KR20220128890A - Plasma generating device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an antenna module coupled to a discharge tube and receiving power from a power source, comprising: a first unit antenna comprising a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point, wherein the first unit turn is located inside the second unit turn, and the second point is connected to the third point; a first capacitor connected to the first point of the first unit turn and connected between a first terminal of the power source and the first point; and a second capacitor connected between a second terminal of the power source and the fourth point. In order to minimize damage to the tube and generation of by-products due to the voltage applied to the antenna module, the capacitance of the second capacitor is smaller than the capacitor of the first capacitor.

Description

Plasma generator {PLASMA GENERATING DEVICE}

The present invention relates to a plasma generating apparatus and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to a plasma generating apparatus and a control method thereof for reducing by-products generated during plasma discharge.

Plasma discharge is used in many industrial and scientific applications, and through plasma discharge, active species of various gases used in various industrial fields such as semiconductor wafer processing can be generated, or by-products generated in industrial processes can be processed. have.

As a plasma source for performing plasma discharge, an inductively coupled plasma method or a capacitively coupled plasma method is largely used. The inductively coupled plasma method refers to a method in which RF power is applied to a coil to form an induced electric field and plasma discharge is performed through the induced electric field.

When plasma discharge is performed, impurities may be introduced into the active species due to the reason that active species or ions generated by the discharge collide with the discharge tube by the voltage applied to the antenna for the discharge. Accordingly, there is a need to develop a plasma generating device for reducing impurities contained in active species through the structure or design of an antenna for performing plasma discharge.

One object of the present invention is to provide a plasma generating apparatus.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a plasma generating device that provides active species with reduced impurities.

The problems of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and the problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

According to an aspect of the present invention, in an inductively coupled plasma generating device comprising an antenna module and a discharge tube receiving power from a power source, the antenna module includes a first arc extending from a first point to a second point. A first unit antenna including a unit turn and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point in an arc- The first unit turn is located inside the second unit turn, and the second point is connected to the third point - a first capacitor connected to the first point of the first unit turn and connected between the first terminal of the power source and the first point, the fourth point of the second unit turn A second capacitor connected to and a third capacitor connected between the second terminal of the power source and the fourth point; to minimize damage to the tube and byproducts caused by the voltage applied to the antenna module, A capacitance of the third capacitor may be smaller than that of the first capacitor.

According to another aspect of the present invention, in an inductively coupled plasma generating device comprising an antenna module and a discharge tube receiving power from a power source, the antenna module includes a second arc extending from a first point to a second point. A first unit antenna including one unit turn and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point in an arc- The first unit turn is located inside the second unit turn, and the second point is connected to the third point -, a first capacitor connected to the first point of the first unit turn and connected between a first terminal of the power source and the first point and the fourth point of the second unit turn a second capacitor connected to the point; Including, wherein the first capacitor is connected between the first terminal of the power source and the first point, and when power is supplied to the antenna module, the point at which the voltage in the first unit antenna becomes the lowest is the first A plasma generating device, located on a unit turn, may be provided.

The solutions to the problems of the present invention are not limited to the above-described solutions, and solutions not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs from the present specification and the accompanying drawings. will be able

According to the present invention, a plasma generating apparatus usable under various environments can be provided.

According to the present invention, a plasma generating device in which impurities contained in active species are reduced can be provided.

Effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-described effects, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs from the present specification and accompanying drawings.

1 is a view for explaining a plasma generating system according to an embodiment of the invention described herein.
2 is a view for explaining a plasma generating system according to an embodiment of the invention described herein.
3 is a view for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention described herein.
4 is a view for explaining a DC electrode according to an embodiment of the invention described herein.
5 is a diagram for explaining a DC power supply according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a view for explaining a DC electrode according to an embodiment of the invention described herein.
7 is a diagram for explaining a DC power supply according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a diagram for explaining an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a view for explaining the operation of the antenna module according to an embodiment of the invention described in this specification.
10 is a diagram for explaining an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a diagram for explaining an operation of an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
12 is a view for explaining the form of an antenna module according to an embodiment of the present invention described herein.
13 is a diagram for explaining an RF power source according to an embodiment of the present invention.
14 is a view for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the invention described herein.
15 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
16 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
17 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
18 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
19 is a view for explaining a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
20 is a view for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
21 is a diagram for explaining a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
22 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
23 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
24 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
25 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
26 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
27 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
28 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
29 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
30 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention.
31 is a view for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
32 is a view for explaining a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
33 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
34 is a diagram for explaining a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
35 is a diagram for explaining a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
36 is a diagram for describing an antenna module according to an embodiment.
37 is a diagram for describing a unit antenna according to an embodiment.
38 is a diagram for explaining a voltage applied to an antenna module according to an embodiment.
39 is a diagram for explaining a voltage applied to an antenna module according to an embodiment.
40 is a diagram for explaining a voltage applied to an antenna module according to an embodiment.

본 발명의 상술한 목적, 특징들 및 장점은 첨부된 도면과 관련된 다음의 상세한 설명을 통해 보다 분명해질 것이다. 다만, 본 발명은 다양한 변경을 가할 수 있고 여러 가지 실시예들을 가질 수 있는 바, 이하에서는 특정 실시예들을 도면에 예시하고 이를 상세히 설명하고자 한다.

The above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, since the present invention may have various changes and may have various embodiments, specific embodiments will be exemplified in the drawings and described in detail below.

In the drawings, the thicknesses of layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity, and an element or layer is also referred to as “on” or “on” another component or layer. It includes all cases where another layer or other component is interposed in the middle as well as directly on top of another component or layer. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like elements in principle. In addition, components having the same function within the scope of the same idea shown in the drawings of each embodiment will be described using the same reference numerals.

If it is determined that a detailed description of a known function or configuration related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, numbers (eg, first, second, etc.) used in the description process of the present specification are merely identification symbols for distinguishing one component from other components.

In addition, the suffixes "module" and "part" for the components used in the following description are given or mixed in consideration of only the ease of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles by themselves.

The method according to the embodiment may be implemented in the form of program instructions that can be executed through various computer means and recorded in a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, etc. alone or in combination. The program instructions recorded on the medium may be specially designed and configured for the embodiment, or may be known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, and magnetic such as floppy disks. - includes magneto-optical media, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROM, RAM, flash memory, and the like. Examples of program instructions include not only machine language codes such as those generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter or the like. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the embodiments, and vice versa.

1. Plasma generation system

According to one embodiment, a plasma generation system may be provided.

1 is a view for explaining a plasma generating system according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , the plasma generating system includes a power supply unit 100 for providing power, a plasma generating unit 200 receiving power from the power supply unit 100 and generating plasma, and gas to the plasma generating unit 200 . It may include a gas supply unit 300 to supply. The plasma generating system may further include a process unit 400 that performs a process using the generated plasma.

The power supply unit 100 may supply power required to generate plasma. The power supply unit 100 may supply power to the plasma generator. The power supply 100 may include DC power and/or RF power. The power supply unit 100 may provide a high voltage pulse to the plasma generation unit 200 through DC power. The power supply unit 100 may provide RF power to the plasma generator 200 through RF power.

The plasma generator 200 may perform plasma discharge. The plasma generator 200 may obtain a discharge gas and perform plasma discharge through the discharge gas. The plasma generator 200 may perform an inductively coupled plasma discharge or a capacitively coupled plasma discharge.

The plasma generator 200 may be a remote plasma source. The plasma generating unit 200 may form active species and provide the formed active species to the process unit 400 .

The plasma generator 200 may include an atmospheric pressure plasma device that performs plasma discharge under atmospheric pressure (normal pressure). For example, the plasma generating unit 200 may include an atmospheric pressure plasma apparatus that performs plasma discharge under several hundred Torr to atmospheric pressure (750 Torr).

The plasma generator 200 may include a low-pressure plasma device that performs low-pressure plasma discharge. For example, the plasma generating unit 200 creates an environment of an initial vacuum degree (Base pressure) of 10 ^-5 to 10 ^-7 Torr or less, and then generates plasma at a process pressure of several mTorr to several Torr using a desired process gas. A low pressure plasma device may be included.

The plasma generator 200 may perform a low-temperature plasma discharge operation at several tens to several hundreds of degrees. For example, the plasma generator 200 may perform a low-pressure low-temperature plasma discharge operation such as cleaning, etching, deposition, surface treatment, and material synthesis of semiconductor and display processes. Also, for example, the plasma generator 200 may perform a normal pressure low-temperature plasma discharge operation for cleaning a glass substrate, modifying a hydrophilic/hydrophobic surface, nanotechnology, sterilization, removing harmful substances, reducing carbon dioxide, and the like.

The plasma generator 200 may perform a high-temperature plasma discharge operation for gas reforming, microparticle generation, plasma welding, cutting, metallurgy, and the like, under a high temperature of several thousand to tens of thousands of degrees.

Hereinafter, the plasma generating unit 200 , the plasma generating apparatus, and the like may be interpreted as a device for performing the above-described low-temperature plasma discharge or high-temperature plasma discharge.

The plasma generator 200 may generate a seed charge for plasma generation. In particular, when the plasma generating unit 200 performs atmospheric pressure plasma discharge, the plasma generating unit 200 may generate seed charges for initial discharge. The plasma generator 200 may include a DC electrode and may generate a seed charge when a DC high voltage pulse is provided to the DC electrode.

The plasma generator 200 may perform an initial discharge and a main discharge for plasma generation. The plasma generator 200 may perform an initial discharge according to a capacitive coupling mode (E mode) or a main discharge according to an inductive coupling mode (H mode). The plasma generator 200 includes an inductively coupled antenna including a coil, and may perform an initial discharge or a main discharge as RF power is provided to the inductively coupled antenna.

A detailed configuration and operation of the plasma generating unit 200 will be described in more detail below.

The gas supply unit 300 may supply a gas for plasma discharge to the plasma generation unit 200 . The gas supply unit 300 may supply a reactive gas or a process gas to the plasma generation unit 200 . The gas supply unit 300 may supply a gas selected according to a function or use of the plasma generating unit 200 or the processing unit 400 .

For example, the gas supply unit 300 may include NF ₃ gas (nitrogen trifluoride gas), Ar gas (argon gas), Xe gas (xenon gas), Kr gas (krypton gas), N ₂ gas (nitrogen gas), O2 gas (oxygen gas), H ₂ gas (hydrogen gas), He gas (helium gas), Ne gas (neon gas) SiH ₄ gas (monosilane gas), NH ₃ gas (ammonia gas), PH ₃ gas (phosphine gas) ), B ₂ H ₆ gas (diborane gas), DCS gas (dichlorosilane gas), C ₅ F ₈ gas (octafluoropentene gas), CF ₄ gas (carbon tetrafluoride gas), HBr gas (hydrogen bromide gas) ), Cl ₂ gas (chlorine gas), Xe gas (xenon gas), Kr gas (krypton gas), SF ₆ gas (sulfur hexafluoride gas), CH ₄ gas (methane gas) any one of gas or gas and air of the mixed gas may be supplied to the plasma generating unit 200 . The gas supply unit 300 is a plasma generating unit through a liquid precursor such as TEOS (tstra-ethyl-ortho-silicate), Tetrakis ((ethylmethylamino)zirconium), trimethyl aluminum, hexamethyldisiloxane, etc. Gas can also be supplied.

The process unit 400 may perform a process before or after plasma discharge. The processing unit may perform a target process through the plasma generated by the plasma generating unit 200 . Alternatively, the process unit 400 may transfer a material generated by performing the target process to the plasma generating unit.

The target process is a cleaning process that removes a fine oil film on the surface through collision of plasma ions/radicals on the material to be treated, and etching that generates plasma using a reactive etching gas according to the purpose and selectively removes the material using it. A deposition process that deposits a material on the surface by injecting a deposition gas suitable for the process, and an additive gas for plasma discharge, a reforming process that uses plasma to change the characteristics of the surface, and a substance that decomposes a target material through plasma discharge It may be a decomposition process and the like.

The processing unit 400 may perform a target operation related to processing a semiconductor substrate. For example, the process unit 400 may receive active species (eg, hydrogen active species) from the plasma generator and perform a cleaning process inside the process chamber.

The process unit 400 includes a process chamber, a substrate holder disposed in the process chamber and on which a semiconductor substrate to be processed (eg, a silicon semiconductor substrate) is positioned, a shower head positioned on the substrate holder and supplying a substrate processing material into the process chamber, and/or Alternatively, it may include a vacuum pump that exhausts air in the process chamber.

In the plasma generating system, the process unit 400 performs a target process through plasma generated through the plasma generating unit, or a by-product generated by the target process of the process unit 400 is processed by the plasma generating unit 200 . can be implemented. 2 is a view for explaining a plasma generating system according to some embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 2A , the plasma generation system according to an embodiment may include a processing unit 401 and a plasma generation unit 201 for processing a material generated by the processing unit 401 . . For example, referring to FIG. 2A , the plasma generating system may include a gas scrubber device. The processing unit 401 is a device for performing a semiconductor manufacturing process, and the plasma generating unit 201 includes a hardly decomposable gas generated in the semiconductor manufacturing process of the processing unit 401 , for example, sulfur hexafluoride (SF ₆ ), 4 The treatment of fluorocarbon (CF ₄ ), perfluorocarbon (PFC) gas may be performed.

Referring to FIG. 2B , the plasma generating system according to an embodiment performs a process using the plasma generating unit 202 for generating active species and supplying the active species to the process unit 402 and the active species. It may include a process unit 402 to For example, the plasma generator 202 may generate active species by plasma-discharging gases such as NF ₃ , H ₂ , N ₂ , O ₂ , C ₃ F ₈ , CF4, Cl ₂ , SiH ₄ . The process unit 402 may perform operations such as dry etching, PECVD, PVD, ashing, and cleaning through the active species generated by the plasma generating unit 202 .

2. Plasma generator

2.1 Plasma Generator Overview

Hereinafter, a plasma generating apparatus that resonates at a plurality of resonant frequencies to perform plasma discharge will be described.

According to an embodiment, the plasma generating apparatus may include a plurality of modules having different impedances. When power is supplied at a resonant frequency corresponding to each module, the plasma generating apparatus may resonate at a resonant frequency corresponding to each module. For example, the plasma generating apparatus may include a first module having a first impedance and a second module having a second impedance, and may resonate at a first frequency corresponding to the first module and a second frequency corresponding to the second module. have.

According to an embodiment, the plasma generating apparatus may perform different functions according to the frequency of the applied power. For example, when power is supplied at the first frequency, the plasma generating apparatus may perform an initial discharge promoting initial plasma generation. Alternatively, when power is supplied at a second frequency different from the first frequency, the plasma generating apparatus may perform a main discharge for continuously generating and maintaining plasma.

