US3118078A - Gaseous electric discharge device - Google Patents

Gaseous electric discharge device Download PDF

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US3118078A
US3118078A US147849A US14784961A US3118078A US 3118078 A US3118078 A US 3118078A US 147849 A US147849 A US 147849A US 14784961 A US14784961 A US 14784961A US 3118078 A US3118078 A US 3118078A
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anode
envelope
collecting
spaced relation
axially spaced
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US147849A
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Jr Arthur W Coolidge
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General Electric Co
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General Electric Co
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J17/00—Gas-filled discharge tubes with solid cathode
    • H01J17/50—Thermionic-cathode tubes
    • H01J17/52—Thermionic-cathode tubes with one cathode and one anode
    • H01J17/54—Thermionic-cathode tubes with one cathode and one anode having one or more control electrodes
    • H01J17/56—Thermionic-cathode tubes with one cathode and one anode having one or more control electrodes for preventing and then permitting ignition, but thereafter having no control

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  • the anodes of the devices are required to withstand and dissipate substantial amounts of heat or power.
  • cooling means which at the higher power levels, is usually a form of liquid cooling means.
  • a primary object of my invention is to provide a new yand improved gaseous electric discharge device.
  • Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including new and improved means for increasing the power handling capabilities thereof.
  • Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including new and improved cooling means yadapted for substantially increasing thermal eiciency.
  • Another object of my invention is to provide new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including a new and improved anode assembly including means for reducing substantially the electron density at the electron collecting surface thereof.
  • Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including a new and improved anode assembly including means for diffusing the plasma column approaching the electron collecting surface therein and for affording increased collecting area for the diffused column for any given device diameter.
  • Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including a new and improved anode assembly including means affording all of the desirable operational advantages of having a planar anode element located in closely spaced relation to a grid in the device without the heat dissipating limitations inherent in structure wherein the same anode element serves also as yan electron collector.
  • Still another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including new and improved means for economically obtaining increased thermal efficiency.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an anode assembly and a cathode assembly in axially spaced relation, ⁇ apertured control and gradient grids interposed in axially spaced relation between these assemblies and an ionizable lling.
  • the anode assembly comprises an imperforate conductive collector element which can advantageously be cup-shaped and which constitutes a wall section ⁇ at one end of the envelope, is ⁇ adapted for liquid cooling and is mounted in substantially spaced relation to the grids with the open end thereof facing the grids.
  • the anode assembly also includes a perforate non-collecting or virtual anode element mounted in closely spaced parallel relation to the gradient grid.
  • a tubular highly refractory insulator extends from the virtual anode element into the open end of the cup-like collecting element.
  • the virtual anode element and collecting element can be connected through either a high resistance resistor or through a low intensity discharge or ionization internally 0f the ⁇ anode assembly.
  • the apertures in the grids and virtual yanode element are out of register or misaligned to provide a tortuous electron path from the cathode to the collecting element.
  • Barrier means in the envelope between the walls thereof and the refractory insulator minimize any tendency toward undesired arcing between portions of the virtual anode and collecting anode.
  • FIGURE 1 constitutes a schematic and partially sectionalized elevational view of apparatus constructed in accordance with an embodiment of my invention
  • FIGURE 2 is a sectional view taken along the line 2 2 in FIGURE 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows;
  • FIGURE 3 is an enlarged fragmentary schematic illustration of ⁇ a modied form of my invention.
  • FIGURE 1 a high-voltage gaseous electric discharge device of stacked construction which for purposes of illustration can cornprise a high-power hydrogen thyratron including -an envelope generally designated 1 and provided with a hydrogen filling.
  • the disclosed device includes a cathode assembly 2, a hydrogen reservoir 3, a control or triggering grid 4, a gradient grid 5 and an anode assembly generally designated 6.
  • the term gradient grid is used to refer to ⁇ an Iapertured electrode positioned between the control grid 4 and the anode assembly 6 and adapted for being operated ⁇ at an intermediate potential effective for assisting the control grid in holding oif an electric discharge between the cathode and anode assembly and until a desired operational time.
  • the envelope 1 com-prises at the lower end thereof a conductive section ⁇ it? including a cylindrical metal wall section i1 and metal lower and upper header elements l12 and i3, respectively, having rims sealed in a Vacuumtight manner to the ends of the cylindrical section 11.
  • the lower header i2 is ⁇ apertured centr-ally at 14 and has sealed thereto in communication with the envelope section it) through the aperture .14 a reservoir housing l5 containing the reservoir 3 ⁇ which is shown in outline.
  • the housing ⁇ 15 comprises an upper met-al sealing ring 16 brazed to the outer surface of the header 112, a cylindrical ceramic wall section 17 brazed in the ring 16, a lower sealing ring 18 brazed to the outer end of the cylinder 17 and a metal header 19 which is sealed to the ring 18 and closes the lower end of the tube envelope.
  • the power supply 2l can be controlled selectively for selectively energizing the reservoir heater thereby :to generate hydrogen for repleuishing the tube filling when, for example, the pressure thereof is reduced, as by cleanup or absorption of hydrogen by the materials of the device.
  • the cathode assembly 2 can comprise any suitable indirectly heated structure adapted for providing a copious supp-ly of electrons when energized. Additionally, the cathode assembly is suitably mounted in the metal section il? of the envelope in insulated relation thereto and includes leads 22 provided ffor completing a circuit through Ithe heater (notshown) of the cathode assembly. The leads 22 extend through the header 12 in suitable mutually insulated relation and carry llexible connectors 23 located externally of the tube envelope. The connectors 23 are adapted for being electrically connected to the opposite sides of any suitable ⁇ cathode heater power supply 24 which can be selectively controlled for selectively controlling cathode energization. By means not shown, the cathode 2 is connected to the header 19 and, thus, the latter is adapted for serving as a cathode contact..
  • control grid 4 Sealed across the central opening in the upper header member d3 is the previously referenced control grid 4 which, as seen in FIGURE l, is relatively thick in construction. Also, as seen in FIGURE 2, grid 4 includes a plurality of parallel elongated apertures or slots 2S.
  • the control grid 4 is conductively joined to Ithe metal section of the tube envelope by a braze between the marginal area of the ⁇ grid and the upper header 13. Thus, the metal section of the envelope operates at control grid potential.
  • Brazed to the lower end of the cylinder l1 is a conductive ange ⁇ 26 which is adapted both for mounting the device and for serving as a grid contact, in which case it is electrically connected to one side of a control or triggering circuit generally designated 27.
  • the circuit 27 - is adapted to provide preferably a rectangularly-shaped ignition pulse or signal indicated by the curve 3ft. Any one of a number of available circuits of prior art type is suitable for providing such -a signal in a predetermined timed relation. The effect of a signal 30 will be discussed in detail hereinafter in conjunction with the description of Ithe overall operation of the device.
