New quantum oscillations in current driven small junctions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ben-Jacob, E.; Gefen, Y.

1985-01-01

The response of current-biased Josephson and normal tunnel junctions (JJs and NTJs) such as those fabricated by Voss and Webb (1981) is predicted from a quantum-mechanical description based on the observation that the response of a current-driven open system is equivalent to that of a closed system subject to an external time-dependent voltage bias. Phenomena expected include voltage oscillations with no dc voltage applied, inverse Shapiro steps of dc voltage in the presence of microwave radiation, voltage oscillation in a JJ and an NTJ coupled by a capacitance to a current-biased junction, JJ voltage oscillation frequency = I/e rather than I/2e, and different NTJ resistance than in the voltage-driven case. The effects require approximate experimental parameter values Ic = 15 nA, C = 1 fF, and T much less than 0.4 K for JJs and Ic = a few nA, C = 1 fF, and R = 3 kiloohms for 100-microV inverse Shapiro steps at 10 GHz in NTJs.

Lateral trapping of DNA inside a voltage gated nanopore

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Töws, Thomas; Reimann, Peter

2017-06-01

The translocation of a short DNA fragment through a nanopore is addressed when the perforated membrane contains an embedded electrode. Accurate numerical solutions of the coupled Poisson, Nernst-Planck, and Stokes equations for a realistic, fully three-dimensional setup as well as analytical approximations for a simplified model are worked out. By applying a suitable voltage to the membrane electrode, the DNA can be forced to preferably traverse the pore either along the pore axis or at a small but finite distance from the pore wall.

Deconvolution of acoustic emissions for source localization using time reverse modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kocur, Georg Karl

2017-01-01

Impact experiments on small-scale slabs made of concrete and aluminum were carried out. Wave motion radiated from the epicenter of the impact was recorded as voltage signals by resonant piezoelectric transducers. Numerical simulations of the elastic wave propagation are performed to simulate the physical experiments. The Hertz theory of contact is applied to estimate the force impulse, which is subsequently used for the numerical simulation. Displacements at the transducer positions are calculated numerically. A deconvolution function is obtained by comparing the physical (voltage signal) and the numerical (calculated displacement) experiments. Acoustic emission signals due to pencil-lead breaks are recorded, deconvolved and applied for localization using time reverse modeling.

Electrically erasable non-volatile memory via electrochemical deposition of multifractal aggregates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

West, William Clark

An electrically erasable non-volatile memory system based on the electrochemical deposition of Ag or Cu from a solid electrolyte is presented. This memory system, referred to as Metal Dendrite Memory, is characterized by its simplicity of design and operation, low power consumption, and potentially high cell density. By applying a small DC voltage (2.5-5V) across a Cu or Ag doped As-S amorphous chalcogenide film sandwiched between two metal electrodes, a metal filament can be electrodeposited, shorting the large impedance solid electrolyte ("on" state). Application of smaller amplitude voltage pulses (1-1.5V) across the metal filament ruptures the short, returning the cell to the high impedance state ("off" state). The state of the cell is read by applying very small amplitude voltage pulses (0.25V). These "read" voltage pulses do not disturb the state of the cell even after 10sp7 pulses. Due to difficulties in characterizing this solid electrolyte system via conventional techniques, the MDM cells have been examined using low excitation characterization methods such as Impedance Spectroscopy (IS) and polarization measurements. These studies have yielded a self-consistent equivalent circuit model as well as parameters such as ionic diffusivity and conductivity, double layer and geometric capacitances. In addition to materials characterization, the speed at which the MDM cells operate has been systematically studied using a series of statistically designed experiments, demonstrating the importance of photodoping time and applied voltage on device speed. These results were further examined using IS and Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). The morphology of the growing electrodeposit was studied in several different electrode arrangements and excitation conditions. Under migrationally limited conditions, the electrodeposit grew in multifractal patterns, as measured using lacunarity analysis. If a conducting film was deposited parallel to the growth direction, the electrodeposition could be driven from Diffusion Limited Aggregation (DLA) to Densely Branched Morphology (DBM) modes by changing the voltage applied to the cell. In summary, this study has laid the groundwork for future research and development of MDM memory systems by identifying many important characteristics of the MDM cell. These findings include quantitative measurement of ionic transport values, identification of the electrochemical mechanisms involved in MDM data storage, determination of parameters that are statistically significant in affecting data storage speed, and determination of the effect of cell geometry and bias on electrodeposit morphology.

Transport performance of a HTS current lead prepared by the TFA-MOD processed YBCO tapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiohara, K.; Sakai, S.; Ohki, S.; Yamada, Y.; Tachikawa, K.; Koizumi, T.; Aoki, Y.; Hikichi, Y.; Nishioka, J.; Hasegawa, T.

2009-10-01

A superconducting current lead has been prepared using 12 tapes of the trifluoroacetates - metal organic deposition (TFA-MOD) processed Y 1Ba 2Cu 3O 7-δ (YBCO) coated conductors with critical current ( I c) of about 100 A at 77 K in self-field. The tapes are 4.5 mm in width, 220 mm in length and about 120 μm in overall thickness. The 1 μm thick superconducting YBCO layer was formed through the TFA-MOD process on Hastelloy TM substrate tapes with two buffer oxide layers of Gd 2Zr 2O 7 (GZO) and CeO 2. The 12 YBCO tapes were arrayed on the both sides (six tapes on each side) of a stainless steel board with 3 mm in thickness for a board type shape. They were similarly soldered to copper caps at the both ends. The transport current of 1000 A was stably applied for 10 min in the liquid nitrogen temperature without any voltage generation in all tapes. Although some voltage in some YBCO tapes generated at the applied currents of about 1100 A, the transport current of 1200 A was successfully applied without quenching. The voltage between both copper caps linearly increased with increasing the transport current, and it was about 300 μV at an applied current of 1000 A. A low joint resistance between the YBCO tapes and the copper caps resulted in small amounts of the Joule heating at the joints when 1000 A was applied. The overall (effective) thermal conductivity of the current leads composed of YBCO tapes and the stainless steel board was much lower than that of Non-superconducting current leads. Therefore, the present current leads with small heat leakage seemed to be practically promising for superconducting magnets.

A novel microfluidic valve controlledby induced charge electro-osmotic flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chengfa; Song, Yongxin; Pan, Xinxiang; Li, Dongqing

2016-07-01

In this paper, a novel microfluidic valve by utilizing induced charge electro-osmotic flow (ICEOF) is proposed and analyzed. The key part of the microfluidic valve is a Y-shaped microchannel. A small metal plate is placed at each corner of the junction of the Y-shaped microchannel. When a DC electrical field is applied through the channels, electro-osmotic flows occur in the channels, and two vortices will be formed near each of the metal plates due to the ICEOF. The two vortices behave like virtual ‘blocking columns’ to restrain and direct the flow in the Y-channel. In this paper, effects of the length of the metal plates, the applied voltages, the width of the microchannel, the zeta potential of the non-metal microchannel wall, and the orientation of the branch channels on the flow switching between two outlet channels are numerically investigated. The results show that the flow switching between the two outlet channels can be flexibly achieved by adjusting the applied DC voltages. The critical switching voltage (CSV), under which one outlet channel is closed, decreases with the increase in the metal plate length and the orientation angle of the outlet channels. The CSV, however, increases with the increase in the inlet voltage, the width of the microchannel, and the absolute value of the zeta potential of the non-metal microchannel wall. Compared with other types of micro-valves, the proposed micro-valve is simple in structure without any moving parts. Only a DC power source is needed for its actuation, thus it can operate automatically by controlling the applied voltages.

Back-Propagation Operation for Analog Neural Network Hardware with Synapse Components Having Hysteresis Characteristics

PubMed Central

Ueda, Michihito; Nishitani, Yu; Kaneko, Yukihiro; Omote, Atsushi

2014-01-01

To realize an analog artificial neural network hardware, the circuit element for synapse function is important because the number of synapse elements is much larger than that of neuron elements. One of the candidates for this synapse element is a ferroelectric memristor. This device functions as a voltage controllable variable resistor, which can be applied to a synapse weight. However, its conductance shows hysteresis characteristics and dispersion to the input voltage. Therefore, the conductance values vary according to the history of the height and the width of the applied pulse voltage. Due to the difficulty of controlling the accurate conductance, it is not easy to apply the back-propagation learning algorithm to the neural network hardware having memristor synapses. To solve this problem, we proposed and simulated a learning operation procedure as follows. Employing a weight perturbation technique, we derived the error change. When the error reduced, the next pulse voltage was updated according to the back-propagation learning algorithm. If the error increased the amplitude of the next voltage pulse was set in such way as to cause similar memristor conductance but in the opposite voltage scanning direction. By this operation, we could eliminate the hysteresis and confirmed that the simulation of the learning operation converged. We also adopted conductance dispersion numerically in the simulation. We examined the probability that the error decreased to a designated value within a predetermined loop number. The ferroelectric has the characteristics that the magnitude of polarization does not become smaller when voltages having the same polarity are applied. These characteristics greatly improved the probability even if the learning rate was small, if the magnitude of the dispersion is adequate. Because the dispersion of analog circuit elements is inevitable, this learning operation procedure is useful for analog neural network hardware. PMID:25393715

Saturation of VCMA in out-of-plane magnetized CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB magnetic tunnel junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williamson, M.; de Rozieres, M.; Almasi, H.; Chao, X.; Wang, W.; Wang, J.-P.; Tsoi, M.

2018-05-01

Voltage controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) currently attracts considerable attention as a novel method to control and manipulate magnetic moments in high-speed and low-power spintronic applications based on magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs). In our experiments, we use ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) to study and quantify VCMA in out-of-plane magnetized CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB MTJ pillars. FMR is excited by applying a microwave current and detected via a small rectified voltage which develops across MTJ at resonance. The VCMA effective field can be extracted from the measured resonance field and was found to vary as a function of electrical bias applied to MTJ. At low applied biases, we observe a linear shift of the VCMA field as a function of the applied voltage which is consistent with the VCMA picture based on the bias-induced electron migration across the MgO/CoFeB interface. At higher biases, both positive and negative, we observe a deviation from the linear behavior which may indicate a saturation of the VCMA effect. These results are important for the design of MTJ-based applications.

Study of electron mobility in small molecular SAlq by transient electroluminescence method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Pankaj; Jain, S. C.; Kumar, Vikram; Chand, Suresh; Kamalasanan, M. N.; Tandon, R. P.

2007-12-01

The study of electron mobility of bis(2-methyl 8-hydroxyquinoline) (triphenyl siloxy) aluminium (SAlq) by transient electroluminescence (EL) is presented. An EL device is fabricated in bilayer, ITO/N,N'-diphenyl-N, N'-bis(3-methylphenyl)-(1,1'-biphenyl)-4,4'-diamine (TPD)/SAlq/LiF/Al configuration. The temporal evaluation of the EL with respect to the step voltage pulse is characterized by a delay time followed by a fast initial rise, which is followed by a slower rise. The delay time between the applied electrical pulse and the onset of EL is correlated with the carrier mobility (electron in our case). Transient EL studies for SAlq have been carried out at different temperatures and different applied electric fields. The electron mobility in SAlq is found to be field and temperature dependent and calculated to be 6.9 × 10-7 cm2 V-1 s-1 at 2.5 × 106 V cm-1 and 308 K. The EL decays immediately as the voltage is turned off and does not depend on the amplitude of the applied voltage pulse or dc offset.

Back-streaming ion beam measurements in a Self Magnetic Insulated (SMP) electron diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazarakis, Michael; Johnston, Mark; Kiefer, Mark; Leckbee, Josh; Webb, Timothy; Bennett, Nichelle; Droemer, Darryl; Welch, Dale; Nielsen, Dan; Ziska, Derek; Wilkins, Frank; Advance radiography department Team

2014-10-01

A self-magnetic pinch diode (SMP) is presently the electron diode of choice for high energy flash x-ray radiography utilizing pulsed power drivers. The Sandia National Laboratories RITS accelerator is presently fit with an SMP diode that generates very small electron beam spots. RITS is a Self-Magnetically Insulated Transmission Line (MITL) voltage adder that adds the voltage pulse of six 1.3 MV inductively insulated cavities. The diode's anode is made of high Z metal in order to produce copious and energetic flash x-rays for radiographic imaging of high areal density objects. In any high voltage inductive voltage adder (IVA) utilizing MITLs to transmit the power to the diode load, the precise knowledge of the accelerating voltage applied on the anode-cathode (A-K) gap is problematic. This is even more difficult in an SMP diode where the A-K gap is very small (~1 cm) and the diode region very hostile. We are currently measuring the back-streaming ion currents emitted from the anode and propagating through a hollow cathode tip. We then are evaluating the A-K gap voltage by ion time of flight measurements supplemented with filtered Rogowski coils. Sandia is a multiprogram laboratory managed and operated by Sandia Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Company, for the United States Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration under Contract No. DE- AC04-94AL850.

Piezoelectric MEMS switch to activate event-driven wireless sensor nodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nogami, H.; Kobayashi, T.; Okada, H.; Makimoto, N.; Maeda, R.; Itoh, T.

2013-09-01

We have developed piezoelectric microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switches and applied them to ultra-low power wireless sensor nodes, to monitor the health condition of chickens. The piezoelectric switches have ‘S’-shaped piezoelectric cantilevers with a proof mass. Since the resonant frequency of the piezoelectric switches is around 24 Hz, we have utilized their superharmonic resonance to detect chicken movements as low as 5-15 Hz. When the vibration frequency is 4, 6 and 12 Hz, the piezoelectric switches vibrate at 0.5 m s-2 and generate 3-5 mV output voltages with superharmonic resonance. In order to detect such small piezoelectric output voltages, we employ comparator circuits that can be driven at low voltages, which can set the threshold voltage (Vth) from 1 to 31 mV with a 1 mV increment. When we set Vth at 4 mV, the output voltages of the piezoelectric MEMS switches vibrate below 15 Hz with amplitudes above 0.3 m s-2 and turn on the comparator circuits. Similarly, by setting Vth at 5 mV, the output voltages turn on the comparator circuits with vibrations above 0.4 m s-2. Furthermore, setting Vth at 10 mV causes vibrations above 0.5 m s-2 that turn on the comparator circuits. These results suggest that we can select small or fast chicken movements to utilize piezoelectric MEMS switches with comparator circuits.

ECRH Studies on Tokamak Plasmas.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-10

r.I*cru.Dtrtibution uUnliited 300 Unicorn Pork Drive Woburn, Massachusetts 04801 ECRH STUDIES ON TOKAMAK PLASMAS JAYCOR Project No. 6183 Final Report...up techniques now in use or being suggested, include growing the plasma from a small minor radius or applying a negative voltage spike immediately

Skyrmion-based multi-channel racetrack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Chengkun; Jin, Chendong; Wang, Jinshuai; Xia, Haiyan; Wang, Jianbo; Liu, Qingfang

2017-11-01

Magnetic skyrmions are promising for the application of racetrack memories, logic gates, and other nano-devices, owing to their topologically protected stability, small size, and low driving current. In this work, we propose a skyrmion-based multi-channel racetrack memory where the skyrmion moves in the selected channel by applying voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy gates. It is demonstrated numerically that a current-dependent skyrmion Hall effect can be restrained by the additional potential of the voltage-controlled region, and the skyrmion velocity and moving channel in the racetrack can be operated by tuning the voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy, gate position, and current density. Our results offer a potential application of racetrack memory based on skyrmions.

Stressed photoconductive detector for far-infrared space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, J.-Q.; Richards, P. L.; Beeman, J. W.; Haller, E. E.

1987-01-01

An optimized leaf-spring apparatus for applying uniaxial stress to a Ge:Ga far-IR photoconductor has been designed and tested. This design has significant advantages for space applications which require high quantum efficiency and stable operation over long periods of time. The important features include adequate spring deflection with relatively small overall size, torque-free stress, easy measurement of applied stress, and a detector configuration with high responsivity. One-dimensional arrays of stressed photoconductors can be constructed using this design. A peak responsivity of 38 A/W is achieved in a detector with a cutoff wavelength of 200 microns, which was operated at a temperature of 2.0 K and a bias voltage equal to one-half of the breakdown voltage.

Effect of oil liquid viscosity on hysteresis in double-liquid variable-focus lens based on electrowetting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Zhi; Peng, Runling; He, Mei

2017-02-01

The double-liquid variable-focus lens based on the electrowetting has the characteristics of small size, light weight, fast response, and low price and so on. In this paper, double-liquid variable-focus lens's Principle and structure are introduced. The reasons for the existence and improvement of contact angle hysteresis are given according improved Young's equation. At last, 1-Bromododecane with silicone oil are mixed to get oil liquid with different viscosity and proportion liquid as insulating liquid. External voltages are applied to these three liquid lens and focal lengths of the lenses versus applied voltage are investigated. Experiments show that, the decreasing of oil liquid viscosity can reduce focal length hysteresis.

A comparison of two types of neural network for weld quality prediction in small scale resistance spot welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Xiaodong; Wang, Yuanxun; Zhao, Dawei; Huang, YongAn

2017-09-01

Our study aims at developing an effective quality monitoring system in small scale resistance spot welding of titanium alloy. The measured electrical signals were interpreted in combination with the nugget development. Features were extracted from the dynamic resistance and electrode voltage curve. A higher welding current generally indicated a lower overall dynamic resistance level. A larger electrode voltage peak and higher change rate of electrode voltage could be detected under a smaller electrode force or higher welding current condition. Variation of the extracted features and weld quality was found more sensitive to the change of welding current than electrode force. Different neural network model were proposed for weld quality prediction. The back propagation neural network was more proper in failure load estimation. The probabilistic neural network model was more appropriate to be applied in quality level classification. A real-time and on-line weld quality monitoring system may be developed by taking advantages of both methods.

Pure spin current and phonon thermoelectric transport in a triangulene-based molecular junction.

PubMed

Wang, Qiang; Li, Jianwei; Nie, Yihang; Xu, Fuming; Yu, Yunjin; Wang, Bin

2018-06-13

The experimental synthesis and characterization of enigmatic triangulene were reported for the first time recently. Based on this enigmatic molecule, we proposed a triangulene-based molecular junction and presented first principles calculations to investigate the electron and phonon thermoelectric transport properties. Numerical results show that the spin polarized electric transport properties of the triangulene-based molecular junction can be adjusted effectively by bias voltage and gate voltage. Through varying the gate voltage applied on the triangulene molecule, the system can exhibit a perfect spin filter effect. When a temperature gradient is applied between the two leads, spin up current and spin down current flow along opposite directions in the system simultaneously. Thus pure spin current can be obtained on a large scale by changing the temperature, temperature gradient, and gate voltage. When the phonon vibration effect is considered in thermal transport, the figure of merit is suppressed distinctively especially when the temperature is within the 10 K < T < 100 K range. More importantly, a large spin figure of merit can be achieved accompanied by a small charge figure of merit by adjusting the temperature, gate voltage and chemical potential in a wide range, which indicates a favorable application prospect of the triangulene-based molecular junction as a spin calorigenic device.

Membrane potential dynamics of axons in cultured hippocampal neurons probed by second-harmonic-generation imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nuriya, Mutsuo; Yasui, Masato

2010-03-01

The electrical properties of axons critically influence the nature of communication between neurons. However, due to their small size, direct measurement of membrane potential dynamics in intact and complex mammalian axons has been a challenge. Furthermore, quantitative optical measurements of axonal membrane potential dynamics have not been available. To characterize the basic principles of somatic voltage signal propagation in intact axonal arbors, second-harmonic-generation (SHG) imaging is applied to cultured mouse hippocampal neurons. When FM4-64 is applied extracellularly to dissociated neurons, whole axonal arbors are visualized by SHG imaging. Upon action potential generation by somatic current injection, nonattenuating action potentials are recorded in intact axonal arbors. Interestingly, however, both current- and voltage-clamp recordings suggest that nonregenerative subthreshold somatic voltage changes at the soma are poorly conveyed to these axonal sites. These results reveal the nature of membrane potential dynamics of cultured hippocampal neurons, and further show the possibility of SHG imaging in physiological investigations of axons.

An AC electroosmotic micropump for circular chromatographic applications.