The plasma generating apparatus may be configured such that a configuration in which power is transmitted varies according to a frequency of the applied power. When power is supplied at the first frequency, the plasma generating apparatus may supply more power to the first module than to the second module. When power is supplied at the second frequency, the plasma generating apparatus may supply more power to the second module than to the first module.

Hereinafter, a plasma generating apparatus including the above-described power supply unit and plasma generating unit will be described with reference to some embodiments.

2.2 Plasma generator configuration

2.2.1 Overview

3 is a view for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 3 , the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include a frequency-variable RF power source 101 and a plasma generating unit receiving power from the RF power source 101 and generating plasma. Referring to FIG. 3 , the plasma generator is disposed around the discharge tube 210 , the gas tubes 211 and 213 positioned in the discharge tube 210 , and the discharge tube 210 , and supplies power from the RF power source 101 . An antenna 220 that receives and forms an induced electric field to generate plasma in the discharge tube 210 may be included. The plasma generating apparatus may further include an auxiliary gas supply nozzle 250 .

The RF power source 101 may change the driving frequency within a variable frequency range. The RF power source 101 may have a variable frequency range of several hundreds of kHz to several tens of MHz and/or a power of several tens of kW or more. For example, the RF power source 101 may be an AC power source that provides power at a frequency within a range of 100 kHz to 5 MHz.

According to an embodiment, the frequency of the RF power source 101 may be applied differently depending on the shape of the module of the antenna. For example, the frequency of the RF power source may vary according to an interval between capacitors included in the antenna module. For example, an RF power source having a maximum frequency of several MHz or tens of MHz may be used according to an interval between capacitors included in the antenna module.

The RF power source 101 may perform impedance matching by changing the driving frequency. The RF power source 101 may change the driving frequency so that the plasma generator operates in a resonance state.

The RF power source 101 includes a rectifier that converts commercial AC power into DC power, a controller that provides a switching signal to control a driving frequency and power, and an inverter that converts DC power into RF power based on the switching signal of the controller. can

The discharge tube 210 may be provided in the form of a cylindrical tube. The outer diameter of the discharge tube 210 may be several centimeters to several tens of centimeters. The inner diameter of the discharge tube 210 may be smaller than the outer diameter by several millimeters to several centimeters.

The discharge tube 210 may be a dielectric discharge tube. The discharge tube 210 may be made of a non-conductive material such as ceramic (eg, alumina or A1N), sapphire, or quartz.

The discharge tube 210 may provide a discharge area in which the plasma is located. The pressure inside the discharge tube 210 may be adjusted differently from the outside. The pressure inside the discharge tube 210 may be adjusted to an ultra-low pressure equivalent to a vacuum, a low pressure of several millitorr to an atmospheric pressure higher than atmospheric pressure, if necessary.

The gas tubes 211 and 213 may provide a discharge tube 210 and a path for providing gas to the interior of the discharge tube 210 . The gas tubes 211 and 213 may suppress plasma contact with the inner wall of the discharge tube 210 and ensure plasma stability.

There may be more than one gas tube 211 , 213 . The gas tube may include a first gas tube 211 and a second gas tube 213 . The first gas tube 211 and the second gas tube 213 may have a concentric structure. The first gas tube 211 may provide an input path of the first gas (eg, a gas for reaction such as methane gas). The second gas tube 213 may provide an input path for a second gas (eg, a gas containing carbon dioxide as a main component) having a configuration different from that of the first gas.

The first gas tube 211 and the second gas tube 213 may provide swirl flow. For example, the first gas tube 211 may provide an inner swirl flow and the second gas tube 213 may provide an outer swirl flow.

The antenna module 220 may receive power from the RF power source 101 and induce plasma discharge in the discharge tube 210 . The antenna module 220 may receive AC power from the RF power source 101 and generate an inductively coupled plasma in the discharge tube 210 . With respect to the antenna module 220, a more detailed embodiment will be described in the following electrode breakdown.

The auxiliary gas supply nozzle 250 may supply the auxiliary gas into the discharge tube 210 . The auxiliary gas supply nozzle 250 may be located close to the other end opposite to the one end to which the gas of the discharge tube 210 is input. The auxiliary gas supply nozzle 250 may be disposed around the discharge tube 210 , and may be disposed between the antenna module 220 and the gas outlet (outlet of the discharge tube 210 ).

The plasma generating device may further include a safety case 190 for enclosing the discharge tube 210 and the antenna module 220 and blocking external influences to ensure safety.

2.2.2 DC Power and Electrodes

The plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include a DC power supply for applying a DC high voltage and a DC electrode (ignition electrode) for generating capacitively coupled plasma discharge in a discharge tube when the DC high voltage is applied. In particular, in the case of a plasma generating device used for atmospheric plasma discharge, inductively coupled plasma discharge may be more difficult than low pressure plasma discharge. can

The plasma generating device may include one or more discharge electrodes for generating a discharge inside the discharge tube. The plasma generating device may apply a DC voltage to the discharge electrode to cause a capacitively coupled discharge, eg, a localized streamer discharge, inside the discharge tube. The plasma generating device may apply a DC voltage to the discharge electrode to provide a seed charge in the discharge tube.

4 is a view for explaining a discharge electrode according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4A , the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include one or more electrodes positioned around the antenna module 220 for generating plasma discharge and connected to a DC power source. The plasma generating apparatus may include a first electrode 231 positioned above the antenna module 220 and a second electrode 233 positioned below the antenna module 220 .

Referring to (b) of FIG. 4 , the plasma generating device is disposed on the outer surface of the discharge tube and surrounds the first electrode 231 positioned above the induction coil 221 of the antenna module 220 and the outer surface of the discharge tube. and a second electrode 233 positioned below the induction coil 221 . Referring to FIG. 4B , the first electrode 231 may have a square plate shape. The second electrode 233 may have a “C” shape. Alternatively, the second electrode 233 may include a plurality of slits. In order to prevent eddy currents from flowing in the second electrode 233 under the influence of the induction electric fields E1 and E2 formed by the induction coil, the second electrode 233 has an open loop structure that does not completely surround the outer wall of the discharge tube. can have

The DC power may apply a positive high voltage to the first electrode 231 and a negative high voltage to the second electrode 233 . When a high voltage pulse is applied between the first electrode 231 and the second electrode 233 by a DC power source, a capacitively coupled plasma discharge, for example, a vertical streamer discharge, is generated between the first electrode 231 and the second electrode 233 . This can happen.

5 is a diagram for explaining a power source according to an embodiment.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 5 , the DC power supply includes an AC-DC converter 111 that converts commercial AC power into a DC voltage, a high voltage pulse generator 113 that generates a positive DC high voltage pulse through the DC voltage, and and a controller 112 for controlling the high voltage pulse generator.

FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining an embodiment of the high voltage pulse generator described in FIG. 5A .

Referring to FIG. 5B , the high voltage pulse generator 113 according to an embodiment includes a primary coil that obtains a DC voltage from an AC-DC converter and a secondary coil that generates a positive DC high voltage pulse. A first transformer 113a, a first power transistor 113b connected to the primary coil of the first transformer 113a, a primary coil for obtaining a DC voltage from an AD-DC converter, and a negative DC high voltage pulse generating It may include a second transformer 113c including a secondary coil and a second power transistor 113d connected to the primary coil of the second transformer. The controller 112 may control the gates of the first transistor 113b and the second transistor 113d. One end of the secondary coil of the first transformer 113a may be grounded, and the other end of the secondary coil of the first transformer 113a may output a positive DC high voltage pulse Vo1 . One end of the secondary coil of the second transformer 113c may be grounded, and the other end of the secondary coil of the second transformer 113c may output a negative DC high voltage pulse Vo2 .

The DC voltage Vin may be a DC power of 12 to 24V. The controller 112 may control the on-time and repetition frequency of the first power transistor 113b and the second power transistor 113d in synchronization with each other. The voltage of the DC high voltage pulse may be several tens of kV, for example, 10 to 50 kV. The repetition frequency of the DC high voltage pulse may be several kHz to several tens of kHz, for example, 10 kHz to 100 kHz.

6 is a view for explaining a discharge electrode according to another exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 6A , the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include an electrode 231 positioned around an antenna module 220 for generating plasma discharge and connected to a DC power source 110 . .

The plasma generating device may apply a high voltage to the electrode 231 through the DC power supply 110 to cause a capacitively coupled discharge between the electrode 231 and a surrounding object (eg, a metal object located inside/outside the discharge tube). . The plasma generating device applies a high voltage to the electrode 231 through the DC power supply 110 to cause a capacitively coupled discharge between the electrode 231 and the gas tube 211 and the grounded gas tube 211 located in the discharge tube. can The plasma generating device may generate a discharge between the gas tube 211 and the electrode 231 to provide a seed charge.

Referring to FIG. 6B , the plasma generating apparatus may include an electrode 231 positioned on the outer surface of the discharge tube and positioned above the induction coil 221 of the antenna module 220 . The electrode 231 may have a square plate shape. The plasma generating apparatus applies a positive high voltage to the electrode 231 in the form of a square plate located on the outer surface of the discharge tube through a DC power source, and is located in the discharge tube and is located between the grounded gas tube 211 and the electrode 231 . discharge may be induced. When a high voltage pulse is applied to the electrode 231 by the DC power source, a capacitively coupled plasma discharge, for example, a streamer discharge, may occur between the electrode 231 and the gas tube 211 .

7A is a diagram for explaining a power source according to an embodiment. FIG. 7B is a diagram for explaining an embodiment of the high voltage pulse generator illustrated in FIG. 7A . 7 (a) and (b) in the power supply and high voltage pulse generator, the contents described in FIG. 5 may be similarly applied unless otherwise specified.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 7 , the high voltage pulse generator 113 according to an embodiment includes a primary coil that obtains a DC voltage from an AC-DC converter and a secondary coil that generates a positive DC high voltage pulse. and a transformer 113e and a transistor 113f connected to the primary coil of the transformer 113e. The controller 112 may control the gate of the transistor 113e. One end of the secondary coil of the transformer 113f may be grounded, and the other end of the secondary coil of the transformer 113f may output a positive DC high voltage pulse Vout.

2.2.3 Inductive electrode

The plasma generating device may include one or more inductive electrodes for generating a discharge inside the discharge tube. The plasma generating apparatus may include one or more antenna modules that generate an inductively coupled plasma discharge when power is supplied from an RF power source. The antenna module may operate differently depending on the type and frequency of the input power signal. Hereinafter, some embodiments of the antenna module will be described.

2.2.3.1 Type 1 Antenna Module

8 is an operation for explaining the shape of an antenna module according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 8 , the antenna module 223 according to an embodiment may include a first capacitor 223a, an induction coil 223b, and a second capacitor 223c.

The first capacitor 223a may be connected between one end of the induction coil 223b and the RF power source, and the second capacitor 223c may be connected between the other end of the induction coil 223b and the RF power source. The first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c may have the same capacitance.

The induction coil 223b may be positioned between the first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c. The induction coil 223b may be a solenoid coil having a multi-layer structure. The induction coil 223b may be a solenoid coil wound in multiple layers on the outer surface of the discharge tube. The unit turns constituting the induction coil 223b may be wound to form a magnetic field that constructively interferes in the discharge tube in response to AC power. The induction coil 223b may be a solenoid coil wound on the outer surface of the discharge tube a plurality of times in one direction.

The induction coil 223b may be a densely wound solenoid coil such that the number of turns per unit length of the discharge tube is maximized. Although shown briefly in FIG. 5 , the induction coil 223b may be a solenoid coil having a larger number of turns than illustrated in FIG. 8 . For example, the induction coil 223b may have a three-layer structure including an inner solenoid coil, an intermediate solenoid coil, and an outer solenoid coil connected to each other.

The induction coil 223b may have a pipe shape through which a refrigerant may flow. The induction coil 223b may be formed of a copper pipe. A cross-section of the induction coil 223b may be provided in a circular shape or a rectangular shape.

The first capacitor 223a, the induction coil 223b, and the second capacitor 223c are connected in series and may resonate at a first frequency. The first frequency may be determined by the capacitance C1 of each of the first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c and the inductance L1 of the induction coil 223b.

9 is a view for explaining an operation at a resonant frequency of the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 8 .

Referring to FIG. 9 , the antenna module may resonate at a first frequency determined by the capacitance C1 of each of the first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c and the inductance L1 of the induction coil 223b. When power is supplied at the first frequency, the first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c are connected to the induction coil 223b such that the magnitude of the voltage Va induced across both ends of the induction coil 223b is minimized. can induce a voltage drop opposite to

In the resonance state, the first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c may cancel the reactance of the induction coil 223b. The plasma generating apparatus may perform impedance matching by supplying power to the antenna module at a first frequency such that the reactance of the induction coil 223b is canceled by the first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c. . The first capacitor 223a and the second capacitor 223c may be symmetrically disposed with respect to the induction coil 223b in order to reduce a voltage applied to both ends of the induction coil 223b.

2.2.3.2 Type 2 Antenna Module

10 is an operation for explaining the shape of an antenna module according to some embodiments. 10 (a), (b) and (c) are views for explaining an antenna module provided so that the number of turns of the induction coil per unit length of the discharge tube is different from each other. The antenna modules shown in (a), (b) and (c) of FIG. 10 may exhibit different discharge characteristics.

In the plasma generating apparatus, the smaller the number of turns per unit length of the discharge tube of the induction coil constituting the antenna module, the smaller the energy loss and the narrower the discharge window. In the plasma generating apparatus, the greater the number of turns per unit length of the discharge tube of the induction coil constituting the antenna module is, the wider the discharge window is, and the more advantageous in maintaining discharge, the higher the energy loss.

Referring to FIG. 10A , the antenna module 235 may include a unit coil 235b wound by one turn per layer and an interlayer capacitor 235a connecting the unit coils of each layer. The 12*1 turn antenna module 235 shown in (a) of FIG. 10 may be configured such that all antenna unit turns are close to the outer surface of the discharge tube. The antenna module 235 shown in (a) of FIG. 10 has a small number of turns per unit length (N/L), and thus has relatively low discharge efficiency, less energy loss, and relatively high process performance. can

Referring to FIG. 10B , the antenna module 237 may include a unit coil 237b wound by 2 turns per layer and an interlayer capacitor 237a connecting the unit coils of each layer. The 6*2 turn antenna module 237 shown in FIG. 10B has a larger number of turns per unit length (N/L) than the antenna module 235 of FIG. 10A . The antenna module 237 shown in FIG. 10B may exhibit higher discharge efficiency than the antenna module 235 shown in FIG. 10A . Discharge efficiency may be proportional to the number of turns per unit length (N/L). For example, the antenna module 237 shown in FIG. 10B may have twice the discharge efficiency of the antenna module 235 shown in FIG. 10A .