  • the envelope l comprises three coaxial generally cylindrical or annular insulators, or insulative wall sections, Syl-33.
  • the insulators '3l-33 are preferably ⁇ formed of any suitable insulative, highstrength and highly refractory ceramic material adapted for being metallized in order to facilitate the provision of ceramic-to-rnetal bonds or brazos between the ends of these sections and metal portions of the mentioned electrede assemblies.
  • the sections 31-3-3 can each Ibe formed of la ⁇ ceramic material known generally in the art as alumina, which materials are adapted for being provided with metallized areas in a manner disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 2,667,427, issued January 26, 1954, to Henry l.
  • the ceramic can be hermetically sealed to a metal member or another metallized member by means of any one or more of the various soldering or brazing techniques well known in 'the art.
  • the upper section of the envelope which comprises the ceramic section 3l supports the gradient grid 5 and the anode assembly generally designated 6. More speclically, the lower end of the insulator 31 is metallized, as by substantially the same process referenced above, and is hermetically bonded to the upper outer marginal area of the control grid 4.1. The upper end of the cylinder 3l is similarly metallized and is brazed to a radially extending 'd flange 3-3- of a cup-shaped member 3S Ihaving grid gradient 5 as its 1bottom surface. Cup-shaped member 395 extends reentrantly in the cylinder 3l with the walls thereof in close parallel spaced relation.
  • the bottom of the member 35 which is gradient grid 5 is perforate and extends in closely spaced parallel relation to the control grid 4.
  • the apertures in the grid 5 are also preferably Slot-like and parallel and are out of register with the slots in the control grid 4 to provide rfor an indirect or tortucus electron path thereacross, or to avoid presentation to the Acathode of a direct straight-line electron path toward the anode assembly.
  • the gradient grid 5 is preferably operated at a potential ybetween those of the anode and control grid by means of a suitable connection to a voltage divider (not Shown) connected between the anode and control grid or between anode and cathode. n fact, any means adapted providing a sui-table intermediate potential for the gradient grid can be employed.
  • Hermetically bonded to the upper side of the gradient grid flange 34 is the lower metallized end of the ceramic cylinder 32.
  • the upper end of the cylinder 32 is also rnetallized and has hermetically bonded thereto a radial flange *36 on a deep-drawn cup-like conductive member 4Q.
  • Member tl comprises part or the above-referenced anode assembly 6 and shall hereinafter be referred to as the non-collecting anode or virtual anode inasmuch as it serves to present a perforate element surface 41 at anode potential immediately adjacent the gradient grid 5 but ⁇ does not serve to collect any appreciable amount of anode ⁇ current during a conductive discharge inthe device.
  • the virtual anode '4o is substantially elongated and extends reentrantly in both the ceramic cylinder 32 and the cup 35.
  • the upper section of the virtual anode 40 has a diameter which places its side walls in closely spaced parallel relation to the ceramic cylinder 32 and the lower section .is somewha reduced in diameter, adapu'ng it for closely spaced parallel relation to the inner side Wall of cup-shaped member 35 in which it extends.
  • the perfcrate element 4l of the virtual anode is planar and extends in closely spaced parallel relation to gradient grid 5. Additionally, perforate element 41 of the virtual anode 4d includes an inner perforate lbaille 41.
  • the apertures in element 4J., of the virtual anode di), and the baffle ⁇ All are also in the yform of parallel slots and out of register with each other, ⁇ and the apertures in ethe perforate element 4l are out of register with those in adjacent gradient grid 5. This serves Ifurther to render the electron path across the electrode assemblies more tortuous .and indirect. Also, it has a desired dispersal or diffusive elfect on electrons passing through this region of the device.
  • the member 42 is tubular and preferably formed of quartz. Additionally, the tubular member 42 extends from a point immediately adjacent the perforated element 41 of the virtual anode all to a point inwardly of the open end of an inverted cup-shaped imperforate element or collecting anode member d3 which also comprises part of the anode-assembly 6.
  • the collecting anode 43 is preferably formed of copper or any suitable high thermal con-- ductivity meal and 4to have relatively thick wallsadapting it for substantial thermal conduction and for being impinged without damage lthereto by electrons. 4In the arrangement as illustrated in FIG.
  • collector anode 43 is axially spaced from the perforated element 41 a distance substantially greater than the distance between the perforated element 4l and control electrode 4.
  • the imperforate element or collector anode 43 is located or positioned on that side of the perforated element 41 which is remote from, or opposite from, the side which faces the control electrode 4.
  • the collecting anode 43 is sealed at the rim thereof to a metal sealing ring 44!- which has la ange 45 bonded at the rim thereof to the rim of an annular combined sealing member ,and shield ⁇ or barrier 45. A shielding function of this member will be described hereinafter.
  • the sealing member 46 - is hermetically bonded to the metallized upper end of the ceramic cylinder 33.
  • the lower end of the cylinder 33 is also metallized and is hermetically bonded to a flange 47 on a shield ring or barrier element 4, the shielding function of which will also be described hereinafter.
  • the flange 47 on the ring 48 and the flange 36 on the virtual anode 4i? are hermetically sealed at the rims thereof for completing the envelope assembly.
  • the collecting anode 43 is fitted with a fluid-type cooling means generally designated Si) and adapted for having a coolant such as water circulated therethrough.
  • this structure can comprise an outer jacket 51 connected in a leak-proof manner about the collecting anode 43 and having a coolant outlet 52 at the upper end.
  • a coolant path-defining member or inner jacket 53 Fitted over the collector 43 in the jacket 5l is a coolant path-defining member or inner jacket 53 which is cup-shaped and has a helical depression or corrugation 54 formed therein, as by hydroforming or rolling, and engaging the outer surface of the collecting anode 43.
  • a coolant inlet 55 is fitted in the upper end of the member 53 and extends in a sealed manner through the outer jacket l.
  • a coolant flow path extending downwardly from the inlet 52 spirally and intimately about the outer surface of the collecting anode 43, into the outer jacket Si yand out of the outlet 52.
  • the collecting anode 43 is adapted for providing a substantial surface area for intercepting electrons resulting from a discharge in the device and presenting a substantially large heat exchanging surface to the coolant flowing through the jacket.
  • a utilization circuit generally designated 55 is connected to contact l' which is connected internally of the envelope by means not shown to the cathode 2. Also, the positive side of the circuit is connected to ian anode contact 57 mounted ⁇ atop the coolant jacket 5l.