PubMed

Debesset, S; Hayden, C J; Dalton, C; Eijkel, J C T; Manz, A

2004-08-01

Flow rates of up to 50 microm s(-1) have been successfully achieved in a closed-loop channel using an AC electroosmotic pump. The AC electroosmotic pump is made of an interdigitated array of unequal width electrodes located at the bottom of a channel, with an AC voltage applied between the small and the large electrodes. The flow rate was found to increase linearly with the applied voltage and to decrease linearly with the applied frequency. The pump is expected to be suitable for circular chromatography for the following reasons: the driving forces are distributed over the channel length and the pumping direction is set by the direction of the interdigitated electrodes. Pumping in a closed-loop channel can be achieved by arranging the electrode pattern in a circle. In addition the inherent working principle of AC electroosmotic pumping enables the independent optimisation of the channel height or the flow velocity.

Tunable features of magnetoelectric transformers.

PubMed

Dong, Shuxiang; Zhai, Junyi; Priya, Shashank; Li, Jie-Fang; Viehland, Dwight

2009-06-01

We have found that magnetostrictive FeBSiC alloy ribbons laminated with piezoelectric Pb(Zr,Ti)O(3) fiber can act as a tunable transformer when driven under resonant conditions. These composites were also found to exhibit the strongest resonant magnetoelectric voltage coefficient of 750 V/cm-Oe. The tunable features were achieved by applying small dc magnetic biases of -5

Implementation and simulation of a cone dielectric elastomer actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Huaming; Zhu, Jianying

2008-11-01

The purpose is to investigate the performance of cone dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) by experiment and FEM simulation. Two working equilibrium positions of cone DEA, which correspond to its initial displacement and displacement output with voltage off and on respectively, are determined through the analysis on its working principle. Experiments show that analytical results accord with experimental ones, and work output in a workcycle is hereby calculated. Actuator can respond quickly when voltage is applied and can return to its original position rapidly when voltage is released. Also, FEM simulation is used to obtain the movement of cone DEA in advance. Simulation results agree well with experimental ones and prove the feasibility of simulation. Also, causes for small difference between them in displacement output are analyzed.

Nonequilibrium self-energies, Ng approach, and heat current of a nanodevice for small bias voltage and temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aligia, A. A.

2014-03-01

Using nonequilibrium renormalized perturbation theory to second order in the renormalized Coulomb repulsion, we calculate the lesser Σ< and and greater Σ> self-energies of the impurity Anderson model, which describes the current through a quantum dot, in the general asymmetric case. While in general a numerical integration is required to evaluate the perturbative result, we derive an analytical approximation for small frequency ω, bias voltage V, and temperature T, which is exact to total second order in these quantities. The approximation is valid when the corresponding energies ℏω, eV, and kBT are small compared to kBTK, where TK is the Kondo temperature. The result of the numerical integration is compared with the analytical one and with Ng approximation, in which Σ< and Σ> are assumed proportional to the retarded self-energy Σr times an average Fermi function. While it fails at T =0 for ℏ |ω|≲eV, we find that the Ng approximation is excellent for kBT>eV/2 and improves for asymmetric coupling to the leads. Even at T =0, the effect of the Ng approximation on the total occupation at the dot is very small. The dependence on ω and V are discussed in comparison with a Ward identity that is fulfilled by the three approaches. We also calculate the heat currents between the dot and any of the leads at finite bias voltage. One of the heat currents changes sign with the applied bias voltage at finite temperature.

Negative differential conductance in doped-silicon nanoscale devices with superconducting electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shapovalov, A.; Shaternik, V.; Suvorov, O.; Zhitlukhina, E.; Belogolovskii, M.

2018-02-01

We present a proof-of-concept nanoelectronics device with a negative differential conductance, an attractive from the applied viewpoint functionality. The device, characterized by the decreasing current with increasing voltage in a certain voltage region above a threshold bias of about several hundred millivolts, consists of two superconducting electrodes with an amorphous 10-nm-thick silicon interlayer doped by tungsten nano-inclusions. We show that small changes in the W content radically modify the shape of the trilayer current-voltage dependence and identify sudden conductance switching at a threshold voltage as an effect of Andreev fluctuators. The latter entities are two-level systems at the superconductor-doped silicon interface where a Cooper pair tunnels from a superconductor and occupies a pair of localized electronic states. We argue that in contrast to previously proposed devices, our samples permit very large-scale integration and are practically feasible.

Viscoelastic performance of dielectric elastomer subject to different voltage stimulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheng, Junjie; Zhang, Yuqing; Liu, Lei; Li, Bo; Chen, Hualing

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomer (DE) is capable of giant deformation subject to an electric field, and demonstrates significant advantages in the potentially application of soft machines with muscle-like characteristics. Due to an inherent property of all macromolecular materials, DE exhibits strong viscoelastic properties. Viscoelasticity could cause a time-dependent deformation and lower the response speed and energy conversion efficiency of DE based actuators, thus strongly affect its electromechanical performance and applications. Combining with the rheological model of viscoelastic relaxation, the viscoelastic performance of a VHB membrane in a circular actuator configuration undergoing separately constant, ramp and sinusoidal voltages are analyzed both theoretically and experimentally. The theoretical results indicated that DE could attain a big deformation under a small constant voltage with a longer time or under a big voltage with a shorter time. The model also showed that a higher critical stretch could be achieved by applying ramping voltage with a lower rate and the stretch magnitude under sinusoidal voltage is much larger at a relatively low frequency. Finally, experiments were designed to validate the simulation and show well consistent with the simulation results.

Phenomena of nonlinear oscillation and special resonance of a dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure rotary joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jianwen; Niu, Junyang; McCoul, David; Ren, Zhi; Pei, Qibing

2015-03-01

The dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure can realize large angular deformations by a small voltage-induced strain of the dielectric elastomer, so it is a suitable candidate to make a rotary joint for a soft robot. Driven with an alternating electric field, the joint deformation vibrational frequency follows the input voltage frequency. However, the authors find that if the rotational inertia increases such that the inertial torque makes the frame deform over a negative angle, then the joint motion will become complicated and the vibrational mode will alter with the change of voltage frequency. The vibration with the largest amplitude does not occur while the voltage frequency is equal to natural response frequency of the joint. Rather, the vibrational amplitude will be quite large over a range of other frequencies at which the vibrational frequency is half of the voltage frequency. This phenomenon was analyzed by a comparison of the timing sequences between voltage and joint vibration. This vibrational mode with the largest amplitude can be applied to the generation lift in a flapping wing actuated by dielectric elastomers.

Ultra-low-power conversion and management techniques for thermoelectric energy harvesting applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fleming, Jerry W.

2010-04-01

Thermoelectric energy harvesting has increasingly gained acceptance as a potential power source that can be used for numerous commercial and military applications. However, power electronic designers have struggled to incorporate energy harvesting methods into their designs due to the relatively small voltage levels available from many harvesting device technologies. In order to bridge this gap, an ultra-low input voltage power conversion method is needed to convert small amounts of scavenged energy into a usable form of electricity. Such a method would be an enabler for new and improved medical devices, sensor systems, and other portable electronic products. This paper addresses the technical challenges involved in ultra-low-voltage power conversion by providing a solution utilizing novel power conversion techniques and applied technologies. Our solution utilizes intelligent power management techniques to control unknown startup conditions. The load and supply management functionality is also controlled in a deterministic manner. The DC to DC converter input operating voltage is 20mV with a conversion efficiency of 90% or more. The output voltage is stored into a storage device such as an ultra-capacitor or lithium-ion battery for use during brown-out or unfavorable harvesting conditions. Applications requiring modular, low power, extended maintenance cycles, such as wireless instrumentation would significantly benefit from the novel power conversion and harvesting techniques outlined in this paper.

A high-precision voltage source for EIT

PubMed Central

Saulnier, Gary J; Liu, Ning; Ross, Alexander S

2006-01-01

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) utilizes electrodes placed on the surface of a body to determine the complex conductivity distribution within the body. EIT can be performed by applying currents through the electrodes and measuring the electrode voltages or by applying electrode voltages and measuring the currents. Techniques have also been developed for applying the desired currents using voltage sources. This paper describes a voltage source for use in applied-voltage EIT that includes the capability of measuring both the applied voltage and applied current. A calibration circuit and calibration algorithm are described which enables all voltage sources in an EIT system to be calibrated to a common standard. The calibration minimizes the impact of stray shunt impedance, passive component variability and active component non-ideality. Simulation data obtained using PSpice are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the circuits and calibration algorithm. PMID:16636413

Voltage control of magnetic single domains in Ni discs on ferroelectric BaTiO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghidini, M.; Zhu, B.; Mansell, R.; Pellicelli, R.; Lesaine, A.; Moya, X.; Crossley, S.; Nair, B.; Maccherozzi, F.; Barnes, C. H. W.; Cowburn, R. P.; Dhesi, S. S.; Mathur, N. D.

2018-06-01

For 1 µm-diameter Ni discs on a BaTiO3 substrate, the local magnetization direction is determined by ferroelectric domain orientation as a consequence of growth strain, such that single-domain discs lie on single ferroelectric domains. On applying a voltage across the substrate, ferroelectric domain switching yields non-volatile magnetization rotations of 90°, while piezoelectric effects that are small and continuous yield non-volatile magnetization reversals that are non-deterministic. This demonstration of magnetization reversal without ferroelectric domain switching implies reduced fatigue, and therefore represents a step towards applications.

Multilayer Piezoelectric Stack Actuator Characterization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherrit, Stewart; Jones, Christopher M.; Aldrich, Jack B.; Blodget, Chad; Bao, Xioaqi; Badescu, Mircea; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph

2008-01-01

Future NASA missions are increasingly seeking to use actuators for precision positioning to accuracies of the order of fractions of a nanometer. For this purpose, multilayer piezoelectric stacks are being considered as actuators for driving these precision mechanisms. In this study, sets of commercial PZT stacks were tested in various AC and DC conditions at both nominal and extreme temperatures and voltages. AC signal testing included impedance, capacitance and dielectric loss factor of each actuator as a function of the small-signal driving sinusoidal frequency, and the ambient temperature. DC signal testing includes leakage current and displacement as a function of the applied DC voltage. The applied DC voltage was increased to over eight times the manufacturers' specifications to investigate the correlation between leakage current and breakdown voltage. Resonance characterization as a function of temperature was done over a temperature range of -180C to +200C which generally exceeded the manufacturers' specifications. In order to study the lifetime performance of these stacks, five actuators from one manufacturer were driven by a 60volt, 2 kHz sine-wave for ten billion cycles. The tests were performed using a Lab-View controlled automated data acquisition system that monitored the waveform of the stack electrical current and voltage. The measurements included the displacement, impedance, capacitance and leakage current and the analysis of the experimental results will be presented.

Design and experiment of a small-scale walking robot employing stick-slip motion principle.

PubMed

Wang, Gangqiang; Li, Chaodong; Yuan, Tao

2017-11-01

We describe the design and control of a four legged walking robot, 45 g in weight and 130 mm × 105 mm × 25 mm in size. Each leg consists of two piezoelectric bimorph actuators that are bonded at the free end by a flexure and an end-effector. The robot generates stick-slip locomotion when applying sawtooth shaped voltage signals. Friction between legs and a contact surface is analyzed by using the Coulomb friction model. Locomotion characteristics are measured in several experiments. The robot was driven with frequencies up to 75 Hz, and a maximum velocity of 65 mm/s was obtained at two frequencies: 45 Hz with 190 Vpp driving voltage and 60 Hz with 170 Vpp driving voltage, respectively.

Design and experiment of a small-scale walking robot employing stick-slip motion principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Gangqiang; Li, Chaodong; Yuan, Tao

2017-11-01

We describe the design and control of a four legged walking robot, 45 g in weight and 130 mm × 105 mm × 25 mm in size. Each leg consists of two piezoelectric bimorph actuators that are bonded at the free end by a flexure and an end-effector. The robot generates stick-slip locomotion when applying sawtooth shaped voltage signals. Friction between legs and a contact surface is analyzed by using the Coulomb friction model. Locomotion characteristics are measured in several experiments. The robot was driven with frequencies up to 75 Hz, and a maximum velocity of 65 mm/s was obtained at two frequencies: 45 Hz with 190 Vpp driving voltage and 60 Hz with 170 Vpp driving voltage, respectively.

Unraveling the temperature and voltage dependence of magnetic field effects in organic semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janssen, Paul; Wouters, Steinar H. W.; Cox, Matthijs; Koopmans, Bert

2013-11-01

In recent years, it was discovered that the current through an organic semiconductor, sandwiched between two non-magnetic electrodes, can be changed significantly by applying a small magnetic field. This surprisingly large magnetoresistance effect, often dubbed as organic magnetoresistance (OMAR), has puzzled the young field of organic spintronics during the last decade. Here, we present a detailed study on the voltage and temperature dependence of OMAR, aiming to unravel the lineshapes of the magnetic field effects and thereby gain a deeper fundamental understanding of the underlying microscopic mechanism. Using a full quantitative analysis of the lineshapes, we are able to extract all linewidth parameters and the voltage and temperature dependencies are explained with a recently proposed trion mechanism. Moreover, explicit microscopic simulations show a qualitative agreement to the experimental results.

Single-contact tunneling thermometry

DOEpatents

Maksymovych, Petro

2016-02-23

A single-contact tunneling thermometry circuit includes a tunnel junction formed between two objects. Junction temperature gradient information is determined based on a mathematical relationship between a target alternating voltage applied across the junction and the junction temperature gradient. Total voltage measured across the junction indicates the magnitude of the target alternating voltage. A thermal gradient is induced across the junction. A reference thermovoltage is measured when zero alternating voltage is applied across the junction. An increasing alternating voltage is applied while measuring a thermovoltage component and a DC rectification voltage component created by the applied alternating voltage. The target alternating voltage is reached when the thermovoltage is nullified or doubled by the DC rectification voltage depending on the sign of the reference thermovoltage. Thermoelectric current and current measurements may be utilized in place of the thermovoltage and voltage measurements. The system may be automated with a feedback loop.

Automatic tuned MRI RF coil for multinuclear imaging of small animals at 3T.

PubMed

Muftuler, L Tugan; Gulsen, Gultekin; Sezen, Kumsal D; Nalcioglu, Orhan

2002-03-01

We have developed an MRI RF coil whose tuning can be adjusted automatically between 120 and 128 MHz for sequential spectroscopic imaging of hydrogen and fluorine nuclei at field strength 3 T. Variable capacitance (varactor) diodes were placed on each rung of an eight-leg low-pass birdcage coil to change the tuning frequency of the coil. The diode junction capacitance can be controlled by the amount of applied reverse bias voltage. Impedance matching was also done automatically by another pair of varactor diodes to obtain the maximum SNR at each frequency. The same bias voltage was applied to the tuning varactors on all rungs to avoid perturbations in the coil. A network analyzer was used to monitor matching and tuning of the coil. A Pentium PC controlled the analyzer through the GPIB bus. A code written in LABVIEW was used to communicate with the network analyzer and adjust the bias voltages of the varactors via D/A converters. Serially programmed D/A converter devices were used to apply the bias voltages to the varactors. Isolation amplifiers were used together with RF choke inductors to provide isolation between the RF coil and the DC bias lines. We acquired proton and fluorine images sequentially from a multicompartment phantom using the designed coil. Good matching and tuning were obtained at both resonance frequencies. The tuning and matching of the coil were changed from one resonance frequency to the other within 60 s. (c) 2002 Elsevier Science (USA).

Comment on ''Carrier-concentration dependence of critical superconducting current induced by the proximity effect in silicon''

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kleinsasser, A.W.

1987-06-01

It is pointed out that effect of an applied gate voltage on the critical current observed in a gate-controlled Si-coupled weak link by Nishino, Yamada, and Kawabe (Phy. Rev. B 33, 2042 (1986)) is much larger than that expected from the small change of carrier density in the link.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Boumaaraf, Abdelâali, E-mail: aboumaaraf@yahoo.fr; University of Farhat Abbas Setif1, Sétif, 19000; Mohamadi, Tayeb

In this paper, we present the FPGA implementation of the multiple pulse width modulation (MPWM) signal generation with repetition of data segments, applied to the variable frequency variable voltage systems and specially at to the photovoltaic water pumping system, in order to generate a signal command very easily between 10 Hz to 60 Hz with a small frequency and reduce the cost of the control system.

Dynamics modeling and vibration analysis of a piezoelectric diaphragm applied in valveless micropump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Xiuhua; Xu, Wei; Lin, Nan; Uzoejinwa, B. B.; Deng, Zhidan

2017-09-01

This paper presents the dynamical model involved with load of fluid pressure, electric-solid coupling simulation and experimental performance of the piezoelectric diaphragm fabricated and applied in valveless micropump. The model is based on the theory of plate-shell with small deflection, considering the two-layer structure of piezoelectric ceramic and elastic substrate. The high-order non-homogeneous vibration equation of the piezoelectric diaphragm, derived in the course of the study, was solved by being divided into a homogeneous Bessel equation and a non-homogeneous static equation according to the superposition principle. The amplitude of the piezoelectric diaphragm driven by sinusoidal voltage against the load of fluid pressure was obtained from the solution of the vibration equation. Also, finite element simulation of electric-solid coupling between displacement of piezoelectric diaphragm due to an applied voltage and resulting deformation of membrane was considered. The simulation result showed that the maximum deflection of diaphragm is 9.51 μm at a quarter cycle time when applied a peak-to-peak voltage of 150VP-P with a frequency of 90 Hz, and the displacement distribution according to the direction of the radius was demonstrated. Experiments were performed to verify the prediction of the dynamic modeling and the coupling simulation, the experimental data showed a good agreement with the dynamical model and simulation.

Study and Experiment on Non-Contact Voltage Sensor Suitable for Three-Phase Transmission Line

PubMed Central

Zhou, Qiang; He, Wei; Xiao, Dongping; Li, Songnong; Zhou, Kongjun

2015-01-01

A voltage transformer, as voltage signal detection equipment, plays an important role in a power system. Presently, more and more electric power systems are adopting potential transformer and capacitance voltage transformers. Transformers are often large in volume and heavyweight, their insulation design is difficult, and an iron core or multi-grade capacitance voltage division structure is generally adopted. As a result, the detection accuracy of transformer is reduced, a huge phase difference exists between detection signal and voltage signal to be measured, and the detection signal cannot accurately and timely reflect the change of conductor voltage signal to be measured. By aiming at the current problems of electric transformation, based on electrostatic induction principle, this paper designed a non-contact voltage sensor and gained detection signal of the sensor through electrostatic coupling for the electric field generated by electric charges of the conductor to be measured. The insulation structure design of the sensor is simple and its volume is small; phase difference of sensor measurement is effectively reduced through optimization design of the electrode; and voltage division ratio and measurement accuracy are increased. The voltage sensor was tested on the experimental platform of simulating three-phase transmission line. According to the result, the designed non-contact voltage sensor can realize accurate and real-time measurement for the conductor voltage. It can be applied to online monitoring for the voltage of three-phase transmission line or three-phase distribution network line, which is in accordance with the development direction of the smart grid. PMID:26729119

Study and Experiment on Non-Contact Voltage Sensor Suitable for Three-Phase Transmission Line.

PubMed

Zhou, Qiang; He, Wei; Xiao, Dongping; Li, Songnong; Zhou, Kongjun

2015-12-30

A voltage transformer, as voltage signal detection equipment, plays an important role in a power system. Presently, more and more electric power systems are adopting potential transformer and capacitance voltage transformers. Transformers are often large in volume and heavyweight, their insulation design is difficult, and an iron core or multi-grade capacitance voltage division structure is generally adopted. As a result, the detection accuracy of transformer is reduced, a huge phase difference exists between detection signal and voltage signal to be measured, and the detection signal cannot accurately and timely reflect the change of conductor voltage signal to be measured. By aiming at the current problems of electric transformation, based on electrostatic induction principle, this paper designed a non-contact voltage sensor and gained detection signal of the sensor through electrostatic coupling for the electric field generated by electric charges of the conductor to be measured. The insulation structure design of the sensor is simple and its volume is small; phase difference of sensor measurement is effectively reduced through optimization design of the electrode; and voltage division ratio and measurement accuracy are increased. The voltage sensor was tested on the experimental platform of simulating three-phase transmission line. According to the result, the designed non-contact voltage sensor can realize accurate and real-time measurement for the conductor voltage. It can be applied to online monitoring for the voltage of three-phase transmission line or three-phase distribution network line, which is in accordance with the development direction of the smart grid.