Referring to FIG. 10C , the antenna module 239 may include a unit coil 239b wound by 3 turns per layer and an interlayer capacitor 239a connecting the unit coils of each layer. The antenna module 239 has a larger number of turns per unit length (N/L) than the antenna modules 235 and 237 of FIGS. It may have a higher discharge efficiency than the antenna modules 235 and 237 of the . The antenna module 239 may have a characteristic in which discharge is easier to maintain in a gas condition in which discharge is difficult than the antenna modules 235 and 237 of FIGS. 10A and 10B .

The antenna modules shown in (a), (b) and (c) of FIG. 10 may have different inductances. The antenna module 235 of (a) has a first inductance, the antenna module 237 of (b) has a second inductance, and the antenna module 239 of (c) has a third inductance can have The second inducing dose may be greater than the first inducing dose, and the third inducing dose may be greater than the second inducing dose.

11 is a view for explaining an operation at a resonant frequency of the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 11 . Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 11 , voltage distribution at the resonance frequency of the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 11C will be described.

Referring to FIG. 11 , the antenna module according to an embodiment includes a plurality of unit coils 239b, an interlayer capacitor 239a disposed between the plurality of unit coils, and units positioned at the upper and lower ends, although not shown, respectively. It may include a terminal capacitor 239c respectively connected to the coil.

The antenna module may resonate at a second frequency determined by the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor 239a, the inductance of the unit coil 239b, and the capacitance of the terminal capacitor 239c.

In order to minimize the voltage applied to the unit coil 239b, the capacitance of the terminal capacitor 239c may be determined to be twice the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor 239a. In this case, the antenna module may resonate at a second frequency determined by the capacitance C2 of the interlayer capacitor 239a, the inductance L2 of the unit coil 239b, and the capacitance 2*C2 of the terminal capacitor 239c. Referring to Figure 11. The interlayer capacitor 239a may be represented as a pair of virtual capacitors each having a capacitance of 2*C2 connected in series.

In the resonance state, the plurality of interlayer capacitors 239a and terminal capacitors 239c may reduce the voltage applied to the ends of the unit coils 239b. When power is provided to the antenna module at the second frequency, the interlayer capacitor 239a and the terminal capacitor 239c are configured to minimize the magnitude of the voltage Vb induced across the induction coil 239b, the induction coil 239b. can induce a voltage drop opposite to

The interlayer capacitor 239a and the terminal capacitor 239c may cancel the reactance of the induction coil 239b. The plasma generating apparatus may perform impedance matching by supplying power to the antenna module at a second frequency such that the reactance of the induction coil 239b is canceled by the interlayer capacitor 239a and the terminal capacitor 239c. The terminal capacitor 239c may be symmetrically disposed with respect to the induction coil 239b in order to reduce a voltage applied to both ends of the induction coil 239b. The interlayer capacitor 239a may be disposed between each layer of the induction coil 239b in order to prevent capacitive coupling by minimizing the voltage difference between the layers between the unit induction coils 239b.

As the reactance of the induction coil 239b is canceled by the interlayer capacitor 239a and/or the terminal capacitor 239c, the voltages in each unit coil 239b may have a corresponding relationship. For example, in the resonance state, a voltage between one end and the other end of one unit coil 239b may correspond to a voltage between one end and the other end of another unit coil 239b. A potential at one end of one unit coil 239b may correspond to a potential at one end of another unit coil 239b.

As a specific example, the antenna module has a first unit coil (or unit turn) having one end and the other end, a first interlayer capacitor connected in series with the other end of the first unit coil, one end and the other end, but one end is A second unit coil connected in series with the first interlayer capacitor may be included. When the antenna module is in the resonance state, a potential at one end of the first unit coil may correspond to a potential at one end of the second unit coil. When the antenna module is in the resonance state, a voltage between one end and the other end of the first unit coil may correspond to a potential between the one end and the other end of the second unit coil. When the antenna module is in the resonance state, a voltage between one end and the other end of the first unit coil may correspond to a voltage between one end of the first unit coil and the other end of the second unit coil.

FIG. 12 is a view for explaining the structure of the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 11C. The antenna module according to an embodiment may include a plurality of unit coils 239b and an interlayer capacitor 239c disposed between the plurality of unit coils. 12 illustrates a unit coil 239b of an antenna module according to an embodiment.

The unit coil 239b may include a plurality of turns TU1 , TU2 , and TU3 . The unit coil 239b includes a first end TE1, a first turn TU1 connected to the first end TE1, a first protrusion PR1 connected to the first turn TU1, and a first protrusion PR1 and A second end connected to a second turn TU2 connected to the second turn TU2, a second protrusion PR2 connected to the second turn TU2, a third turn TU3 connected to the second protrusion PR2, and a third turn TU3 ( TE2).

The unit coil 239b may have an opening that is opened in one direction (refer to FIG. 12 , the x-axis direction). The first end TE1 and the second end TE2 of the unit coil 239b may form an open portion open in one direction.

Each of the turns TU1 , TU2 , TU3 may be arranged in the same plane. Each of the turns TU1, TU2, and TU3 may have a predetermined central angle. The central angle of each turn may be greater than or equal to 270 degrees. Each of the turns TU1 , TU2 , and TU3 may be disposed to have the same central axis and may have different radii.

Each of the protrusions PR1 and PR2 may connect turns having different radii from each other, and may be provided in a “U” shape. The first protrusion PR1 may connect one end of the first turn TU1 and one end of the second turn TU2.

The first terminal TE1 or the second terminal TE2 may be connected to the interlayer capacitor 239c or the terminal capacitor 239a. For example, the first end TE1 may be connected to the terminal capacitor 239a , and the second end TE2 may be connected to the interlayer capacitor 239c .

Meanwhile, the antenna module may include a plurality of unit coils 239b. The plurality of unit coils may be rotated about a central axis of the discharge tube. For example, in the first unit coil, the protrusion PR faces a first direction with respect to the central axis of the discharge tube, and in the second unit coil, the protrusion PR faces the second direction with respect to the central axis of the discharge tube. The first direction and the second direction may form a predetermined angle with respect to the central axis of the discharge tube. For example, the predetermined angle may be 90 degrees.

13 is a block diagram illustrating an RF power source according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 13 , the RF power supply device 100 according to an embodiment may include an AC power supply 1100 , a power supply device 1200 , and a load 1400 .

The AC power source 1100 may be a typical power source of 60 Hz used in a home or an industrial site. The load 1400 may be an electric or electronic device used in a home or an industrial site. The load 1400 may be a plasma generating device described herein.

The power supply device 1200 may convert the first AC power into the second AC power and supply it to the load 1400 . For example, the second AC power may have a driving frequency of several hundreds of kHz to several tens of MHz and provide power of several kW or more. The power supply device 1200 may include a rectifier 1210 , a capacitor 1220 , an inverter 1230 , an impedance matching circuit 1300 , and a controller 1250 .

The rectifier 1210 may convert the output of the AC power source 1100 into DC power. The rectifier 1210 may supply DC power between the ground node GND and the power node VP. The capacitor 1220 may be connected between the power node VP and the ground node GND. The capacitor 1220 may discharge the AC component transferred to the power node VP to the ground node GND.

The inverter 1230 may receive DC power from the power node VP and the ground node GND. The inverter 1230 may receive the switching signal SW from the controller 1250 . The inverter 1230 may convert the DC power into the second AC power in response to the switching signal SW. The second AC power may be supplied to the load 1400 through the impedance matching circuit 1300 . The impedance matching circuit 1300 may provide impedance matching with respect to the impedance of the load 1400 .

The controller 1250 may transmit the switching signal SW to the inverter 1230 . The controller 1250 may control the switching signal SW so that the inverter 1230 converts the DC power into the second AC power. The controller 1250 may control the switching signal SW to adjust the amount of power supplied from the inverter 1230 to the load 1400 .

3. Operation and control method of plasma generating device

According to an embodiment of the invention presented herein, a plasma generating apparatus having a plurality of discharge modes and performing plasma discharge of different characteristics in each mode may be provided.

For example, the plasma generating apparatus may have a first discharging mode with less energy loss and a second discharging mode for discharging a more difficult-to-discharge gas. Also, for example, the plasma generating apparatus may have a first discharge mode advantageous for initial discharge of plasma and a second discharge mode advantageous for main discharge with high energy efficiency.

The plasma generating apparatus may change the plasma discharge mode by switching one or more antennas exhibiting different characteristics as needed. The switching of the antenna may be interpreted in a broader sense than the physical switching of the circuit. For example, the plasma generating apparatus may switch antennas by selectively applying a frequency of power delivered to a plurality of antenna modules, and changing a mainly operating antenna module. Alternatively, the plasma generating apparatus may switch the antenna by changing the discharge characteristics of the antenna module by supplying power through a different power supply module or at a different driving frequency as needed.

According to the invention described herein, it is possible to provide a plasma generating apparatus capable of operating in more diverse environments and having a wider operating window. According to the invention described herein, a plasma generating apparatus that performs plasma discharge even when the impedance measured at the antenna changes under various discharge conditions (gas type, flow rate, pressure, rf power) can be provided. According to the invention described herein, in the case of a plasma generating device including a single antenna module or a single power module, a predetermined matching range or a limited discharge range due to component characteristics other than the antenna can be extended.

3.1 In case of 1 antenna

3.1.1 Plasma Generation Process with One Antenna

14 is a view for explaining a plasma discharge process when the plasma generating apparatus includes one antenna module 220 and the RF power supply 120 . The RF power supply 120 may include one or more power modules. The RF power supply 120 may include one or more power modules having different output frequency bands.

Hereinafter, a mode change plasma discharge process in the case of one antenna module will be described with reference to FIG. 14 .

Referring to FIG. 14 , when the plasma generating device includes one antenna module 220 and one frequency variable RF power supply device 120 , the plasma generating device is provided to the antenna module 220 using the variable frequency power supply device 120 . By changing the frequency of the resulting power signal, the discharge mode can be changed.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 14 , when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the antenna module 220 through the power supply unit 120 to , a plasma discharge can be induced inside the discharge tube.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form a first electric field inside the discharge tube. The first electric field may be a vertical electric field parallel to the axial direction of the discharge tube or an azimuthal electric field parallel to the circumferential direction of the discharge tube.

According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may transmit a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the antenna module 220 to form a vertical electric field E1 . have. The plasma generating apparatus may form a vertical electric field E1 through the antenna module 220 to induce capacitively coupled plasma generation in the discharge tube.

According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may induce capacitively coupled plasma generation in the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma discharge induced in the discharge tube of the plasma generating device may be mainly a capacitively coupled plasma discharge, or a discharge by a capacitively coupled mode (E-mode).

According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may transmit a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the antenna module 220 to form an azimuth direction electric field E2. have. The plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuth direction electric field E2 through the antenna module 220 to induce inductively coupled plasma generation in the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuth direction electric field E2 having a first intensity.

According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may induce inductively coupled plasma generation in the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma discharge induced in the discharge tube of the plasma generating device may be mainly an inductively coupled plasma discharge, or a discharge by an inductively coupled mode (H-mode).

Referring to (b) of FIG. 14 , when the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits a power signal having a second frequency f2 to the antenna module 220 through the power supply 120 , , a plasma discharge can be induced inside the discharge tube. The second frequency f2 may be different from the first frequency f1. The second frequency f2 may be different from the first frequency f1 by a predetermined value or more. The second frequency f2 may be larger or smaller than the first frequency f1 by a predetermined value (eg, 0.2 MHz).

When the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus may transmit a power signal of the second frequency f2 to the antenna module 220 to induce an electric field E3 in the azimuth direction. The plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuth direction electric field E3 through the antenna module 220 to induce an inductively coupled plasma discharge in the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuth direction electric field E3 having a second intensity. The second intensity may be greater or less than the intensity of the azimuth direction electric field E2 in the first mode.

When the operating mode is the second mode, the plasma generating device may induce an inductively coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma discharge induced in the discharge tube of the plasma generating apparatus may be mainly an inductively coupled plasma discharge or a discharge by an inductively coupled mode (H-mode).

15 is a view for explaining the change of the plasma discharge mode in relation to the current flowing in the antenna module (a), the voltage across the antenna module (b), the voltage across the unit coil (c), and the frequency (d) of the power signal to be. In FIG. 15 , the current and voltage graphs show magnitudes.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 15 , description will be made based on a case in which the antenna module 220 includes unit coils constituting a unit layer and an interlayer capacitor disposed between the unit coils as illustrated in FIG. 10 . do.

Referring to FIG. 15 , when the plasma generating apparatus operates in the first mode, the power supply 120 provides a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the antenna module 220, and a first current is supplied to the antenna module. (I1) can flow.

When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the voltage across the induction coil included in the antenna module may be the first voltage V1. When the operation mode is the first mode, the voltage across both ends of the unit coil (coil constituting the unit layer) constituting the induction coil included in the antenna module may be the third voltage V3.

Referring to FIG. 15 , when the plasma generating apparatus operates in the second mode, the power supply 120 provides a power signal having a second frequency f2 to the antenna module 220, and a second current is supplied to the antenna module. (I2) can flow.

When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the voltage across the induction coil may be the second voltage V2. When the operation mode is the second mode, the voltage across the unit coils constituting the induction coil included in the antenna module may be the fourth voltage V4.

The second frequency f2 may be smaller than the first frequency f1. When the second frequency f2 is less than the first frequency f1, the second current I2 may be greater than the first current I1. When the second frequency f2 is less than the first frequency f1 , the second voltage V2 may be less than the first voltage V1 . When the second frequency f2 is less than the first frequency f1 , the third voltage V3 may be greater than the fourth voltage V4 .

When the operation mode is the second mode, the voltage V2 across the coil of the antenna module 220 may be less than the voltage V1 across the coil of the antenna module in the first mode. When the operation mode is the second mode, the antenna module may have a discharge characteristic having high energy efficiency compared to the first mode.

The second frequency may be a resonant frequency of the antenna module 220 . When the operation mode is changed to the second mode, the antenna module 220 may resonate by matching impedance at the second frequency.

Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the plasma discharge state may change with time. The operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may be changed according to a change in the plasma discharge state. For example, when the plasma generating apparatus has a first discharge mode advantageous for initial discharge of plasma and a second discharge mode advantageous for main discharge with high energy efficiency, the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may be changed according to a change in plasma discharge state. have.

For example, the plasma discharge according to the first mode may be mainly performed by the capacitive coupling mode. Thereafter, as plasma is sufficiently generated by the capacitive coupling mode, a second electric field E2 that is an induced electric field in an azimuth direction may be formed in the discharge tube. When the second electric field E2 is formed, plasma by inductively coupled plasma discharge or inductively coupled mode (H-mode) may be generated.

The plasma generating apparatus may change an operating mode in response to a change in a plasma discharge state. Referring to (a) of FIG. 14 , the plasma generating apparatus transmits a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the antenna module 220 through the power supply unit 120, and in response to the transition of the plasma discharge state You can change the operating mode.

The plasma generating apparatus may detect a change in the plasma discharge state.

