adaptée aux tubes à onde progressive de puissance, à large bande dont la ligne à retard est en hélice. Elle s'applique aussi aux tubes dont la ligne à retard est dérivée de l'hélice telle que les lignes à retard connues sous les dénominations "ring and bar" ou "ring and loop" en langue anglaise.The invention is particularly suitable for progressive wave power tubes, with a wide band, the delay line of which is in a helix. It also applies to tubes whose delay line is derived from the propeller such as the delay lines known under the names "ring and bar" or "ring and loop" in English.

Un tube à onde progressive ou TOP se compose, en général :
- d'un canon à électrons qui produit un faisceau d'électrons long et fin,
- d'une ligne à retard contenue dans un fourreau, où s'effectue l'interaction entre le faisceau d'électrons et une onde hyperfréquence. Cette ligne à retard est munie d'un dispositif d'injection et d'un dispositif d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence,
- d'un focalisateur à aimants permanents, placés autour de la ligne à retard sur toute sa longueur. Ce focalisateur crée une induction magnétique dans la zone d'interaction entre le faisceau électronique et l'onde hyperfréquence,
- d'un collecteur pouvant recueillir le faisceau électronique.A traveling wave or TOP tube generally consists of:
- an electron gun which produces a long and fine electron beam,
- a delay line contained in a sheath, where the interaction takes place between the electron beam and a microwave wave. This delay line is provided with an injection device and a device for extracting microwave energy,
- a focal point with permanent magnets, placed around the delay line over its entire length. This focuser creates a magnetic induction in the interaction zone between the electron beam and the microwave wave,
- a collector capable of collecting the electron beam.

L'injection de l'énergie hyperfréquence, à l'entrée de la ligne à retard se fait généralement par l'intermédiaire d'un connecteur coaxial, le niveau d'énergie injecté étant faible.The injection of microwave energy, at the input of the delay line is generally done via a coaxial connector, the level of energy injected being low.

L'extraction de l'énergie amplifiée, en sortie de la ligne à retard peut se faire, soit par l'intermédiaire d'un guide d'onde mouluré, soit par l'intermédiaire d'un élément coaxial. Cela dépend du niveau d'énergie présent en sortie de la ligne à retard.The extraction of the amplified energy at the output of the delay line can be done either by means of a molded waveguide or by means of a coaxial element. It depends on the energy level present at the output of the delay line.

Dans tous les cas, les circuits externes d'injection et d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence sont conçus spécialement pour assurer l'étanchéité au vide de l'intérieur du tube à onde progressive.In all cases, the external circuits for injecting and extracting microwave energy are specially designed to seal the vacuum inside the traveling wave tube.

Un dispositif de couplage, entre la ligne à retard d'un tube à onde progressive et les circuits hyperfréquences externes est connu, par exemple, par le brevet français N° 2 485 801-B déposé le 27 juin 1980. Dans ce brevet, la ligne à retard est une hélice. Au moins l'une de ses extrémités est reliée à un circuit externe. Ce circuit externe comprend une ligne de transmission possédant une âme conductrice interne. La liaison se fait par l'intermédiaire d'un doigt de couplage. Le doigt de couplage est solidaire d'un côté de l'âme conductrice interne de la ligne de transmission. De l'autre côté, le doigt de couplage est brasé sur l'extrémité de l'hélice. Dans ce brevet, la ligne de transmission est soit un guide d'onde mouluré, l'âme interne conductrice étant la moulure, soit une ligne coaxiale, l'âme interne conductrice étant le conducteur central de cette ligne.A coupling device between the delay line of a traveling wave tube and the external microwave circuits is known, for example, from French patent No. 2,485,801-B filed on June 27, 1980. In this patent, the delay line is a propeller. At least one of its ends is connected to an external circuit. This external circuit includes a transmission line having an internal conductive core. The connection is made via a coupling finger. The coupling finger is integral with one side of the internal conductive core of the transmission line. On the other side, the coupling finger is soldered to the end of the propeller. In this patent, the transmission line is either a molded waveguide, the internal conductive core being the molding, or a coaxial line, the internal conductive core being the central conductor of this line.

Lors du montage des TOP, on s'aperçoit que le point où l'on doit braser le doigt de couplage, à l'extrémité de l'hélice n'est pas facile d'accès. De plus les dimensions de l'hélice et du doigt de couplage sont très faibles. Les mesures à effectuer pour vérifier la conformité du TOP ne peuvent avoir lieu qu'après la réalisation de la jonction hélice doigt de couplage. La liaison entre ces deux pièces étant une brasure, elle est indémontable. Cela signifie qu'en cas de défaut de l'une des pièces composant soit la ligne à retard, soit le focalisateur, soit les circuits externes hyperfréquences, tout l'ensemble sera rejeté.When mounting the TOP, we realize that the point where we must braze the coupling finger at the end of the propeller is not easy to access. In addition, the dimensions of the propeller and the coupling finger are very small. The measurements to be carried out to check the conformity of the TOP can only take place after the completion of the coupling finger propeller junction. The connection between these two parts being a solder, it cannot be dismantled. This means that in the event of a fault with one of the components of either the delay line, the focusing device or the external microwave circuits, the entire assembly will be rejected.

La présente invention vise à remédier à ces inconvénients. Elle propose de rendre mécaniquement indépendant, la ligne à retard et les circuits externes d'injection ou d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence d'un tube à onde progressive.The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks. It proposes to make the delay line and the external circuits for injecting or extracting microwave energy from a traveling wave tube mechanically independent.