Effects of an applied voltage on direct interspecies electron transfer via conductive materials for methane production.

PubMed

Lee, Jung-Yeol; Park, Jeong-Hoon; Park, Hee-Deung

2017-10-01

Direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) between exoelectrogenic bacteria and methanogenic archaea via conductive materials is reported as an efficient method to produce methane in anaerobic organic waste digestion. A voltage can be applied to the conductive materials to accelerate the DIET between two groups of microorganisms to produce methane. To evaluate this hypothesis, two sets of anaerobic serum bottles with and without applied voltage were used with a pair of graphite rods as conductive materials to facilitate DIET. Initially, the methane production rate was similar between the two sets of serum bottles, and later the serum bottles with an applied voltage of 0.39V showed a 168% higher methane production rate than serum bottles without an applied voltage. In cyclic voltammograms, the characteristic redox peaks for hydrogen and acetate oxidation were identified in the serum bottles with an applied voltage. In the microbial community analyses, hydrogenotrophic methanogens (e.g. Methanobacterium) were observed to be abundant in serum bottles with an applied voltage, while methanogens utilizing carbon dioxide (e.g., Methanosaeta and Methanosarcina) were dominant in serum bottles without an applied voltage. Taken together, the applied voltage on conductive materials might not be effective to promote DIET in methane production. Instead, it appeared to generate a condition for hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dual-gate polysilicon nanoribbon biosensors enable high sensitivity detection of proteins.

PubMed

Zeimpekis, I; Sun, K; Hu, C; Ditshego, N M J; Thomas, O; de Planque, M R R; Chong, H M H; Morgan, H; Ashburn, P

2016-04-22

We demonstrate the advantages of dual-gate polysilicon nanoribbon biosensors with a comprehensive evaluation of different measurement schemes for pH and protein sensing. In particular, we compare the detection of voltage and current changes when top- and bottom-gate bias is applied. Measurements of pH show that a large voltage shift of 491 mV pH(-1) is obtained in the subthreshold region when the top-gate is kept at a fixed potential and the bottom-gate is varied (voltage sweep). This is an improvement of 16 times over the 30 mV pH(-1) measured using a top-gate sweep with the bottom-gate at a fixed potential. A similar large voltage shift of 175 mV is obtained when the protein avidin is sensed using a bottom-gate sweep. This is an improvement of 20 times compared with the 8.8 mV achieved from a top-gate sweep. Current measurements using bottom-gate sweeps do not deliver the same signal amplification as when using bottom-gate sweeps to measure voltage shifts. Thus, for detecting a small signal change on protein binding, it is advantageous to employ a double-gate transistor and to measure a voltage shift using a bottom-gate sweep. For top-gate sweeps, the use of a dual-gate transistor enables the current sensitivity to be enhanced by applying a negative bias to the bottom-gate to reduce the carrier concentration in the nanoribbon. For pH measurements, the current sensitivity increases from 65% to 149% and for avidin sensing it increases from 1.4% to 2.5%.

Dual-gate polysilicon nanoribbon biosensors enable high sensitivity detection of proteins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeimpekis, I.; Sun, K.; Hu, C.; Ditshego, N. M. J.; Thomas, O.; de Planque, M. R. R.; Chong, H. M. H.; Morgan, H.; Ashburn, P.

2016-04-01

We demonstrate the advantages of dual-gate polysilicon nanoribbon biosensors with a comprehensive evaluation of different measurement schemes for pH and protein sensing. In particular, we compare the detection of voltage and current changes when top- and bottom-gate bias is applied. Measurements of pH show that a large voltage shift of 491 mV pH-1 is obtained in the subthreshold region when the top-gate is kept at a fixed potential and the bottom-gate is varied (voltage sweep). This is an improvement of 16 times over the 30 mV pH-1 measured using a top-gate sweep with the bottom-gate at a fixed potential. A similar large voltage shift of 175 mV is obtained when the protein avidin is sensed using a bottom-gate sweep. This is an improvement of 20 times compared with the 8.8 mV achieved from a top-gate sweep. Current measurements using bottom-gate sweeps do not deliver the same signal amplification as when using bottom-gate sweeps to measure voltage shifts. Thus, for detecting a small signal change on protein binding, it is advantageous to employ a double-gate transistor and to measure a voltage shift using a bottom-gate sweep. For top-gate sweeps, the use of a dual-gate transistor enables the current sensitivity to be enhanced by applying a negative bias to the bottom-gate to reduce the carrier concentration in the nanoribbon. For pH measurements, the current sensitivity increases from 65% to 149% and for avidin sensing it increases from 1.4% to 2.5%.

Conductance of Ion Channels - Theory vs. Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pohorille, Andrew; Wilson, Michael; Mijajlovic, Milan

2013-01-01

Transmembrane ion channels mediate a number of essential physiological processes in a cell ranging from regulating osmotic pressure to transmission of neural signals. Kinetics and selectivity of ion transport is of critical importance to a cell and, not surprisingly, it is a subject of numerous experimental and theoretical studies. In this presentation we will analyze in detail computer simulations of two simple channels from fungi - antiamoebin and trichotoxin. Each of these channels is made of an alpha-helical bundle of small, nongenomically synthesized peptides containing a number of rare amino acids and exhibits strong antimicrobial activity. We will focus on calculating ionic conductance defined as the ratio of ionic current through the channel to applied voltage. From molecular dynamics simulations, conductance can be calculated in at least two ways, each involving different approximations. Specifically, the current, given as the number of charges transferred through the channel per unit of time, can be obtained from the number of events in which ions cross the channel during the simulation. This method works well for large currents (high conductance values and/or applied voltages). If the number of crossing events is small, reliable estimates of current are difficult to achieve. Alternatively, conductance can be estimated assuming that ion transport can be well approximated as diffusion in the external potential given by the free energy profile. Then, the current can be calculated by solving the one-dimensional diffusion equation in this external potential and applied voltage (the generalized Nernst-Planck equation). To do so three ingredients are needed: the free energy profile, the position-dependent diffusion coefficient and the diffusive flux of ions into the channel. All these quantities can be obtained from molecular dynamics simulations. An important advantage of this method is that it can be used equally well to estimating large and small currents. In addition, once the free energy profile becomes available the full current-voltage dependence can be readily obtained. For both channels we carried out calculations using both approaches. We also tested the main assumptions underlying the diffusive model, such as uncorrelated nature of individual crossing events and Fickian diffusion. The accuracy and consistency of different methods will be discussed. Finally we will discuss how comparisons between calculated and measured ionic conductance and selectivity of transport can be used for determining structural models of the channels.

2 kV slanted tri-gate GaN-on-Si Schottky barrier diodes with ultra-low leakage current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Jun; Matioli, Elison

2018-01-01

This letter reports lateral GaN-on-Si power Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) with unprecedented voltage-blocking performance by integrating 3-dimensionally a hybrid of tri-anode and slanted tri-gate architectures in their anode. The hybrid tri-anode pins the voltage drop at the Schottky junction (VSCH), despite a large applied reverse bias, fixing the reverse leakage current (IR) of the SBD. Such architecture led to an ultra-low IR of 51 ± 5.9 nA/mm at -1000 V, in addition to a small turn-on voltage (VON) of 0.61 ± 0.03 V. The slanted tri-gate effectively distributes the electric field in OFF state, leading to a remarkably high breakdown voltage (VBR) of -2000 V at 1 μA/mm, constituting a significant breakthrough from existing technologies. The approach pursued in this work reduces the IR and increases the VBR without sacrificing the VON, which provides a technology for high-voltage SBDs, and unveils the unique advantage of tri-gates for advanced power applications.

Transdermal transport pathway creation: Electroporation pulse order.

PubMed

Becker, Sid; Zorec, Barbara; Miklavčič, Damijan; Pavšelj, Nataša

2014-11-01

In this study we consider the physics underlying electroporation which is administered to skin in order to radically increase transdermal drug delivery. The method involves the application of intense electric fields to alter the structure of the impermeable outer layer, the stratum corneum. A generally held view in the field of skin electroporation is that the skin's drop in resistance (to transport) is proportional to the total power of the pulses (which may be inferred by the number of pulses administered). Contrary to this belief, experiments conducted in this study show that the application of high voltage pulses prior to the application of low voltage pulses result in lower transport than when low voltage pulses alone are applied (when less total pulse power is administered). In order to reconcile these unexpected experimental results, a computational model is used to conduct an analysis which shows that the high density distribution of very small aqueous pathways through the stratum corneum associated with high voltage pulses is detrimental to the evolution of larger pathways that are associated with low voltage pulses. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A study of electrostatic spring softening for dual-axis micromirror

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yi; E H Tay, Francis; Zhou, Guangya; Siong Chau, Fook

2006-08-01

Electrostatic spring softening is an important characteristic of electrostatically actuated dual-axis micromirror, since it lowers the resonant frequencies. This paper presents an approach based on approximating the electrostatic forces by the first-order Taylor's series expansion to investigate this characteristic. The dual-axis micromirror studied in this paper has three motion modes, two torsional (about x- and y-axis, respectively) and one translational (about z-axis). The stiffnesses of all these modes are softened by a DC bias voltage applied to the mirror plate. The resonant frequencies are lowered with the increment of the bias voltage. The relationship of the bias voltage and the resonant frequencies of all the motion modes is derived. The analytical results show that the resonant frequency curves are affected by the capacitor geometries, i.e. the gap between the mirror plate and the electrodes and the electrodes size. The lowering curves drop slowly when the bias voltage is small. While for large bias voltage, the lowering curves drop rapidly. The experiment results are consistent with those obtained by the analytical approach.

Transition times between the extremum points of the current–voltage characteristic of a resonant tunneling diode with hysteresis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Grishakov, K. S., E-mail: ksgrishakov@yahoo.com; Elesin, V. F.

A numerical solution to the problem of transient processes in a resonant tunneling diode featuring a current–voltage characteristic with hysteresis is found for the first time in the context of a coherent model (based on the coupled Schrödinger and Poisson equations) taking into account the Fermi distribution of electrons. The transitions from the high-current to the low-current state and vice versa, which result from the existence of hysteresis and are of great practical importance for ultrafast switches based on resonant tunneling diodes, are studied in detail. It is shown that the transition times for such processes initiated by the applicationmore » of a small voltage can significantly exceed the characteristic time ℏ/Γ (where G is the width of the resonance level). It is established for the first time that the transition time can be reduced and made as short as the characteristic time ℏ/Γ by applying a sufficiently high voltage. For the parameters of the resonant-tunnelingdiode structure considered in this study, the required voltage is about 0.01 V.« less

Ionic Liquid Gating Control of RKKY Interaction in FeCoB/Ru/FeCoB and (Pt/Co) 2/Ru/(Co/Pt) 2 Multilayers.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, Qu; Wang, Lei; Zhou, Ziyao

To overcome the fundamental challenge of the weak natural response of antiferromagnetic materials under a magnetic field, voltage manipulation of antiferromagnetic interaction is developed to realize ultrafast, high-density, and power efficient antiferromagnetic spintronics. Here, we report a low voltage modulation of Ruderman–Kittel–Kasuya–Yosida (RKKY) interaction via ionic liquid gating in synthetic antiferromagnetic multilayers of FeCoB/Ru/FeCoB and (Pt/Co) 2/Ru/(Co/Pt) 2. At room temperature, the distinct voltage control of transition between antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic ordering is realized and up to 80% of perpendicular magnetic moments manage to switch with a small-applied voltage bias of 2.5 V. We related this ionic liquid gating-induced RKKYmore » interaction modification to the disturbance of itinerant electrons inside synthetic antiferromagnetic heterostructure and the corresponding change of its Fermi level. Voltage tuning of RKKY interaction may enable the next generation of switchable spintronics between antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic modes with both fundamental and practical perspectives.« less

Design of high-throughput and low-power true random number generator utilizing perpendicularly magnetized voltage-controlled magnetic tunnel junction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Hochul; Ebrahimi, Farbod; Amiri, Pedram Khalili; Wang, Kang L.

2017-05-01

A true random number generator based on perpendicularly magnetized voltage-controlled magnetic tunnel junction devices (MRNG) is presented. Unlike MTJs used in memory applications where a stable bit is needed to store information, in this work, the MTJ is intentionally designed with small perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). This allows one to take advantage of the thermally activated fluctuations of its free layer as a stochastic noise source. Furthermore, we take advantage of the voltage dependence of anisotropy to temporarily change the MTJ state into an unstable state when a voltage is applied. Since the MTJ has two energetically stable states, the final state is randomly chosen by thermal fluctuation. The voltage controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) effect is used to generate the metastable state of the MTJ by lowering its energy barrier. The proposed MRNG achieves a high throughput (32 Gbps) by implementing a 64 ×64 MTJ array into CMOS circuits and executing operations in a parallel manner. Furthermore, the circuit consumes very low energy to generate a random bit (31.5 fJ/bit) due to the high energy efficiency of the voltage-controlled MTJ switching.

Circuits and methods for impedance determination using active measurement cancelation

DOEpatents

Jamison, David K.

2016-12-13

A delta signal and opposite delta signal are generated such that a sum of the two signals is substantially zero. The delta signal is applied across a first set of electrochemical cells. The opposite delta signal is applied across a second set of electrochemical cells series connected to the first set. A first held voltage is established as the voltage across the first set. A second held voltage is established as the voltage across the second set. A first delta signal is added to the first held voltage and applied to the first set. A second delta signal is added to the second held voltage and applied to the second set. The current responses due to the added delta voltages travel only into the set associated with its delta voltage. The delta voltages and the current responses are used to calculate the impedances of their associated cells.

Conditioning of high voltage radio frequency cavities by using fuzzy logic in connection with rule based programming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perreard, S.; Wildner, E.

1994-12-01

Many processes are controlled by experts using some kind of mental model to decide on actions and make conclusions. This model, based on heuristic knowledge, can often be represented by rules and does not have to be particularly accurate. Such is the case for the problem of conditioning high voltage RF cavities; the expert has to decide, by observing some criteria, whether to increase or to decrease the voltage and by how much. A program has been implemented which can be applied to a class of similar problems. The kernel of the program is a small rule base, which is independent of the kind of cavity. To model a specific cavity, we use fuzzy logic which is implemented as a separate routine called by the rule base, to translate from numeric to symbolic information.

Kinetics of transient electroluminescence in organic light emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shukla, Manju; Kumar, Pankaj; Chand, Suresh; Brahme, Nameeta; Kher, R. S.; Khokhar, M. S. K.

2008-08-01

Mathematical simulation on the rise and decay kinetics of transient electroluminescence (EL) in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) is presented. The transient EL is studied with respect to a step voltage pulse. While rising, for lower values of time, the EL intensity shows a quadratic dependence on (t - tdel), where tdel is the time delay observed in the onset of EL, and finally attains saturation at a sufficiently large time. When the applied voltage is switched off, the initial EL decay shows an exponential dependence on (t - tdec), where tdec is the time when the voltage is switched off. The simulated results are compared with the transient EL performance of a bilayer OLED based on small molecular bis(2-methyl 8-hydroxyquinoline)(triphenyl siloxy) aluminium (SAlq). Transient EL studies have been carried out at different voltage pulse amplitudes. The simulated results show good agreement with experimental data. Using these simulated results the lifetime of the excitons in SAlq has also been calculated.

Analysis and Research on the effect of the Operation of Small Hydropower in the Regional Power Grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ang, Fu; Guangde, Dong; Xiaojun, Zhu; Ruimiao, Wang; Shengyi, Zhu

2018-03-01

The analysis of reactive power balance and voltage of power network not only affects the system voltage quality, but also affects the economic operation of power grid. In the calculation of reactive power balance and voltage analysis in the past, the problem of low power and low system voltage has been the concern of people. When small hydropower stations in the wet period of low load, the analysis of reactive power surplus and high voltage for the system, if small hydropower unit the capability of running in phase is considered, it can effectively solve the system low operation voltage of the key point on the high side.

Electrical system for measurement of breakdown voltage of vacuum and gas-filled tubes using a dynamic method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pejović, Milić M.; Milosavljević, Čedomir S.; Pejović, Momčilo M.

2003-06-01

This article describes an electrical system aimed at measuring and data acquisition of breakdown voltages of vacuum and gas-filled tubes. The measurements were performed using a nitrogen-filled tube at 4 mbar pressure. Based on the measured breakdown voltage data as a function of the applied voltage increase rate, a static breakdown voltage is estimated for the applied voltage gradient ranging from 0.1 to 1 V s-1 and from 1 to 10 V s-1. The histograms of breakdown voltages versus applied voltage increase rates from 0.1 and 0.5 V s-1 are approximated by the probability density functions using a fitting procedure.

Electrically and magnetically dual-driven Janus particles for handwriting-enabled electronic paper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Komazaki, Y.; Hirama, H.; Torii, T.

2015-04-01

In this work, we describe the synthesis of novel electrically and magnetically dual-driven Janus particles for a handwriting-enabled twisting ball display via the microfluidic technique. One hemisphere of the Janus particles contains a charge control agent, which allows the display color to be controlled by applying a voltage and superparamagnetic nanoparticles, allows handwriting by applying a magnetic field to the display. We fabricated a twisting ball display utilizing these Janus particles and tested the electric color control and handwriting using a magnet. As a result, the display was capable of permitting handwriting with a small magnet in addition to conventional color control using an applied voltage (80 V). Handwriting performance was improved by increasing the concentration of superparamagnetic nanoparticles and was determined to be possible even when 80 V was applied across the electrodes for 4 wt. % superparamagnetic nanoparticles in one hemisphere. This improvement was impossible when the concentration was reduced to 2 wt. % superparamagnetic nanoparticles. The technology presented in our work can be applied to low-cost, lightweight, highly visible, and energy-saving electronic message boards and large whiteboards because the large-size display can be fabricated easily due to its simple structure.

Electro-optic control of a PPLN-unpoled LiNbO3 boundary for low-voltage Q switching of an intracavity frequency-doubled Nd3+:YVO4 laser.

PubMed

Torregrosa, A J; Maestre, H; Fernández-Pousa, C R; Pereda, J A; Capmany, J

2009-08-01

We present a simple technique to integrate an electro-optic Q switch in a periodically poled bulk lithium niobate crystal bounded by two unpoled (monodomain) regions. The technique exploits the high sensitivity to low applied electric fields of the total internal reflection condition in the periodic poled-unpoled boundary for the small grazing incidence angles associated with the diffraction of a focused Gaussian beam that propagates in the periodically poled region with its axis parallel to the boundary. When the arrangement is placed intracavity to a 1064 nm diode-pumped Nd(3+):YVO(4) laser, it performs simultaneously as a Q switch and as a second-harmonic generator, with Q switching starting at applied voltages as low as 1 V over a 500 microm thickness and with no additional optical elements.

Magnetotunneling spectroscopy of dilute Ga(AsN) quantum wells.

PubMed

Endicott, J; Patanè, A; Ibáñez, J; Eaves, L; Bissiri, M; Hopkinson, M; Airey, R; Hill, G

2003-09-19

We use magnetotunneling spectroscopy to explore the admixing of the extended GaAs conduction band states with the localized N-impurity states in dilute GaAs(1-y)N(y) quantum wells. In our resonant tunneling diodes, electrons can tunnel into the N-induced E- and E+ subbands in a GaAs(1-y)N(y) quantum well layer, leading to resonant peaks in the current-voltage characteristics. By varying the magnetic field applied perpendicular to the current direction, we can tune an electron to tunnel into a given k state of the well; since the applied voltage tunes the energy, we can map out the form of the energy-momentum dispersion curves of E- and E+. The data reveal that for a small N content (approximately 0.1%) the E- and E+ subbands are highly nonparabolic and that the heavy effective mass E+ states have a significant Gamma-conduction band character even at k=0.

A Paramagnetic Molecular Voltmeter

PubMed Central

Surek, Jack T.; Thomas, David D.