The plasma generating device may include a sensor device that acquires a current flowing through the antenna module 220 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the antenna module 220 . The plasma generating apparatus obtains a current flowing through the antenna module 220 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the coil of the antenna module 220, obtains a change in plasma discharge state, and a driving frequency and/or Or you can change the operating mode.

The plasma generating device may include a sensor device that acquires a change in voltage or current signal from the RF power supply device described above with reference to FIG. 13 . For example, the plasma generating device may generate a voltage (a voltage between VP and GND) applied across the capacitor 1220 of the power supply device 1200 of FIG. 13 and/or a current flowing into the inverter (current flowing from VP to the inverter). It may include a sensor device to acquire. The plasma generating apparatus may acquire a change in a discharge state based on a change in a voltage or current signal obtained from the above-described RF power supply apparatus.

When the plasma discharge state is changed, a current flowing through the antenna module 220 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the antenna module 220 may be changed. For example, when the main plasma discharge state is changed from capacitively coupled plasma discharge to inductively coupled plasma discharge, a current flowing through the antenna module 220 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the antenna module 220 may be reduced.

The plasma generating apparatus may change the operation mode to the second mode in response to a decrease in a current flowing through the antenna module 220 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the antenna module 220 .

According to an embodiment, the discharge state of plasma by the plasma generating device may have a capacitive coupling mode, a transition mode, and an inductive coupling mode. When the plasma generating apparatus operates in the first mode, the discharge state of the plasma may be transitioned from the capacitive coupling mode to the transition mode. When the discharge state of the plasma transitions to the transition mode, the operation mode of the plasma generating apparatus may be changed from the first mode to the second mode. When the operation mode is changed to the second mode, the discharge state of the plasma may be transitioned from the transition mode to the inductive coupling mode.

Alternatively, the discharge state of the plasma may have a first inductive coupling mode and a second inductive coupling mode. As the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is changed from the first mode to the second mode, the discharge state of the plasma may be changed from the first inductively coupled plasma discharge to the second inductively coupled plasma discharge;

16 is a view for explaining a voltage change according to an operation mode change in the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment. 16 is a diagram for explaining a voltage distribution according to a position of a coil of an antenna module in a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Hereinafter, a voltage change at both ends of the antenna module and a voltage across the unit coil according to an operation mode change will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16 .

The voltage distribution illustrated in FIG. 16 is, like the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 10( c ), an antenna including four unit induction coils respectively disposed on different planes and an interlayer capacitor disposed between each induction coil. It will be described based on the module.

FIG. 16A is a diagram for explaining a voltage distribution according to a position of an antenna module according to an embodiment when the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is in the first mode. When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may use the first frequency as the driving frequency.

Referring to FIG. 16A , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is the first mode, the voltage between both ends of the antenna module having the total length Lt may be the first voltage V1. . When the operation mode is the first mode, the induction coil reactance cancellation by the interlayer capacitor between the unit coils can be minimized. When the operating mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may operate at a driving frequency of the first frequency such that reactance cancellation is minimized and the voltage across the induction coil is maximized to induce a capacitively coupled plasma discharge. Preferably, the voltage across each unit coil constituting the antenna module having a total length of Lt may be a value obtained by dividing the voltage between both ends of the antenna module by the number of unit coils.

However, the influence of the reactance of the interlayer capacitor may not be completely eliminated. In other words, although FIG. 16 shows that the voltage rise (or drop) in the induction coil occurs continuously for convenience, the reactance of the induction coil may be at least partially offset by the interlayer capacitor between the unit coils. That is, the voltage distribution in the first mode may appear similar to that of FIG. 16(b).

FIG. 16B is a diagram for explaining a voltage distribution according to a position of an antenna module when the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is driven at a frequency between a first frequency and a second frequency.

Referring to FIG. 16B , when the plasma generating apparatus is in a transient state between the first mode and the second mode or when the plasma generating apparatus has a driving frequency between the first frequency and the second frequency, the total length is A voltage between both ends of the antenna module, which is Lt, may be less than the first voltage V1. In a transient state, the induction coil reactance is at least partially offset by the interlayer capacitor between the unit coils, and the voltage across both ends may be less than the first voltage V1.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the induction coil reactance cancellation by the interlayer capacitor between the unit coils can be minimized. When the operating mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may operate at a driving frequency of the first frequency such that reactance cancellation is minimized and the voltage across the induction coil is maximized to induce a capacitively coupled plasma discharge.

FIG. 16C is a diagram for explaining a voltage distribution according to a position of an induction coil when the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is in the second mode. When the operation mode is the second mode, the driving frequency may be the second frequency, and the antenna module may be in a resonance state in which impedance is matched at the second frequency. According to an embodiment, the plasma generating apparatus may change the operation mode to the second mode in response to the plasma discharge state being changed to the transition mode.

Referring to FIG. 16C , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is the second mode, the voltage between both ends of the antenna module having the total length Lt may be the second voltage V2. . The second voltage V2 may be less than the first voltage V1 .

When the operating mode of the plasma generating device is the second mode, the interlayer capacitor of the antenna module may cancel a voltage rise (or drop) across the antenna module. When the operation mode is the second mode, the voltage across the induction coil can be minimized. When the operation mode is the second mode, the interlayer capacitor and the terminal capacitor constituting the antenna module may cancel the reactance of the induction coil. When the operating mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus may operate at a driving frequency of the second frequency such that the voltage across the induction coil is maximized and an inductively coupled plasma discharge is induced.

Referring to FIG. 16C , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is the second mode, the voltage between both ends of the antenna module having the total length Lt may be the second voltage V2. . Preferably, the voltage across the unit coils constituting the antenna module may be the same second voltage (V2) as the voltage between both ends of the antenna module. However, it may be difficult to reach the perfect resonance state due to the characteristics of the plasma generating apparatus and the limitation of power frequency resolution. In this case, the voltage distribution in the second mode may exhibit a sawtooth shape in which the reactance of the induction coil is not partially offset and rises (or falls).

Meanwhile, in the above embodiments, a case in which the operation mode is changed from the first mode to the second mode in response to the transition of the plasma has been described as a reference, but the change of the operation mode may be performed in the reverse order. The plasma generating apparatus may change the operation mode from the second mode described with reference to FIG. 14B to the first mode described with reference to FIG. 14A .

3.1.2 1 antenna 2 inverters

A plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include one antenna module and one or more RF power modules. The following plasma generating apparatus may operate similarly to the above-described embodiment unless otherwise specified.

The RF power module may be an AC power source having a predetermined output frequency range and a matching range. Different RF power modules may have different output frequency ranges and matching ranges.

17 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B , the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include a first power module 101 , a second power module 102 , and an antenna module 201 . .

The first power module 101 may have a first driving frequency range. The second power module 102 may have a second driving frequency range that is at least partially different from the first driving frequency range. The first power module 101 may be driven at a first frequency within a first driving frequency range. The second power module 102 may be driven at a second frequency within a second driving frequency range.

According to an embodiment, the first power module 101 may include a first matching element. The second power module 102 may include a second matching element having an impedance different from that of the first matching element. Each matching element may increase the power transfer efficiency of each power module to the antenna module. In addition, each matching element may serve as a filter in a frequency band other than the resonant frequency.

18 is a diagram for describing a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIG. 18 , a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment includes a first power module 101 including a first power supply unit P1 and a first matching element Z1 , a second power supply unit P2 , and a second power supply unit P2 . The second power supply module 102 and the antenna module 201 including the matching element Z2 may be included.

The first power module 101 may include a first matching element, and the first matching element and the antenna module 201 may resonate at a first frequency included in the first driving frequency range. The first matching element and the antenna module 201 may resonate at a first frequency determined by the impedance of the first matching element and the impedance of the antenna module 201 .

The second power module 102 may include a second matching element, and the second matching element and the antenna module 201 may resonate at a first frequency included in the first driving frequency range. The second matching element and the antenna module 201 may resonate at a second frequency determined by the impedance of the second matching element and the impedance of the antenna module 201 .

Referring to FIG. 18 , the plasma generating apparatus may further include a separation element 130 . The separation element 130 may block signal transmission/reception between the circuit on the side of the second power module 102 and the circuit on the side of the first power module 101 during the operation of the first power module 101 . The isolation element 130 may include a transformer. The isolation element 130 may include a isolation transformer such as a shielding transformer, an isolation transformer, and an interference blocking transformer. The isolation element 130 may include a switch.

Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, the antenna module 201 or the plasma generating apparatus including the antenna module 201 may include a first matching element and a second matching element. The first matching element may be connected between the first power module 101 and the antenna module 201 , and the second matching element may be connected between the second power module 102 and the antenna module 201 . That is, although the above embodiments have been described based on the case in which the matching element is included in the power supply module, in the plasma generating system, the plasma generating device or the antenna module includes one or more matching elements, and each matching element includes an antenna module and a power supply. It may be configured to be connected to a module.

A method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment includes controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a first mode through a first power module and controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a second mode through a second power module can do. The above description may be applied to the first mode and the second mode.

19 is a diagram for describing a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 19 , in the method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment, providing power at a first frequency to the antenna module through a first power module ( S110 ) and to the antenna module through a second power module It may include providing power at the second frequency (S130).

The step of providing power at a first frequency to the antenna module through the first power module ( S110 ) is a resonance determined by the impedance of the antenna module and the impedance of the first matching element disposed between the first power module and the antenna module. and providing power to the antenna module at a first frequency that is a frequency. In this case, the power distribution of the antenna module may appear as exemplified with reference to FIG. 20 (a).

Alternatively, the step of providing power at a first frequency to the antenna module through the first power module (S110) is to provide a power signal to the antenna module at a first frequency different from the resonance frequency determined by the impedance of the antenna module. may include At this time, the power distribution of the antenna module may appear as illustrated with reference to FIG. 19 (a) or (b).

The step of providing power at a first frequency to the antenna module through the first power module (S110) is to provide a power signal at a first frequency to the antenna module through the first power module, thereby capacitively coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube. may include inducing

Alternatively, the step of providing power at a first frequency to the antenna module through the first power module ( S110 ) is to provide a power signal at a first frequency to the antenna module through the first power module to provide a first power signal inside the discharge tube. It may include inducing an inductively coupled plasma discharge through an induced electric field having an intensity.

The step of providing power at the second frequency to the antenna module through the second power module ( S130 ) is a resonance frequency determined by the impedance of the second matching element disposed between the second power module and the antenna module and the impedance of the antenna module. and providing a power signal to the antenna module at a second frequency. At this time, the voltage distribution of the antenna module may appear as exemplified with reference to FIG. 16(c).

The step of providing power at a second frequency to the antenna module through the second power module (S130) is to provide a power signal at a second frequency to the antenna module through the second power module to generate an inductively coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube. It may include inducing The step of providing the power signal at the second frequency to the antenna module through the second power module ( S130 ) may include inducing an inductively coupled plasma discharge by forming an induced electric field having a second intensity inside the discharge tube. The step of providing the power signal at the second frequency to the antenna module through the second power module ( S130 ) may include inducing an inductively coupled plasma discharge by forming an induced electric field having a second intensity inside the discharge tube. The second intensity may be greater or less than the first intensity of the electric field induced by the first power module.

According to an embodiment, the method of controlling the plasma generating apparatus may further include acquiring a change in the power signal. The method of controlling a plasma apparatus may include acquiring a change in a current flowing through an antenna module or a voltage across both ends of the antenna module (or some elements constituting the antenna module). The control method of the plasma apparatus may include acquiring the above-described change and controlling the first power module and/or the second power module based on the change. The method of controlling the plasma apparatus may include acquiring the above-described change, stopping the operation of the first power module and starting the operation of the second power module based on the change. Alternatively, the control method of the plasma apparatus may include acquiring the above-described change, stopping the operation of the second power module and starting the operation of the first power module based on the change.

3.1.3 One Antenna One Inverter

A plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include one antenna module and one frequency variable RF power supply module. The following plasma generating apparatus may operate similarly to the above-described embodiment unless otherwise specified.

20 is a diagram for describing a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 20A and 20B , the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include a power supply module 103 and an antenna module 202 .

The RF power module 101 may be an AC power source having a predetermined frequency variable range. The power module 101 may use the resonance frequency of the antenna module 202 as a driving frequency to provide power to the antenna module 202 .

A method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a first mode through a power module and controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a second mode through a power supply module. The above description may be applied to the first mode and the second mode.

21 is a diagram for describing a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 21 , in the method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment, the step of providing power at a first frequency to the antenna module through a power module ( S210 ), and a second frequency to the antenna module through the power module It may include providing power (S230). The second frequency may be a resonant frequency of the antenna module.

The step of providing power at the first frequency to the antenna module through the power module (S210) may include providing a power signal to the antenna module at a first frequency different from the resonance frequency determined by the impedance of the antenna module. . At this time, the voltage distribution of the antenna module may appear as illustrated with reference to FIG. 16 (a).

The step of providing power at the first frequency to the antenna module through the power module (S210) includes providing a power signal at the first frequency to the antenna module through the power module to induce a capacitively coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube. can do.

The step of providing power at the second frequency to the antenna module through the power module (S230) may include providing a power signal to the antenna module at a second frequency that is a resonant frequency determined by the impedance of the antenna module. . At this time, the voltage distribution of the antenna module may appear as illustrated in relation to (c) (or (b)) of FIG. 16 .

The step of providing power at the second frequency to the antenna module through the power module (S230) is to provide a power signal at the second frequency to the antenna module through the power module to induce inductively coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube. may include

According to an embodiment, the method of controlling the plasma generating apparatus may further include acquiring a change in the power signal. The control method of the plasma apparatus may include obtaining a change in a current flowing through an antenna module or a change in voltage across both ends of the antenna module (or some elements constituting the antenna module), and changing the driving frequency of the power module based on this have.

3.1.4 Plasma generating apparatus embodiment

According to an embodiment, a plasma generating apparatus having a plurality of operation modes including a first mode and a second mode and performing plasma discharge may be provided. The plasma generating device includes a first power supply that is frequency changeable within a first frequency range, a second power supply that is frequency changeable within a second frequency range that is at least partially different from the first frequency range, a dielectric discharge tube and a dielectric discharge tube. An antenna module comprising a first unit coil wound at least once, a second unit coil wound at least once around the dielectric discharge tube, and a first capacitor connected in series between the first unit coil and the second unit coil. can

The plasma generating apparatus is configured to: when the operating mode is a first mode, the antenna module induces a first plasma discharge based on a power signal having a first frequency within a first frequency range, and when the operating mode is a second mode, the antenna module is configured to: The module may induce a second plasma discharge based on the power signal having a second frequency within the second frequency range. In this case, the first unit coil and the second unit coil have a first inductance, the first capacitor has a first capacitance, and the first frequency is the first frequency determined according to the first inductance and the first capacitance of the antenna module. 1 may correspond to a resonant frequency.