  • the utilization circuit 56 can be one of any number of well-known and readily available types such, for example, as a high-voltage, high-current power supply in the order of 50 kv. and an appropriate load, and it need not be specifically shown or described herein.
  • a simple circuit including a resistor 60 can be connected between these elements external of the tube envelope, in the manner shown in FlGURE 3.
  • any suitable high-resistance connection can be employed and, if desired, it can be located internally of the envelope and mounted on the wall thereof.
  • the perforated element 41 of virtual anode 4l assumes essentially the same potential as the collecting ⁇ anode 43 and -is in closely spaced parallel relation to the gradient grids and, thus, the Kdevice is adapted for the same high voltage operation as a device wherein an imperforate collecting anode is provided in closely spaced relation -to the grid.
  • the electrons comprising the beam tend to diuse and impinge with a low electron density over both the internal bottom and side walls of the collecting anode.
  • the power :dissipation density at the collecting anode surface is relatively substantially lower than if, vfor example, the virtual anode comprised ⁇ an imperforate planar element having the same diameter as the cupshaped anode and was adapted for collecting all the current.
  • the collecting area of the anode 43 is substantially greater than the projected area of the perforate element 4l.
  • the impinging electrons are more widely distributed over a substantial area of collector surface which minimizes any tendency toward acute heating of any particular area thereof.
  • the use of both relatively elongated side walls and the bottom Wall of the collecting anode as electroncollecting surfaces Iresults in a substantially greater hea-t exchange surface for presentation to the coolant ilowing spirally past the external surface of the collecting anode.
  • the yanode comprised a planar collector it would be limited as regards the amount of cooling means that could he employed effectively therewith for a given tube diameter.
  • my structure the cylindrical side walls and bottom of the collecting ianode afford a substantially enlarged surface 4area exposed for having coolant flow thereagainst.
  • my invention is not limited to the use of cupshaped anodes.
  • a planar anode can be employed in my invention if an adequate cooling means can be provided therefor or if there is no limitation on the transverse dimensions of the tube.
  • the upper end of the quartz cylinder 42 extends slightly inwardly of the rim of the collecting anode 43.
  • the quartz cylinder prevents undesired .arcing between the inner suriace of the collecting anode and the inner ⁇ cylindrical surface of the virtual anode. Undesired arcing is also prevented between Athe surfaces of the two anodes disposed outwardly of the quartz cylinder 42 by means of provision :of the arcing shields or barriersformed as the inner extensions on the members 46 VAand 47.
  • the virtual anode is eriective primarily to provide a small area anode closely spaced relative to the gradient grid to adapt the device for high voltage operation prior to conduction. lt will also be seen from the forego-ing that the collecting anode provides a large area anode for current collection during conduction.
  • the virtual anode need not be provided with cooling means and need not be constructed to withstand substantially high temperatures as does the collector anode.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted yin insulated -axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced-relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, and said anode assembly comprising a perforate element in closely spaced relation to said :control electrode and an impertorate element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said control electrode, said imperforate element being spaced a substantial distance from said perforate element relative to the interelectrode spacing between said perforate element Iand said control electrode, and said imperfofrate element being adapted for collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element.
  • a gaseous electric ⁇ discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable lilling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted 'in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate ⁇ element in closely spaced relation -to said control electrode and an imperforate element located on the side of said perforate anode element remote from saidcontrol electrode and adapted for collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element, and said perforate and imperforate elements Ibeing spaced a substantial .distance from each other and adapted for operating at substantially the same potential before initiation of a conducting discharge.
  • a gaseous electric discharge ⁇ device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation to sa-id envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate element in closely spaced relation to said control element and an imperforate element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said controll element and adapted or collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element, said imperforate element -being spaced from said perfor-ate element a distance substantially greater than the distance between ysaid perforate element-and said control electrode, and the collecting area of said imperforate element being substantially greater than the projected area of said perforate element.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and :cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted :in said envelope ⁇ in axially spaced relation between said ⁇ anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate element in closely spaced relation to said control element and an ⁇ imperforate element located on the side of said perora-te element remote from said control electrode and adapted for collecting particles passing through said perforate element, said imperlorate element being spaced from said perforate element a substantial distance relative to the spacing between said perforate element and said control electrode, and a tubular highlyrefractory insulative element internally disposed in said envelope and extending ⁇ axially between said perforate and imperforate elements.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an iom'Zable iilling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a planar grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate planar element in closely spaced parallel relation to said grid electrode and an imperfonate element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said grid electrode and adapted for collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element, and means effective for equalining the potent-ials of said erforate and imperforate elements prior to a conducting discharge through said device and for allowing said perforate element to assume cathode potential independently of said imperforate element during the initiation of a conducting discharge.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device according to claim 5, wherein said means for equalizing the potential of said perforate and imperorate elements comprises a high-resistance resistor connected therebetween.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable fitting, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate elements in closely spaced relation to said grid electrode and adapted for serving as a non-collecting anode, and an mperforate cup-shaped element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said grid electrode and having the open end facing said perforate element and thereby adapted for collecting electrons passing through said perforate element, said perforate and imperforatc elements being maintained in spaced relation by insulating means, and means effective for equalizing the potentials of said anode elements prior to a conductive discharge through said device and for allowing said perforate element to assume cathode potential independently of said imperforate element during the initiation of a conducting discharge.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, and said anode assembly comprising a perforate non-collecting element mounted in axially spaced relation to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element constituting an end wall section of said envelope, and insulating means maintaining said non-collecting and collecting elements in axially spaced relation.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a pertorate non-collecting element mounted in close axially spaced relation to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element constituting an end wall section of said envelope and insulating means maintaining said non-collecting and collecting element in axially spaced relation, and liuid cooling means mounted in heat-exchange relation with the external surface of said collecting element.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, and said anode assembly comprising a perforate non-collecting element mounted in close axially-spaced rel tion to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element disposed axially remote from said non-collecting element and constituting an end wall section of said envelope, an insulative wall section of said envelope maintaining said non-collecting and collecting elements in said Mially spaced relation, and an elongated highlyrefractory tubular insulator extending in said envelope from said non-collecting element partially into said collectng element.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable iilling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in said axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate non-collecting element mounted in close axially spaced relation to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element disposed axially and remote from said noncol ecting element and constituting an end wall section of said envelope, an insulative wall section of said envelope maintaining said non-collecting and collecting elements in said axially spaced relation, and an elongated highly refractory tubular insulator extending in said envelope from said non-collecting element partially into said collecting element, and a coolant jacket mounted on said collecting element and including means for circulating coolant over the exterior surface thereof.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, an anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements separated by an insulative section, one of said cup-shaped elements having a planar perforate bottom in closely spaced relation to said control electrode and the other of said cup-shaped elements being impertorate and constituting a current collector.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device according to l2, wherein said imperforate cup-shaped element also constitutes a wall section of said envelope.