Pour cela, le doigt de couplage antérieurement solidaire de l'âme interne conductrice de la ligne de transmission sera maintenant solidaire d'une pièce conductrice. La pièce conductrice est fixée au fourreau entourant la ligne à retard. Le doigt de couplage est solidaire de la pièce conductrice et est fixé à l'extrémité de la ligne à retard. C'est par la surface extérieure de la pièce que se fait le couplage électromagnétique entre la ligne à retard et l'âme conductrice de la ligne de transmission.For this, the coupling finger previously secured to the internal conductive core of the transmission line will now be secured to a conductive part. The conductive part is fixed to the sheath surrounding the delay line. The coupling finger is integral with the conductive part and is fixed to the end of the delay line. It is through the external surface of the part that the electromagnetic coupling takes place between the delay line and the conductive core of the transmission line.

Au cours du montage des TOP utilisant le dispositif selon l'invention il est possible de répérer les éventuels défauts des éléments composants soit la ligne à retard soit le focalisateur soit les circuits externes, avant l'assemblage définitif. Il est possible de faire des mesures entre la ligne à retard et les circuits externes sans que ces pièces ne soient assemblées définitivement. Seuls les éléments défectueux seront mis au rebut. Le coût de fabrication des TOP utilisant dans ce dispositif de couplage sera diminué.During the assembly of the TOPs using the device according to the invention, it is possible to identify any faults in the component elements, either the delay line or the focusing device or the external circuits, before the final assembly. It is possible to make measurements between the delay line and the external circuits without these parts being permanently assembled. Only defective items will be discarded. The manufacturing cost of the TOP using in this coupling device will be reduced.

La présente invention a donc pour objet un tube à onde progressive comprenant un fourreau cylindrique contenant une ligne à retard et un dispositif de couplage entre la ligne à retard et un circuit hyperfréquence externe, le circuit hyperfréquence comprenant une ligne de transmission possédant une âme interne conductrice, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de couplage comprend :
une pièce conductrice placée à une extrémité de la ligne à retard et possédant un doigt de couplage faisant saillie vers l'intérieur du fourreau et fixé à l'extrémité de la ligne à retard,
la pièce étant brasée à une extrémité du fourreau et l'âme conductrice interne de la ligne de transmission ayant une extrémité située en regard de la surface extérieure de la pièce, le couplage électromagnétique hyperfréquence se faisant entre la surface extérieure de la pièce et l'âme conductrice interne.The present invention therefore relates to a traveling wave tube comprising a cylindrical sheath containing a delay line and a coupling device between the delay line and an external microwave circuit, the microwave circuit comprising a transmission line having an internal conductive core. , characterized in that the coupling device comprises:
a conductive piece placed at one end of the delay line and having a coupling finger projecting towards the inside of the sleeve and fixed to the end of the delay line,
the part being brazed at one end of the sheath and the internal conductive core of the transmission line having one end situated opposite the external surface of the part, the electromagnetic microwave coupling taking place between the external surface of the part and the internal conductive core.

L'extrémité de l'âme conductrice interne de la ligne de transmission est placée à proximité du doigt de couplage.The end of the internal conductive core of the transmission line is placed near the coupling finger.

De préférence, un intervalle étroit est aménagé entre l'extrémité de l'âme conductrice interne de la ligne de transmission et la surface extérieure de la pièce conductrice. Cet intervalle permet d'éliminer les problèmes de mauvais contact.Preferably, a narrow gap is arranged between the end of the internal conductive core of the transmission line and the external surface of the conductive part. This interval eliminates problems of poor contact.

Cet intervalle étroit est de préférence d'environ 0,1 millimètre.This narrow interval is preferably about 0.1 millimeter.

La pièce conductrice aura de préférence la forme d'une bague encastrée autour du fourreau.The conductive part will preferably have the shape of a ring embedded around the sheath.

Le circuit hyperfréquence externe comprend, de préférence, un guide d'onde mouluré, l'âme conductrice interne étant la moulure ou une ligne coaxiale, l'âme conductrice interne étant le conducteur central de la ligne coaxiale.The external microwave circuit preferably comprises a molded waveguide, the internal conductive core being the molding or a coaxial line, the internal conductive core being the central conductor of the coaxial line.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres caractéristiques et avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description ci-après et des figures s'y rapportant qui représentent :

  • - la figure 1, une vue partielle en coupe d'un TOP utilisant un dispositif de couplage entre une ligne à retard en hélice et un guide d'onde mouluré selon l'art antérieur,
  • - la figure 2, une coupe transversale du même TOP,
  • - la figure 3, une vue partielle en coupe d'un TOP utilisant un dispositif de couplage entre une ligne à retard en hélice et un guide d'onde mouluré selon l'invention,
  • - la figure 4, une coupe transversale du même TOP,
  • - la figure 5a, une vue partielle en coupe d'un TOP selon l'invention, la ligne à retard et la moulure étant situées d'un même côté de l'axe du guide d'onde mouluré,
  • - la figure 5b, une vue partielle en coupe d'un TOP selon l'invention, la ligne à retard et la moulure étant situées de part et d'autre de l'axe du guide d'onde mouluré,
  • - les figures 6a à 6c, des vues partielles en coupe d'un TOP selon l'invention, la position de la pièce conductrice variant verticalement par rapport à celle de la moulure,
  • - la figure 7, une vue partielle en coupe d'un TOP utilisant un dispositif de couplage entre une ligne à retard en hélice et une ligne coaxiale, selon l'invention,
  • - la figure 8, une coupe transversale du même TOP.
The invention will be better understood and other characteristics and advantages will appear on reading the description below and the figures relating thereto which represent:
  • FIG. 1, a partial sectional view of a TOP using a coupling device between a helical delay line and a molded waveguide according to the prior art,
  • - Figure 2, a cross section of the same TOP,
  • FIG. 3, a partial sectional view of a TOP using a coupling device between a helical delay line and a molded waveguide according to the invention,
  • - Figure 4, a cross section of the same TOP,
  • FIG. 5a, a partial sectional view of a TOP according to the invention, the delay line and the molding being situated on the same side of the axis of the molded waveguide,
  • FIG. 5b, a partial sectional view of a TOP according to the invention, the delay line and the molding being located on either side of the axis of the molded waveguide,
  • FIGS. 6a to 6c, partial sectional views of a TOP according to the invention, the position of the conductive part varying vertically with respect to that of the molding,
  • FIG. 7, a partial sectional view of a TOP using a coupling device between a helical delay line and a coaxial line, according to the invention,
  • - Figure 8, a cross section of the same TOP.