The first power supply may include a first matching element having a first impedance. When the operation mode is the first mode, the antenna module performs a first plasma discharge based on the power signal having a first frequency, wherein the first frequency is based on the first impedance, the first inductance and the first capacitance It may correspond to the determined first resonant frequency.

The second power supply may include a second matching element having a second impedance. When the operation mode is the second mode, the antenna module performs a second plasma discharge based on the power signal having a second frequency, wherein the second frequency is based on the second impedance, the first inductance and the first capacitance It may correspond to a second resonant frequency that is determined and is different from the first resonant frequency.

The second resonant frequency may be greater than the first resonant frequency. At this time, when the operation mode is the first mode, the first voltage, which is a voltage between one end not connected to the first capacitor of the first unit coil and one end not connected to the first capacitor of the second unit coil, is the operation When the mode is the second mode, it may be less than the second voltage, which is a voltage between one end not connected to the first capacitor of the first unit coil and one end not connected to the first capacitor of the second unit coil.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the voltage between both ends of the first unit coil is between one end not connected to the first capacitor of the first unit coil and one end not connected to the first capacitor of the second unit coil. It can correspond to voltage.

A voltage between both ends of the antenna module when the operation mode is the first mode may be smaller than a voltage between both ends of the antenna module when the operation mode is the second mode.

The magnitude of the first current flowing through the antenna module when the operation mode is the first mode may be smaller than the magnitude of the second current flowing through the antenna module when the operation mode is the second mode.

When the operation mode is the first mode, power consumed by the antenna module may be the first power, and when the operation mode is the second mode, the power consumed by the antenna module may be a second power smaller than the first power.

According to an embodiment, a first power supply that is frequency changeable within a first frequency range, a second power supply that is frequency changeable within a second frequency range that is at least partially different from the first frequency range, a dielectric discharge tube and a dielectric discharge tube around An antenna module comprising a first unit coil wound at least once with the furnace, a second unit coil wound at least once around the dielectric discharge tube, and a first capacitor connected in series between the first unit coil and the second unit coil A method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus may be provided.

A method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus includes operating in a first mode of providing RF power using a first frequency as a driving frequency to an antenna module and a second providing RF power using a second frequency as a driving frequency to the antenna module It may include the step of operating in a mode. The first unit coil and the second unit coil have a first inductance, and the first capacitor has a first capacitance, wherein the second frequency is a second resonant frequency determined by the first inductance and the first capacitor. can correspond to

The second power supply may include a second matching element having a second impedance. The operating in the second mode may include operating with a second frequency corresponding to a second resonant frequency determined based on the first inductance, the first capacitance, and the second impedance as the driving frequency.

The first power supply may include a first matching element having a first impedance. The operating in the first mode may include operating with a first frequency corresponding to a first resonant frequency determined based on the first inductance, the first capacitance, and the first impedance as the driving frequency.

When the operation mode is the first mode, power consumed by the antenna module may be the first power, and when the operation mode is the second mode, power consumed by the antenna module may be a second power greater than the first power.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the voltage between both ends of the first unit coil is between one end not connected to the first capacitor of the first unit coil and one end not connected to the first capacitor of the second unit coil. It can correspond to voltage.

The magnitude of the first current flowing through the antenna module when the operation mode is the first mode may be smaller than the magnitude of the second current flowing through the antenna module when the operation mode is the second mode.

On the other hand, the control method of the plasma generating apparatus, when the operating mode is the first mode, acquiring a current flowing through the antenna module and when the current flowing through the antenna module is less than or equal to a reference value, changing the operating mode to the second mode may include more.

The control method of the plasma generating apparatus includes the steps of: acquiring a current flowing through an inverter of a first power supply device when the operating mode is a first mode; It may further include the step of changing the mode.

According to another embodiment, when the operating mode is the first mode, the power is supplied from the first power supply device whose frequency is changeable within the first frequency range, and when the operating mode is the second mode, the first frequency range and at least the first frequency range A plasma generating apparatus may be provided that generates plasma by receiving power from a frequency changeable second power supply within some different second frequency range.

The plasma generating apparatus includes a dielectric discharge tube and a first unit coil wound at least once around the dielectric discharge tube, a second unit coil wound at least once around the dielectric discharge tube, and between the first unit coil and the second unit coil. It may include an antenna module including a first capacitor connected in series.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the antenna module may induce a first plasma discharge based on a power signal having a first frequency within a first frequency range.

When the operation mode is the second mode, the antenna module may induce a second plasma discharge based on the power signal having a second frequency within the second frequency range.

The first unit coil and the second unit coil have a first inductance, the first capacitor has a first capacitance, and the first frequency is at a first resonant frequency determined based on the first inductance and the first capacitance. can be matched.

A voltage between both ends of the antenna module when the operation mode is the first mode may be smaller than a voltage between both ends of the antenna module when the operation mode is the second mode.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the voltage between both ends of the first unit coil is between one end not connected to the first capacitor of the first unit coil and one end not connected to the first capacitor of the second unit coil. It can correspond to voltage.

As described in the above embodiments, the discharge characteristic of the antenna module may be changed by changing the operating mode by changing the driving frequency of the power applied to the antenna module. By providing various discharge characteristics through a single antenna module, a plasma generating apparatus that has a wider matching range, exhibits various energy efficiencies, and is capable of maintaining discharge under various environments can be provided.

On the other hand, when one antenna module is used, a discharge characteristic that can be exhibited may be limited due to a limitation of the physical structure of the antenna module. Accordingly, a plasma generating apparatus including two or more antenna modules may be provided. Hereinafter, a plasma generating apparatus including two or more antenna modules and an operation thereof will be described.

3.2 In case of two antennas

3.2.1 Plasma generation process with two antennas

A plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include two or more antenna modules. The plasma generating apparatus may include a plurality of antenna modules having different discharge characteristics. Two or more antenna modules may have different impedances. The plasma generating device may be provided so that the main antenna module is changed as necessary. The main antenna module may refer to an antenna module in which power consumption is mainly made. Two or more antenna modules may be connected in parallel to a frequency variable power supply.

The two or more antenna modules may operate differently depending on the driving frequency of the plasma generating device. For example, when the driving frequency of the plasma generating device is the first frequency corresponding to the resonance frequency of the first antenna module, the first antenna module operates in a resonance state in which reactance is canceled, and the second antenna module operates in a non-resonance state can do. For example, when the driving frequency of the plasma generating device is the first frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first antenna module, the inflow of current into the second antenna module having a different impedance from that of the first antenna module may be suppressed. When the driving frequency is the second frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second antenna module, current inflow into the first antenna module having an impedance different from that of the second antenna module may be suppressed. Also, for example, when the driving frequency is a third frequency different from the resonant frequency of the first antenna module and the resonant frequency of the second antenna module, both the first antenna module and the second antenna module may operate in a non-resonant state. The antenna module may induce capacitively coupled plasma discharge in a non-resonant state and inductively coupled plasma discharge in a resonant operating state.

Plasma generating apparatus described herein, as in the above-described examples, by controlling the driving frequency, it is possible to selectively switch the main antenna module, and change the discharge characteristics.

Two or more antenna modules may have different structures. For example, one antenna module may include a solenoid coil continuously wound a plurality of times around the discharge tube and terminal capacitors connected to both ends of the solenoid coil, as illustrated with reference to FIG. 8 . Another antenna module may include a plurality of unit coils and an interlayer capacitor disposed between the unit coils, as exemplified with reference to FIG. 10 . Also for example, one antenna module includes a first turn per layer and includes a plurality of unit coils forming a first layer, an interlayer capacitor and an end capacitor disposed between the unit coils, and another antenna module includes an interlayer second turn, It may include a plurality of unit coils forming the second layer, an interlayer capacitor and a terminal capacitor.

Hereinafter, a description will be made based on a case in which there are two antenna modules for convenience, but the plasma generating apparatus may include two or more antenna modules. The plasma generating apparatus may include two or more antenna modules having different impedances, structures and/or functions, and may be provided such that the main antenna is changed as necessary. The frequency variable power supply may include one or more power supply modules.

According to the invention described in this specification, an antenna module having discharge characteristics advantageous for initial discharge, an antenna module having discharge characteristics suitable for maintaining discharge, and/or an antenna module having discharge characteristics with low energy loss are included, and if necessary, A plasma generating apparatus configured to enable mode change through antenna switching may be provided.

As described herein, by using the plasma generating apparatus including a plurality of antenna modules and configured to selectively operate each antenna module, matching to a wider range of impedance or real resistance may be possible. In addition, by utilizing a plurality of antenna modules having different discharge control ranges (eg, flow rate, power, pressure, gas type), a plasma generating apparatus having a wider discharge control range may be provided.

3.2.1.1 Example 1

FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining a plasma discharge process when the plasma generating apparatus includes the first antenna module 203 , the second antenna module 204 , and the RF power supply device 102 . The RF power supply 102 may include one or more power modules. The RF power supply 120 may include one or more power modules having different output frequency bands.

23 and 24 are schematic circuit diagrams for explaining a change in the operation mode of the plasma generating apparatus.

Hereinafter, a mode change plasma discharge process in the case of two or more antenna modules will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 24 .

Referring to FIG. 22 , when the plasma generating apparatus includes the first antenna module 203 , the second antenna module 204 , and the RF power supply unit 102 , the plasma generating apparatus adjusts the driving frequency of the power supply unit 102 . By changing the main antenna module can be changed.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 22 , when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits the first frequency ( By transmitting a power signal having f1), it is possible to induce plasma discharge in the discharge tube. The first frequency f1 may be a driving frequency that causes the first antenna module 203 to operate as a main antenna module.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form a first electric field E1 in the discharge tube. The first electric field E1 may be a vertical electric field E1 parallel to the axial direction of the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuthal electric field E2 parallel to the circumferential direction of the discharge tube inside the discharge tube.

According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 in a vertical direction. It is possible to form an electric field (E1) and induce the generation of capacitively coupled plasma inside the discharge tube.

According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 to obtain an azimuth angle. It can form a directional electric field (E2) and induce the generation of inductively coupled plasma inside the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuth direction electric field E2 having a first intensity.

Fig. 23 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the plasma generating apparatus shown in Fig. 22A. Referring to FIG. 23 , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits the second frequency f1 to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 through the variable frequency RF power source. ) of the first current I1 may be output.

When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the a1 th current Ia1 may be distributed to the first antenna module 203 , and the b1 th current Ib1 may be distributed to the second antenna module 204 . . The a1 th current Ia1 may be greater than the b1 th current Ib1. When the operating mode is the first mode, the first frequency f1, which is the driving frequency, corresponds to the resonant frequency of the first antenna module 203, and the reactance of the first antenna module 203 is mostly canceled, but the second antenna The reactance of the module 204 can be canceled relatively little. Most of the current may be distributed to the first antenna module 203 . When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the first power consumed by the first antenna module 203 may be greater than the second power consumed by the second antenna module 204 . When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the first antenna module 203 generates an inductively coupled plasma discharge in the discharge tube, and the generated plasma may be inductively coupled to the inductor of the first antenna module 203 . .

Referring to (b) of FIG. 22 , when the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating device transmits a second frequency ( With f2) as the driving frequency, power can be provided. The second frequency f2 may be different from the first frequency f1. The second frequency f2 may be different from the first frequency f1 by a predetermined value or more. The second frequency f2 may be larger or smaller than the first frequency f1 by a predetermined value (eg, 0.2 MHz).

When the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus transmits a power signal of a second frequency f2 to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 to generate an electric field E3 in the azimuth direction. and induce an inductively coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube. When the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus may form an azimuth direction electric field E3 having a second intensity. The second intensity may be greater or less than the intensity of the azimuth direction electric field E2 in the first mode.

Fig. 24 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the plasma generating apparatus shown in Fig. 22B. Referring to FIG. 24 , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus operates to the second antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 through the variable frequency RF power source, the second frequency f2 ) of the second current I2 may be output.

When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the a2 th current Ia2 may be distributed to the first antenna module 203 , and the b2 th current Ib2 may be distributed to the second antenna module 204 . . The a2 th current Ia2 may be smaller than the b2 th current Ib2. According to an embodiment, when the operation mode is the second mode, the second frequency f2 as the driving frequency corresponds to the resonant frequency of the second antenna module 203 , and the reactance of the second antenna module 204 is mostly However, the reactance of the first antenna module 203 may be offset relatively little. Most of the current may be distributed to the second antenna module 204 . When the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the second power consumed by the second antenna module 204 may be greater than the first power consumed by the first antenna module 203 . When the operating mode of the plasma generating device is the second mode, the second antenna module 203 generates an inductively coupled plasma discharge in the discharge tube, and the generated plasma may be inductively coupled to the inductor of the second antenna module 204 . .

25 is a diagram for explaining voltage and current changes according to an operation mode of a plasma generating apparatus. 25 is a diagram showing the current flowing through the first antenna module (a), the voltage across the induction coil of the first antenna module (b), the current flowing through the second antenna module (c), and the induction of the second antenna module over time It is a diagram for explaining the voltage (d) and frequency (e) at both ends of the coil. In FIG. 25 , the current and voltage graphs show magnitudes.

Referring to FIG. 25E , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the power supply unit 102 transmits a power signal having a first frequency f1 to the first antenna module 203 and the second It may be provided to the antenna module 204 . At this time, referring to (a) and (c) of FIG. 25 , a first current Ia1 flows through the first antenna module 203 , and a second current Ia1 that is smaller than the a1th current Ia1 flows through the second antenna module 204 . The b1 current Ib1 may flow. 25 (b) and (d), when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the voltage across the induction coil of the first antenna module 203 is a first voltage Va1, A voltage across the induction coil of the second antenna module 204 may be a b1 th voltage Vb1 that is smaller than a 1 th voltage Va1.

Referring to FIG. 25E , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the power supply unit 102 transmits a power signal having a second frequency f2 to the first antenna module 203 and the second It may be provided to the antenna module 204 . 25A and 25C , in the second mode, a second current Ia2 smaller than the a1th current Ia1 flows through the first antenna module 203, and the second antenna module 204 ), a b2 th current Ib2 greater than the b1 th current Ib1 may flow. The b2 th current Ib2 may be greater than the a1 th current Ia1. 25 (b) and (d), when the operation mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the voltage across the induction coil of the first antenna module 203 is a first voltage smaller than the first voltage Va1. A2 voltage Va2, and the voltage across the induction coil of the second antenna module 204 may be a b2th voltage (Vb2) greater than the b1th voltage (Vb1). The b2th voltage Vb2 may be greater than the a2th voltage Va2.

26 is a view for explaining a voltage drop in each antenna module of the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 24, the voltage distribution according to the position of the induction coil constituting the main antenna module in each operation mode will be described.

When the plasma generating apparatus is in the first mode in which the driving frequency is the first frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first antenna module 203 , most of the power supplied by the power supply is the first antenna module 203 , as described above. Consumed by, the first antenna module 203 may operate as a main antenna module.