  • bathe means is mounted in said perorate conductive element and includes perforations which arc non-registering with respect to the perforations in said perforate conducting element.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements separated by insulative section, one of said cup-shaped elements having a periorate planar bottom in closely spaced relation to said control electrode and the other of said cupshaped elements being imperforate and constituting a current collector, and a highly refractory insulative tubular member extending in said hollow structure from a point adjacent said planar perforate bottom to a point located inwardly of the rim of said current collector.
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insulative and conductive sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposed ends of said envelope, a perforate planar cont-rol element mounted transversely in said envelope and axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of said cup-shaped elements having a llange sealed between opposed ends of a pair of said insulative wall sections and extending rcentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation to said control electrode and adapted for serving as a virtual anode, the other of said cup-shaped elements constituting a wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insulative wall section of said envelope and adapted ⁇ for serving as a collecting anode, said last mentioned insulative wall section
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insulative and conductive wall sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposite ends of said envelope, a perforate planar control element mounted transversely in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, a cup-shaped gradient grid electrode having a ilange sealed between opposed ends or a pair of said insulative wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insurative wall sections, said gra icnt gri-d electrode including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation t-o said control electrode, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of said last-mentioned elements having a flange sealed between opposed ends of a pair of said insulative wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said wall sections and nesting in said gradient grid, said one element also including
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insulativc and conductive wall sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposed ends of said envelope, a perforate planar control electrode mounted transversely in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of said cup-shaped elements having a flange sealed between opposed ends of a pair of said insulativc wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perlforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation to said control electrode and adapted for serving as a virtual anode, the other of said cup-shaped elements constituting a wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insulative wall section of said envelope adapted for serving as a collecting anode, said lastrnentioned
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insuletive and conductive wall sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposite ends of said envelope, a perferate planer control element mounted transversely in said ⁇ envelope in axially spaced elation between said Cathode and anode assemblies, said anode essernbly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of seid cup-shaped elements having a lienge sealed between opposed ends of a .pair of said insulative wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perforate planar bottoni in closely spaced parallel relation to seid control electrode and adapted for serving as e virtual anode, the other cup-shaped element constituting e wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insuletive wail section of seid envelope and adapted for
  • a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of a .crwte tubular insulative and conductive wall sections, axially snaced Cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposed 'ids of said envelope, a perforate planar control cierne it mounted transversely in seid envelope in axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of seid cup-shaped elements 11a a sealed between opposed ends of a pair of seid insnlative Well sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel elation to said control electrode and ef-ect fe for serving a virtual anode, the other of said cupwsliaped eleA s constituting a wall section of said envelope and

Description

Jan- 14, 1964 A. w. cooLlDGE, .JR 3,113,073
CEsEoUs ELECTRIC DISCHARGE DEVICE Filed OCC. 2e, 1961 FlG.l.
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United States Patent O iiiil GSEUS ELECT" C BiSCHARGE DEVECE Artaur W. Cooiidge, Er., Scotia, NKY., assigner to Gener-ai Eiectric Company, a c :poration of New York Fiied st. 26, 196i, Ser. No. 1/-37,S49 2i? Claims. (Ci. 313-24) My invention relates to gaseous electric discharge devices and pertains more particularly to devices of this type including new and improved means for increasing the power-dissipating capacity, or power handling capabilities, thereof.
In the operation of some gaseous electric discharge devices, such, for example, as high-power thyratrons, the anodes of the devices are required to withstand and dissipate substantial amounts of heat or power. Generally, such devices are adapted for such operation through the provision of cooling means, which at the higher power levels, is usually a form of liquid cooling means. As power levels increase the rate of coolant flow is generally required to increase, otherwise localized boiling tends to occur together with the formation of a vapor shroud about the anode surface to be cooled. These phenomena reduce the heat transfer to the coolant and subject the device to possible run-away operation or burn-out and destruction of the tube. Thus, it is desirable to provide means which will enable power level increases without increasing substantially the coolant ow necesary to carry away the heat to be dissipated. Additionally, from the standpoint of economy in materials and coolant requirements it is generally desir-able to provide means which will enable more efficient use of coolant flow. increased thermal efciency enables construction of physically smaller cooling systems and reduces the required rate of coolant flow to dissipate effectively the heat resulting from operating a device at a given power level.
Accordingly, a primary object of my invention is to provide a new yand improved gaseous electric discharge device.
Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including new and improved means for increasing the power handling capabilities thereof.
Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including new and improved cooling means yadapted for substantially increasing thermal eiciency.
Another object of my invention is to provide new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including a new and improved anode assembly including means for reducing substantially the electron density at the electron collecting surface thereof.
Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including a new and improved anode assembly including means for diffusing the plasma column approaching the electron collecting surface therein and for affording increased collecting area for the diffused column for any given device diameter.
Another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including a new and improved anode assembly including means affording all of the desirable operational advantages of having a planar anode element located in closely spaced relation to a grid in the device without the heat dissipating limitations inherent in structure wherein the same anode element serves also as yan electron collector.
Still another object of my invention is to provide a new and improved gaseous electric discharge device including new and improved means for economically obtaining increased thermal efficiency.
li Patentes aan. ia, ies/i ice Further objects and advantages of my invention will become Iapparent as the following description proceeds and the features of novelty which characterize my invention will be pointed out with particularity in the claims rannexed to and forming part of this specification.
In carrying out the objects of my invention, I provide a gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an anode assembly and a cathode assembly in axially spaced relation, `apertured control and gradient grids interposed in axially spaced relation between these assemblies and an ionizable lling. The anode assembly comprises an imperforate conductive collector element which can advantageously be cup-shaped and which constitutes a wall section `at one end of the envelope, is `adapted for liquid cooling and is mounted in substantially spaced relation to the grids with the open end thereof facing the grids. The anode assembly also includes a perforate non-collecting or virtual anode element mounted in closely spaced parallel relation to the gradient grid. A tubular highly refractory insulator extends from the virtual anode element into the open end of the cup-like collecting element. The virtual anode element and collecting element can be connected through either a high resistance resistor or through a low intensity discharge or ionization internally 0f the `anode assembly. The apertures in the grids and virtual yanode element are out of register or misaligned to provide a tortuous electron path from the cathode to the collecting element. Barrier means in the envelope between the walls thereof and the refractory insulator minimize any tendency toward undesired arcing between portions of the virtual anode and collecting anode.