Sur les différentes figures, les éléments correspondants sont désignés par les mêmes repères. Les cotes des différents éléments ne sont pas respectées pour des raisons de clarté.In the various figures, the corresponding elements are designated by the same references. The dimensions of the various elements are not respected for reasons of clarity.

La figure 1 est une vue partielle en coupe longitudinale d'un tube à onde progressive selon l'art antérieur.Figure 1 is a partial view in longitudinal section of a traveling wave tube according to the prior art.

La figure 2 est une coupe transversale dans le plan AA′ du tube à onde progressive représenté à la figure 1. La figure 1 est aussi une coupe longitudinale dans le plan BB′ de la figure 2.FIG. 2 is a cross section in the plane AA ′ of the traveling wave tube shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is also a longitudinal section in the plane BB ′ of FIG. 2.

Le tube à onde progressive représenté comprend une ligne à retard 1 et un circuit externe 40 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube.The traveling wave tube shown comprises a delay line 1 and an external circuit 40 for extracting microwave energy from the tube.

La ligne à retard 1 est constituée d'une hélice 10 d'axe XX′. Des tiges 11 assurent le centrage de l'hélice 10 dans un fourreau 2 cylindrique métallique. Le fourreau 2 assure l'étanchéïté au vide de l'intérieur du tube à onde progressive. Il est généralement porté à une masse. Les tiges 11 peuvent être en quartz, alumine, glucine, nitrure de bore... Elles peuvent être brasées ou serrées contre l'hélice 10.The delay line 1 consists of a propeller 10 of axis XX ′. Rods 11 ensure the centering of the propeller 10 in a cylindrical metal sleeve 2. The sheath 2 provides vacuum sealing of the interior of the traveling wave tube. It is generally worn to a mass. The rods 11 can be made of quartz, alumina, glucin, boron nitride, etc. They can be brazed or clamped against the propeller 10.

Le tube à onde progressive comprend aussi un focalisateur 20. La ligne à retard 1 est disposée à l'intérieur du focalisateur 20. Il est constitué par la succession, selon l'axe XX′ d'aimants permanents 22 alternés et de masses polaires 21. Ces aimants permanents 22 et ces masses polaires 21 sont annulaires, entourent le fourreau 2 cylindrique et s'étendent au-delà de sa longueur.The traveling wave tube also includes a focusing device 20. The delay line 1 is disposed inside the focusing device 20. It is constituted by the succession, along the axis XX ′ of permanent magnets 22 alternating and of polar masses 21 These permanent magnets 22 and these polar masses 21 are annular, surround the cylindrical sheath 2 and extend beyond its length.

Un circuit externe 40 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube à onde progressive est couplé à la ligne à retard 1. Dans notre exemple, ce circuit externe est constitué par un guide d'onde 4 rectangulaire et mouluré. Son axe est perpendiculaire à l'axe XX′. Ce guide d'onde 4 traverse le focalisateur 20 jusqu'à être en contact avec le fourreau 2. La largeur du guide d'onde est contenue, dans l'épaisseur selon l'axe XX′, d'un des aimants 22. Le guide d'onde 4 possède une moulure 5 sur toute sa longueur. Elle fait saillie perpendiculairement à l'un des grands côtés du guide d'onde 4 en son milieu. La moulure 5 est prolongée du côté de la ligne à retard 1 par un doigt de couplage 55. Le fourreau 2 comporte, du côté où arrive le guide d'onde 4, une ouverture 23 permettant le passage du doigt de couplage 55. Le doigt de couplage 55 s'étend jusqu'à la ligne à retard 1 et il est brasé à l'extrémité 12 de l'hélice 10.An external circuit 40 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube is coupled to the delay line 1. In our example, this external circuit consists of a rectangular and molded waveguide 4. Its axis is perpendicular to the XX ′ axis. This waveguide 4 passes through the focusser 20 until it is in contact with the sheath 2. The width of the waveguide is contained, in the thickness along the axis XX ′, of one of the magnets 22. The waveguide 4 has a molding 5 over its entire length. It projects perpendicularly to one of the long sides of the waveguide 4 in the middle. The molding 5 is extended on the side of the delay line 1 by a coupling finger 55. The sheath 2 has, on the side where the waveguide 4 arrives, an opening 23 allowing the passage of the coupling finger 55. The finger coupling 55 extends to the delay line 1 and is brazed at the end 12 of the propeller 10.