26 (a), unit coils (three unit coils in the case of the example of FIG. 26 (a)) and unit coil constituting the unit layer as illustrated in FIG. 10 of the first antenna module 203 In the case of a form including an interlayer capacitor disposed between them, the voltage Vm1 according to the position of the induction coil of the first antenna module 203 in the first mode is schematically shown.

When the operation mode is the first mode, the first antenna module 203 may be in a resonance state. When the operation mode is the first mode, the inductive coil reactance cancellation by the interlayer capacitor between the unit coils of the first antenna module 203 is maximized, so that the first inductively coupled plasma discharge can be induced.

Referring to FIG. 26A , a voltage between both ends of an antenna module having a total length of L13 may be a first voltage V1. Preferably, the voltage across each unit coil constituting the antenna module (from the origin to the point L11, from the point L11 to the point L12, from the point L12 to the point L13) may be substantially the same as the first voltage V1.

26B is a diagram for explaining a voltage distribution according to the position of the second antenna module 204 when the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment is in the second mode in which the second frequency is the driving frequency.

When the plasma generating device is in the second mode in which the driving frequency is the second frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second antenna module 204, most of the power supplied by the power supply is the second antenna module 204, as described above. Consumed by, the second antenna module 204 may operate as a main antenna module.

Figure 26 (b) shows the unit coils (four unit coils in the case of the example of Figure 26 (b)) and the unit coil constituting the unit layer as illustrated in FIG. 10 by the first antenna module 204 In the case of a form including an interlayer capacitor disposed between them, the voltage Vm2 according to the position of the induction coil of the second antenna module 204 in the second mode is schematically shown.

When the operation mode is the second mode, the second antenna module 204 may be in a resonance state. When the operation mode is the second mode, the inductive coil reactance cancellation by the interlayer capacitor between the unit coils of the second antenna module 204 is maximized, so that a second inductively coupled plasma discharge can be induced. The second inductively coupled plasma discharge may have higher energy efficiency than the first inductively coupled plasma discharge.

Referring to FIG. 26B , a voltage between both ends of an antenna module having a total length of L24 may be a second voltage V2. Preferably, the voltage between both ends of each unit coil constituting the antenna module (from the origin to the L21 point, from the L21 to the L22 point, from the L22 point to the L23 point, and from the 23rd point to the 24th point) is substantially equal to the second voltage V2 and can be the same as

On the other hand, when the operation mode is the first mode, the flow of current to the second antenna module 204 may be substantially blocked. Accordingly, when the operation mode is the first mode, the voltage across the inductive elements constituting the second antenna module 204 may converge very small. In addition, when the operation mode is the second mode, the flow of current to the first antenna module 204 may be substantially blocked. Accordingly, when the operation mode is the second mode, the voltage across the inductive elements constituting the first antenna module 203 may converge to a very small level.

According to an embodiment, the first antenna module 203 may be an antenna module including a solenoid coil wound a plurality of times without an interlayer capacitor as illustrated in FIG. 8 . When the first antenna module 203 does not include an interlayer capacitor, the voltage across the induction coil of the first antenna module 203 is the first voltage (maximum value) when the driving frequency is the first frequency, and the driving frequency When is the second frequency, it may be a second voltage that is smaller than the first voltage.

In the above embodiments, the mode change process in which the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is changed from the first mode to the second mode and the driving frequency is reduced has been described, but this is only an example, and the mode change form may be changed if necessary have. For example, the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may be changed from the second mode to the first mode. Alternatively, the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may include three or more modes.

3.2.1.2 Second embodiment

Hereinafter, the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 26 will be described with more specific examples. According to an embodiment, when it is required to secure the initial discharge stability of plasma (eg, in the case of atmospheric plasma discharge), the plasma generating apparatus may further include a DC power supply and an electrode for providing seed charges to the plasma discharge. In this case, the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may include a first mode (ie, an initial discharge mode) for assisting the initial discharge and a second mode (ie, a main discharge mode) for assisting the main discharge. Hereinafter, the contents of the embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 22 to 26 may be similarly applied unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 27 shows plasma in the case where the plasma generating apparatus includes a first antenna module 203 , a second antenna module 204 , an RF power supply unit 102 , a DC power supply unit 101 , and DC electrodes 231 and 233 . It is a figure for demonstrating a discharge process. For the DC power supply 101 and the DC electrode 231 , the above descriptions with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7 may be similarly applied.

28 and 29 are schematic circuit diagrams for explaining a change in the operation mode of the plasma generating apparatus illustrated in FIG. 27 .

Hereinafter, a modified plasma discharge process of a plasma generating apparatus including a DC electrode will be described with reference to FIGS. 27, 28 and 29 .

The operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may include a first mode for performing an initial plasma discharge and a second mode for performing a main plasma discharge. 27A is a diagram for explaining the operation of the plasma generating apparatus in the first mode. 27B is a diagram for explaining the operation of the plasma generating apparatus in the second mode.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 27 , in the first mode, the plasma device corresponds to the resonant frequency of the first antenna module to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 through the power supply device 102 . Power may be provided by using the first frequency as the driving frequency.

Referring to FIG. 27A , when the operation mode is the first mode, the DC power supply 101 may apply a high voltage pulse to the DC electrode 231 . When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may apply a high voltage pulse to the DC electrode 231 through the DC power supply 101 to form an electric field E4 . The electric field E4 may be formed between the DC electrode 231 and an object serving as a counter electrode. For example, the electric field E4 may be formed between the DC electrode 231 and the gas tube 211 . The plasma generating device may form an electric field E4 and induce a local discharge (eg, a streamer discharge) to supply a seed charge within the discharge tube.

Referring to FIG. 28 , when the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus applies a high voltage pulse to the DC electrode 231 through the DC power supply 101 to generate a seed charge, and based on the generated seed charge Thus, the initial plasma discharge may be performed through the first antenna module 203 .

When the operation mode is the first mode, the plasma generating apparatus may perform plasma discharge through the first antenna module based on the seed charge. The plasma discharge through the first antenna module may be a capacitively coupled plasma discharge or an inductively coupled plasma discharge. Here, a case in which the discharge through the first antenna module is a capacitively coupled plasma discharge will be described.

According to an embodiment, the discharge state of the plasma may change with time. The operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus may be changed according to a change in the plasma discharge state.

For example, the plasma discharge according to the first mode may be mainly performed by the capacitive coupling mode (E-mode). However, when the plasma is sufficiently generated by the capacitive coupling mode, the second electric field E2 that is an induced electric field in the azimuth direction may be formed in the discharge tube. When the second electric field E2 is formed, plasma by inductively coupled plasma discharge or inductively coupled mode (H-mode) may be generated.

The plasma discharge device may change an operating mode in response to a change in a plasma discharge state. Referring to (a) of Figure 28, the plasma generating device transmits a power signal having a first frequency (f1) to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 through the power supply device 102, , the mode of operation may be changed in response to the plasma discharge state transitioning.

The plasma generating apparatus may detect a change in a plasma discharge state. The plasma generating device generates a current flowing through the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 . It may include a sensor module to acquire. The plasma generating device is a current flowing through the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 through the sensor module and/or at both ends of the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 . A change in applied voltage may be obtained, and a driving frequency and/or operating mode of the power supply 102 may be changed.

For example, when the plasma discharge state is changed, a current flowing through the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 and/or both ends of the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 The voltage applied to the may be changed. For example, when the main plasma discharge state is changed from capacitively coupled plasma discharge to inductively coupled plasma discharge, a current flowing through the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 and/or the first antenna module 203 and/or the voltage applied across the second antenna module 204 may be reduced.

The plasma generating device includes a current flowing through the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 and/or a voltage applied to both ends of the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 . In response to a decrease in , the mode of operation may be changed to a second mode.

When the operation mode of the plasma generating apparatus is changed, the plasma generating apparatus provides power to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 at the driving frequency of the second frequency, and as described in the above embodiments, Likewise, the second antenna module 204 may be operated as a main antenna module.

Referring to FIG. 27B , in the second mode, the DC power source 101 may stop supplying power. In the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus provides power to the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module 204 using a second frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second antenna module 204 as a driving frequency. Thus, the main plasma discharge can be performed.

Referring to FIG. 29 , when the operation mode is the second mode, the plasma generating apparatus uses the second frequency as the driving frequency, based on the initial discharge plasma generated by the first antenna module 203 and the second antenna module Through 204 , a main plasma discharge may be performed.

30 is a diagram for explaining voltage and current changes according to an operation mode of a plasma generating apparatus. 30 is a DC high voltage pulse (a) over time, a current flowing through the first antenna module (b), a voltage across the induction coil of the first antenna module (c), a current flowing through the second antenna module (d), It is a diagram for explaining the voltage (e) and the frequency (f) at both ends of the induction coil of the second antenna module. In FIG. 30 , the current and voltage graphs show magnitudes.

30 (b), (c), (d), (e), and (f), in relation to the current (b) flowing in the first antenna module of the plasma generating device, both ends of the induction coil of the first antenna module The voltage (c), the current flowing through the second antenna module (d), the voltage (e) and the frequency (f) at both ends of the induction coil of the second antenna module may be similarly applied as described above with reference to FIG. 25 .

Referring to FIG. 30A , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the first mode, the DC power supply 101 may generate a high voltage pulse. The DC power supply 101 may generate a high voltage pulse while the first mode is maintained (while the driving frequency is maintained at the first frequency f1). The DC power supply 101 may stop generating the high voltage pulse even before the first mode ends. The plasma generating apparatus (or the control unit of the plasma generating apparatus) may control the DC power supply 101 to generate a predetermined number of high voltage pulses. The plasma generating apparatus may control the DC power supply 101 to generate a high voltage pulse for a predetermined time.

30 (b) and (c), when the operation mode is the first mode, due to the change in the plasma discharge state, the current flowing in the first antenna module and / or both ends of the induction coil of the first antenna module The voltage may decrease.

Referring to (d), (e), and (f) of Figure 28, the plasma generating apparatus operates in response to a decrease in the current flowing in the first antenna module and/or the voltage across the induction coil of the first antenna module. can be changed to the second mode. Referring to FIG. 30A , when the operating mode of the plasma generating apparatus is the second mode, the DC power supply may stop generating the high voltage pulse.

Meanwhile, in the above embodiments, the case of changing the operation mode from the first mode to the second mode in response to the change of the plasma state has been described as a reference, but the change of the operation mode may be performed in the reverse order.

3.2.2 2 antennas 1 inverter

31 is a diagram for explaining a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIG. 31 , the plasma generating apparatus may include a power supply module 104 , a first antenna module 203 , and a second antenna module 204 .

The RF power module 104 may be an AC power source having a predetermined frequency variable range. The power module 104 may operate by using the resonance frequency of the antenna module 202 of the first antenna module 203 and/or the second antenna module 204 as a driving frequency.

A method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a first mode through a power module and controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a second mode through a power supply module. The above description may be applied to the first mode and the second mode.

32 is a diagram for describing a method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 32 , in the method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment, providing power at a first frequency to a first antenna module and a second antenna module through a power module ( S310 ) and a power module It may include providing power at the second frequency to the first antenna module and the second antenna module ( S330 ).

The step of providing power at the first frequency to the first antenna module and the second antenna module through the power module (S310) is to provide power by using a first frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the first antenna module as a driving frequency. may include

The first antenna module may be an antenna module including an interlayer capacitor. At this time, the voltage distribution of the first antenna module may appear as exemplified in relation to (a) of FIG. 26 . Alternatively, the first antenna module may be an antenna module that does not include an interlayer capacitor. In this case, the power distribution of the first antenna module may appear as exemplified in relation to (a) of FIG. 16 .

The step of providing power at the first frequency to the first antenna module and the second antenna module through the power module ( S310 ) may include inducing a capacitively coupled plasma discharge through the first antenna module.

In the step of providing power at the second frequency to the first antenna module and the second antenna module through the power module (S330), the second frequency corresponding to the resonant frequency of the second antenna module is used as the driving frequency to provide power. may include

The second antenna module may be an antenna module including an interlayer capacitor. In this case, the power distribution of the second antenna module may appear as exemplified in relation to (b) of FIG. 26 .

The step of providing power at the second frequency to the first antenna module and the second antenna module through the power module ( S330 ) may include inducing an inductively coupled plasma discharge through the second antenna module.

According to an embodiment, the method of controlling the plasma generating apparatus may further include acquiring a change in the power signal. The control method of the plasma apparatus obtains a change in a current flowing through a first antenna module or a voltage across both ends of the first antenna module (or some elements constituting the first antenna module), and based on this, the driving frequency of the power module is determined It may include changing to the second frequency.

3.2.3 2 antennas 2 inverters

33 is a diagram for describing a plasma generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to (a) and (b) of FIG. 31 , the plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment includes a first power module 105 that is an AC power source having a first frequency band and a first matching range, and a second frequency band. and a second power supply module 106, which is an AC power source having a second matching range, and a first antenna module 205 and a second power supply module 106 that receive power from the first power module 105 and perform plasma discharge. It may include a second antenna module 206 receiving power from and performing plasma discharge.

The first power module 105 may have a first driving frequency range, and the second power module 106 may have a second driving frequency range that is at least partially different from the first driving frequency range. The first power module 105 may be driven at a first frequency within a first driving frequency range. The second power module 106 may be driven at a second frequency within a second driving frequency range. The first frequency may correspond to the resonant frequency of the first antenna module 205 , and the second frequency may correspond to the resonant frequency of the second antenna module 206 . The first power module 105 may include a first matching element. The second power module 106 may include a second matching element having an impedance different from that of the first matching element.

A method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment includes controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a first mode through a first power module and controlling the plasma generating apparatus in a second mode through a second power module can do. The above description may be applied to the first mode and the second mode.

34 is a view for explaining a plasma generating method according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 34 , in the method of controlling a plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment, providing power at a first frequency to a first antenna module through a first power module ( S410 ) and a second power module through a second power module It may include providing power at the second frequency to the second antenna module (S430).

The step of providing power at the first frequency to the first antenna module through the first power module (S410) is to supply power to the first antenna module at a first frequency that is the resonance frequency of the first antenna module through the first power module. This may include providing At this time, the voltage distribution of the first antenna module may appear as exemplified in relation to (a) of FIG. 26 .

The step of providing power at the first frequency to the first antenna module through the first power module (S410) is to operate the first frequency as the driving frequency, thereby generating capacitive coupled plasma discharge inside the discharge tube through the first antenna module. may include inducing.

Alternatively, the step of providing power at the first frequency to the first antenna module through the first power module (S410) is to provide power at the first frequency to the first antenna module through the first power module, inside the discharge tube. It may include inducing an inductively coupled plasma discharge through an induced electric field having a first intensity.

