Title :
Light activated solid-state opening switches
Author :
Petr, R.A. ; Kachen, G.I. ; Reilly, J.P. ; Schaefer, R.B. ; Heyse, M.W.
Author_Institution :
W.J. Schafer Associates, Chelmsford, MA, USA
fDate :
1/1/1993 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
Light-activated cryogenic silicon opening switches were designed and tested in an inductive power circuit. Current interruption times of 20 μS at current densities of 75 A/cm2 were demonstrated with flashlamp optical sources at 77 K. Photoswitch measurements and modeling show that electrical contacts, optical trigger, and window design are critical parameters in optimizing opening switch on-stage current and voltage commutation. Technology paths have been identified for increasing photoswitch power ratings and include room-temperature operation using laser diode arrays. The demonstrated high average power operation and power density capability of light-activated opening switches make them a viable switch technology for developing compact inductive power systems
Keywords :
inductive energy storage; photoconducting devices; semiconductor switches; switches; 20 mus; 77 K; cryogenic silicon opening switches; current interruption; electrical contacts; flashlamp optical sources; high average power operation; inductive power circuit; inductive power systems; laser diode arrays; light activated; on-stage current; optical trigger; photoswitch measurements; power density; room-temperature operation; solid-state opening switches; voltage commutation; window design; Circuit testing; Cryogenics; Current density; Current measurement; Density measurement; Electric variables measurement; Optical switches; Silicon; Solid state circuits; Switching circuits;
Journal_Title :
Magnetics, IEEE Transactions on