A l'extrémité du guide d'onde 4 mouluré, opposée à la jonction avec la ligne à retard 1, on peut utiliser de nombreux dispositifs de connexion à une ligne coaxiale ou à un autre guide d'onde par exemple. L'étanchéïté au vide de l'intérieur du guide d'onde mouluré devra être assurée par un dispositif approprié. Le guide d'onde 4 peut être constitué par l'assemblage d'une partie 42 en forme de U, comportant la moulure 5, et d'une partie 41 formant un couvercle. Les pièces polaires peuvent être soudées ou brasées au guide d'onde 4 mouluré.At the end of the molded waveguide 4, opposite the junction with the delay line 1, it is possible to use numerous devices for connection to a coaxial line or to another waveguide for example. The vacuum sealing of the interior of the molded waveguide must be ensured by an appropriate device. The waveguide 4 can be constituted by the assembly of a U-shaped part 42, comprising the molding 5, and of a part 41 forming a cover. The pole pieces can be welded or brazed to the molded waveguide 4.

Le montage de tous ces éléments s'effectue en plusieurs étapes :
- positionnement et fixation de la partie du focalisateur 20 adjacente au couvercle 41 du guide d'onde 4.
- positionnement et fixation de la partie du focalisateur 20 adjacente à la partie 42 du guide d'onde 4 comportant la moulure 5.
- brasage de l'hélice 10 sur les tiges 11 puis dans le fourreau 2.
- brasage de l'ensemble hélice 10 fourreau 2 dans la partie du focalisateur 20 reliée au couvercle 41 du guide d'onde 4.
- assemblage des deux parties 41, 42 du guide d'onde 4 et jonction par brasage de l'extrémité 12 de l'hélice 10 et du doigt de couplage 55. Cette dernière brasure est très délicate à réaliser car elle n'est pas facile d'accès.The assembly of all these elements is carried out in several stages:
positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device 20 adjacent to the cover 41 of the waveguide 4.
positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device 20 adjacent to the part 42 of the waveguide 4 comprising the molding 5.
- soldering of the propeller 10 on the rods 11 then in the sleeve 2.
brazing of the propeller assembly 10 sheath 2 in the part of the focusing device 20 connected to the cover 41 of the waveguide 4.
- Assembly of the two parts 41, 42 of the waveguide 4 and junction by soldering the end 12 of the propeller 10 and the coupling finger 55. This last solder is very difficult to carry out because it is not easy access.

C'est seulement après toutes ces étapes que peuvent débuter les mesures de vérification du tube à onde progressive. Si une des pièces est défectueuse, tout l'ensemble sera mis au rebut.It is only after all of these steps that verification of the traveling wave tube can begin. If one of the parts is defective, the whole assembly will be discarded.

On va maintenant décrire les modifications apportées par l'invention.We will now describe the modifications made by the invention.

La figure 3 représente une vue partielle en coupe longitudinale selon l'invention d'un tube à onde progressive.FIG. 3 represents a partial view in longitudinal section according to the invention of a traveling wave tube.

La figure 4 est une coupe transversale dans le plan AA′ du tube à onde progressive représenté à la figure 3. La figure 3 est aussi une coupe longitudinale dans le plan BB′ de la figure 4.FIG. 4 is a cross section in the plane AA ′ of the traveling wave tube shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is also a longitudinal section in the plane BB ′ of FIG. 4.

Le tube à onde progressive représenté comprend une ligne à retard 1 d'axe XX′ et un circuit externe 40 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube.The traveling wave tube shown comprises a delay line 1 of axis XX ′ and an external circuit 40 for extracting microwave energy from the tube.

Ces deux figures représentent une zone au voisinage de l'extrémité de la ligne à retard 1, le reste de la construction pouvant être identique à ce qui a été décrit aux figures 1 et 2. En particulier, le focalisateur n'est pas représenté.These two figures represent an area in the vicinity of the end of the delay line 1, the rest of the construction possibly being identical to what has been described in FIGS. 1 and 2. In particular, the focusing device is not shown.

Dans cette réalisation, la ligne à retard 1 est une ligne à hélice 10. L'hélice 10 est maintenue par des tiges 11 dans un fourreau 2 métallique. Un circuit externe 40 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube à onde progressive est couplé à la ligne à retard 1. Ce circuit est un guide d'onde 4 mouluré. Son axe est perpendiculaire à l'axe XX′. Ce guide d'onde 4 traverse le focalisateur jusqu'à être en contact avec le fourreau 2. Le guide d'onde 4 possède sur toute sa longueur une moulure 5. Mais dans cette réalisation, la moulure 5 ne comporte pas, du côté du couplage avec la ligne à retard 1, de doigt de couplage comme dans l'art antérieur.In this embodiment, the delay line 1 is a propeller line 10. The propeller 10 is held by rods 11 in a metal sleeve 2. An external circuit 40 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube is coupled to the delay line 1. This circuit is a molded waveguide 4. Its axis is perpendicular to the XX ′ axis. This waveguide 4 passes through the focalizer until it is in contact with the sheath 2. The waveguide 4 has over its entire length a molding 5. But in this embodiment, the molding 5 does not have, on the side of the coupling with delay line 1, coupling finger as in the prior art.

Le guide d'onde 4 peut être constitué d'un couvercle 41 et d'une partie 42 en forme de U comportant la moulure 5.The waveguide 4 may consist of a cover 41 and of a U-shaped part 42 comprising the molding 5.