In the step of providing power at the second frequency to the second antenna module through the second power module ( S430 ), power is provided to the second antenna module at a second frequency that is the resonant frequency of the second antenna module through the second power module. may include doing In this case, the power distribution of the second antenna module may appear as exemplified in relation to (b) of FIG. 26 .

In the step of providing power at the second frequency to the second antenna module through the second power module (S430), the second frequency is operated as the driving frequency, and inductively coupled plasma discharge is induced in the discharge tube through the second antenna module. may include doing

In the step of providing power at the second frequency to the second antenna module through the second power module ( S430 ), an induced electric field having a second intensity is formed inside the discharge tube by operating the second frequency as a driving frequency, and induction inducing a coupled plasma discharge. The second intensity may be greater or less than the first intensity of the electric field induced by the first power module.

According to an embodiment, the method of controlling the plasma generating apparatus may further include acquiring a change in the power signal. The method of controlling a plasma apparatus may include acquiring a change in a current flowing through an antenna module or a voltage across both ends of the antenna module (or some elements constituting the antenna module). The control method of the plasma apparatus may include acquiring the above-described change and controlling the first power module and/or the second power module based on the change. For example, the control method of the plasma apparatus obtains a current flowing through the first antenna module or a drop in voltage across both ends of the first antenna module (or some elements constituting the first antenna module), and based on this, the first power module It may include stopping the operation of and starting the operation of the second power module.

As described in the above embodiments, by using a plurality of antenna modules having different discharge characteristics, it is possible to selectively perform plasma discharge according to various discharge environments. A plasma generating apparatus capable of performing discharge in various environments by performing plasma discharge using a plurality of antenna modules may be provided.

4. By-product suppression plasma generating device

On the other hand, by the voltage applied to the antenna coil wound around the tube, by-products other than the desired product may be formed. For example, an electric field having a component in a direction perpendicular to the tube is formed by the voltage applied to the coil, whereby the plasma generated inside the tube is accelerated toward the inner wall of the tube and collides with the inner wall of the tube, and is separated from the inner wall of the tube due to the collision. By-products and the like may be mixed with the plasma product (eg, radicals).

Hereinafter, a plasma generating apparatus for suppressing generation of by-products and a method for controlling the same will be described with reference to some embodiments.

4.1 Antenna module

The plasma generating apparatus according to an embodiment may include an antenna module designed to minimize generation of byproducts.

The antenna module may include one or more unit antennas and unit capacitors. An antenna module may be disposed around the plasma discharge tube (see FIGS. 4 and 6 ).

The antenna module may include one or more unit antennas disposed to be inserted into the plasma discharge tube. Each unit antenna may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the longitudinal direction of the tube. Each unit antenna is spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the tube, and may be rotated about the central axis of the tube (see, for example, FIG. 10 and related description). The unit antenna may be an inductor having inductance. Each unit antenna may have the same inductance.

A unit antenna may include a unit turn. The unit antenna may include a first turn in contact with the discharge tube and a second turn positioned further from the discharge tube than the first turn. The first turn and the second turn may be located on the same plane. The first turn and the second turn may be positioned on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the discharge tube. For example, a unit antenna module according to an embodiment may be provided as illustrated in FIG. 12 .

The antenna module may include one or more unit capacitors connected to the unit antenna. The unit capacitor may be connected to the unit antennas and disposed between the unit antennas. The unit capacitor may be disposed between the unit antenna and the power source. For example, the unit capacitor may be disposed as illustrated in FIG. 8 or FIG. 10 . One or more unit capacitors included in the antenna module may have the same capacitance. Alternatively, one or more unit capacitors included in the antenna module may have different capacitances.

The antenna module may be coupled to a power source and powered from the power source and provide a plasma discharge within the discharge tube. With respect to the power supply and plasma discharge operation, the above description in this specification may be similarly applied.

36 is a diagram for describing an antenna module according to an embodiment.

The antenna module 360 may include one or more unit antennas 361 and one or more unit capacitors 363 . The antenna module 360 may be disposed around the discharge tube. The antenna module 360 may include one or more unit antennas 361 having the same shape. The unit antennas may be connected to the unit capacitor 363 . The unit capacitor included in the antenna module 360 may be an interlayer capacitor disposed between the unit antenna 361 and the unit antenna or a terminal capacitor disposed between the unit antenna and a power source. The antenna module may be connected to a power source to receive power.

For example, the antenna module 360 includes a first terminal capacitor connected to a power source, a first unit antenna connected to the first terminal capacitor, a first interlayer capacitor connected to the first unit antenna and the second unit antenna, and a first unit antenna A second unit antenna positioned below the second unit antenna, a second interlayer capacitor connecting the second unit antenna and the third unit antenna, a third unit antenna positioned below the second unit antenna, and the third unit antenna and the fourth unit antenna and a third interlayer capacitor and a fourth unit antenna positioned below the third unit antenna and connected to a power source. Each unit antenna may be provided in the form illustrated in FIG. 37 and may be rotatably disposed.

36 has been described with reference to the case in which the antenna module includes four unit antennas, but this is only an example, and the number of unit antennas and/or unit capacitors may be changed. With respect to the antenna module 360, the above description in this specification may be similarly applied.

4.2 Composition of Antenna Module

Hereinafter, a unit antenna and a unit capacitor constituting an antenna module according to an embodiment will be described.

37 is a diagram for describing a unit antenna according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 37 , a unit antenna may include at least two unit turns. The unit antenna may include two unit turns disposed on the same plane and having a concentric circle (concentric arc) shape. The unit antenna may include a first unit turn positioned inside and having a smaller radius and a second unit turn positioned outside and having a larger radius than the first unit turn. The first unit turn may be in contact with the discharge tube in a state in which the antenna module is assembled to the discharge tube. The unit antenna may include a connector connecting each unit turn.

Referring to FIG. 37 , the unit antenna may include a first turn positioned at the innermost side, a second turn positioned outside the first turn, and a third turn positioned outside the second turn. The first turn and the second turn may be connected through a first connection part. The second turn and the third turn may be connected through a second connection part. The first turn may extend from the first point P1 to the second point P2 in an arc shape. The third turn located at the outermost portion may have a third point P3 farthest from the first point, and the unit antenna may be connected from the first point to the third point.

Meanwhile, the shape of the unit antenna illustrated in FIG. 37 is only an example, and the antenna module may include a unit antenna of another type. For example, although FIG. 37 illustrates that the antenna module includes three turns, the antenna module may include more or fewer than three turns.

36 and 37 together, the first terminal capacitor may be connected between the first point of the first unit antenna and the power source. The first interlayer capacitor may be connected between the third point of the first unit antenna and the first point of the second unit antenna. The second interlayer capacitor may be connected between a third point of the second unit antenna and a first point of the third unit antenna.

The unit capacitor may have a fixed capacitance or a variable capacitance. The unit antenna may have a fixed inductance or a variable inductance. The capacitance of the capacitor included in the antenna module or the inductance of the inductor included in the antenna module may be determined in consideration of the arrangement of the antenna module with respect to the tube. The capacitance of the capacitor included in the antenna module or the inductance of the inductor included in the antenna module may be determined in consideration of the arrangement of the antenna module to which each capacitor or inductor is connected. The antenna module may include a capacitor having a capacitance determined to minimize by-product generation, or a unit antenna having an inductance determined to minimize by-product generation, in consideration of the arrangement of the antenna module, capacitor, and/or unit antenna.

According to an embodiment, the interlayer capacitor may have a fixed capacitance, and the terminal capacitor may have a variable capacitance. Alternatively, the one or more interlayer capacitors may have the same capacitance, and the terminal capacitor may have a capacitance different from that of the interlayer capacitor. For example, the interlayer capacitor may have a first capacitance, the first terminal capacitor may have a second capacitance different from the first capacitance, and the second terminal capacitor may have a third capacitance different from the second capacitance.

The value of the capacitance of the unit capacitor may be determined such that by-products generated during plasma discharge are minimized. When plasma discharge is performed, an electric field having a direction perpendicular to the inner wall of the discharge tube is formed by a voltage applied to the antenna, whereby the plasma may collide with the inner wall of the discharge tube to generate byproducts. The capacitance of the unit capacitor may be determined such that the effect of the voltage formed by the antenna on the plasma inside the discharge tube is minimized.

For example, by configuring the capacitance of the terminal capacitor located at both ends of the antenna module to be different from the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor, the generation of byproducts due to the voltage applied to the antenna module may be minimized. For example, by configuring the capacitance of the terminal capacitor asymmetrically, the potential at one point of the unit turn closest to the discharge tube among the unit turns constituting the unit antenna is minimized, thereby minimizing the generation of by-products due to the collision of the plasma. can do. That is, by making the maximum value (absolute value) of the electric potential at any point within the unit turn closest to the discharge tube to the minimum, it is possible to minimize the generation of byproducts due to the collision of the plasma. That is, by making the voltage to ground at an arbitrary point within a unit turn closest to the discharge tube to a minimum, the generation of byproducts due to the collision of the plasma can be minimized.

36 and 37 , in order to minimize byproduct generation, the absolute voltage V _R of the potential of the reactance component between the first point P1 and the second point P2 of the unit antenna may be minimized. . That is, by minimizing the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first turn located at the innermost side, thereby minimizing the voltage component in the direction perpendicular to the inner wall of the discharge tube, the generation of by-products can be reduced.

The voltage (or potential) of the reactance component between the points may mean a voltage (or a potential difference between both ends) applied to the synthesized reactance component between the points.

According to an embodiment, the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor (capacitance capacitance of the capacitor connected to the first point P1 of the first turn) may be greater than the capacitance of the second terminal capacitor. The capacitance of the first terminal capacitor may be greater than the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor. The capacitance of the second terminal capacitor (capacitance of the capacitor connected to the third point P3 of the third turn) may be smaller than the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor. The combined capacitance value of the first terminal capacitor and the second terminal capacitor may be the same as the capacitance value of the interlayer capacitor.

By appropriately adjusting the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor and the capacitance of the second terminal capacitor, the absolute values of the potentials of the first point P1 and the second point P2 may be adjusted to be similar. By adjusting the absolute values of the voltages applied to the first point P1 and the second point P2 to be similar, the absolute value of the potential of the reactance component of the first turn located at the innermost side is minimized, thereby reducing the generation of by-products. can

According to another exemplary embodiment, in order to assist the generation of plasma discharge, the capacitance of the terminal capacitor may be changed so that the absolute value of the potential of the reactance component of the innermost unit turn becomes the maximum.

For example, in order to assist the plasma discharge, the absolute value V _R of the potential of the reactance component between the first point P1 and the second point P2 of the unit antenna may be maximized. That is, by maximizing the absolute value of the potential of the reactance component of the first turn located at the innermost side, it is possible to induce a capacitively coupled discharge in the discharge tube, thereby assisting the discharge. In order to assist discharging, the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor may be set to be smaller than that of the second terminal capacitor. The capacitance of the first terminal capacitor may be smaller than the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor. The capacitance of the second terminal capacitor may be greater than the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor. The combined capacitance value of the first terminal capacitor and the second terminal capacitor may be the same as the capacitance value of the interlayer capacitor.

According to one embodiment, an antenna module coupled to the discharge tube and receiving power from a power source may be provided. The antenna module may include a first unit antenna including a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point. The first unit turn may be positioned inside the second unit turn, and the second point may be connected to the third point. Each unit turn may extend in an arc or a circle. Each unit turn may extend in an arc shape having the same central angle.

The antenna module may include a first capacitor connected to the first point of the first unit turn and connected between the first terminal and the first point of the power source, and a second capacitor connected between the second terminal and the fourth point of the power source. have.

In order to minimize damage to the tube and generation of byproducts due to the voltage applied to the antenna module, the capacitance of the second capacitor may be smaller than that of the first capacitor. The capacitance of the second capacitor is such that the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first unit turn (the turn located at the innermost angle of the first unit antenna) connected to the first capacitor is minimized, thereby minimizing damage to the tube and generation of byproducts. It may be smaller than the capacitance of the first capacitor.

The capacitance of the first capacitor may be greater than twice the capacitance of the second capacitor. The capacitance of the first capacitor may be greater than twice the capacitance of the second capacitor so that the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first unit turn is minimized.

The antenna module may include a third capacitor connected between the fourth point of the second unit turn and the second capacitor. The capacitance of the third capacitor may be smaller than the capacitance of the second capacitor.

A combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor may correspond to the capacitance of the third capacitor. A combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor may be substantially equal to the capacitance of the third capacitor.

The antenna module may further include a second unit antenna including a third unit turn extending from the fifth point to the sixth point and a fourth unit turn extending from the seventh point to the eighth point. The third unit turn may be positioned inside the fourth unit turn, and the sixth point may be connected to the seventh point. The third capacitor may be connected between the fourth point and the fifth point. The second capacitor may be connected between the eighth point and the second terminal of the power source.

The capacitance of the third capacitor is such that the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first unit turn (the turn located at the innermost angle of the first unit antenna) connected to the first capacitor is minimized, thereby minimizing damage to the tube and generation of byproducts. It may be smaller than the capacitance of the second capacitor.

The first unit turn and the second unit turn may be positioned on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the discharge tube. The first unit turn may extend from the first point to the second point in a first direction, and the second unit turn may extend from the third point to the fourth point in the same first direction as the first unit turn. .

The first point may be located closer to the tube than the fourth point. The first point may correspond to P1 illustrated in FIG. 37 . The fourth point may correspond to P3 illustrated in FIG. 37 .

When power is supplied to the antenna module, the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first capacitor is less than the voltage applied to the reactance component between the first point and the second point, and the voltage applied to the reactance component of the third capacitor is the second It may correspond to a voltage applied to the reactance component between the first point and the fourth point.

The antenna module may resonate at a resonant frequency determined based on the capacitance of the third capacitor and the inductance of the first unit antenna. When the antenna module is in the resonance state, a point at which the potential to the first terminal becomes 0 may be located on the first unit turn of the first unit antenna. The one point may be a point at which the potential of the reactance component between the first terminal and the one point becomes zero. One point may be a point at which the voltage applied to the reactance component between the first terminal and the first terminal becomes zero.

The antenna module may resonate at a resonant frequency determined based on the capacitance of the third capacitor and the inductance of the first unit antenna. When the antenna module is in a resonance state, the voltage applied to the reactance component between the first point and the first terminal may be substantially the same as the voltage applied to the reactance component between the second point and the first terminal.

According to another embodiment, in the antenna module coupled to the discharge tube and receiving power from a power source, an antenna module including a first unit antenna, a first capacitor, and a second capacitor may be provided.

The first unit antenna may include a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point. The first unit turn may be positioned inside the second unit turn, and the second point may be connected to the third point.

The antenna module may include a first capacitor connected between the first terminal of the power source and the first point of the first unit turn.

The antenna module may include a second capacitor connected to the fourth point of the second unit turn.

The first capacitor may be connected between the first terminal of the power source and the first point.