For a better understanding of my invention reference may be had to the accompanying drawing in which:
FIGURE 1 constitutes a schematic and partially sectionalized elevational view of apparatus constructed in accordance with an embodiment of my invention;
FIGURE 2 is a sectional view taken along the line 2 2 in FIGURE 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows; and
FIGURE 3 is an enlarged fragmentary schematic illustration of `a modied form of my invention.
Referring to the drawing, there is shown in FIGURE 1 a high-voltage gaseous electric discharge device of stacked construction which for purposes of illustration can cornprise a high-power hydrogen thyratron including -an envelope generally designated 1 and provided with a hydrogen filling. The disclosed device includes a cathode assembly 2, a hydrogen reservoir 3, a control or triggering grid 4, a gradient grid 5 and an anode assembly generally designated 6. Herein the term gradient grid is used to refer to `an Iapertured electrode positioned between the control grid 4 and the anode assembly 6 and adapted for being operated `at an intermediate potential effective for assisting the control grid in holding oif an electric discharge between the cathode and anode assembly and until a desired operational time.
The envelope 1 com-prises at the lower end thereof a conductive section `it? including a cylindrical metal wall section i1 and metal lower and upper header elements l12 and i3, respectively, having rims sealed in a Vacuumtight manner to the ends of the cylindrical section 11. The lower header i2 is `apertured centr-ally at 14 and has sealed thereto in communication with the envelope section it) through the aperture .14 a reservoir housing l5 containing the reservoir 3` which is shown in outline. The housing `15 comprises an upper met-al sealing ring 16 brazed to the outer surface of the header 112, a cylindrical ceramic wall section 17 brazed in the ring 16, a lower sealing ring 18 brazed to the outer end of the cylinder 17 and a metal header 19 which is sealed to the ring 18 and closes the lower end of the tube envelope. A pair of leads 2t? connected to a heater included in the reservoir structure 3 :but not shown, extend through the header i9 in suitable mutually insulated relation and are connected externally of the tube envelope to an appropriate reservoir power supply 2l. In any suitable manner the power supply 2l can be controlled selectively for selectively energizing the reservoir heater thereby :to generate hydrogen for repleuishing the tube filling when, for example, the pressure thereof is reduced, as by cleanup or absorption of hydrogen by the materials of the device.
The cathode assembly 2 can comprise any suitable indirectly heated structure adapted for providing a copious supp-ly of electrons when energized. Additionally, the cathode assembly is suitably mounted in the metal section il? of the envelope in insulated relation thereto and includes leads 22 provided ffor completing a circuit through Ithe heater (notshown) of the cathode assembly. The leads 22 extend through the header 12 in suitable mutually insulated relation and carry llexible connectors 23 located externally of the tube envelope. The connectors 23 are adapted for being electrically connected to the opposite sides of any suitable `cathode heater power supply 24 which can be selectively controlled for selectively controlling cathode energization. By means not shown, the cathode 2 is connected to the header 19 and, thus, the latter is adapted for serving as a cathode contact..
Sealed across the central opening in the upper header member d3 is the previously referenced control grid 4 which, as seen in FIGURE l, is relatively thick in construction. Also, as seen in FIGURE 2, grid 4 includes a plurality of parallel elongated apertures or slots 2S. The control grid 4 is conductively joined to Ithe metal section of the tube envelope by a braze between the marginal area of the `grid and the upper header 13. Thus, the metal section of the envelope operates at control grid potential. Brazed to the lower end of the cylinder l1 is a conductive ange `26 which is adapted both for mounting the device and for serving as a grid contact, in which case it is electrically connected to one side of a control or triggering circuit generally designated 27. The circuit 27 -is adapted to provide preferably a rectangularly-shaped ignition pulse or signal indicated by the curve 3ft. Any one of a number of available circuits of prior art type is suitable for providing such -a signal in a predetermined timed relation. The effect of a signal 30 will be discussed in detail hereinafter in conjunction with the description of Ithe overall operation of the device.
Above the control grid 4 the envelope l comprises three coaxial generally cylindrical or annular insulators, or insulative wall sections, Syl-33. The insulators '3l-33 are preferably `formed of any suitable insulative, highstrength and highly refractory ceramic material adapted for being metallized in order to facilitate the provision of ceramic-to-rnetal bonds or brazos between the ends of these sections and metal portions of the mentioned electrede assemblies. For example, the sections 31-3-3 can each Ibe formed of la `ceramic material known generally in the art as alumina, which materials are adapted for being provided with metallized areas in a manner disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 2,667,427, issued January 26, 1954, to Henry l. Nolte, `and assigned to the same assignee as the present invention. When metallized, the ceramic can be hermetically sealed to a metal member or another metallized member by means of any one or more of the various soldering or brazing techniques well known in 'the art.
The upper section of the envelope which comprises the ceramic section 3l supports the gradient grid 5 and the anode assembly generally designated 6. More speclically, the lower end of the insulator 31 is metallized, as by substantially the same process referenced above, and is hermetically bonded to the upper outer marginal area of the control grid 4.1. The upper end of the cylinder 3l is similarly metallized and is brazed to a radially extending 'd flange 3-3- of a cup-shaped member 3S Ihaving grid gradient 5 as its 1bottom surface. Cup-shaped member 395 extends reentrantly in the cylinder 3l with the walls thereof in close parallel spaced relation. The bottom of the member 35 which is gradient grid 5 is perforate and extends in closely spaced parallel relation to the control grid 4. The apertures in the grid 5 are also preferably Slot-like and parallel and are out of register with the slots in the control grid 4 to provide rfor an indirect or tortucus electron path thereacross, or to avoid presentation to the Acathode of a direct straight-line electron path toward the anode assembly. The gradient grid 5 is preferably operated at a potential ybetween those of the anode and control grid by means of a suitable connection to a voltage divider (not Shown) connected between the anode and control grid or between anode and cathode. n fact, any means adapted providing a sui-table intermediate potential for the gradient grid can be employed.
Hermetically bonded to the upper side of the gradient grid flange 34 is the lower metallized end of the ceramic cylinder 32. The upper end of the cylinder 32 is also rnetallized and has hermetically bonded thereto a radial flange *36 on a deep-drawn cup-like conductive member 4Q. Member tl comprises part or the above-referenced anode assembly 6 and shall hereinafter be referred to as the non-collecting anode or virtual anode inasmuch as it serves to present a perforate element surface 41 at anode potential immediately adjacent the gradient grid 5 but `does not serve to collect any appreciable amount of anode `current during a conductive discharge inthe device. The virtual anode '4o is substantially elongated and extends reentrantly in both the ceramic cylinder 32 and the cup 35. The upper section of the virtual anode 40 has a diameter which places its side walls in closely spaced parallel relation to the ceramic cylinder 32 and the lower section .is somewha reduced in diameter, adapu'ng it for closely spaced parallel relation to the inner side Wall of cup-shaped member 35 in which it extends. The perfcrate element 4l of the virtual anode is planar and extends in closely spaced parallel relation to gradient grid 5. Additionally, perforate element 41 of the virtual anode 4d includes an inner perforate lbaille 41. The apertures in element 4J., of the virtual anode di), and the baffle `All are also in the yform of parallel slots and out of register with each other, `and the apertures in ethe perforate element 4l are out of register with those in adjacent gradient grid 5. This serves Ifurther to render the electron path across the electrode assemblies more tortuous .and indirect. Also, it has a desired dispersal or diffusive elfect on electrons passing through this region of the device.