Une pièce 36 conductrice est placée à une extrémité de la ligne à retard 1 du côté du couplage avec le circuit externe 40 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube à onde progressive. Elle est brasée au fourreau 2. Sur la figure, la pièce 36 à la forme d'une bague encastrée dans la paroi extérieure du fourreau 2.A conductive part 36 is placed at one end of the delay line 1 on the side of the coupling with the external circuit 40 for extracting microwave energy from the traveling wave tube. It is brazed to the sleeve 2. In the figure, the part 36 has the shape of a ring embedded in the outer wall of the sleeve 2.

Un doigt de couplage 35 est solidaire de la pièce conductrice 36. Ce doigt de couplage 35 fait saillie vers l'intérieur du fourreau 2 et est brasé à l'extrémité 12 de l'hélice.A coupling finger 35 is integral with the conductive part 36. This coupling finger 35 projects inwardly of the sleeve 2 and is brazed at the end 12 of the helix.

Le fourreau 2 possède toujours une ouverture 23 dans la zone du couplage avec le circuit externe 40 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube à onde progressive. Cette ouverture 23 se trouve à proximité du doigt de couplage 35.The sheath 2 always has an opening 23 in the region of the coupling with the external circuit 40 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube. This opening 23 is located near the coupling finger 35.

Un intervalle étroit 37 est aménagé entre l'extrémité de la moulure 5 placée du côté de la ligne à retard 1 et la surface extérieure de la bague 36 située au niveau du doigt de couplage 35. Il n'y a plus de contact mécanique entre l'hélice 10 et la moulure 5 et le couplage électromagnétique est assuré par effet capacitif entre la surface extérieure de la la bague conductrice 36 et la moulure 5.A narrow gap 37 is arranged between the end of the molding 5 placed on the side of the delay line 1 and the outer surface of the ring 36 located at the coupling finger 35. There is no longer any mechanical contact between the propeller 10 and the molding 5 and the electromagnetic coupling is provided by capacitive effect between the outer surface of the conductive ring 36 and the molding 5.

On aurait pu utiliser une pièce conductrice ayant une forme autre qu'une bague. Le doigt de couplage 35 aurait pu être solidaire d'une tige encastrée dans le fourreau. Une pièce conductrice en forme de bague est simple à réaliser et à assembler.We could have used a conductive part having a shape other than a ring. The coupling finger 35 could have been secured to a rod embedded in the sheath. A conductive piece in the form of a ring is simple to make and assemble.

Des mesures ont montré que la qualité électrique de la jonction ne dépend pas de la valeur de l'intervalle 37 pourvu qu'il soit suffisamment petit.Measurements have shown that the electrical quality of the junction does not depend on the value of the interval 37 provided that it is sufficiently small.

Des couplages ont pu être réalisés dans des bandes de fréquences allant de la bande décimétrique à la bande millimétrique en gardant le même intervalle étroit 37. La valeur de cet intervalle est d'environ 0,1 millimètre. Un intervalle de 0,1 millimètre est facilement réalisable avec une tolérance satisfaisante.Couplings could be made in frequency bands going from the decimetric band to the millimeter band while keeping the same narrow interval 37. The value of this interval is approximately 0.1 millimeter. An interval of 0.1 millimeter is easily achievable with a satisfactory tolerance.

Le montage des TOP comportant un dispositif de couplage selon l'invention est simplifié : les étapes de montage sont les suivantes :
- positionnement et fixation de la partie du focalisateur adjacente au couvercle 41 du guide d'onde 4,
- positionnement et fixation de la partie du focalisateur adjacente à la partie 42 moulurée du guide d'onde 4,
- brasage de l'hélice 10 sur les tiges 11 puis dans l'ensemble fourreau 2-bague 36. La bague 36 est brasée au préalable au fourreau 2. L'extrémité de l'hélice 10 est brasée au doigt de couplage 35 à cette étape. Cette brasure est facile à réaliser, le point de brasure est parfaitement accessible,
- assemblage des deux parties focalisateur-guide d'onde,
- assemblage et brasage de l'ensemble fourreau 2-­bague 36-hélice 10 avec l'ensemble focalisateur-guide d'onde 4. Cette dernière étape ne pose pas de problème particulier.The assembly of the TOPs comprising a coupling device according to the invention is simplified: the assembly steps are as follows:
positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device adjacent to the cover 41 of the waveguide 4,
positioning and fixing of the part of the focusing device adjacent to the molded part 42 of the waveguide 4,
- brazing of the propeller 10 on the rods 11 then in the sleeve 2-ring assembly 36. The ring 36 is brazed beforehand on the sleeve 2. The end of the propeller 10 is brazed with the coupling finger 35 to this step. This solder is easy to make, the solder point is perfectly accessible,
- assembly of the two focusing-waveguide parts,
- Assembling and soldering of the sleeve 2-ring 36-propeller 10 assembly with the focusing-waveguide assembly 4. This last step does not pose any particular problem.

Les mesures en vue de vérifier le bon fonctionnement des différents éléments peuvent avoir lieu avant ce dernier passage au four. Les pièces défectueuses peuvent être rejetées avant l'assemblage définitif. De plus, l'hélice subira un passage au four de moins que dans l'art antérieur. C'est un avantage car les brasages sont des opérations délicates à réaliser.Measurements to verify the proper functioning of the various elements can take place before this last passage in the oven. Defective parts can be rejected before final assembly. In addition, the propeller will undergo one less oven passage than in the prior art. This is an advantage because soldering is a delicate operation to perform.