2008-01-01

We have developed a general electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) method to measure electrostatic potential at spin labels on proteins to millivolt accuracy. Electrostatic potential is fundamental to energy-transducing proteins like myosin, because molecular energy storage and retrieval is primarily electrostatic. Quantitative analysis of protein electrostatics demands a site-specific spectroscopic method sensitive to millivolt changes. Previous electrostatic potential studies on macromolecules fell short in sensitivity, accuracy and/or specificity. Our approach uses fast-relaxing charged and neutral paramagnetic relaxation agents (PRAs) to increase nitroxide spin label relaxation rate solely through collisional spin exchange. These PRAs were calibrated in experiments on small nitroxides of known structure and charge to account for differences in their relaxation efficiency. Nitroxide longitudinal (R1) and transverse (R2) relaxation rates were separated by applying lineshape analysis to progressive saturation spectra. The ratio of measured R1 increases for each pair of charged and neutral PRAs measures the shift in local PRA concentration due to electrostatic potential. Voltage at the spin label is then calculated using the Boltzmann equation. Measured voltages for two small charged nitroxides agree with Debye-Hückel calculations. Voltage for spin-labeled myosin fragment S1 also agrees with calculation based on the pK shift of the reacted cysteine. PMID:17964835

Mechanism of Small Current Generation under Impulse Voltage Applications in Vacuum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aoki, Keita; Yasukawa, Hideaki; Kojima, Hiroki; Homma, Mitsutaka; Shioiri, Tetsu; Okubo, Hitoshi

Small discharge not to accompany breakdown can occur under high electric field in vacuum, however the mechanism is not well clarified. We have found that the current of small discharge decreases with repeated voltage applications, and leads to electrode conditioning effect of raising withstand voltage. The inception of the current is delayed with the decrease of current, and the inception time and waveform change by gap length. On the other hand, under low vacuum condition, the current increases and reaches saturation with repeated voltage applications. From these discussions, we concluded that the generating process of small current depended on the adsorption and absorption gas of electrodes.

Charge-pump voltage converter

DOEpatents

Brainard, John P [Albuquerque, NM; Christenson, Todd R [Albuquerque, NM

2009-11-03

A charge-pump voltage converter for converting a low voltage provided by a low-voltage source to a higher voltage. Charge is inductively generated on a transfer rotor electrode during its transit past an inductor stator electrode and subsequently transferred by the rotating rotor to a collector stator electrode for storage or use. Repetition of the charge transfer process leads to a build-up of voltage on a charge-receiving device. Connection of multiple charge-pump voltage converters in series can generate higher voltages, and connection of multiple charge-pump voltage converters in parallel can generate higher currents. Microelectromechanical (MEMS) embodiments of this invention provide a small and compact high-voltage (several hundred V) voltage source starting with a few-V initial voltage source. The microscale size of many embodiments of this invention make it ideally suited for MEMS- and other micro-applications where integration of the voltage or charge source in a small package is highly desirable.

Improving off-state leakage characteristics for high voltage AlGaN/GaN-HFETs on Si substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moon, Sung-Woon; Twynam, John; Lee, Jongsub; Seo, Deokwon; Jung, Sungdal; Choi, Hong Goo; Shim, Heejae; Yim, Jeong Soon; Roh, Sungwon D.

2014-06-01

We present a reliable process and design technique for realizing high voltage AlGaN/GaN hetero-junction field effect transistors (HFETs) on Si substrates with very low and stable off-state leakage current characteristics. In this work, we have investigated the effects of the surface passivation layer, prepared by low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) of silicon nitride (SiNx), and gate bus isolation design on the off-state leakage characteristics of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) gate structure-based GaN HFETs. The surface passivated devices with gate bus isolation fully surrounding the source and drain regions showed extremely low off-state leakage currents of less than 20 nA/mm at 600 V, with very small variation. These techniques were successfully applied to high-current devices with 80-mm gate width, yielding excellent off-state leakage characteristics within a drain voltage range 0-700 V.

A two-layer linear piezoelectric micromotor.

PubMed

Li, Xiaotian; Ci, Penghong; Liu, Guoxi; Dong, Shuxiang

2015-03-01

A first bending (B1) mode two-layer piezoelectric ultrasonic linear micromotor has been developed for microoptics driving applications. The piezo-vibrator of the micromotor was composed of two small Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT-5) plates, with overall dimensions and mass of only 2.0 × 2.0 × 5.0 mm(3) and 0.2 g, respectively. The proposed micromotor could operate either in single-phase voltage (standing wave) mode or two-phase voltage (traveling wave) mode to drive a slider via friction force to provide bidirectional linear motion. A large thrust of up to 0.30 N, which corresponds to a high unit volume direct driving force of 15 mN/mm(3), and a linear movement velocity of up to 230 mm/s were obtained under an applied voltage of 80 Vpp at the B1 mode resonance frequency of 174 kHz.

Carrier transport and collection in fully depleted semiconductors by a combined action of the space charge field and the field due to electrode voltages

DOEpatents

Rehak, P.; Gatti, E.

1984-02-24

A semiconductor charge transport device and method for making same, characterized by providing a thin semiconductor wafer having rectifying functions on its opposing major surfaces and including a small capacitance ohmic contact, in combination with bias voltage means and associated circuit means for applying a predetermined voltage to effectively deplete the wafer in regions thereof between the rectifying junctions and the ohmic contact. A charge transport device of the invention is usable as a drift chamber, a low capacitance detector, or a charge coupled device each constructed according to the methods of the invention for making such devices. Detectors constructed according to the principles of the invention are characterized by having significantly higher particle position indicating resolution than is attainable with prior art detectors, while at the same time requiring substantially fewer readout channels to realize such high resolution.

Carrier transport and collection in fully depleted semiconductors by a combined action of the space charge field and the field due to electrode voltages

DOEpatents

Rehak, Pavel; Gatti, Emilio

1987-01-01

A semiconductor charge transport device and method for making same, characterized by providing a thin semiconductor wafer having rectifying junctions on its opposing major surfaces and including a small capacitance ohmic contact, in combination with bias voltage means and associated circuit means for applying a predetermined voltage to effectively deplete the wafer in regions thereof between the rectifying junctions and the ohmic contact. A charge transport device of the invention is usable as a drift chamber, a low capacitance detector, or a charge coupled device each constructed according to the methods of the invention for making such devices. Detectors constructed according to the principles of the invention are characterized by having significantly higher particle position indicating resolution than is attainable with prior art detectors, while at the same time requiring substantially fewer readout channels to realize such high resolution.

Carrier transport and collection in fully depleted semiconductors by a combined action of the space charge field and the field due to electrode voltages

DOEpatents

Rehak, P.; Gatti, E.

1987-08-18

A semiconductor charge transport device and method for making same are disclosed, characterized by providing a thin semiconductor wafer having rectifying junctions on its opposing major surfaces and including a small capacitance ohmic contact, in combination with bias voltage means and associated circuit means for applying a predetermined voltage to effectively deplete the wafer in regions thereof between the rectifying junctions and the ohmic contact. A charge transport device of the invention is usable as a drift chamber, a low capacitance detector, or a charge coupled device each constructed according to the methods of the invention for making such devices. Detectors constructed according to the principles of the invention are characterized by having significantly higher particle position indicating resolution than is attainable with prior art detectors, while at the same time requiring substantially fewer readout channels to realize such high resolution. 16 figs.

Focus tunable device actuator based on ionic polymer metal composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yi-Wei; Su, Guo-Dung J.

2015-09-01

IPMC (Ionic Polymer Metallic Composite) is a kind of electroactive polymer (EAP) which is used as an actuator because of its low driving voltage and small size. The mechanism of IPMC actuator is due to the ionic diffusion when the voltage gradient is applied. In this paper, the complex IPMC fabrication such as Ag-IPMC be further developed in this paper. The comparison of response time and tip bending displacement of Pt-IPMC and Ag-IPMC will also be presented. We also use the optimized IPMC as the lens actuator integrated with curvilinear microlens array, and use the 3D printer to make a simple module and spring stable system. We also used modeling software, ANSYS Workbench, to confirm the effect of spring system. Finally, we successfully drive the lens system in 200μm stroke under 2.5V driving voltage within 1 seconds, and the resonant frequency is approximately 500 Hz.

Calcium dependent current recordings in Xenopus laevis oocytes in microgravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wuest, Simon L.; Roesch, Christian; Ille, Fabian; Egli, Marcel

2017-12-01

Mechanical unloading by microgravity (or weightlessness) conditions triggers profound adaptation processes at the cellular and organ levels. Among other mechanisms, mechanosensitive ion channels are thought to play a key role in allowing cells to transduce mechanical forces. Previous experiments performed under microgravity have shown that gravity affects the gating properties of ion channels. Here, a method is described to record a calcium-dependent current in native Xenopus laevis oocytes under microgravity conditions during a parabolic flight. A 3-voltage-step protocol was applied to provoke a calcium-dependent current. This current increased with extracellular calcium concentration and could be reduced by applying extracellular gadolinium. The custom-made ;OoClamp; hardware was validated by comparing the results of the 3-voltage-step protocol to results obtained with a well-established two-electrode voltage clamp (TEVC). In the context of the 2nd Swiss Parabolic Flight Campaign, we tested the OoClamp and the method. The setup and experiment protocol worked well in parabolic flight. A tendency that the calcium-dependent current was smaller under microgravity than under 1 g condition could be observed. However, a conclusive statement was not possible due to the small size of the data base that could be gathered.

Asymmetry, Potential Penetration and Supersonic Speeds in MBX Experiment at High Voltage and Medium Power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quevedo, H. J.; Valanju, P. M.; Bengtson, Roger D.

2007-06-01

In MBX, a small mirror machine with a radial electric field creates a rotating plasma that is expected to evolve, under certain conditions, into a self-organizing, detached toroidal plasma ring, a magnetofluid state. In the present stage of the experiment a low density plasma generated by microwaves (1 kW at 2.54 GHz) has been successfully rotated at supersonic speeds using a 1 kV-80 mF capacitor bank with currents ˜5 amps. Under these conditions the plasma presents high asymmetry in the current, plasma potential and consequently rotation with the voltage applied. A simple model is presented to account for these features.

Method for voltage-gated protein fractionation

DOEpatents

Hatch, Anson [Tracy, CA; Singh, Anup K [Danville, CA

2012-04-24

We report unique findings on the voltage dependence of protein exclusion from the pores of nanoporous polymer exclusion membranes. The pores are small enough that proteins are excluded from passage with low applied electric fields, but increasing the field enables proteins to pass through. The requisite field necessary for a change in exclusion is protein-specific with a correlation to protein size. The field-dependence of exclusion is important to consider for preconcentration applications. The ability to selectively gate proteins at exclusion membranes is also a promising means for manipulating and characterizing proteins. We show that field-gated exclusion can be used to selectively remove proteins from a mixture, or to selectively trap protein at one exclusion membrane in a series.

Imaging diagnostics of pulsed plasma discharges in saline generated with various sharp pin powered electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asimakoulas, L.; Karim, M. L.; Dostal, L.; Krcma, F.; Graham, W. G.; Field, T. A.

2016-09-01

Plasmas formed by 1 ms pulses of between 180 and 300 V applied to sharp pin-like electrodes immersed in saline solution have been imaged with a Photron SA-X2 fast framing camera and an Andor iStar 510 ICCD camera. Stainless steel, Tungsten and Gold electrodes were investigated with tip diameters of 30 μm, 1 μm and < 1 μ m respectively. As previously observed, a vapour layer forms around the electrode prior to plasma ignition. For gold and stainless steel lower voltages were required to minimize electrode damage. Preliminary anlaysis indicates at lower voltages for all tips the fast framing results show that light emission is normally centred on a single small volume, which appears to move about, but remains close to the tip. In the case of Tungsten with higher voltages or longer pulses the tip of the needle can heat up to incandescent temperatures. At higher voltages shock wave fronts appear to be observed as the vapour layer collapses at the end of the voltage pulse. Backlighting and no lighting to observe bubble/vapour layer formation and emission due to plasma formation were employed. Sometimes at higher voltages a thicker vapour layer engulfs the tip and no plasma emission/current is observed.

Noise-enhanced chaos in a weakly coupled GaAs/(Al,Ga)As superlattice.

PubMed

Yin, Zhizhen; Song, Helun; Zhang, Yaohui; Ruiz-García, Miguel; Carretero, Manuel; Bonilla, Luis L; Biermann, Klaus; Grahn, Holger T

2017-01-01

Noise-enhanced chaos in a doped, weakly coupled GaAs/Al_{0.45}Ga_{0.55}As superlattice has been observed at room temperature in experiments as well as in the results of the simulation of nonlinear transport based on a discrete tunneling model. When external noise is added, both the measured and simulated current-versus-time traces contain irregularly spaced spikes for particular applied voltages, which separate a regime of periodic current oscillations from a region of no current oscillations at all. In the voltage region without current oscillations, the electric-field profile consist of a low-field domain near the emitter contact separated by a domain wall consisting of a charge accumulation layer from a high-field regime closer to the collector contact. With increasing noise amplitude, spontaneous chaotic current oscillations appear over a wider bias voltage range. For these bias voltages, the domain boundary between the two electric-field domains becomes unstable and very small current or voltage fluctuations can trigger the domain boundary to move toward the collector and induce chaotic current spikes. The experimentally observed features are qualitatively very well reproduced by the simulations. Increased noise can consequently enhance chaotic current oscillations in semiconductor superlattices.

Noise-enhanced chaos in a weakly coupled GaAs/(Al,Ga)As superlattice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Zhizhen; Song, Helun; Zhang, Yaohui; Ruiz-García, Miguel; Carretero, Manuel; Bonilla, Luis L.; Biermann, Klaus; Grahn, Holger T.

2017-01-01

Noise-enhanced chaos in a doped, weakly coupled GaAs /Al0.45Ga0.55As superlattice has been observed at room temperature in experiments as well as in the results of the simulation of nonlinear transport based on a discrete tunneling model. When external noise is added, both the measured and simulated current-versus-time traces contain irregularly spaced spikes for particular applied voltages, which separate a regime of periodic current oscillations from a region of no current oscillations at all. In the voltage region without current oscillations, the electric-field profile consist of a low-field domain near the emitter contact separated by a domain wall consisting of a charge accumulation layer from a high-field regime closer to the collector contact. With increasing noise amplitude, spontaneous chaotic current oscillations appear over a wider bias voltage range. For these bias voltages, the domain boundary between the two electric-field domains becomes unstable and very small current or voltage fluctuations can trigger the domain boundary to move toward the collector and induce chaotic current spikes. The experimentally observed features are qualitatively very well reproduced by the simulations. Increased noise can consequently enhance chaotic current oscillations in semiconductor superlattices.

Experimental investigation of SDBD plasma actuator driven by AC high voltage with a superimposed positive pulse bias voltage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Xiao-Hua; Yan, Hui-Jie; Yang, Liang; Hua, Yue; Ren, Chun-Sheng

2017-08-01

In this work, a driven voltage consisting of AC high voltage with a superimposed positive pulse bias voltage ("AC+ Positive pulse bias" voltage) is adopted to study the performance of a surface dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator under atmospheric conditions. To compare the performance of the actuator driven by single-AC voltage and "AC+ Positive pulse bias" voltage, the actuator-induced thrust force and power consumption are measured as a function of the applied AC voltage, and the measured results indicate that the thrust force can be promoted significantly after superimposing the positive pulse bias voltage. The physical mechanism behind the thrust force changes is analyzed by measuring the optical properties, electrical characteristics, and surface potential distribution. Experimental results indicate that the glow-like discharge in the AC voltage half-cycle, next to the cycle where a bias voltage pulse has been applied, is enhanced after applying the positive pulse bias voltage, and this perhaps is the main reason for the thrust force increase. Moreover, surface potential measurement results reveal that the spatial electric field formed by the surface charge accumulation after positive pulse discharge can significantly affect the applied external electric field, and this perhaps can be responsible for the experimental phenomenon that the decrease of thrust force is delayed by pulse bias voltage action after the filament discharge occurs in the glow-like discharge region. The schlieren images further verify that the actuator-induced airflow velocity increases with the positive pulse voltage.

Small Cold Temperature Instrument Packages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, P. E.; Millar, P. S.; Yeh, P. S.; Feng, S.; Brigham, D.; Beaman, B.

We are developing a small cold temperature instrument package concept that integrates a cold temperature power system with ultra low temperature ultra low power electronics components and power supplies now under development into a 'cold temperature surface operational' version of a planetary surface instrument package. We are already in the process of developing a lower power lower temperature version for an instrument of mutual interest to SMD and ESMD to support the search for volatiles (the mass spectrometer VAPoR, Volatile Analysis by Pyrolysis of Regolith) both as a stand alone instrument and as part of an environmental monitoring package. We build on our previous work to develop strategies for incorporating Ultra Low Temperature/Ultra Low Power (ULT/ULP) electronics, lower voltage power supplies, as well as innovative thermal design concepts for instrument packages. Cryotesting has indicated that our small Si RHBD CMOS chips can deliver >80% of room temperature performance at 40K (nominal minimum lunar surface temperature). We leverage collaborations, past and current, with the JPL battery development program to increase power system efficiency in extreme environments. We harness advances in MOSFET technology that provide lower voltage thresholds for power switching circuits incorporated into our low voltage power supply concept. Conventional power conversion has a lower efficiency. Our low power circuit concept based on 'synchronous rectification' could produce stable voltages as low as 0.6 V with 85% efficiency. Our distributed micro-battery-based power supply concept incorporates cold temperature power supplies operating with a 4 V or 8 V battery. This work will allow us to provide guidelines for applying the low temperature, low power system approaches generically to the widest range of surface instruments.

Effect of phase advance on the brushless dc motor torque speed respond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohd, M. S.; Karsiti, M. N.; Mohd, M. S.

2015-12-01

Brushless direct current (BLDC) motor is widely used in small and medium sized electric vehicles as it exhibit highest specific power and thermal efficiency as compared to the induction motor. Permanent magnets BLDC rotor create a constant magnetic flux, which limit the motor top speed. As the back electromotive force (EMF) voltage increases proportionally with motor rotational speed and it approaches the amplitude of the input voltage, the phase current amplitude will reach zero. By advancing the phase current, it is possible to extend the maximum speed of the BLDC motor beyond the rated top speed. This will allow smaller BLDC motor to be used in small electric vehicles (EV) and in larger applications will allow the use of BLDC motor without the use of multispeed transmission unit for high speed operation. However, increasing the speed of BLDC will affect the torque speed response. The torque output will decrease as speed increases. Adjusting the phase angle will affect the speed of the motor as each coil is energized earlier than the corresponding rise in the back emf of the coil. This paper discusses the phase advance strategy of Brushless DC motor by phase angle manipulation approaches using external hall sensors. Tests have been performed at different phase advance angles in advance and retard positions for different voltage levels applied. The objective is to create the external hall sensor system to commutate the BLDC motor, to establish the phase advance of the BLDC by varying the phase angle through external hall sensor manipulation, observe the respond of the motor while applying the phase advance by hall sensor adjustment.

Investigation on the Micro-Discharge Characteristics of Dielectric Barrier Discharge in a Needle-Plate Geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xuechen; Niu, Dongying; Jia, Pengying; Zhao, Na; Yuan, Ning

2011-04-01

In this study, a dielectric barrier discharge device with needle-plate electrodes was used to investigate the characteristics of the micro-discharge in argon at one atmospheric pressure by an optical method. The results show that there are two discharge modes in the dielectric barrier discharge, namely corona mode and filamentary mode. The corona discharge only occurs in the vicinity of the needle tip when the applied voltage is very low. However, the filamentary discharge mode can occur, and micro-discharge bridges the two electrodes when the applied voltage reaches a certain value. The extended area of micro-discharge on the dielectric plate becomes larger with the increase in applied voltage or decrease in gas pressure. The variance of the light emission waveforms is studied as a function of the applied voltage. Results show that very narrow discharge pulse only appears at the negative half cycle of the applied voltage in the corona discharge mode. However, broad hump (about several microseconds) can be discerned at both the negative half cycle and the positive half cycle for a high voltage in the filamentary mode. Furthermore, the inception voltage decreases and the width of the discharge hump increases with the increase in applied voltage. These experimental phenomena can be explained qualitatively by analyzing the discharge mechanism.