Fitted tightly in the reduced end of the virtual anode 4t? is an elongated and highly-refractory insulative member d2. The member 42 is tubular and preferably formed of quartz. Additionally, the tubular member 42 extends from a point immediately adjacent the perforated element 41 of the virtual anode all to a point inwardly of the open end of an inverted cup-shaped imperforate element or collecting anode member d3 which also comprises part of the anode-assembly 6. The collecting anode 43 is preferably formed of copper or any suitable high thermal con-- ductivity meal and 4to have relatively thick wallsadapting it for substantial thermal conduction and for being impinged without damage lthereto by electrons. 4In the arrangement as illustrated in FIG. l, collector anode 43. is axially spaced from the perforated element 41 a distance substantially greater than the distance between the perforated element 4l and control electrode 4. The imperforate element or collector anode 43 is located or positioned on that side of the perforated element 41 which is remote from, or opposite from, the side which faces the control electrode 4. Additionally, the collecting anode 43 is sealed at the rim thereof to a metal sealing ring 44!- which has la ange 45 bonded at the rim thereof to the rim of an annular combined sealing member ,and shield` or barrier 45. A shielding function of this member will be described hereinafter.
The sealing member 46 -is hermetically bonded to the metallized upper end of the ceramic cylinder 33. The lower end of the cylinder 33 is also metallized and is hermetically bonded to a flange 47 on a shield ring or barrier element 4, the shielding function of which will also be described hereinafter. The flange 47 on the ring 48 and the flange 36 on the virtual anode 4i? are hermetically sealed at the rims thereof for completing the envelope assembly.
The collecting anode 43 is fitted with a fluid-type cooling means generally designated Si) and adapted for having a coolant such as water circulated therethrough. As illustrated in FEGURE l, this structure can comprise an outer jacket 51 connected in a leak-proof manner about the collecting anode 43 and having a coolant outlet 52 at the upper end. Fitted over the collector 43 in the jacket 5l is a coolant path-defining member or inner jacket 53 which is cup-shaped and has a helical depression or corrugation 54 formed therein, as by hydroforming or rolling, and engaging the outer surface of the collecting anode 43. A coolant inlet 55 is fitted in the upper end of the member 53 and extends in a sealed manner through the outer jacket l. Thus is provided a coolant flow path extending downwardly from the inlet 52 spirally and intimately about the outer surface of the collecting anode 43, into the outer jacket Si yand out of the outlet 52. Tinus, the collecting anode 43 is adapted for providing a substantial surface area for intercepting electrons resulting from a discharge in the device and presenting a substantially large heat exchanging surface to the coolant flowing through the jacket.
During operation of the device the negative side of a utilization circuit generally designated 55 is connected to contact l' which is connected internally of the envelope by means not shown to the cathode 2. Also, the positive side of the circuit is connected to ian anode contact 57 mounted `atop the coolant jacket 5l. The utilization circuit 56 can be one of any number of well-known and readily available types such, for example, as a high-voltage, high-current power supply in the order of 50 kv. and an appropriate load, and it need not be specifically shown or described herein. With the cathode `assembly 2 energized and a utilization circuit of the referenced -type applied to the device there is a tendency for a `conductive discharge to occur between the cathode and anode assembly. However, in normal operation this discharge is held oft or controlled by the control grid 4 with the assistance of the gradient grid 5 and until the pulsing signal Sil is applied to the control grid. Additionally, the virtual anode 40 and the collecting anode 43 are electrically separated by the insulator 33. However, prior to any operative conduction or electric discharge in the tube, the virtual anode 4i? and collecting anode 43 lare at substantially the same potential. This equipotential relationship can be provided by either (l) a high resistance resister connected between the collecting anode and virtual anode or (2) the potential cqualizing effects of a long path discharge between the collecting and virtual anodes prior to conduction.
lf it is desired to use a high resistance connection between the virtual and collecting anode a simple circuit including a resistor 60 can be connected between these elements external of the tube envelope, in the manner shown in FlGURE 3. In fact, any suitable high-resistance connection can be employed and, if desired, it can be located internally of the envelope and mounted on the wall thereof.
if no direct resistance connection is made between the collecting and virtual anodes in the manner shown, for example, in FlGURE 3, and if a voltage difference should exist between these elements a long path discharge through the quartz cylinder 42 will occur which will quickly adjust the potential of the virtual anode to nearly that of the collecting anode. Another way of viewing the phenomenon that causes the directly unconnected collecting and virtual anodes to be virtually equipotential is to consider that prior to operative conduction these elements are connected through a low intensity discharge or ionization which can be viewed as an operative equivalent of a high resistance resistor.
Thus, prior to the initiation of a conduction discharge through the device, and with the collecting anode 43 connected to the positive side of the high vol-tage utilization circuit in the manner illustrated, the perforated element 41 of virtual anode 4l) assumes essentially the same potential as the collecting `anode 43 and -is in closely spaced parallel relation to the gradient grids and, thus, the Kdevice is adapted for the same high voltage operation as a device wherein an imperforate collecting anode is provided in closely spaced relation -to the grid. When the control circuit is operated to apply the signal pulse 30 to the control grid 4 to initiate a conduction discharge through the device, ionization of the gaseous filling in the device envelope results causing the potential of the virtual anode 4h to fall to or assume essentially cathode potential. In view of the fact that the virtual and collecting anodes are not directly conductively connected this assumption of cathode potential by the virtual anode takes place vir-tually independently of the collecting anode. When this occurs there results a high potential gradient between the virtual and collecting anodes `which causes anode current to be Vdrawn as a column or beam through the apertures in lthe perforated element 4l and baille 41' and to flow toward the interior of the collecting anode. Due to the long path over which the electrons comprising the beam or column are caused to travel through the quartz cylinder 42, the electrons comprising the beam tend to diuse and impinge with a low electron density over both the internal bottom and side walls of the collecting anode. As a result, the power :dissipation density at the collecting anode surface is relatively substantially lower than if, vfor example, the virtual anode comprised `an imperforate planar element having the same diameter as the cupshaped anode and was adapted for collecting all the current. The collecting area of the anode 43 is substantially greater than the projected area of the perforate element 4l. Expressed :in another manner, the impinging electrons are more widely distributed over a substantial area of collector surface which minimizes any tendency toward acute heating of any particular area thereof. Additionally, the use of both relatively elongated side walls and the bottom Wall of the collecting anode as electroncollecting surfaces Iresults in a substantially greater hea-t exchange surface for presentation to the coolant ilowing spirally past the external surface of the collecting anode. lf the yanode comprised a planar collector it would be limited as regards the amount of cooling means that could he employed effectively therewith for a given tube diameter. lIn my structure the cylindrical side walls and bottom of the collecting ianode afford a substantially enlarged surface 4area exposed for having coolant flow thereagainst. However, it is to be understood from the foregoing that my invention is not limited to the use of cupshaped anodes. For example, a planar anode can be employed in my invention if an adequate cooling means can be provided therefor or if there is no limitation on the transverse dimensions of the tube.