Les figures 5a et 5b représentent en coupe longitudinale deux variantes de la bague 36. La bague 36 représentée sur la figure 5a est plus particulièrement adaptée au cas où l'hélice 10 et la moulure 5 sont situées du même côté de l'axe du guide d'onde 4. La bague 36 représentée sur la figure 5b est plus particulièrement adaptée au cas où l'hélice 10 et la moulure 5 sont situées de part et d'autre de l'axe du guide d'onde 4.Figures 5a and 5b show in longitudinal section two variants of the ring 36. The ring 36 shown in Figure 5a is more particularly suited to the case where the propeller 10 and the molding 5 are located on the same side of the axis of the waveguide 4. The ring 36 shown in Figure 5b is more particularly suited to the case where the propeller 10 and the molding 5 are located on either side of the axis of the waveguide 4.

Les figures 6a, 6b, 6c montrent qu'il est possible de faire varier, en hauteur, la position de la bague 36 par rapport à celle de la moulure 5. Cette variation permet de régler l'impédance caractéristique. Sur la figure 6a, le doigt 35 et la moulure 5 ont la même hauteur. Sur la figure 6b, le doigt 35 est plus bas que la moulure 5, sur la figure 6c le doigt 35 est plus haut que la moulure 5.Figures 6a, 6b, 6c show that it is possible to vary, in height, the position of the ring 36 relative to that of the molding 5. This variation makes it possible to adjust the characteristic impedance. In FIG. 6a, the finger 35 and the molding 5 have the same height. In FIG. 6b, the finger 35 is lower than the molding 5, in FIG. 6c the finger 35 is higher than the molding 5.

La figure 7 représente une vue partielle en coupe longitudinale d'un autre mode de réalisation d'un tube à onde progressive selon l'invention.FIG. 7 represents a partial view in longitudinal section of another embodiment of a traveling wave tube according to the invention.

La figure 8 est une coupe transversale dans le plan AA′ du tube à onde progressive représenté à la figure 7. La figure 7 est une coupe longitudinale dans le plan BB′ de la figure 8.FIG. 8 is a cross section in the plane AA ′ of the traveling wave tube shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section in the plane BB ′ of FIG. 8.

Le tube à onde progressive représenté comprend une ligne à retard 1 d'axe XX′ et un circuit externe 60 d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence du tube à onde progressive. Les deux figures représentent uniquement une zone au voisinage de l'extrémité de la ligne à retard 10, le reste de la construction pouvant être identique à ce qui a été décrit aux figures 1 et 2. En particulier, le focalisateur n'est pas représenté.The traveling wave tube shown comprises a delay line 1 of axis XX ′ and an external circuit 60 for extracting the microwave energy from the traveling wave tube. The two figures represent only an area in the vicinity of the end of the delay line 10, the rest of the construction possibly being identical to what has been described in FIGS. 1 and 2. In particular, the focusing device is not shown .

Sur ces figures, on retrouve la même ligne à retard 1, d'axe XX′ que celle qui a été décrite aux figures 3 et 4. La pièce conductrice 36 portant le doigt de couplage 35 est placée à son extrémité. Il s'agit aussi d'une bague. Mais le circuit externe 60 d'extraction de l'énergie du tube est une ligne coaxiale 50. Elle est constituée d'un conducteur central 52 et d'un conducteur extérieur 54 en forme de cylindre creux, séparés par un diélectrique 51. L'axe de la ligne coaxiale est perpendiculaire à l'axe XX′ de la ligne à retard 1. La ligne coaxiale 50 traverse le focalisateur jusqu'à être en contact avec le fourreau 2. Le fourreau 2 possède une ouverture 23 dans la zone de couplage avec la ligne coaxiale 50. Un intervalle étroit 37 est aménagé entre l'extrémité 53 du conducteur central 52 placée du côté de la ligne à retard 1 et la surface extérieure de la bague 36, au niveau du doigt de couplage 35.In these figures, we find the same delay line 1, axis XX ′ as that which has been described in Figures 3 and 4. The conductive part 36 carrying the coupling finger 35 is placed at its end. It is also a ring. However, the external circuit 60 for extracting energy from the tube is a coaxial line 50. It consists of a central conductor 52 and an external conductor 54 in the form of a hollow cylinder, separated by a dielectric 51. The axis of the coaxial line is perpendicular to the axis XX ′ of the delay line 1. The coaxial line 50 crosses the focusing device until it is in contact with the sleeve 2. The sleeve 2 has an opening 23 in the coupling zone with the coaxial line 50. A narrow gap 37 is arranged between the end 53 of the central conductor 52 placed on the side of the delay line 1 and the outer surface of the ring 36, at the level of the coupling finger 35.

L'invention s'applique aussi bien au couplage du circuit externe d'extraction de l'énergie hyperfréquence, comme on vient de le décrire, qu'au circuit externe d'injection de l'énergie hyperfréquence dans la ligne à retard. Dans ce dernier cas, la pièce portant le doigt de couplage se trouvera de l'autre côté de la ligne à retard, du côté du canon à électrons. Le circuit externe d'injection de l'énergie est généralement une ligne coaxiale. Le couplage sera identique à ce qui a été décrit aux figures 7 et 8.The invention is equally applicable to the coupling of the external microwave energy extraction circuit, as has just been described, as to the external circuit of injection of the microwave energy into the delay line. In the latter case, the part carrying the coupling finger will be on the other side of the delay line, on the side of the electron gun. The external energy injection circuit is generally a coaxial line. The coupling will be identical to what has been described in FIGS. 7 and 8.