Fabrication and evaluation of variable focus and large deformation plano-convex microlens based on non-ionic poly(vinyl chloride)/dibutyl adipate gels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Sang-Youn; Yeo, Myoung; Shin, Eun-Jae; Park, Won-Hyeong; Jang, Jong-Seok; Nam, Byeong-Uk; Bae, Jin Woo

2015-11-01

In this paper, we propose a variable focus microlens module based on a transparent, electroactive, and non-ionic PVC/DBA gel. A non-ionic PVC/DBA (nPVC) gel on an ITO glass was confined beneath a rigid annular electrode, and applied pressure squeezed a bulge of the nPVC gel into the annular electrode, resulting in a hemispherical plano-convex nPVC gel microlens. The proposed nPVC gel microlens was analyzed and optimized. When voltage is applied to the circular perimeter (the annular electrode) of this fabricated microlens, electrically induced creep deformation of the nPVC gel occurs, changing its optical focal length. The focal length remarkably increases from 3.8 mm up to 14.3 mm with increasing applied voltages from 300 V to 800 V. Due to its compact, transparent, and electroactive characteristics, the proposed nPVC gel microlens can be easily inserted into small consumer electronic devices, such as digital cameras, camcorders, cell phones, and other portable optical devices.

Dynamic Time Expansion and Compression Using Nonlinear Waveguides

DOEpatents

Findikoglu, Alp T.; Hahn, Sangkoo F.; Jia, Quanxi

2004-06-22

Dynamic time expansion or compression of a small amplitude input signal generated with an initial scale is performed using a nonlinear waveguide. A nonlinear waveguide having a variable refractive index is connected to a bias voltage source having a bias signal amplitude that is large relative to the input signal to vary the reflective index and concomitant speed of propagation of the nonlinear waveguide and an electrical circuit for applying the small amplitude signal and the large amplitude bias signal simultaneously to the nonlinear waveguide. The large amplitude bias signal with the input signal alters the speed of propagation of the small-amplitude signal with time in the nonlinear waveguide to expand or contract the initial time scale of the small-amplitude input signal.

Dynamic time expansion and compression using nonlinear waveguides

DOEpatents

Findikoglu, Alp T [Los Alamos, NM; Hahn, Sangkoo F [Los Alamos, NM; Jia, Quanxi [Los Alamos, NM

2004-06-22

Dynamic time expansion or compression of a small-amplitude input signal generated with an initial scale is performed using a nonlinear waveguide. A nonlinear waveguide having a variable refractive index is connected to a bias voltage source having a bias signal amplitude that is large relative to the input signal to vary the reflective index and concomitant speed of propagation of the nonlinear waveguide and an electrical circuit for applying the small-amplitude signal and the large amplitude bias signal simultaneously to the nonlinear waveguide. The large amplitude bias signal with the input signal alters the speed of propagation of the small-amplitude signal with time in the nonlinear waveguide to expand or contract the initial time scale of the small-amplitude input signal.

Optimization of refractive liquid crystal lenses using an efficient multigrid simulation.

PubMed

Milton, Harry; Brimicombe, Paul; Morgan, Philip; Gleeson, Helen; Clamp, John

2012-05-07

A multigrid computational model has been developed to assess the performance of refractive liquid crystal lenses, which is up to 40 times faster than previous techniques. Using this model, the optimum geometries producing an ideal parabolic voltage distribution were deduced for refractive liquid crystal lenses with diameters from 1 to 9 mm. The ratio of insulation thickness to lens diameter was determined to be 1:2 for small diameter lenses, tending to 1:3 for larger lenses. The model is used to propose a new method of lens operation with lower operating voltages needed to induce specific optical powers. The operating voltages are calculated for the induction of optical powers between + 1.00 D and + 3.00 D in a 3 mm diameter lens, with the speed of the simulation facilitating the optimization of the refractive index profile. We demonstrate that the relationship between additional applied voltage and optical power is approximately linear for optical powers under + 3.00 D. The versatility of the computational simulation has also been demonstrated by modeling of in-plane electrode liquid crystal devices.

Ion funnel device

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ibrahim, Yehia M.; Chen, Tsung-Chi; Harrer, Marques B.

2017-11-21

An ion funnel device is disclosed. A first pair of electrodes is positioned in a first direction. A second pair of electrodes is positioned in a second direction. The device includes an RF voltage source and a DC voltage source. A RF voltage with a superimposed DC voltage gradient is applied to the first pair of electrodes, and a DC voltage gradient is applied to the second pair of electrodes.

Electrically and magnetically dual-driven Janus particles for handwriting-enabled electronic paper

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Komazaki, Y., E-mail: komazaki@dt.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp; Hirama, H.; Torii, T.

In this work, we describe the synthesis of novel electrically and magnetically dual-driven Janus particles for a handwriting-enabled twisting ball display via the microfluidic technique. One hemisphere of the Janus particles contains a charge control agent, which allows the display color to be controlled by applying a voltage and superparamagnetic nanoparticles, allows handwriting by applying a magnetic field to the display. We fabricated a twisting ball display utilizing these Janus particles and tested the electric color control and handwriting using a magnet. As a result, the display was capable of permitting handwriting with a small magnet in addition to conventionalmore » color control using an applied voltage (80 V). Handwriting performance was improved by increasing the concentration of superparamagnetic nanoparticles and was determined to be possible even when 80 V was applied across the electrodes for 4 wt. % superparamagnetic nanoparticles in one hemisphere. This improvement was impossible when the concentration was reduced to 2 wt. % superparamagnetic nanoparticles. The technology presented in our work can be applied to low-cost, lightweight, highly visible, and energy-saving electronic message boards and large whiteboards because the large-size display can be fabricated easily due to its simple structure.« less

DC attenuation meter

DOEpatents

Hargrove, Douglas L.

2004-09-14

A portable, hand-held meter used to measure direct current (DC) attenuation in low impedance electrical signal cables and signal attenuators. A DC voltage is applied to the signal input of the cable and feedback to the control circuit through the signal cable and attenuators. The control circuit adjusts the applied voltage to the cable until the feedback voltage equals the reference voltage. The "units" of applied voltage required at the cable input is the system attenuation value of the cable and attenuators, which makes this meter unique. The meter may be used to calibrate data signal cables, attenuators, and cable-attenuator assemblies.

DC Motor control using motor-generator set with controlled generator field

DOEpatents

Belsterling, Charles A.; Stone, John

1982-01-01

A d.c. generator is connected in series opposed to the polarity of a d.c. power source supplying a d.c. drive motor. The generator is part of a motor-generator set, the motor of which is supplied from the power source connected to the motor. A generator field control means varies the field produced by at least one of the generator windings in order to change the effective voltage output. When the generator voltage is exactly equal to the d.c. voltage supply, no voltage is applied across the drive motor. As the field of the generator is reduced, the drive motor is supplied greater voltage until the full voltage of the d.c. power source is supplied when the generator has zero field applied. Additional voltage may be applied across the drive motor by reversing and increasing the reversed field on the generator. The drive motor may be reversed in direction from standstill by increasing the generator field so that a reverse voltage is applied across the d.c. motor.

Recent developments in VSD imaging of small neuronal networks

PubMed Central

Hill, Evan S.; Bruno, Angela M.

2014-01-01

Voltage-sensitive dye (VSD) imaging is a powerful technique that can provide, in single experiments, a large-scale view of network activity unobtainable with traditional sharp electrode recording methods. Here we review recent work using VSDs to study small networks and highlight several results from this approach. Topics covered include circuit mapping, network multifunctionality, the network basis of decision making, and the presence of variably participating neurons in networks. Analytical tools being developed and applied to large-scale VSD imaging data sets are discussed, and the future prospects for this exciting field are considered. PMID:25225295

Comparative study of 0° X-cut and Y + 36°-cut lithium niobate high-voltage sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, N.; Branch, D. W.; Schamiloglu, E.; Cular, S.

2015-08-01

A comparison study between Y + 36° and 0° X-cut lithium niobate (LiNbO3) was performed to evaluate the influence of crystal cut on the acoustic propagation to realize a piezoelectric high-voltage sensor. The acoustic time-of-flight for each crystal cut was measured when applying direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), and pulsed voltages. Results show that the voltage-induced shift in the acoustic wave propagation time scaled quadratically with voltage for DC and AC voltages applied to X-cut crystals. For the Y + 36° crystal, the voltage-induced shift scales linearly with DC voltages and quadratically with AC voltages. When applying 5 μs voltage pulses to both crystals, the voltage-induced shift scaled linearly with voltage. For the Y + 36° cut, the voltage-induced shift from applying DC voltages ranged from 10 to 54 ps and 35 to 778 ps for AC voltages at 640 V over the frequency range of 100 Hz-100 kHz. Using the same conditions as the Y + 36° cut, the 0° X-cut crystal sensed a shift of 10-273 ps for DC voltages and 189-813 ps for AC voltage application. For 5 μs voltage pulses, the 0° X-cut crystal sensed a voltage induced shift of 0.250-2 ns and the Y + 36°-cut crystal sensed a time shift of 0.115-1.6 ns. This suggests a frequency sensitive response to voltage where the influence of the crystal cut was not a significant contributor under DC, AC, or pulsed voltage conditions. The measured DC data were compared to a 1-D impedance matrix model where the predicted incremental length changed as a function of voltage. When the voltage source error was eliminated through physical modeling from the uncertainty budget, the combined uncertainty of the sensor (within a 95% confidence interval) decreased to 0.0033% using a Y + 36°-cut crystal and 0.0032% using an X-cut crystal for all the voltage conditions used in this experiment.

Comparative study of 0° X-cut and Y + 36°-cut lithium niobate high-voltage sensing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Patel, N.; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, MSC01 1100, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131-0001; Branch, D. W.

2015-08-15

A comparison study between Y + 36° and 0° X-cut lithium niobate (LiNbO{sub 3}) was performed to evaluate the influence of crystal cut on the acoustic propagation to realize a piezoelectric high-voltage sensor. The acoustic time-of-flight for each crystal cut was measured when applying direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), and pulsed voltages. Results show that the voltage-induced shift in the acoustic wave propagation time scaled quadratically with voltage for DC and AC voltages applied to X-cut crystals. For the Y + 36° crystal, the voltage-induced shift scales linearly with DC voltages and quadratically with AC voltages. When applying 5more » μs voltage pulses to both crystals, the voltage-induced shift scaled linearly with voltage. For the Y + 36° cut, the voltage-induced shift from applying DC voltages ranged from 10 to 54 ps and 35 to 778 ps for AC voltages at 640 V over the frequency range of 100 Hz–100 kHz. Using the same conditions as the Y + 36° cut, the 0° X-cut crystal sensed a shift of 10–273 ps for DC voltages and 189–813 ps for AC voltage application. For 5 μs voltage pulses, the 0° X-cut crystal sensed a voltage induced shift of 0.250–2 ns and the Y + 36°-cut crystal sensed a time shift of 0.115–1.6 ns. This suggests a frequency sensitive response to voltage where the influence of the crystal cut was not a significant contributor under DC, AC, or pulsed voltage conditions. The measured DC data were compared to a 1-D impedance matrix model where the predicted incremental length changed as a function of voltage. When the voltage source error was eliminated through physical modeling from the uncertainty budget, the combined uncertainty of the sensor (within a 95% confidence interval) decreased to 0.0033% using a Y + 36°-cut crystal and 0.0032% using an X-cut crystal for all the voltage conditions used in this experiment.« less

Comparative study of 0° X-cut and Y+36°-cut lithium niobate high-voltage sensing

DOE PAGES

Patel, N.; Branch, D. W.; Schamiloglu, E.; ...

2015-08-11

A comparison study between Y+36° and 0° X-cut lithium niobate (LiNbO 3) was performed to evaluate the influence of crystal cut on the acoustic propagation to realize a piezoelectric high-voltage sensor. The acoustic time-of-flight for each crystal cut was measured when applying direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), and pulsed voltages. Results show that the voltage-induced shift in the acoustic wave propagation time scaled quadratically with voltage for DC and AC voltages applied to X-cut crystals. For the Y+36° crystal, the voltage-induced shift scales linearly with DC voltages and quadratically with AC voltages. When applying 5 μs voltage pulses tomore » both crystals, the voltage-induced shift scaled linearly with voltage. For the Y+36° cut, the voltage-induced shift from applying DC voltages ranged from 10 to 54 ps and 35 to 778 ps for AC voltages at 640 V over the frequency range of 100 Hz–100 kHz. Using the same conditions as the Y+36° cut, the 0° X-cut crystal sensed a shift of 10–273 ps for DC voltages and 189–813 ps for AC voltage application. For 5 μs voltage pulses, the 0° X-cut crystal sensed a voltage induced shift of 0.250–2 ns and the Y+36°-cut crystal sensed a time shift of 0.115–1.6 ns. This suggests a frequency sensitive response to voltage where the influence of the crystal cut was not a significant contributor under DC, AC, or pulsed voltage conditions. The measured DC data were compared to a 1-D impedance matrix model where the predicted incremental length changed as a function of voltage. Furthermore, when the voltage source error was eliminated through physical modeling from the uncertainty budget, the combined uncertainty of the sensor (within a 95% confidence interval) decreased to 0.0033% using a Y + 36°-cut crystal and 0.0032% using an X-cut crystal for all the voltage conditions used in this experiment.« less

Differential comparator cirucit

DOEpatents

Hickling, Ronald M.

1996-01-01

A differential comparator circuit for an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) or other application includes a plurality of differential comparators and a plurality of offset voltage generators. Each comparator includes first and second differentially connected transistor pairs having equal and opposite voltage offsets. First and second offset control transistors are connected in series with the transistor pairs respectively. The offset voltage generators generate offset voltages corresponding to reference voltages which are compared with a differential input voltage by the comparators. Each offset voltage is applied to the offset control transistors of at least one comparator to set the overall voltage offset of the comparator to a value corresponding to the respective reference voltage. The number of offset voltage generators required in an ADC application can be reduced by a factor of approximately two by applying the offset voltage from each offset voltage generator to two comparators with opposite logical sense such that positive and negative offset voltages are produced by each offset voltage generator.

Performance and Reliability of Electrowetting-on-Dielectric (EWOD) Systems Based on Tantalum Oxide.

PubMed

Mibus, Marcel; Zangari, Giovanni

2017-12-06

The electrowetting-on-dielectric behavior of Cytop/Tantalum oxide (TaOx) bilayers is studied by measuring their response vs applied voltage and under prolonged periodic cycling, below and above the threshold voltage V T corresponding to the breakdown field for the oxide. TaOx exhibits symmetric solid state I-V characteristics, with electronic conduction dominated by Schottky, Poole-Frenkel emission; conduction is attributed to oxygen vacancies (6 × 10 16 cm -3 ), resulting in large currents at low bias. Electrolyte/Metal Oxide/Metal I-V characteristics show oxide degradation at (<5 V) cathodic bias; anodic bias in contrast results in stable characteristics until reaching the anodization voltage, where the oxide thickens, leading eventually to breakdown and oxygen production at the electrode. Electrowetting angle vs applied voltage undergoes three different stages: a parabolic variation of contact angle (CA) with applied voltage, CA saturation, and rebound of the CA to higher values due to degradation of the polymer layer. The contact angle remained stable for several hundred cycles if the applied voltage was less than V T ; degradation in contrast is fast when the voltage is above V T . Degradation of the electrowetting response with time is linked to charge accumulation in the polymer, which inhibits the rebound of the CA when voltage is being applied.

Fully depleted back illuminated CCD

DOEpatents

Holland, Stephen Edward

2001-01-01

A backside illuminated charge coupled device (CCD) is formed of a relatively thick high resistivity photon sensitive silicon substrate, with frontside electronic circuitry, and an optically transparent backside ohmic contact for applying a backside voltage which is at least sufficient to substantially fully deplete the substrate. A greater bias voltage which overdepletes the substrate may also be applied. One way of applying the bias voltage to the substrate is by physically connecting the voltage source to the ohmic contact. An alternate way of applying the bias voltage to the substrate is to physically connect the voltage source to the frontside of the substrate, at a point outside the depletion region. Thus both frontside and backside contacts can be used for backside biasing to fully deplete the substrate. Also, high resistivity gaps around the CCD channels and electrically floating channel stop regions can be provided in the CCD array around the CCD channels. The CCD array forms an imaging sensor useful in astronomy.

Local doping of two-dimensional materials

DOEpatents

Wong, Dillon; Velasco, Jr, Jairo; Ju, Long; Kahn, Salman; Lee, Juwon; Germany, Chad E.; Zettl, Alexander K.; Wang, Feng; Crommie, Michael F.

2016-09-20

This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus related to locally doping two-dimensional (2D) materials. In one aspect, an assembly including a substrate, a first insulator disposed on the substrate, a second insulator disposed on the first insulator, and a 2D material disposed on the second insulator is formed. A first voltage is applied between the 2D material and the substrate. With the first voltage applied between the 2D material and the substrate, a second voltage is applied between the 2D material and a probe positioned proximate the 2D material. The second voltage between the 2D material and the probe is removed. The first voltage between the 2D material and the substrate is removed. A portion of the 2D material proximate the probe when the second voltage was applied has a different electron density compared to a remainder of the 2D material.

Plasma treatment for producing electron emitters

DOEpatents

Coates, Don Mayo; Walter, Kevin Carl

2001-01-01

Plasma treatment for producing carbonaceous field emission electron emitters is disclosed. A plasma of ions is generated in a closed chamber and used to surround the exposed surface of a carbonaceous material. A voltage is applied to an electrode that is in contact with the carbonaceous material. This voltage has a negative potential relative to a second electrode in the chamber and serves to accelerate the ions toward the carbonaceous material and provide an ion energy sufficient to etch the exposed surface of the carbonaceous material but not sufficient to result in the implantation of the ions within the carbonaceous material. Preferably, the ions used are those of an inert gas or an inert gas with a small amount of added nitrogen.

MULTIPLIER CIRCUIT

DOEpatents

Thomas, R.E.

1959-01-20

An electronic circuit is presented for automatically computing the product of two selected variables by multiplying the voltage pulses proportional to the variables. The multiplier circuit has a plurality of parallel resistors of predetermined values connected through separate gate circults between a first input and the output terminal. One voltage pulse is applied to thc flrst input while the second voltage pulse is applied to control circuitry for the respective gate circuits. Thc magnitude of the second voltage pulse selects the resistors upon which the first voltage pulse is imprcssed, whereby the resultant output voltage is proportional to the product of the input voltage pulses

Multilevel DC link inverter

DOEpatents

Su, Gui-Jia

2003-06-10

A multilevel DC link inverter and method for improving torque response and current regulation in permanent magnet motors and switched reluctance motors having a low inductance includes a plurality of voltage controlled cells connected in series for applying a resulting dc voltage comprised of one or more incremental dc voltages. The cells are provided with switches for increasing the resulting applied dc voltage as speed and back EMF increase, while limiting the voltage that is applied to the commutation switches to perform PWM or dc voltage stepping functions, so as to limit current ripple in the stator windings below an acceptable level, typically 5%. Several embodiments are disclosed including inverters using IGBT's, inverters using thyristors. All of the inverters are operable in both motoring and regenerating modes.

Ph-Dependent Inhibition of Voltage-Gated H+ Currents in Rat Alveolar Epithelial Cells by Zn2+ and Other Divalent Cations

PubMed Central

Cherny, Vladimir V.; DeCoursey, Thomas E.