In the presently-described structure the upper end of the quartz cylinder 42 extends slightly inwardly of the rim of the collecting anode 43. Thus, when the virtual and collecting anodes are at widely different potentials during current conduction the quartz cylinder prevents undesired .arcing between the inner suriace of the collecting anode and the inner `cylindrical surface of the virtual anode. Undesired arcing is also prevented between Athe surfaces of the two anodes disposed outwardly of the quartz cylinder 42 by means of provision :of the arcing shields or barriersformed as the inner extensions on the members 46 VAand 47.
Thus, it will be seen from the foregoing that in my :structure .the virtual anode is eriective primarily to provide a small area anode closely spaced relative to the gradient grid to adapt the device for high voltage operation prior to conduction. lt will also be seen from the forego-ing that the collecting anode provides a large area anode for current collection during conduction. In view of the fact that the virtual anode is by-passed during `current conduction and collects no appreciable amount of current, the virtual anode need not be provided with cooling means and need not be constructed to withstand substantially high temperatures as does the collector anode.
While I have shown and described specilic embodiments of my invention l do not desire my invention to be limited to the particular forms shown and descirbed and l intend by the appended claims to cover all modifications within the spirit and scope of my invention.
What l claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent of the United States is:
l. A gaseous electric discharge device `comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted yin insulated -axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced-relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, and said anode assembly comprising a perforate element in closely spaced relation to said :control electrode and an impertorate element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said control electrode, said imperforate element being spaced a substantial distance from said perforate element relative to the interelectrode spacing between said perforate element Iand said control electrode, and said imperfofrate element being adapted for collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element. 'i
2. A gaseous electric `discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable lilling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted 'in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate `element in closely spaced relation -to said control electrode and an imperforate element located on the side of said perforate anode element remote from saidcontrol electrode and adapted for collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element, and said perforate and imperforate elements Ibeing spaced a substantial .distance from each other and adapted for operating at substantially the same potential before initiation of a conducting discharge.
3. A gaseous electric discharge `device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation to sa-id envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate element in closely spaced relation to said control element and an imperforate element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said controll element and adapted or collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element, said imperforate element -being spaced from said perfor-ate element a distance substantially greater than the distance between ysaid perforate element-and said control electrode, and the collecting area of said imperforate element being substantially greater than the projected area of said perforate element.
4. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and :cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted :in said envelope `in axially spaced relation between said `anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate element in closely spaced relation to said control element and an `imperforate element located on the side of said perora-te element remote from said control electrode and adapted for collecting particles passing through said perforate element, said imperlorate element being spaced from said perforate element a substantial distance relative to the spacing between said perforate element and said control electrode, and a tubular highlyrefractory insulative element internally disposed in said envelope and extending `axially between said perforate and imperforate elements.
5. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an iom'Zable iilling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a planar grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate planar element in closely spaced parallel relation to said grid electrode and an imperfonate element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said grid electrode and adapted for collecting charged particles passing through said perforate element, and means effective for equalining the potent-ials of said erforate and imperforate elements prior to a conducting discharge through said device and for allowing said perforate element to assume cathode potential independently of said imperforate element during the initiation of a conducting discharge.
6. A gaseous electric discharge device according to claim 5, wherein said means for equalizing the potential of said perforate and imperorate elements comprises a high-resistance resistor connected therebetween.
7. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable fitting, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate elements in closely spaced relation to said grid electrode and adapted for serving as a non-collecting anode, and an mperforate cup-shaped element located on the side of said perforate element remote from said grid electrode and having the open end facing said perforate element and thereby adapted for collecting electrons passing through said perforate element, said perforate and imperforatc elements being maintained in spaced relation by insulating means, and means effective for equalizing the potentials of said anode elements prior to a conductive discharge through said device and for allowing said perforate element to assume cathode potential independently of said imperforate element during the initiation of a conducting discharge.
8. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, and said anode assembly comprising a perforate non-collecting element mounted in axially spaced relation to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element constituting an end wall section of said envelope, and insulating means maintaining said non-collecting and collecting elements in axially spaced relation.
9. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a pertorate non-collecting element mounted in close axially spaced relation to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element constituting an end wall section of said envelope and insulating means maintaining said non-collecting and collecting element in axially spaced relation, and liuid cooling means mounted in heat-exchange relation with the external surface of said collecting element.
1G. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, and said anode assembly comprising a perforate non-collecting element mounted in close axially-spaced rel tion to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element disposed axially remote from said non-collecting element and constituting an end wall section of said envelope, an insulative wall section of said envelope maintaining said non-collecting and collecting elements in said Mially spaced relation, and an elongated highlyrefractory tubular insulator extending in said envelope from said non-collecting element partially into said collectng element.
ll. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable iilling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a grid electrode mounted in said envelope in said axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a perforate non-collecting element mounted in close axially spaced relation to said grid electrode, a cup-shaped collecting element disposed axially and remote from said noncol ecting element and constituting an end wall section of said envelope, an insulative wall section of said envelope maintaining said non-collecting and collecting elements in said axially spaced relation, and an elongated highly refractory tubular insulator extending in said envelope from said non-collecting element partially into said collecting element, and a coolant jacket mounted on said collecting element and including means for circulating coolant over the exterior surface thereof.
12. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, an anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements separated by an insulative section, one of said cup-shaped elements having a planar perforate bottom in closely spaced relation to said control electrode and the other of said cup-shaped elements being impertorate and constituting a current collector.
13. A gaseous electric discharge device according to l2, wherein said imperforate cup-shaped element also constitutes a wall section of said envelope.