L'invention s'applique aussi aux tubes à ondes progressives dont la ligne à retard est une structure dérivée de l'hélice, par exemple composée d'anneaux reliés entre eux par des barres. Ces structures sont connues sous les dénominations "ring and bar" ou "ring and loop" en langue anglaise. Le tube à onde progressive comportant le dispositif de couplage selon l'invention peut être utilisé en tant qu'amplificateur à champs croisés.The invention also applies to traveling wave tubes, the delay line of which is a structure derived from the helix, for example composed of rings connected to one another by bars. These structures are known under the names "ring and bar" or "ring and loop" in English. The traveling wave tube comprising the coupling device according to the invention can be used as a cross-field amplifier.

Des mesures ont été effectuées, en bande millimétrique, avec un tube à onde progressive utilisant un dispositif de couplage selon l'invention. Elles ont donné les résultats suivants :
- bande passante 15%
- rapport d'ondes stationnaires < 1,4.Measurements were made, in millimeter band, with a traveling wave tube using a coupling device according to the invention. They gave the following results:
- bandwidth 15%
- standing wave ratio <1.4.

La bande passante de la jonction peut être élargie jusqu'à environ 67% (soit un octave) avec un rapport d'ondes stationnaires inférieur à 1,7.The bandwidth of the junction can be widened up to approximately 67% (i.e. one octave) with a standing wave ratio less than 1.7.

Claims (10)

1. Tube à onde progressive comprenant un fourreau (2) cylindrique contenant une ligne à retard et un dispositif de couplage entre la ligne à retard (1) et un circuit hyperfréquence externe (40), le circuit hyperfréquence (40) comprenant une ligne de transmission (4) possédant une âme conductrice (5) interne, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de couplage comprend :
une pièce conductrice (36) placée à une extrémité de la ligne à retard (1) et possédant un doigt de couplage (35) faisant saillie vers l'intérieur du fourreau (2) et fixé à l'extrémité (12) de la ligne à retard (1),
la pièce (36) étant brasée à une extrémité du fourreau (2) et l'âme conductrice interne (5) de la ligne de transmission (4) ayant une extrémité située en regard de la surface extérieure de la pièce,
le couplage électromagnétique hyperfréquence se faisant entre la surface extérieure de la pièce (36) et l'âme conductrice (5) interne.1. Traveling wave tube comprising a cylindrical sheath (2) containing a delay line and a coupling device between the delay line (1) and an external microwave circuit (40), the microwave circuit (40) comprising a line of transmission (4) having an internal conductive core (5), characterized in that the coupling device comprises:
a conductive piece (36) placed at one end of the delay line (1) and having a coupling finger (35) projecting towards the inside of the sleeve (2) and fixed to the end (12) of the line delay (1),
the part (36) being brazed at one end of the sheath (2) and the internal conductive core (5) of the transmission line (4) having one end situated opposite the external surface of the part,
the microwave electromagnetic coupling taking place between the external surface of the part (36) and the internal conductive core (5). 2. Tube à onde progressive selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité de l'âme conductrice (5) interne est placée à proximité du doigt de couplage (35).2. traveling wave tube according to claim 1, characterized in that the end of the internal conductive core (5) is placed near the coupling finger (35). 3. Tube à onde progressive selon l'une des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce qu'un intervalle étroit (37) est aménagé entre l'extrémité de l'âme conductrice (5) interne de la ligne de transmission (4) et la surface extérieure de la pièce (36) conductrice.3. traveling wave tube according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that a narrow gap (37) is arranged between the end of the conductive core (5) internal to the transmission line (4) and the outer surface of the conductive part (36). 4. Tube à onde progressive selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que la largeur de l'intervalle étroit entre l'extrémité de l'âme conductrice (5) interne de la ligne de transmission (4) et la surface extérieure de la pièce (36) conductrice est d'environ 0,1 millimètre.4. traveling wave tube according to claim 3, characterized in that the width of the narrow gap between the end of the conductive core (5) internal of the transmission line (4) and the external surface of the part (36) conductive is about 0.1 millimeter. 5. Tube à onde progressive selon l'une des revendications 1 à 4 caractérisé en ce que la pièce conductrice (36) à la forme d'une bague encastrée dans la paroi extérieure du fourreau (2).5. traveling wave tube according to one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that the conductive part (36) in the form of a ring embedded in the outer wall of the sleeve (2). 6. Tube à onde progressive selon l'une des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que le circuit hyperfréquence externe (40) est un circuit d'injection ou un circuit d'extraction d'énergie hyperfréquence.6. traveling wave tube according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the external microwave circuit (40) is an injection circuit or a microwave energy extraction circuit. 7. Tube à onde progressive selon l'une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que la ligne de transmission est un guide d'onde mouluré (4), l'âme interne conductrice étant la moulure (5) du guide d'onde.7. traveling wave tube according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the transmission line is a molded waveguide (4), the internal conductive core being the molding (5) of the guide wave. 8. Tube à onde progressive selon l'une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que la ligne de transmission est une ligne coaxiale (50), l'âme interne conductrice étant le conducteur central (52) de la ligne coaxiale.8. traveling wave tube according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the transmission line is a coaxial line (50), the internal conductive core being the central conductor (52) of the coaxial line. 9. Tube à onde progressive selon l'une des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que la ligne à retard (1) est une ligne à hélice (10) ou une ligne d'un type dérivé de l'hélice.9. traveling wave tube according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the delay line (1) is a propeller line (10) or a line of a type derived from the propeller. 10. Tube à onde progressive selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que le doigt de couplage (35) est brasé à l'extrémité (12) de l'hélice (10) ou à l'extrémité de la structure dérivée de l'hélice.10. traveling wave tube according to claim 9, characterized in that the coupling finger (35) is brazed at the end (12) of the propeller (10) or at the end of the structure derived from the propeller.
EP89401031A 1988-04-19 1989-04-14 Travelling-wave tube with a coupling arrangement between its delay line and external microwave circuits Expired - Lifetime EP0341107B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8805139A FR2630257A1 (en) 1988-04-19 1988-04-19 PROGRESSIVE WAVE TUBE HAVING A COUPLING DEVICE BETWEEN ITS DELAY LINE AND EXTERNAL HYPERFREQUENCY CIRCUITS
FR8805139 1988-04-19