When power is supplied to the antenna module, a point at which the voltage of the first unit antenna becomes the lowest may be located on the first unit turn. The one point may be a point at which the voltage of the reactance component between the first terminal and the one point becomes zero.

The antenna module may resonate at a resonant frequency determined based on the capacitance of the second capacitor and the inductance of the first unit antenna.

When the antenna module is in the resonance state, a point at which the voltage of the first unit antenna becomes the lowest may be located within the first unit turn.

When power is supplied to the antenna module, a point at which the voltage of the first unit antenna becomes the lowest may be located on the first unit turn.

When power is supplied to the antenna module, in the first unit antenna, a point at which the absolute value of the potential of the reactance component becomes the lowest may be located on the first unit turn.

The capacitance of the first capacitor may be greater than twice the capacitance of the second capacitor.

In order to minimize damage to the tube and generation of byproducts due to the voltage applied to the antenna module, the capacitance of the second capacitor may be smaller than that of the first capacitor.

The antenna module may include a second unit antenna including a third unit turn extending from the fifth point to the sixth point and a fourth unit turn extending from the seventh point to the eighth point. The third unit turn may be positioned inside the fourth unit turn, and the sixth point may be connected to the seventh point.

The second capacitor may be connected between the fourth point and the fifth point.

A third capacitor connected between the eighth point and the second terminal of the power source may be further included.

The capacitance of the second capacitor may be smaller than that of the third capacitor.

A combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the third capacitor may correspond to the capacitance of the second capacitor. A combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the third capacitor may be substantially equal to the capacitance of the second capacitor.

According to another embodiment, in the antenna module coupled to the discharge tube and receiving power from a power source, an antenna module including a first unit antenna, a first capacitor, and a second capacitor may be provided.

The first unit antenna may include a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point. The first unit turn may be positioned inside the second unit turn, and the second point may be connected to the third point.

The first capacitor may be connected to the first point of the first unit turn and may be connected between the first terminal and the first point of the power source.

The second capacitor may be connected between the second terminal and the fourth point of the power supply. The capacitance of the second capacitor may be different from that of the first capacitor.

The antenna module may further include a third capacitor connected between the fourth point of the second unit turn and the second capacitor.

Meanwhile, the antenna module may further include a second unit antenna including a third unit turn extending from the fifth point to the sixth point and a fourth unit turn extending from the seventh point to the eighth point. The third unit turn may be positioned inside the fourth unit turn, and the sixth point may be connected to the seventh point.

The third capacitor may be connected between the fourth point and the fifth point. The second capacitor may be connected between the eighth point and the second terminal of the power source.

A combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor may correspond to the capacitance of the third capacitor. A combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor may be substantially equal to the capacitance of the third capacitor.

The capacitance of the first capacitor, the capacitance of the second capacitor, and the capacitance of the third capacitor may be understood similarly to the descriptions of FIGS. 38 to 40 .

4.3 Voltage distribution during plasma discharge operation

Hereinafter, the absolute value of the potential of the reactance component of the unit antenna according to the capacitance of the terminal capacitor will be described.

38 is a diagram for explaining a potential distribution applied to an antenna module according to an embodiment.

38 is a diagram for explaining the potential of an antenna module and a reactance component of the antenna module according to an embodiment. 38 shows the voltage applied to the reactance component of the antenna module when the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor C1 is greater than the capacitance of the second terminal capacitor C2 under the condition of a frequency of about 3 MHz and a current of 20 A. shown briefly. At this time, the potential at the first point P1 was measured to be -100V, and the potential at the second point P2 was measured to be 100V.

During plasma discharge, the capacitance of the terminal capacitor may be appropriately adjusted in order to minimize the generation of by-products due to the plasma colliding with the discharge tube due to the capacitive coupling of the plasma and the electric field formed by the antenna. 38 schematically shows the potential of the reactance component of the antenna module and the antenna module in which the capacitance of the terminal capacitor is determined so as to minimize by-products.

Compared with FIG. 11, the antenna module illustrated in relation to FIG. 11 is similar to the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 38 in that the combined capacitance of both terminal capacitors and the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor correspond to each other, but both sides It is different from the antenna module described with reference to FIG. 38 in that the capacitance of the terminal capacitor is implemented identically.

In the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 11 , the voltage applied to the reactance component of the capacitor at one end is such that the voltage applied to the reactance component of the antenna (ie, the voltage applied between the ends of the antenna) is canceled, and the reactance component of the unit antenna It may be designed to correspond to half the voltage applied to the . In contrast, in the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 38 , the capacitance of the capacitors at both ends may be configured differently so that the potential of the reactance component corresponding to the innermost turn of the unit antenna constituting the antenna module is minimized.

The antenna module illustrated in FIG. 38 may be configured such that the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first terminal capacitor C1 and the voltage applied to the reactance component of the second terminal capacitor C2 are different from each other.

In the antenna module according to an embodiment, the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first terminal capacitor C1 connected to the innermost turn of the first unit antenna is the second terminal capacitor C2 connected to the outermost turn of the second unit antenna. It may be configured to be less than the voltage applied to the reactance component of .

In the antenna module according to an embodiment, the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor C1 connected to the innermost turn of the first unit antenna is higher than that of the second terminal capacitor C2 connected to the outermost turn of the second unit antenna. It can be provided to be large.

In the antenna module according to an embodiment, a magnitude of a potential of a reactance component of an innermost turn of a first unit antenna connected to a first terminal capacitor having a first capacitance is a second capacitance having a second capacitance smaller than the first capacitance. It may be provided to be smaller than the magnitude of the potential of the reactance component of the outermost turn of the second unit antenna connected to the second terminal capacitor.

In the antenna module according to an embodiment, the magnitude of the potential of the reactance component of the first unit turn located at the innermost side of the unit antenna is smaller than the magnitude of the potential of the reactance component of the second unit turn located at the outermost side of the unit antenna. catalog may be prepared.

In the antenna module according to an embodiment, a point at which a potential difference is minimized in relation to a power source (eg, an end not connected to the unit antenna of the first terminal capacitor, or a ground) is located at the innermost side of the unit antenna. It may be located in the unit turn, and a point at which the potential difference in relation to the power source is maximum may be located in the second unit turn located at the outermost side of the unit antenna. Referring to FIG. 38 , in the antenna module, the point at which the potential of the reactance component in the unit antenna becomes 0 (that is, the point at which the potential difference in relation to the voltage becomes the minimum) is higher than that of the first terminal capacitor when compared with FIG. 10 . (C1) or may be provided close to the power source. That is, the capacitance of the terminal capacitor may be adjusted so that the point at which the potential becomes 0 is located at the innermost turn of the unit antenna (ie, between the first point P1 and the second point P2 ). Through this, it is possible to reduce damage to the discharge tube and generation of byproducts due to the voltage applied to the innermost turn closest to the discharge tube.

39 schematically illustrates an antenna module and a voltage applied to a reactance component of the antenna module according to another embodiment. FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram illustrating a voltage applied to a reactance component of an antenna module when the first terminal capacitor C1 is omitted under a condition of a frequency of about 3 MHz and a current of 20 A. Referring to FIG. At this time, the potential at the first point P1 was measured to be 0V, and the potential at the second point P2 was measured to be 200V.

The antenna module illustrated in FIG. 39 is exemplified based on the case in which the first terminal capacitor C1 is omitted and the capacitance of the second terminal capacitor C2 is the same as that of the interlayer capacitor. Referring to FIG. 39 , the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first unit turn (the innermost turn) extending from the first point P1 to the second point P2 is the first turn of the antenna module illustrated in FIG. 38 . It may be greater than the voltage applied to the reactance component of .

38 and 39 together, it can be seen that the absolute value of the potential at one point of the reactance component of the innermost turn can be reduced by appropriately determining the value of the first terminal capacitor.

40 schematically illustrates an antenna module and a voltage applied to a reactance component of the antenna module according to another embodiment.

FIG. 40 shows the voltage applied to the reactance component of the antenna module when the capacitance of the second terminal capacitor C2 is smaller than the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor C1 under the condition of a frequency of about 3 MHz and a current of 20 A. is briefly shown. At this time, the potential at the first point P1 was measured to be -700V, and the potential at the second point P2 was measured to be -500V.

The antenna module illustrated in FIG. 40 may be used to assist plasma discharge. The antenna module illustrated in FIG. 40 may make the absolute value of the potential at one point of the reactance component of the innermost turn of the antenna module maximize, thereby assisting the plasma discharge to occur more smoothly.

In order to assist plasma discharge, the capacitance of the first terminal capacitor C1 may be smaller than that of the second terminal capacitor C2 . The combined capacitance of the first terminal capacitor C1 and the second terminal capacitor C2 may correspond to the capacitance of the interlayer capacitor.

As described above, although the embodiments have been described with reference to the limited embodiments and drawings, various modifications and variations are possible by those skilled in the art from the above description. For example, the described techniques are performed in a different order than the described method, and/or the described components of the system, structure, apparatus, circuit, etc. are combined or combined in a different form than the described method, or other components Or substituted or substituted by equivalents may achieve an appropriate result.

Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims are also within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (21)

In the antenna module coupled to the discharge tube and receiving power from a power source,
A first unit antenna including a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point - The first unit turn is inside the second unit turn located in , wherein the second point is connected to the third point;
a first capacitor connected to the first point of the first unit turn and connected between a first terminal of the power source and the first point;
and
a second capacitor connected between the second terminal of the power source and the fourth point;
In order to minimize damage to the tube and generation of by-products due to the voltage applied to the antenna module, the capacitance of the second capacitor is smaller than that of the first capacitor,
antenna module.
According to claim 1,
a third capacitor connected between the fourth point of the second unit turn and the second capacitor, wherein a capacitance of the third capacitor is smaller than a capacitance of the second capacitor,
antenna module.
According to claim 1,
the capacitance of the first capacitor is greater than twice the capacitance of the second capacitor;
antenna module.
3. The method of claim 2,
a combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor corresponds to the capacitance of the third capacitor;
antenna module.
3. The method of claim 2,
A second unit antenna including a third unit turn extending from a fifth point to a sixth point and a fourth unit turn extending from a seventh point to an eighth point - the third unit turn is inside the fourth unit turn It is located in, the sixth point is connected to the seventh point -; further comprising,
the third capacitor is connected between the fourth point and the fifth point,
the second capacitor is connected between the eighth point and the second terminal of the power source;
antenna module.
According to claim 1,
The first unit turn and the second unit turn are positioned on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the discharge tube,
The first unit turn extends from the first point to the second point in a first direction, and the second unit turn extends from the third point to the fourth point in the same manner as the first unit turn, extending in a first direction,
antenna module.
According to claim 1,
the first point is located closer to the tube than the fourth point,
antenna module.
3. The method of claim 2,
When power is supplied to the antenna module, the voltage applied to the reactance component of the first capacitor is smaller than the voltage applied to the reactance component between the first point and the second point, and the reactance component of the third capacitor is The applied voltage corresponds to the voltage applied to the reactance component between the first point and the fourth point,
antenna module.
3. The method of claim 2,
the antenna module resonates at a resonant frequency determined based on the capacitance of the third capacitor and the inductance of the first unit antenna;
When the antenna module is in a resonance state, a point at which the potential of the reactance component with respect to the first terminal becomes 0 is located on the first unit turn of the first unit antenna,
antenna module.
3. The method of claim 2,
the antenna module resonates at a resonant frequency determined based on the capacitance of the third capacitor and the inductance of the first unit antenna;
When the antenna module is in a resonance state, the voltage applied to the reactance component between the first point and the first terminal is substantially the same as the voltage applied to the reactance component between the second point and the first terminal,
antenna module.
In the antenna module coupled to the discharge tube and receiving power from a power source,
A first unit antenna including a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point - The first unit turn is inside the second unit turn located in , wherein the second point is connected to the third point;
a first capacitor connected between the first terminal of the power source and the first point of the first unit turn; and
a second capacitor connected to the fourth point of the second unit turn; including,
the first capacitor is connected between the first terminal of the power source and the first point;
When power is supplied to the antenna module, a point at which the voltage of the reactance component to the first terminal becomes 0 is located on the first unit turn - The point is the lowest voltage in the first unit antenna the point where -,
antenna module.
12. The method of claim 11,
the antenna module resonates at a resonant frequency determined based on the capacitance of the second capacitor and the inductance of the first unit antenna;
When the antenna module is in a resonance state, the point at which the voltage is lowest in the first unit antenna is located within the first unit turn,
antenna module.
12. The method of claim 11,
When power is supplied to the antenna module, the point at which the voltage is lowest in the first unit antenna is located on the first unit turn,
antenna module.
12. The method of claim 11,
When power is supplied to the antenna module, in the first unit antenna, the point at which the absolute value of the potential of the reactance component becomes the lowest is located on the first unit turn,
antenna module.
12. The method of claim 11,
the capacitance of the first capacitor is greater than twice the capacitance of the second capacitor;
antenna module.
12. The method of claim 11,
In order to minimize damage to the tube and generation of by-products due to the voltage applied to the antenna module, the capacitance of the second capacitor is smaller than that of the first capacitor,
antenna module.
12. The method of claim 11,
A second unit antenna including a third unit turn extending from a fifth point to a sixth point and a fourth unit turn extending from a seventh point to an eighth point - the third unit turn is inside the fourth unit turn It is located in, the sixth point is connected to the seventh point -; further comprising,
the second capacitor is connected between the fourth point and the fifth point,
and a third capacitor coupled between the eighth point and the second terminal of the power source,
antenna module.
18. The method of claim 17,
the capacitance of the second capacitor is smaller than the capacitance of the third capacitor;
antenna module.
18. The method of claim 17,
a combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the third capacitor corresponds to the capacitance of the second capacitor;
antenna module.
In the antenna module coupled to the discharge tube and receiving power from a power source,
A first unit antenna including a first unit turn extending from a first point to a second point and a second unit turn extending from a third point to a fourth point - The first unit turn is inside the second unit turn located in , wherein the second point is connected to the third point;
a first capacitor connected to the first point of the first unit turn and connected between a first terminal of the power source and the first point; and
a second capacitor connected between the second terminal of the power source and the fourth point, wherein the capacitance of the second capacitor is different from that of the first capacitor,
antenna module.
21. The method of claim 20,
a third capacitor connected between the fourth point of the second unit turn and the second capacitor;
A second unit antenna including a third unit turn extending from a fifth point to a sixth point and a fourth unit turn extending from a seventh point to an eighth point - the third unit turn is inside the fourth unit turn It is located in, the sixth point is connected to the seventh point -; further comprising,
the third capacitor is connected between the fourth point and the fifth point,
The second capacitor is connected between the eighth point and the second terminal of the power source,
a combined capacitance of the capacitance of the first capacitor and the capacitance of the second capacitor corresponds to the capacitance of the third capacitor;
antenna module.

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