Spark generation for miniature plasma thruster. (Need help, new member)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on designing a spark generator for a miniature plasma thruster, specifically for operation in a hard vacuum environment of 10^-6 mbarr. The user, Pete, requires a compact design (approximately 1cm^3) that operates on either 4.4V at 0.22A or 700V at 50mA, with a low power consumption under 1W and a repetition rate of 1Hz for over 1 million cycles. Pete's initial design using a lever trigger system failed due to excessive power requirements for the electromagnet and an overly stiff spring. Suggestions for alternative spark generation methods and actuation mechanisms are sought.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spark generation in vacuum environments
  • Familiarity with electrical components such as relays and electromagnets
  • Knowledge of power management in low-voltage applications
  • Basic principles of mechanical design for actuation systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the use of small relays for spark generation mechanisms
  • Explore alternative actuation methods for lever systems in compact designs
  • Investigate low-power spark generation techniques suitable for vacuum conditions
  • Study the design principles of miniature electromagnetic systems
USEFUL FOR

Engineers and hobbyists involved in plasma thruster design, electrical engineers focusing on low-power applications, and anyone interested in innovative spark generation methods in vacuum environments.

PeterShaw
Messages
8
Reaction score
0
Had a bad day at work and my design for a spark generator failed, so I'm asking for help.

My requirements:
To create a spark in a hard vacuum environment (10^-6 mbarr)
To be ultra miniature (as a guideline about 1cm^3 is the space available)
Available power lines is 4.4v at 0.22A or 700V at 50mA
To be highly repeatable and fast acting (repetition rate 1Hz) should perform about 1e6+ repetitions
Power usage to be as low as possible (preferably under 1W)

My design:
A lever trigger system held at 700V, when it comes into contact with a ground plate it creates a spark. The concept works fine but the 'movement' of the lever arm using a spring and electromagnet failed on two accounts 1) the current and voltage requirement of the electromagnet went over the set power budget 2) the spring was too stiff (my fault due to bad design)

Solutions:
If anyone has alternative solutions to either the spark generation method or a way in moving the lever arm, it would be great to hear them as I'm running out of ideas. Cheers guys and girls.

Have fun

Pete
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Can you use a small relay instead of your own electromagnet contraption?
 

Similar threads

BEd degree - magnetic generator - help with design
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K