A gaseous electric discharge device according to claim 12, wherein bathe means is mounted in said perorate conductive element and includes perforations which arc non-registering with respect to the perforations in said perforate conducting element.
15. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope containing an ionizable filling, anode and cathode assemblies mounted in insulated axially spaced relation in said envelope, a control electrode mounted in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said anode and cathode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements separated by insulative section, one of said cup-shaped elements having a periorate planar bottom in closely spaced relation to said control electrode and the other of said cupshaped elements being imperforate and constituting a current collector, and a highly refractory insulative tubular member extending in said hollow structure from a point adjacent said planar perforate bottom to a point located inwardly of the rim of said current collector.
16. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insulative and conductive sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposed ends of said envelope, a perforate planar cont-rol element mounted transversely in said envelope and axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of said cup-shaped elements having a llange sealed between opposed ends of a pair of said insulative wall sections and extending rcentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation to said control electrode and adapted for serving as a virtual anode, the other of said cup-shaped elements constituting a wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insulative wall section of said envelope and adapted `for serving as a collecting anode, said last mentioned insulative wall section electrically separating said wo cup-shaped elements, and means providing an indirect path of current flow between said cathode and collecting anode during a conduction discharge in said device.
17. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insulative and conductive wall sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposite ends of said envelope, a perforate planar control element mounted transversely in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, a cup-shaped gradient grid electrode having a ilange sealed between opposed ends or a pair of said insulative wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insurative wall sections, said gra icnt gri-d electrode including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation t-o said control electrode, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of said last-mentioned elements having a flange sealed between opposed ends of a pair of said insulative wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said wall sections and nesting in said gradient grid, said one element also including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation to said gradient grid element and adapted for serving as a virtual anode, another of said cup-shaped elements constituting a wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insulative wall section of said envelope and adapted `for serving as a collecting anode, said first-mentioned insulative wall section electrically separating said two cup-shaped elements, and the apertures in said control electrode gradient grid and virtual anode being out of register to provide an indirect path of current llow between said cathode and collecting anode during a conducting discharge in said device.
18. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insulativc and conductive wall sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposed ends of said envelope, a perforate planar control electrode mounted transversely in said envelope in axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of said cup-shaped elements having a flange sealed between opposed ends of a pair of said insulativc wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perlforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel relation to said control electrode and adapted for serving as a virtual anode, the other of said cup-shaped elements constituting a wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insulative wall section of said envelope adapted for serving as a collecting anode, said lastrnentioned insulative wall section electrically separating said two cup-shaped elements, and a highly refractory tubular insulator extending in said anode assembly from said planar bottom of said virtual anode to a point inwardly of the rim of said collecting anode.
19. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of alternate tubular insuletive and conductive wall sections, axially spaced cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposite ends of said envelope, a perferate planer control element mounted transversely in said `envelope in axially spaced elation between said Cathode and anode assemblies, said anode essernbly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of seid cup-shaped elements having a lienge sealed between opposed ends of a .pair of said insulative wall sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perforate planar bottoni in closely spaced parallel relation to seid control electrode and adapted for serving as e virtual anode, the other cup-shaped element constituting e wall section of said envelope and joined at the rim thereof to an insuletive wail section of seid envelope and adapted for serving as a collecting anode, said lastrnentioned insulative Well section electrically separating said two cup-shaped elements, and a highly refractory tubular insulator extending in said anode assembly from said planar bottoni or" said virtual anode to a point in- I`Hardly of the rim of said collecting anode, and means interposed between said highly refractory insulator and the wall of said envelope and axially disposed between the adiacent ends of said Virtual and collecting anodes providing a barrier to arcing therebetween.
20. A gaseous electric discharge device comprising an envelope including a stacked array of a .crwte tubular insulative and conductive wall sections, axially snaced Cathode and anode assemblies mounted in opposed 'ids of said envelope, a perforate planar control cierne it mounted transversely in seid envelope in axially spaced relation between said cathode and anode assemblies, said anode assembly comprising a hollow structure including a pair of oppositely extending cup-shaped conductive elements, one of seid cup-shaped elements 11a a sealed between opposed ends of a pair of seid insnlative Well sections and extending reentrantly in one of said insulative wall sections, said one element also including a perforate planar bottom in closely spaced parallel elation to said control electrode and ef-ect fe for serving a virtual anode, the other of said cupwsliaped eleA s constituting a wall section of said envelope and joined et the rim thereof to en insulstive well section of said envelope and adapted :for serving as a collecting anode, seid lest-mentioned insnlative wall section elec cally separating said two cup-shaped elements, and cool 1g means for said collecting anode including 'means for circulating a coolant in heat-transferring relation with the exterior surface thereof,
References Cited in the iile of this patent UNTED STATES PATENTS 2,797,348 Natrous 25, i957

Claims (1)

11. A GASEOUS ELECTRIC DISCHARGE DEVICE COMPRISING AN ENVELOPE CONTAINING AN IONIZABLE FILLING, ANODE AND CATHODE ASSEMBLIES MOUNTED IN INSULATED AXIALLY SPACED RELATION IN SAID ENVELOPE, A GRID ELECTRODE MOUNTED IN SAID ENVELOPE IN SAID AXIALLY SPACED RELATION BETWEEN SAID ANODE AND CATHODE ASSEMBLIES, SAID ANODE ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A PERFORATE NON-COLLECTING ELEMENT MOUNTED IN CLOSE AXIALLY SPACED RELATION TO SAID GRID ELECTRODE, A CUP-SHAPED COLLECTING ELEMENT DISPOSED AXIALLY AND REMOTE FROM SAID NONCOLLECTING ELEMENT AND CONSTITUTING AN END WALL SECTION OF SAID ENVELOPE, AN INSULATIVE WALL SECTION OF SAID ENVELOPE MAINTAINING SAID NON-COLLECTING AND COLLECTING ELEMENTS IN SAID AXIALLY SPACED RELATION, AND AN ELONGATED HIGHLY REFRACTORY TUBULAR INSULATOR EXTENDING IN SAID ENVELOPE FROM SAID NON-COLLECTING ELEMENT PARTIALLY INTO SAID COLLECTING ELEMENT, AND A COOLANT JACKET MOUNTED ON SAID COLLECTING ELEMENT AND INCLUDING MEANS FOR CIRCULATING COOLANT OVER THE EXTERIOR SURFACE THEREOF.
US147849A 1961-10-26 1961-10-26 Gaseous electric discharge device Expired - Lifetime US3118078A (en)

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Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2797348A (en) * 1956-05-17 1957-06-25 Chatham Electronics Grid system for gaseous discharge device

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2797348A (en) * 1956-05-17 1957-06-25 Chatham Electronics Grid system for gaseous discharge device

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