1999-01-01

Inhibition by polyvalent cations is a defining characteristic of voltage-gated proton channels. The mechanism of this inhibition was studied in rat alveolar epithelial cells using tight-seal voltage clamp techniques. Metal concentrations were corrected for measured binding to buffers. Externally applied ZnCl2 reduced the H+ current, shifted the voltage-activation curve toward positive potentials, and slowed the turn-on of H+ current upon depolarization more than could be accounted for by a simple voltage shift, with minimal effects on the closing rate. The effects of Zn2+ were inconsistent with classical voltage-dependent block in which Zn2+ binds within the membrane voltage field. Instead, Zn2+ binds to superficial sites on the channel and modulates gating. The effects of extracellular Zn2+ were strongly pHo dependent but were insensitive to pHi, suggesting that protons and Zn2+ compete for external sites on H+ channels. The apparent potency of Zn2+ in slowing activation was ∼10× greater at pHo 7 than at pHo 6, and ∼100× greater at pHo 6 than at pHo 5. The pHo dependence suggests that Zn2+, not ZnOH+, is the active species. Evidently, the Zn2+ receptor is formed by multiple groups, protonation of any of which inhibits Zn2+ binding. The external receptor bound H+ and Zn2+ with pK a 6.2–6.6 and pK M 6.5, as described by several models. Zn2+ effects on the proton chord conductance–voltage (g H–V) relationship indicated higher affinities, pK a 7 and pK M 8. CdCl2 had similar effects as ZnCl2 and competed with H+, but had lower affinity. Zn2+ applied internally via the pipette solution or to inside-out patches had comparatively small effects, but at high concentrations reduced H+ currents and slowed channel closing. Thus, external and internal zinc-binding sites are different. The external Zn2+ receptor may be the same modulatory protonation site(s) at which pHo regulates H+ channel gating. PMID:10578017

Control of aqueous droplets using magnetic and electrostatic forces.

PubMed

Ohashi, Tetsuo; Kuyama, Hiroki; Suzuki, Koichi; Nakamura, Shin

2008-04-07

Basic control operations were successfully performed on an aqueous droplet using both magnetic and electrostatic forces. In our droplet-based microfluidics, magnetic beads were incorporated in an aqueous droplet as a force mediator. This report describes droplet anchoring and separation of the beads from the droplet using a combination of magnetic and electrostatic forces. When an aqueous droplet is placed in an oil-filled reservoir, the droplet sinks to the bottom, under which an electrode had been placed. The droplet was adsorbed (or anchored) to the bottom surface on the electrode when a DC voltage was applied to the electrode. The magnetic beads were removed with magnetic force after the droplet had been anchored. Surfactant addition into droplet solution was very effective for the elimination of electric charge, which resulted in the stable adsorption of a droplet to hydrophobic substrate under an applied voltage of DC 0.5-3 kV. In a sequential process, small volume of aqueous liquid was successfully transferred using both magnetic and electrostatic forces.

Over atmospheric pressure flowing afterglow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganciu, Mihai; Orphal, Johannes; Vervloet, Michel; Pointu, Anne-Marie; Touzeau, Michel

2002-10-01

A Tabletop discharge * created above atmospheric pressure in a N2 gas flow, uses some 10 kV very fast high voltage pulses applied between needle electrodes with some 10 kHz repetition rate. It is followed by a post-discharge, in a plastic tube with 6-mm internal diameter. Adjusting the flow and the repetition rate, the post-discharge exhibits a surprisingly long size, 9-10 m, as shown by the tube fluorescence. Preliminary spectroscopic measurements demonstrate that fluorescence is due to internal gas excited molecules (CN and NH) that are locally created by active species interaction with organic impurities. The discharge emission spectrum evidences a high nitrogen atom production rate, much higher than attainable rate with a Dielectric Barrier Discharge with same applied voltage pulses. For small air quantities added in the post-discharge, spectrum exhibits rich UV range corresponding to NO excited states. Further studies will be devoted to the post-discharge kinetics and to possible applications to medical sterilization. *M. Ganciu, private communication

A 70 kV solid-state high voltage pulse generator based on saturable pulse transformer.

PubMed

Fan, Xuliang; Liu, Jinliang

2014-02-01

High voltage pulse generators are widely applied in many fields. In recent years, solid-state and operating at repetitive mode are the most important developing trends of high voltage pulse generators. A solid-state high voltage pulse generator based on saturable pulse transformer is proposed in this paper. The proposed generator is consisted of three parts. They are charging system, triggering system, and the major loop. Saturable pulse transformer is the key component of the whole generator, which acts as a step-up transformer and main switch during working process of this generator. The circuit and working principles of the proposed pulse generator are introduced first in this paper, and the saturable pulse transformer used in this generator is introduced in detail. Circuit of the major loop is simulated to verify the design of the system. Demonstration experiments are carried out, and the results show that when the primary energy storage capacitor is charged to a high voltage, such as 2.5 kV, a voltage with amplitude of 86 kV can be achieved on the secondary winding. The magnetic core of saturable pulse transformer is saturated deeply and the saturable inductance of the secondary windings is very small. The switch function of the saturable pulse transformer can be realized ideally. Therefore, a 71 kV output voltage pulse is formed on the load. Moreover, the magnetic core of the saturable pulse transformer can be reset automatically.

Synthesis of polymer nanostructures with conductance switching properties

DOEpatents

Su, Kai; Nuraje, Nurxat; Zhang, Lingzhi; Matsui, Hiroshi; Yang, Nan Loh

2015-03-03

The present invention is directed to crystalline organic polymer nanoparticles comprising a conductive organic polymer; wherein the crystalline organic polymer nanoparticles have a size of from 10 nm to 200 nm and exhibits two current-voltage states: (1) a high resistance current-voltage state, and (2) a low resistance current-voltage state, wherein when a first positive threshold voltage (V.sub.th1) or higher positive voltage, or a second negative threshold voltage (V.sub.th2) or higher negative voltage is applied to the nanoparticle, the nanoparticle exhibits the low-resistance current-voltage state, and when a voltage less positive than the first positive threshold voltage or a voltage less negative than the second negative threshold voltage is applied to the nanoparticle, the nanoparticle exhibits the high-resistance current-voltage state. The present invention is also directed methods of manufacturing the nanoparticles using novel interfacial oxidative polymerization techniques.

The sliding-helix voltage sensor

PubMed Central

Peyser, Alexander; Nonner, Wolfgang

2012-01-01

The voltage sensor (VS) domain of voltage-gated ion channels underlies electrical excitability of living cells. We simulate a mesoscale model of the VS domain to determine the functional consequences of some of its physical elements. Our mesoscale model is based on VS charges, linear dielectrics and whole-body motion, applied to an S4 ‘sliding helix’. The electrostatics under voltage-clamped boundary conditions are solved consistently using a boundary element method. Based on electrostatic configurational energy, statistical-mechanical expectations of the experimentally observable relation between displaced charge and membrane voltage are predicted. Consequences of the model are investigated for variations of: S4 configuration (α- and 310-helical), countercharge alignment with S4 charges, protein polarizability, geometry of the gating canal, screening of S4 charges by the baths, and fixed charges located at the bath interfaces. The sliding helix VS domain has an inherent electrostatic stability in the explored parameter space: countercharges present in the region of weak dielectric always retain an equivalent S4 charge in that region but allow sliding movements displacing 3 to 4 e0. That movement is sensitive to small energy variations (< 2kT) along the path dependent on a number of electrostatic parameters tested in our simulations. These simulations show how the slope of the relation between displaced charge and voltage could be tuned in a channel. PMID:22907204

Analytical modeling of trilayer graphene nanoribbon Schottky-barrier FET for high-speed switching applications.

PubMed

Rahmani, Meisam; Ahmadi, Mohammad Taghi; Abadi, Hediyeh Karimi Feiz; Saeidmanesh, Mehdi; Akbari, Elnaz; Ismail, Razali

2013-01-30

Recent development of trilayer graphene nanoribbon Schottky-barrier field-effect transistors (FETs) will be governed by transistor electrostatics and quantum effects that impose scaling limits like those of Si metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors. The current-voltage characteristic of a Schottky-barrier FET has been studied as a function of physical parameters such as effective mass, graphene nanoribbon length, gate insulator thickness, and electrical parameters such as Schottky barrier height and applied bias voltage. In this paper, the scaling behaviors of a Schottky-barrier FET using trilayer graphene nanoribbon are studied and analytically modeled. A novel analytical method is also presented for describing a switch in a Schottky-contact double-gate trilayer graphene nanoribbon FET. In the proposed model, different stacking arrangements of trilayer graphene nanoribbon are assumed as metal and semiconductor contacts to form a Schottky transistor. Based on this assumption, an analytical model and numerical solution of the junction current-voltage are presented in which the applied bias voltage and channel length dependence characteristics are highlighted. The model is then compared with other types of transistors. The developed model can assist in comprehending experiments involving graphene nanoribbon Schottky-barrier FETs. It is demonstrated that the proposed structure exhibits negligible short-channel effects, an improved on-current, realistic threshold voltage, and opposite subthreshold slope and meets the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors near-term guidelines. Finally, the results showed that there is a fast transient between on-off states. In other words, the suggested model can be used as a high-speed switch where the value of subthreshold slope is small and thus leads to less power consumption.

Optical fiber voltage sensor based on Michelsion interferometer using Fabry-Perot demodulation interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xinwei; He, Shengnan; Li, Dandan; Wang, Kai; Fan, Yan'en; Wu, Shuai

2014-11-01

We present an optical fiber voltage sensor by Michelsion interferometer (MI) employing a Fabry-Perot (F-P) interferometer and the DC phase tracking (DCPT) signal processing method. By mounting a MI fabricated by an optical fiber coupler on a piezoelectric (PZT) transducer bar, a dynamic strain would be generated to change the optical path difference (OPD) of the interferometer when the measured voltage was applied on the PZT. Applying an F-P interferometer to demodulate the optical intensity variation output of the MI, the voltage can be obtained. The experiment results show that the relationship between the optical intensity variation and the voltage applied on the PZT is approximately linear. Furthermore, the phase generate carrier (PGC) algorithm was applied to demodulate the output of the sensor also.

First test of a high voltage feedthrough for liquid Argon TPCs connected to a 300 kV power supply

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cantini, C.; Gendotti, A.; Molina Bueno, L.; Murphy, S.; Radics, B.; Regenfus, C.; Rigaut, Y.-A.; Rubbia, A.; Sergiampietri, F.; Viant, T.; Wu, S.

2017-03-01

Voltages above a hundred kilo-volt will be required to generate the drift field of future very large liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers. One of the most delicate component is the feedthrough whose role is to safely deliver the very high voltage to the cathode through the thick insulating walls of the cryostat without compromising the purity of the argon inside. This requires a feedthrough that is typically meters long and carefully designed to be vacuum tight and have small heat input. Furthermore, all materials should be carefully chosen to allow operation in cryogenic conditions. In addition, electric fields in liquid argon should be kept below a threshold to reduce risks of discharges. The combination of all above requirements represents significant challenges from the design and manufacturing perspective. In this paper, we report on the successful operation of a feedthrough satisfying all the above requirements. The details of the feedthrough design and its manufacturing steps are provided. Very high voltages up to unprecedented voltages of -300 kV could be applied during long periods repeatedly. A source of instability was observed, which was specific to the setup configuration which was used for the test and not due to the feedthrough itself.

Applicability of Generalized Peek's Law to Scaling of Corona Onset Voltages in Electropositive Gases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yan-Ming

2008-10-01

We have developed the steady state positive corona model with the ionization zone physics in the point-plane configuration. The geometry is axisymmetric, consisting of a pointed anode of small tip radius and a planar cathode. The model solves the Poisson equation, drift dominated electron and the positive ion transport equations with the nonlinear Townsend ionization source terms, to give the complete electric field, electron and positive ion density distributions. The corona plasma properties can be determined as function of discharge current, ranging from the pico-ampere up to a milli-ampere. The calculated voltage-current characteristics obeyed the Townsend equation, agreeing with the general experimental observations. The model is applied to different electropositive gases, argon, xenon, nitrogen and mercury. Corona onset potentials are determined based on the discharge voltages at very low currents. Extensive parametric study for argon positive corona with varying anode tip radius, gap distance and gas pressure has been completed. All the simulated corona onset voltages are very well described by the generalized Peek's Law [1]. At sufficiently high current in the range of 0.1 mA, discharge filament is formed near the anode tip. [1] Peek F. W., Dielectric Phenomena in High Voltage Engineering, McGraw Hill, New York (1929).

Low-voltage-operated organic one-time programmable memory using printed organic thin-film transistors and antifuse capacitors.

PubMed

Jung, Soon-Won; Na, Bock Soon; Park, Chan Woo; Koo, Jae Bon

2014-11-01

We demonstrate an organic one-time programmable memory cell formed entirely at plastic-compatible temperatures. All the processes are performed at below 130 degrees C. Our memory cell consists of a printed organic transistor and an organic capacitor. Inkjet-printed organic transistors are fabricated by using high-k polymer dielectric blends comprising poly(vinylidenefluoride-trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF-TrFE)] and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) for low-voltage operation. P(NDI2OD-T2) transistors have a high field-effect mobility of 0.2 cm2/Vs and a low operation gate voltage of less than 10 V. The operation voltage effectively decreases owing to the high permittivity of the P(VDF-TrFE):PMMA blended film. The data in the memory cell are programmed by electrically breaking the organic capacitor. The organic capacitor acts like an antifuse capacitor, because it is initially open, and it becomes permanently short-circuited by applying a high voltage. The organic memory cells are programmed with 4 V, and they are read out with 2 V. The memory data are read out by sensing the current in the memory cell. The printed organic one-time programmable memory is suitable for applications storing small amount of data, such as low-cost radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag.

Very Low Frequency Breakdown Properties of Electrical Insulation Materials at Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauers, I.; Tuncer, E.; Polizos, G.; James, D. R.; Ellis, A. R.; Pace, M. O.

2010-04-01

For long cables or equipment with large capacitance it is not always possible to conduct high voltage withstand tests at 60 Hz due to limitations in charging currents of the power supply. Very low frequency (typically at a frequency of 0.1 Hz) has been used for conventional cables as a way of getting around the charging current limitation. For superconducting grid applications the same issues apply. However there is very little data at cryogenic temperatures on how materials perform at low frequency compared to 60 Hz and whether higher voltages should be applied when performing a high voltage acceptability test. Various materials including G10 (fiberglass reinforced plastic or FRP), Cryoflex™ (a tape insulation used in some high temperature superconducting cables), kapton (commonly used polyimide), polycarbonate, and polyetherimide, and in liquid nitrogen alone have been tested using a step method for frequencies of 60 Hz, 0.1 Hz, and dc. The dwell time at each step was chosen so that the aging factor would be the same in both the 60 Hz and 0.1 Hz tests. The data indicated that, while there is a small frequency dependence for liquid nitrogen, there are significant differences for the solid materials studied. Breakdown data for these materials and for model cables will be shown and discussed.

Sustainable and efficient biohydrogen production via electrohydrogenesis.

PubMed

Cheng, Shaoan; Logan, Bruce E

2007-11-20

Hydrogen gas has tremendous potential as an environmentally acceptable energy carrier for vehicles, but most hydrogen is generated from nonrenewable fossil fuels such as natural gas. Here, we show that efficient and sustainable hydrogen production is possible from any type of biodegradable organic matter by electrohydrogenesis. In this process, protons and electrons released by exoelectrogenic bacteria in specially designed reactors (based on modifying microbial fuel cells) are catalyzed to form hydrogen gas through the addition of a small voltage to the circuit. By improving the materials and reactor architecture, hydrogen gas was produced at yields of 2.01-3.95 mol/mol (50-99% of the theoretical maximum) at applied voltages of 0.2 to 0.8 V using acetic acid, a typical dead-end product of glucose or cellulose fermentation. At an applied voltage of 0.6 V, the overall energy efficiency of the process was 288% based solely on electricity applied, and 82% when the heat of combustion of acetic acid was included in the energy balance, at a gas production rate of 1.1 m(3) of H(2) per cubic meter of reactor per day. Direct high-yield hydrogen gas production was further demonstrated by using glucose, several volatile acids (acetic, butyric, lactic, propionic, and valeric), and cellulose at maximum stoichiometric yields of 54-91% and overall energy efficiencies of 64-82%. This electrohydrogenic process thus provides a highly efficient route for producing hydrogen gas from renewable and carbon-neutral biomass resources.

Sustainable and efficient biohydrogen production via electrohydrogenesis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cheng, S.; Logan, B.E.

2007-11-20

Hydrogen gas has tremendous potential as an environmentally acceptable energy carrier for vehicles, but most hydrogen is generated from nonrenewable fossil fuels such as natural gas. Here, the authors show that efficient and sustainable hydrogen production is possible from any type of biodegradable organic matter by electrohydrogenesis. In this process, protons and electrons released by exoelectrogenic bateria in specially designed reactors (based on modifying microbial fuel cells) are catalyzed to form hydrogen gas through the addition of a small voltage to the circuit. By improving the materials and reactor architecture, hydrogen gas was produced at yields of 2.01-3.95 mol/mol (50-99%more » of the theoretical maximum) at applied voltages of 0.2 to 0.8 V using acetic acid, a typical dead-end product of glucose or cellulose fermentation. At an applied voltage of 0.6 V, the overall energy efficiency of the process was 288% based solely on electricity applied, and 82% when the heat of combusion of acetic acid was included in the energy balance, at a gas production rate of 1.1 m{sup 3} of H{sub 2} per cubic meter of reactor per day. Direct high-yield hydrogen gas production was further demonstrated by using glucose, several volatile acids (acetic, butyric, lactic, propionic, and valeric), and cellulose at maximum stoichiometric yields of 54-91% and overall energy efficiencies of 64-82%. This electrohydrogenic process thus provides a highly efficient route for producting hydrogen gas from renewable and carbon-neutral biomass resources.« less

Influence of contact force on voltage mapping: A combined magnetic resonance imaging and electroanatomic mapping study in patients with tetralogy of Fallot.

PubMed

Teijeira-Fernandez, Elvis; Cochet, Hubert; Bourier, Felix; Takigawa, Masateru; Cheniti, Ghassen; Thompson, Nathaniel; Frontera, Antonio; Camaioni, Claudia; Massouille, Gregoire; Jalal, Zakaria; Derval, Nicolas; Iriart, Xavier; Denis, Arnaud; Hocini, Meleze; Haissaguerre, Michel; Jais, Pierre; Thambo, Jean-Benoit; Sacher, Frederic

2018-03-20

Voltage criteria for ventricular mapping have been obtained from small series of patients and prioritizing high specificity. The purpose of this study was to analyse the potential influence of contact force (CF) on voltage mapping and to define voltage cutoff values for right ventricular (RV) scar using the tetralogy of Fallot as a model of transmural RV scar and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as reference. Fourteen patients (age 32.6 ± 14.3 years; 5 female) with repaired tetralogy of Fallot underwent high-resolution cardiac MRI (1.25 × 1.25 × 2.5 mm). Scar, defined as pixels with intensity >50% maximum, was mapped over the RV geometry and merged within the CARTO system to RV endocardial voltage maps acquired using a 3.5-mm ablation catheter with CF technology (SmartTouch, Biosense Webster). In total, 2446 points were analyzed, 915 within scars and 1531 in healthy tissue according to MRI. CF correlated to unipolar (ρ = 0.186; P <.001) and bipolar voltage in healthy tissue (ρ = 0.245; P <.001) and in scar tissue. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis excluding points with very low CF (<5g) identified optimal voltage cutoffs of 5.19 mV for unipolar voltage and 1.76 mV for bipolar voltage, yielding sensitivity/specificity of 0.89/0.85 and 0.9/0.9, respectively. CF is an important factor to be taken into account for voltage mapping. If good CF is applied, unipolar and bipolar voltage cutoffs of 5.19 mV and 1.76 mV are optimal for identifying RV scar on endocardial mapping with the SmartTouch catheter. Data on the diagnostic accuracy of different voltage cutoff values are provided. Copyright © 2018 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Improved performance of the microbial electrolysis desalination and chemical-production cell with enlarged anode and high applied voltages.

PubMed

Ye, Bo; Luo, Haiping; Lu, Yaobin; Liu, Guangli; Zhang, Renduo; Li, Xiao

2017-11-01

The aim of this study was to improve performance of the microbial electrolysis desalination and chemical-production cell (MEDCC) using enlarged anode and high applied voltages. MEDCCs with anode lengths of 9 and 48cm (i.e., the 9cm-anode MEDCC and 48cm-anode MEDCC, respectively) were tested under different voltages (1.2-3.0V). Our results demonstrated for the first time that the MEDCC could maintain high performance even under the applied voltage higher than that for water dissociation (i.e., 1.8V). Under the applied voltage of 2.5V, the maximum current density in the 48cm-anode MEDCC reached 32.8±2.6A/m 2 , which is one of the highest current densities reported so far in the bioelectrochemical system (BES). The relative abundance of Geobacter was changed along the anode length. Our results show the great potential of the BES with enlarged anode and high applied voltages. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An equivalent circuit for small atrial trabeculae of frog.