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0341107A1 true EP0341107A1 (en) 1989-11-08
EP0341107B1 EP0341107B1 (en) 1992-03-11

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EP89401031A Expired - Lifetime EP0341107B1 (en) 1988-04-19 1989-04-14 Travelling-wave tube with a coupling arrangement between its delay line and external microwave circuits

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US (1) US4970432A (en)
EP (1) EP0341107B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH0212738A (en)
DE (1) DE68900953D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2630257A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2628827B2 (en) * 1993-02-17 1997-07-09 哲夫 磯崎 Extruder for incense molding
FR2747228B1 (en) * 1996-04-05 1998-07-17 Thomson Csf LOW-LOSS FERRITE BETWEEN 1 MHZ AND 100 MHZ AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE SAME
FR2758888B1 (en) * 1997-01-27 1999-04-23 Thomson Csf PROCESS FOR FINE MODELING OF CLOUD GROUND RECEIVED BY RADAR
FR2787918B1 (en) 1998-12-23 2001-03-16 Thomson Tubes Electroniques MULTIBAND PROGRESSIVE WAVE TUBE OF REDUCED LENGTH CAPABLE OF OPERATING AT HIGH POWER

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US2636948A (en) * 1946-01-11 1953-04-28 Bell Telephone Labor Inc High-frequency amplifier
DE973327C (en) * 1951-04-19 1960-01-21 Standard Elek K Lorenz Ag Traveling coil tubes with self-supporting tube system
US2991391A (en) * 1957-07-24 1961-07-04 Varian Associates Electron beam discharge apparatus
US3076156A (en) * 1952-03-09 1963-01-29 Telefunken Gmbh High frequency coupling arrangements for traveling wave tubes
FR1434049A (en) * 1964-05-27 1966-04-01 Siemens Ag Waveguide for the transmission of very short electromagnetic waves, especially for millimeter wave tubes
US3939443A (en) * 1972-01-07 1976-02-17 Finommechanikai Vallalat Frequency-selective coupling for high-frequency electromagnetic waves
EP0274950A1 (en) * 1986-12-19 1988-07-20 Thomson-Csf Broad-band coupling device between the delay line of a travelling-wave tube and the external energy-transmitting circuit, and travelling-wave tube comprising such a device

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US2758244A (en) * 1952-06-02 1956-08-07 Rca Corp Electron beam tubes
DE1013730B (en) * 1953-06-09 1957-08-14 Deutsche Bundespost Coupling arrangement between a helical waveguide and a Lecher line
US2899593A (en) * 1954-05-03 1959-08-11 Electron discharge devices
US2869082A (en) * 1956-02-15 1959-01-13 Sylvania Electric Prod Microwave transition elements
FR1184604A (en) * 1956-07-05 1959-07-23 Siemens Ag Device for coupling and decoupling electromagnetic waves with the helix of field-propagating tubes
US3715616A (en) * 1971-10-12 1973-02-06 Sperry Rand Corp High-impedance slow-wave propagation circuit having band width extension means
DE2516428C2 (en) * 1975-04-15 1977-03-24 Siemens Ag HIKING FIELD TUBE WITH A COIL-LIKE DELAY LINE
FR2485801A1 (en) * 1980-06-27 1981-12-31 Thomson Csf Coupler for static focussed travelling wave tube - has rib connected to slow wave helix and guide of similar dimension to focussing magnet

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2636948A (en) * 1946-01-11 1953-04-28 Bell Telephone Labor Inc High-frequency amplifier
DE973327C (en) * 1951-04-19 1960-01-21 Standard Elek K Lorenz Ag Traveling coil tubes with self-supporting tube system
US3076156A (en) * 1952-03-09 1963-01-29 Telefunken Gmbh High frequency coupling arrangements for traveling wave tubes
US2991391A (en) * 1957-07-24 1961-07-04 Varian Associates Electron beam discharge apparatus
FR1434049A (en) * 1964-05-27 1966-04-01 Siemens Ag Waveguide for the transmission of very short electromagnetic waves, especially for millimeter wave tubes
US3939443A (en) * 1972-01-07 1976-02-17 Finommechanikai Vallalat Frequency-selective coupling for high-frequency electromagnetic waves
EP0274950A1 (en) * 1986-12-19 1988-07-20 Thomson-Csf Broad-band coupling device between the delay line of a travelling-wave tube and the external energy-transmitting circuit, and travelling-wave tube comprising such a device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2630257A1 (en) 1989-10-20
US4970432A (en) 1990-11-13
DE68900953D1 (en) 1992-04-16
JPH0212738A (en) 1990-01-17
EP0341107B1 (en) 1992-03-11

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