PubMed Central

Jakobsson, E; Barr, L; Connor, J A

1975-01-01

An equivalent electrical circuit has been constructed for small atrial trabecula of frog in a double sucrose gap voltage clamp apparatus. The basic strategy in constructing the circuit was to derive the distribution of membrane capacitance and extracellular resistance from the preparation's response to small voltage displacements near the resting condition, when the membrane conductance is presumably quite low. Then standard Hodgkin-Huxley channels were placed in parallel with the capacitance and the results of voltage clamp experiments were simulated. The results suggest that the membranes of the preparation cannot in fact be clamped near the control voltage nor can the ionic currents be measured directly with reasonable accuracy by axon standards. It may or may not be a realizable goal in the future to define the preparation's electrical behavior well enough to permit the ultimate quantitative description of the membrane's specific ion conductances. The result of this paper suggest that if this goal is achieved using the double sucrose gap voltage clamp, it will be by a detailed quantitative accounting for substantial irreducible errors in voltage control, rather than by experimental achievement of good voltage control. PMID:1203441

Nanocrystal powered nanomotor

DOEpatents

Regan, Brian C [Los Angeles, CA; Zettl, Alexander K [Kensington, CA; Aloni, Shaul [Albany, CA

2011-01-04

A nanoscale nanocrystal which may be used as a reciprocating motor is provided, comprising a substrate having an energy differential across it, e.g. an electrical connection to a voltage source at a proximal end; an atom reservoir on the substrate distal to the electrical connection; a nanoparticle ram on the substrate distal to the atom reservoir; a nanolever contacting the nanoparticle ram and having an electrical connection to a voltage source, whereby a voltage applied between the electrical connections on the substrate and the nanolever causes movement of atoms between the reservoir and the ram. Movement of the ram causes movement of the nanolever relative to the substrate. The substrate and nanolever preferably comprise multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) and the atom reservoir and nanoparticle ram are preferably metal (e.g. indium) deposited as small particles on the MWNTs. The substrate may comprise a silicon chip that has been fabricated to provide the necessary electrodes and other electromechanical structures, and further supports an atomic track, which may comprise an MWNT.

Simulation studies of vestibular macular afferent-discharge patterns using a new, quasi-3-D finite volume method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ross, M. D.; Linton, S. W.; Parnas, B. R.

2000-01-01

A quasi-three-dimensional finite-volume numerical simulator was developed to study passive voltage spread in vestibular macular afferents. The method, borrowed from computational fluid dynamics, discretizes events transpiring in small volumes over time. The afferent simulated had three calyces with processes. The number of processes and synapses, and direction and timing of synapse activation, were varied. Simultaneous synapse activation resulted in shortest latency, while directional activation (proximal to distal and distal to proximal) yielded most regular discharges. Color-coded visualizations showed that the simulator discretized events and demonstrated that discharge produced a distal spread of voltage from the spike initiator into the ending. The simulations indicate that directional input, morphology, and timing of synapse activation can affect discharge properties, as must also distal spread of voltage from the spike initiator. The finite volume method has generality and can be applied to more complex neurons to explore discrete synaptic effects in four dimensions.

Disintegration of rocks based on magnetically isolated high voltage discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Mengbing; Jiang, Jinbo; Huang, Guoliang; Liu, Jun; Li, Chengzu

2013-02-01

Recently, a method utilizing pulsed power technology for disintegration of rocks arouses great interest of many researchers. In this paper, an improved method based on magnetic switch and the results shown that the uniform dielectrics like plastic can be broken down in water is presented, and the feasible mechanism explaining the breakdown of solid is proposed and proved experimentally. A high voltage pulse of 120 kV, rise time 0.2 μs was used to ignite the discharging channel in solids. When the plasma channel is formed in the solid, the resistance of the channel is quiet small; even if a relatively low voltage is applied on the channel on this occasion, it will produce high current to heat the plasma channel rapidly, and eventually disintegrate the solids. The feasibility of promising industrial application in the drilling and demolition of natural and artificial solid materials by the method we presented is verified by the experiment result in the paper.

Disintegration of rocks based on magnetically isolated high voltage discharge.

PubMed

He, Mengbing; Jiang, Jinbo; Huang, Guoliang; Liu, Jun; Li, Chengzu

2013-02-01

Recently, a method utilizing pulsed power technology for disintegration of rocks arouses great interest of many researchers. In this paper, an improved method based on magnetic switch and the results shown that the uniform dielectrics like plastic can be broken down in water is presented, and the feasible mechanism explaining the breakdown of solid is proposed and proved experimentally. A high voltage pulse of 120 kV, rise time 0.2 μs was used to ignite the discharging channel in solids. When the plasma channel is formed in the solid, the resistance of the channel is quiet small; even if a relatively low voltage is applied on the channel on this occasion, it will produce high current to heat the plasma channel rapidly, and eventually disintegrate the solids. The feasibility of promising industrial application in the drilling and demolition of natural and artificial solid materials by the method we presented is verified by the experiment result in the paper.

The study of surface wetting, nanobubbles and boundary slip with an applied voltage: A review

PubMed Central

Pan, Yunlu; Zhao, Xuezeng

2014-01-01

Summary The drag of fluid flow at the solid–liquid interface in the micro/nanoscale is an important issue in micro/nanofluidic systems. Drag depends on the surface wetting, nanobubbles, surface charge and boundary slip. Some researchers have focused on the relationship between these interface properties. In this review, the influence of an applied voltage on the surface wettability, nanobubbles, surface charge density and slip length are discussed. The contact angle (CA) and contact angle hysteresis (CAH) of a droplet of deionized (DI) water on a hydrophobic polystyrene (PS) surface were measured with applied direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) voltages. The nanobubbles in DI water and three kinds of saline solution on a PS surface were imaged when a voltage was applied. The influence of the surface charge density on the nanobubbles was analyzed. Then the slip length and the electrostatic force on the probe were measured on an octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) surface with applied voltage. The influence of the surface charge on the boundary slip and drag of fluid flow has been discussed. Finally, the influence of the applied voltage on the surface wetting, nanobubbles, surface charge, boundary slip and the drag of liquid flow are summarized. With a smaller surface charge density which could be achieved by applying a voltage on the surface, larger and fewer nanobubbles, a larger slip length and a smaller drag of liquid flow could be found. PMID:25161839

The study of surface wetting, nanobubbles and boundary slip with an applied voltage: A review.

PubMed

Pan, Yunlu; Bhushan, Bharat; Zhao, Xuezeng

2014-01-01

The drag of fluid flow at the solid-liquid interface in the micro/nanoscale is an important issue in micro/nanofluidic systems. Drag depends on the surface wetting, nanobubbles, surface charge and boundary slip. Some researchers have focused on the relationship between these interface properties. In this review, the influence of an applied voltage on the surface wettability, nanobubbles, surface charge density and slip length are discussed. The contact angle (CA) and contact angle hysteresis (CAH) of a droplet of deionized (DI) water on a hydrophobic polystyrene (PS) surface were measured with applied direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) voltages. The nanobubbles in DI water and three kinds of saline solution on a PS surface were imaged when a voltage was applied. The influence of the surface charge density on the nanobubbles was analyzed. Then the slip length and the electrostatic force on the probe were measured on an octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) surface with applied voltage. The influence of the surface charge on the boundary slip and drag of fluid flow has been discussed. Finally, the influence of the applied voltage on the surface wetting, nanobubbles, surface charge, boundary slip and the drag of liquid flow are summarized. With a smaller surface charge density which could be achieved by applying a voltage on the surface, larger and fewer nanobubbles, a larger slip length and a smaller drag of liquid flow could be found.

Hybrid pulse anodization for the fabrication of porous anodic alumina films from commercial purity (99%) aluminum at room temperature.

PubMed

Chung, C K; Zhou, R X; Liu, T Y; Chang, W T

2009-02-04

Most porous anodic alumina (PAA) or anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) films are fabricated using the potentiostatic method from high-purity (99.999%) aluminum films at a low temperature of approximately 0-10 degrees C to avoid dissolution effects at room temperature (RT). In this study, we have demonstrated the fabrication of PAA film from commercial purity (99%) aluminum at RT using a hybrid pulse technique which combines pulse reverse and pulse voltages for the two-step anodization. The reaction mechanism is investigated by the real-time monitoring of current. A possible mechanism of hybrid pulse anodization is proposed for the formation of pronounced nanoporous film at RT. The structure and morphology of the anodic films were greatly influenced by the duration of anodization and the type of voltage. The best result was obtained by first applying pulse reverse voltage and then pulse voltage. The first pulse reverse anodization step was used to form new small cells and pre-texture concave aluminum as a self-assembled mask while the second pulse anodization step was for the resulting PAA film. The diameter of the nanopores in the arrays could reach 30-60 nm.

A novel technique to measure interface trap density in a GaAs MOS capacitor using time-varying magnetic fields

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Choudhury, Aditya N. Roy, E-mail: aditya@physics.iisc.ernet.in; Venkataraman, V.

Interface trap density (D{sub it}) in a GaAs metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitor can be measured electrically by measuring its impedance, i.e. by exciting it with a small signal voltage source and measuring the resulting current through the circuit. We propose a new method of measuring D{sub it} where the MOS capacitor is subjected to a (time-varying) magnetic field instead, which produces an effect equivalent to a (time-varying) voltage drop across the sample. This happens because the electron chemical potential of GaAs changes with a change in an externally applied magnetic field (unlike that of the gate metal); this is not themore » voltage induced by Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. So, by measuring the current through the MOS, D{sub it} can be found similarly. Energy band diagrams and equivalent circuits of a MOS capacitor are drawn in the presence of a magnetic field, and analyzed. The way in which a magnetic field affects a MOS structure is shown to be fundamentally different compared to an electrical voltage source.« less

Experimental investigations on characteristics of stable water electrospray in air without discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Inyong; Hong, Won Seok; Kim, Sang Bok; Kim, Sang Soo

2017-06-01

An experimental study was conducted to resolve previous conflicting results on water electrospray in air at atmospheric pressure. Using a small flow rate relative to that used in previous studies and a small nonmetallic nozzle, we observed stable electrospray of water in air without discharge and distinguished three distinct operating regimes for applied voltage and flow rate. The well-known cone-jet mode was observed and the general scaling law of the generated droplet size in the cone-jet mode was confirmed by direct visualization of the meniscus, jet, and generated droplets. We also observed and analyzed whipping motion in the electrified water jet.

Weld Development for Aluminum Fission Chamber

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cross, Carl Edward; Martinez, Jesse Norris

2017-05-16

The Sigma welding team was approached to help fabricate a small fission chamber (roughly ½ inch dia. x ½ inch tall cylinder). These chambers are used as radiation sensors that contain small traces of radionuclides (Cf 252, U 235, and U 238) that serve to ionize gas atoms in addition to external radiation. When a voltage is applied within the chamber, the resulting ion flow can be calibrated and monitored. Aluminum has the advantage of not forming radioactive compounds when exposed to high external radiation (except from minor Na alloy content). Since aluminum has not been used before in thismore » application, this presented an unexplored challenge.« less

Low-Voltage InGaZnO Thin Film Transistors with Small Sub-Threshold Swing.

PubMed

Cheng, C H; Chou, K I; Hsu, H H

2015-02-01

We demonstrate a low-voltage driven, indium-gallium-zinc oxide thin-film transistor using high-κ LaAlO3 gate dielectric. A low VT of 0.42 V, very small sub-threshold swing of 68 mV/dec, field-effect mobility of 4.1 cm2/Ns and low operation voltage of 1.4 V were reached simultaneously in LaAlO3/IGZO TFT device. This low-power and small SS TFT has the potential for fast switching speed and low power applications.

Low-temperature hydrogen absorption into V and Nb metals from liquid hydrogen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takata, H.; Ienaga, K.; Shiga, M.; Islam, Md S.; Inagaki, Y.; Tsujii, H.; Hashizume, K.; Kawae, T.

2018-03-01

We report experimental study on low-temperature hydrogen (H) absorption in vanadium (V) and niobium (Nb) nanocontacts below T = 20 K using a point-contact spectroscopy (PCS) technique. When a small bias voltage is applied between both sides of nanocontacts immersed in liquid H2, the differential conductance (dI/dV) and the second derivative (d2 I/dV 2) are changed from those for pure V and Nb nanocontacts. Further, the spectra approach to those for a high concentrated phase of H with increasing the bias voltage. The results indicate that in-situ investigation of H absorption process from liquid H2 is possible through dI/dV and d2 I/dV 2 measurements using the PCS technique.

Non-mean-field theory of anomalously large double layer capacitance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loth, M. S.; Skinner, Brian; Shklovskii, B. I.

2010-07-01

Mean-field theories claim that the capacitance of the double layer formed at a metal/ionic conductor interface cannot be larger than that of the Helmholtz capacitor, whose width is equal to the radius of an ion. However, in some experiments the apparent width of the double layer capacitor is substantially smaller. We propose an alternate non-mean-field theory of the ionic double layer to explain such large capacitance values. Our theory allows for the binding of discrete ions to their image charges in the metal, which results in the formation of interface dipoles. We focus primarily on the case where only small cations are mobile and other ions form an oppositely charged background. In this case, at small temperature and zero applied voltage dipoles form a correlated liquid on both contacts. We show that at small voltages the capacitance of the double layer is determined by the transfer of dipoles from one electrode to the other and is therefore limited only by the weak dipole-dipole repulsion between bound ions so that the capacitance is very large. At large voltages the depletion of bound ions from one of the capacitor electrodes triggers a collapse of the capacitance to the much smaller mean-field value, as seen in experimental data. We test our analytical predictions with a Monte Carlo simulation and find good agreement. We further argue that our “one-component plasma” model should work well for strongly asymmetric ion liquids. We believe that this work also suggests an improved theory of pseudocapacitance.

Synaptic transistor with a reversible and analog conductance modulation using a Pt/HfOx/n-IGZO memcapacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Paul; Kim, Hyung Jun; Zheng, Hong; Beom, Geon Won; Park, Jong-Sung; Kang, Chi Jung; Yoon, Tae-Sik

2017-06-01

A synaptic transistor emulating the biological synaptic motion is demonstrated using the memcapacitance characteristics in a Pt/HfOx/n-indium-gallium-zinc-oxide (IGZO) memcapacitor. First, the metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitor with Pt/HfOx/n-IGZO structure exhibits analog, polarity-dependent, and reversible memcapacitance in capacitance-voltage (C-V), capacitance-time (C-t), and voltage-pulse measurements. When a positive voltage is applied repeatedly to the Pt electrode, the accumulation capacitance increases gradually and sequentially. The depletion capacitance also increases consequently. The capacitances are restored by repeatedly applying a negative voltage, confirming the reversible memcapacitance. The analog and reversible memcapacitance emulates the potentiation and depression synaptic motions. The synaptic thin-film transistor (TFT) with this memcapacitor also shows the synaptic motion with gradually increasing drain current by repeatedly applying the positive gate and drain voltages and reversibly decreasing one by applying the negative voltages, representing synaptic weight modulation. The reversible and analog conductance change in the transistor at both the voltage sweep and pulse operations is obtained through the memcapacitance and threshold voltage shift at the same time. These results demonstrate the synaptic transistor operations with a MOS memcapacitor gate stack consisting of Pt/HfOx/n-IGZO.

Synaptic transistor with a reversible and analog conductance modulation using a Pt/HfOx/n-IGZO memcapacitor.

PubMed

Yang, Paul; Jun Kim, Hyung; Zheng, Hong; Won Beom, Geon; Park, Jong-Sung; Jung Kang, Chi; Yoon, Tae-Sik

2017-06-02

A synaptic transistor emulating the biological synaptic motion is demonstrated using the memcapacitance characteristics in a Pt/HfOx/n-indium-gallium-zinc-oxide (IGZO) memcapacitor. First, the metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitor with Pt/HfOx/n-IGZO structure exhibits analog, polarity-dependent, and reversible memcapacitance in capacitance-voltage (C-V), capacitance-time (C-t), and voltage-pulse measurements. When a positive voltage is applied repeatedly to the Pt electrode, the accumulation capacitance increases gradually and sequentially. The depletion capacitance also increases consequently. The capacitances are restored by repeatedly applying a negative voltage, confirming the reversible memcapacitance. The analog and reversible memcapacitance emulates the potentiation and depression synaptic motions. The synaptic thin-film transistor (TFT) with this memcapacitor also shows the synaptic motion with gradually increasing drain current by repeatedly applying the positive gate and drain voltages and reversibly decreasing one by applying the negative voltages, representing synaptic weight modulation. The reversible and analog conductance change in the transistor at both the voltage sweep and pulse operations is obtained through the memcapacitance and threshold voltage shift at the same time. These results demonstrate the synaptic transistor operations with a MOS memcapacitor gate stack consisting of Pt/HfOx/n-IGZO.

Effect of applied voltage on surface properties of anodised titanium in mixture of β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) and calcium acetate (CA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chuan, Lee Te; Rathi, Muhammad Fareez Mohamad; Abidin, Muhamad Yusuf Zainal; Abdullah, Hasan Zuhudi; Idris, Maizlinda Izwana

2015-07-01

Anodic oxidation is a surface modification method which combines electric field driven metal and oxygen ion diffusion for formation of oxide layer on the anode surface. This method has been widely used to modify the surface morphology of biomaterial especially titanium. This study aimed to investigate the effect of applied voltage on titanium. Specifically, the titanium foil was anodised in mixture of β-glycerophosphate disodium salt pentahydrate (β-GP) and calcium acetate monohydrate (CA) with different applied voltage (50-350 V), electrolyte concentration (0.04 M β-GP + 0.4 M CA), anodising time (10minutes) and current density (50 and 70 mA.cm-2) at room temperature. Surface oxide properties of anodised titanium were characterised by digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR camera), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). At lower applied voltage (≤150 V), surface of titanium foils were relatively smooth. With increasing applied voltage (≥250 V), the oxide layer became more porous and donut-shaped pores were formed on the surface of titanium foils. The AFM results indicated that the surface roughness of anodised titanium increases with increasing of applied voltage. The porous and rough surface is able to promote the osseointegration and reduce the suffering time of patient.

Voltage droop Coordinating Control applied in UPFC and STATCOM system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Junhui, Huang; Zhuyi, Peng; Chengjie, Ni; Yiqing, Xu; Jiliang, Xue

2018-04-01

When UPFC, unified power flow controller is applied with other FACTS into power grid, it is possible that the voltage controlled vibrates constantly to response to a sudden reactive power turbulent in grid if the parameters of these FACTS are not coordinating reasonably. Moreover, the reactive power generated by these equipment will intertwine unexpectedly. The article proposes a method named voltage-reactive power droop control to allow the reference voltage fluctuating around the rating voltage so that the vibration is reduced and the power distribution is improved. Finally, the article cite a electric-magnetic simulation by EMTDC models of east-China power grid to prove it effective when applied to improve the response characteristics to sudden turbulence in power grid.

Influence of the electrode gap separation on the pseudospark-sourced electron beam generation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhao, J., E-mail: junping.zhao@qq.com; State Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Power Equipment, West Xianning Road, Xi'an 710049; Department of Physics, SUPA, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G4 0NG Scotland

Pseudospark-sourced electron beam is a self-focused intense electron beam which can propagate without any external focusing magnetic field. This electron beam can drive a beam-wave interaction directly or after being post-accelerated. It is especially suitable for terahertz radiation generation due to the ability of a pseudospark discharge to produce small size in the micron range and very high current density and bright electron beams. In this paper, a single-gap pseudospark discharge chamber has been built and tested with several electrode gap separations to explore the dependence of the pseudospark-sourced electron beam current on the discharge voltage and the electrode gapmore » separation. Experimental results show that the beam pulses have similar pulse width and delay time from the distinct drop of the applied voltage for smaller electrode gap separations but longer delay time for the largest gap separation used in the experiment. It has been found that the electron beam only starts to occur when the charging voltage is above a certain value, which is defined as the starting voltage of the electron beam. The starting voltage is different for different electrode gap separations and decreases with increasing electrode gap separation in our pseudospark discharge configuration. The electron beam current increases with the increasing discharge voltage following two tendencies. Under the same discharge voltage, the configuration with the larger electrode gap separation will generate higher electron beam current. When the discharge voltage is higher than 10 kV, the beam current generated at the electrode gap separation of 17.0 mm, is much higher than that generated at smaller gap separations. The ionization of the neutral gas in the main gap is inferred to contribute more to the current increase with increasing electrode gap separation.« less

Free-Energy Calculations. A Mathematical Perspective

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pohorille, Andrzej

2015-01-01

Ion channels are pore-forming assemblies of transmembrane proteins that mediate and regulate ion transport through cell walls. They are ubiquitous to all life forms. In humans and other higher organisms they play the central role in conducting nerve impulses. They are also essential to cardiac processes, muscle contraction and epithelial transport. Ion channels from lower organisms can act as toxins or antimicrobial agents, and in a number of cases are involved in infectious diseases. Because of their important and diverse biological functions they are frequent targets of drug action. Also, simple natural or synthetic channels find numerous applications in biotechnology. For these reasons, studies of ion channels are at the forefront of biophysics, structural biology and cellular biology. In the last decade, the increased availability of X-ray structures has greatly advanced our understanding of ion channels. However, their mechanism of action remains elusive. This is because, in order to assist controlled ion transport, ion channels are dynamic by nature, but X-ray crystallography captures the channel in a single, sometimes non-native state. To explain how ion channels work, X-ray structures have to be supplemented with dynamic information. In principle, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations can aid in providing this information, as this is precisely what MD has been designed to do. However, MD simulations suffer from their own problems, such as inability to access sufficiently long time scales or limited accuracy of force fields. To assess the reliability of MD simulations it is only natural to turn to the main function of channels - conducting ions - and compare calculated ionic conductance with electrophysiological data, mainly single channel recordings, obtained under similar conditions. If this comparison is satisfactory it would greatly increase our confidence that both the structures and our computational methodologies are sufficiently accurate. Channel conductance, defined as the ratio of ionic current through the channel to applied voltage, can be calculated in MD simulations by way of applying an external electric field to the system and counting the number of ions that traverse the channel per unit time. If the current is small, a voltage significantly higher than the experimental one needs to be applied to collect sufficient statistics of ion crossing events. Then, the calculated conductance has to be extrapolated to the experimental voltage using procedures of unknown accuracy. Instead, we propose an alternative approach that applies if ion transport through channels can be described with sufficient accuracy by the one-dimensional diffusion equation in the potential given by the free energy profile and applied voltage. Then, it is possible to test the assumptions of the equation, recover the full voltage/current dependence, determine the reliability of the calculated conductance and reconstruct the underlying (equilibrium) free energy profile, all from MD simulations at a single voltage. We will present the underlying theory, model calculations that test this theory and simulations on ion conductance through a channel that has been extensively studied experimentally. To our knowledge this is the first case in which the complete, experimentally measured dependence of the current on applied voltage has been reconstructed from MD simulations.

Dynamics of ionization processes in high-pressure nitrogen, air, and SF{sub 6} during a subnanosecond breakdown initiated by runaway electrons

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tarasenko, V. F., E-mail: vft@loi.hcei.tsc.ru; Beloplotov, D. V.; Lomaev, M. I.

2015-10-15

The dynamics of ionization processes in high-pressure nitrogen, air, and SF{sub 6} during breakdown of a gap with a nonuniform distribution of the electric field by nanosecond high-voltage pulses was studied experimentally. Measurements of the amplitude and temporal characteristics of a diffuse discharge and its radiation with a subnanosecond time resolution have shown that, at any polarity of the electrode with a small curvature radius, breakdown of the gap occurs via two ionization waves, the first of which is initiated by runaway electrons. For a voltage pulse with an ∼500-ps front, UV radiation from different zones of a diffuse dischargemore » is measured with a subnanosecond time resolution. It is shown that the propagation velocity of the first ionization wave increases after its front has passed one-half of the gap, as well as when the pressure in the discharge chamber is reduced and/or when SF{sub 6} is replaced with air or nitrogen. It is found that, at nitrogen pressures of 0.4 and 0.7 MPa and the positive polarity of the high-voltage electrode with a small curvature radius, the ionization wave forms with a larger (∼30 ps) time delay with respect to applying the voltage pulse to the gap than at the negative polarity. The velocity of the second ionization wave propagating from the plane electrode is measured. In a discharge in nitrogen at a pressure of 0.7 MPa, this velocity is found to be ∼10 cm/ns. It is shown that, as the nitrogen pressure increases to 0.7 MPa, the propagation velocity of the front of the first ionization wave at the positive polarity of the electrode with a small curvature radius becomes lower than that at the negative polarity.« less

Mobile patient monitoring based on impedance-loaded SAW-sensors.

PubMed

Karilainen, Anna; Finnberg, Thomas; Uelzen, Thorsten; Dembowski, Klaus; Müller, Jörg

2004-11-01

A remotely requestable, passive, short-range sensor network for measuring small voltages is presented. The sensor system is able to simultaneously monitor six small voltages in millivolt-range, and it can be used for Holter-electrocardiogram (ECG) and other biopotential monitoring, or in industrial applications. The sensors are based on a surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay line with voltage-dependent, impedance loading on a reflector interdigital transducer (IDT). The load circuit impedance is varied by the capacitance of the voltage-controlled varactor. High resolution is achieved by developing a MOS-capacitor with a thin oxide, low flat-band voltage, and zero-voltage capacitance in the space-charge region, as well as a high-Q-microcoil by thick metal electroplating. Simultaneous monitoring of multiple potentials is realized by time-division-multiplexing of different sensor signals.

Current driven transition from Abrikosov-Josephson to Josephson-like vortex in mesoscopic lateral S/S’/S superconducting weak links

PubMed Central

Carapella, G.; Sabatino, P.; Barone, C.; Pagano, S.; Gombos, M.

2016-01-01

Vortices are topological defects accounting for many important effects in superconductivity, superfluidity, and magnetism. Here we address the stability of a small number of such excitations driven by strong external forces. We focus on Abrikosov-Josephson vortex that appears in lateral superconducting S/S’/S weak links with suppressed superconductivity in S’. In such a system the vortex is nucleated and confined in the narrow S’ region by means of a small magnetic field and moves under the effect of a force proportional to an applied electrical current with a velocity proportional to the measured voltage. Our numerical simulations show that when a slow moving Abrikosov-Josephson vortex is driven by a strong constant current it becomes unstable with respect to a faster moving excitation: the Josephon-like vortex. Such a current-driven transition explains the structured dissipative branches that we observe in the voltage-current curve of the weak link. When vortex matter is strongly confined phenomena as magnetoresistance oscillations and reentrance of superconductivity can possibly occur. We experimentally observe these phenomena in our weak links. PMID:27752137

An optical fiber Bragg grating and piezoelectric ceramic voltage sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Qing; He, Yanxiao; Sun, Shangpeng; Luo, Mandan; Han, Rui

2017-10-01

Voltage measurement is essential in many fields like power grids, telecommunications, metallurgy, railways, and oil production. A voltage-sensing unit, consisting of fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) and piezoelectric ceramics, based on which an optical over-voltage sensor was proposed and fabricated in this paper. No demodulation devices like spectrometer or Fabry-Perot filter were needed to gain the voltage signal, and a relatively large sensing frequency range was acquired in this paper; thus, the cost of the sensing system is more acceptable in engineering application. The voltage to be measured was directly applied to the piezoelectric ceramic, and deformation of the ceramics and the grating would be caused because of the inverse piezoelectric effect. With a reference grating, the output light intensity change will be caused by the FBG center wavelength change; thus, the relationship between the applied voltage and the output light intensity was established. Validation of the sensor was accomplished in the frequency range from 50 Hz to 20 kHz and switching impulse waves with a test platform; good linearity of the input-output characteristic was achieved. A temperature validation test was completed, showing that the sensor maintains good temperature stability. Experimental results show that the optical over-voltage sensor can be used for voltage monitoring, and if applied with a voltage divider, the sensor can be used to measure high voltage.

An optical fiber Bragg grating and piezoelectric ceramic voltage sensor.

PubMed

Yang, Qing; He, Yanxiao; Sun, Shangpeng; Luo, Mandan; Han, Rui

2017-10-01

Voltage measurement is essential in many fields like power grids, telecommunications, metallurgy, railways, and oil production. A voltage-sensing unit, consisting of fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) and piezoelectric ceramics, based on which an optical over-voltage sensor was proposed and fabricated in this paper. No demodulation devices like spectrometer or Fabry-Perot filter were needed to gain the voltage signal, and a relatively large sensing frequency range was acquired in this paper; thus, the cost of the sensing system is more acceptable in engineering application. The voltage to be measured was directly applied to the piezoelectric ceramic, and deformation of the ceramics and the grating would be caused because of the inverse piezoelectric effect. With a reference grating, the output light intensity change will be caused by the FBG center wavelength change; thus, the relationship between the applied voltage and the output light intensity was established. Validation of the sensor was accomplished in the frequency range from 50 Hz to 20 kHz and switching impulse waves with a test platform; good linearity of the input-output characteristic was achieved. A temperature validation test was completed, showing that the sensor maintains good temperature stability. Experimental results show that the optical over-voltage sensor can be used for voltage monitoring, and if applied with a voltage divider, the sensor can be used to measure high voltage.

A temperature monitor circuit with small voltage sensitivity using a topology-reconfigurable ring oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kishimoto, Tadashi; Ishihara, Tohru; Onodera, Hidetoshi

2018-04-01

In this paper, we propose a temperature monitor circuit that exhibits a small supply voltage sensitivity adopting a circuit topology of a reconfigurable ring oscillator. The circuit topology of the monitor is crafted such that the oscillation frequency is determined by the amount of subthreshold leakage current, which has an exponential dependence on temperature. Another important characteristic of the monitor is its small supply voltage sensitivity. The measured oscillation frequency of a test chip fabricated in a 65 nm CMOS process varies only 2.6% under a wide range of supply voltages from 0.4 to 1.0 V at room temperature. The temperature estimation error ranges from -0.3 to 0.4 °C over a temperature range of 10 to 100 °C.

Experimental characterization of a coaxial plasma accelerator for a colliding plasma experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiechula, J.; Hock, C.; Iberler, M.; Manegold, T.; Schönlein, A.; Jacoby, J.

2015-04-01

We report experimental results of a single coaxial plasma accelerator in preparation for a colliding plasma experiment. The utilized device consisted of a coaxial pair of electrodes, accelerating the plasma due to J ×B forces. A pulse forming network, composed of three capacitors connected in parallel, with a total capacitance of 27 μF was set up. A thyratron allowed to switch the maximum applied voltage of 9 kV. Under these conditions, the pulsed currents reached peak values of about 103 kA. The measurements were performed in a small vacuum chamber with a neutral-gas prefill at gas pressures between 10 Pa and 14 000 Pa. A gas mixture of ArH2 with 2.8% H2 served as the discharge medium. H2 was chosen in order to observe the broadening of the Hβ emission line and thus estimate the electron density. The electron density for a single plasma accelerator reached peak values on the order of 1016 cm-3 . Electrical parameters, inter alia inductance and resistance, were determined for the LCR circuit during the plasma acceleration as well as in a short circuit case. Depending on the applied voltage, the inductance and resistance reached values ranging from 194 nH to 216 nH and 13 mΩ to 23 mΩ, respectively. Furthermore, the plasma velocity was measured using a fast CCD camera. Plasma velocities of 2 km/s up to 17 km/s were observed, the magnitude being highly correlated with gas pressure and applied voltage.

The Electrolytic Effect on the Catalytic Degradation of Dye and Nitrate Ion by New Ceramic Beads of Natural Minerals and TiO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sata, Akiyoshi; Sakai, Takako; Goto, Yusuke; Ohta, Toshiyuki; Hayakawa, Katumitu

2007-05-01

We have developed a new hybrid ceramic material "Taiyo" as a water processing catalyst. The porous ceramic has a core-shell structure. It decolorized completely the dye solutions as well as the wastewater output after primary water processing by microorganism in a pig farm. This new material showed the acceleration of water purification by applying electric voltage. The degradation of dyes and pig urine output from the primary treatments was accelerated by applying voltage. Nitrate in underground water was also decomposed only by applying voltage, while it was not decomposed without voltage.

Stress-dependent voltage offsets from polymer insulators used in rock mechanics and material testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carlson, G. G.; Dahlgren, R.; Vanderbilt, V. C.; Johnston, M. J.; Dunson, C.; Gray, A.; Freund, F.

2013-12-01

Dielectric insulators are used in a variety of laboratory settings when performing experiments in rock mechanics, petrology, and electromagnetic studies of rocks in the fields of geophysics, material science, and civil engineering. These components may be used to electrically isolate geological samples from the experimental equipment, to perform a mechanical compliance function between brittle samples and the loading equipment, to match ultrasonic transducers, or perform other functions. In many experimental configurations the insulators bear the full brunt of force applied to the sample but do not need to withstand high voltages, therefore the insulators are often thin sheets of mechanically tough polymers. From an instrument perspective, transduction from various types of mechanical perturbation has been qualitatively compared for a number of polymers [1, 2] and these error sources are readily apparent during high-impedance measurements if not mitigated. However even when following best practices, a force-dependent voltage signal still remains and its behavior is explored in this presentation. In this experiment two thin sheets (0.25 mm) of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) were set up in a stack, held alternately between three aluminum bars; this stack was placed on the platen of a 60T capacity hydraulic testing machine. The surface area, A, over which the force is applied to the PE sheets in this sandwich is roughly 40 square cm, each sheet forming a parallel-plate capacitor having roughly 320 pF [3], assuming the relative dielectric permittivity of PE is ~2.3. The outer two aluminum bars were connected to the LO input of the electrometer and the central aluminum bar was connected to the HI input of a Keithley model 617 electrometer. Once the stack is mechanically well-seated with no air gaps, the voltage offset is observed to be a linear function of the baseline voltage for a given change in applied force. For a periodically applied force of 66.7 kN the voltage offsets were measured as a function of initial voltage, and these data were fit with a linear function that was constrained to pass through the origin. The best fit solution had a correlation coefficient of R = 0.85 and a slope of approximately -0.0228 volts/volt. The voltage offset when normalized is demonstrated to be constant -2.28 % for both positive and negative polarities over nearly 3 orders of baseline voltage magnitude. From this, the voltage-force coefficient is derived to be -0.34 ppm/N. This correlates well to a first-order parallel plate capacitor model that assumes constant area, and small deformation such that the polymer may be mechanically modeled by a spring that obeys Hooke's law. This simple model predicts that the coefficient of proportionality is a function of Young's modulus E = 0.8 GPa and surface area of the insulator, theoretically -1/EA = -0.31 ppm/N. The outcome of this work is an improved insulator made from ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene and other approaches toward the minimization of and compensation for these experimental artifacts. References: [1] Keithley Instruments, Low level measurements handbook, 'Choosing the best insulator,' 2-11 (2004). [2] Ibid., 2-26. [3] A. Skumiel, 'How to transform mechanical work into electrical energy using a capacitor,' European Journal of Physics 32, 625-630 (2011).

Ion manipulation device to prevent loss of ions

DOEpatents

Tolmachev, Aleksey; Smith, Richard D; Ibrahim, Yehia M; Anderson, Gordon A; Baker, Erin M

2015-03-03

An ion manipulation method and device to prevent loss of ions is disclosed. The device includes a pair of surfaces. An inner array of electrodes is coupled to the surfaces. A RF voltage and a DC voltage are alternately applied to the inner array of electrodes. The applied RF voltage is alternately positive and negative so that immediately adjacent or nearest neighbor RF applied electrodes are supplied with RF signals that are approximately 180 degrees out of phase.

Effect of applied voltage on surface properties of anodised titanium in mixture of β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) and calcium acetate (CA)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chuan, Lee Te, E-mail: gd130079@siswa.uthm.edu.my; Rathi, Muhammad Fareez Mohamad, E-mail: cd110238@siswa.uthm.edu.my; Abidin, Muhamad Yusuf Zainal, E-mail: cd110221@siswa.uthm.edu.my

Anodic oxidation is a surface modification method which combines electric field driven metal and oxygen ion diffusion for formation of oxide layer on the anode surface. This method has been widely used to modify the surface morphology of biomaterial especially titanium. This study aimed to investigate the effect of applied voltage on titanium. Specifically, the titanium foil was anodised in mixture of β-glycerophosphate disodium salt pentahydrate (β-GP) and calcium acetate monohydrate (CA) with different applied voltage (50-350 V), electrolyte concentration (0.04 M β-GP + 0.4 M CA), anodising time (10minutes) and current density (50 and 70 mA.cm{sup −2}) at room temperature. Surfacemore » oxide properties of anodised titanium were characterised by digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR camera), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). At lower applied voltage (≤150 V), surface of titanium foils were relatively smooth. With increasing applied voltage (≥250 V), the oxide layer became more porous and donut-shaped pores were formed on the surface of titanium foils. The AFM results indicated that the surface roughness of anodised titanium increases with increasing of applied voltage. The porous and rough surface is able to promote the osseointegration and reduce the suffering time of patient.« less

Generation of a pulsed low-energy electron beam using the channel spark device

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Elgarhy, M. A. I., E-mail: elgarhy@azhar.edu.eg; Hassaballa, S. E.; Rashed, U. M.

2015-12-15

For the generation of low-energy electron beam, the design and characteristics of channel spark discharge (CSD) operating at a low voltage are presented in this paper. The discharge voltage, discharge current, X-ray emissions, and electron beam current were experimentally determined. The effects of the applied voltage, working gas pressure, and external capacitance on the CSD and beam parameters were measured. At an applied voltage of 11 kV, an oxygen gas pressure of 25 mTorr, and an external capacitance of 16.45 nF, the maximum measured current was 900 A. The discharge current increased with the increase in the pressure and capacitance,more » while its periodic time decreased with the increase in the pressure. Two types of the discharge were identified and recorded: the hollow cathode discharge and the conduction discharge. A Faraday cup was used to measure the beam current. The maximum measured beam current was 120 A, and the beam signal exhibited two peaks. The increase in both the external capacitance and the applied discharge voltage increased the maximum electron beam current. The electron-beam pulse time decreased with the increase in the gas pressure at a constant voltage and increased with the decrease in the applied discharge voltage. At an applied voltage of 11 kV and an oxygen gas pressure of 15 mTorr, the maximum beam energy was 2.8 keV. The X-ray signal intensity decreased with the increase in the gas pressure and increased with the increase in the capacitance.« less

Ion transport and selectivity in biomimetic nanopores with pH-tunable zwitterionic polyelectrolyte brushes.

PubMed

Zeng, Zhenping; Yeh, Li-Hsien; Zhang, Mingkan; Qian, Shizhi

2015-10-28

Inspired by nature, functionalized nanopores with biomimetic structures have attracted growing interests in using them as novel platforms for applications of regulating ion and nanoparticle transport. To improve these emerging applications, we study theoretically for the first time the ion transport and selectivity in short nanopores functionalized with pH tunable, zwitterionic polyelectrolyte (PE) brushes. In addition to background salt ions, the study takes into account the presence of H(+) and OH(-) ions along with the chemistry reactions between functional groups on PE chains and protons. Due to ion concentration polarization, the charge density of PE layers is not homogeneously distributed and depends significantly on the background salt concentration, pH, grafting density of PE chains, and applied voltage bias, thereby resulting in many interesting and unexpected ion transport phenomena in the nanopore. For example, the ion selectivity of the biomimetic nanopore can be regulated from anion-selective (cation-selective) to cation-selective (anion-selective) by diminishing (raising) the solution pH when a sufficiently small grafting density of PE chains, large voltage bias, and low background salt concentration are applied.

Thermal and overcharge abuse analysis of a redox shuttle for overcharge protection of LiFePO4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lamb, Joshua; Orendorff, Christopher J.; Amine, Khalil; Krumdick, Gregory; Zhang, Zhengcheng; Zhang, Lu; Gozdz, Antoni S.

2014-02-01

This work investigated the performance and abuse tolerance of cells protected using the redox shuttle 1,4-bis(2-methoxyethoxy)-2,5-di-tert-butylbenzene. The thermal efficiencies were evaluated using isothermal battery calorimetry. Cells containing the overcharge shuttle were observed to reach a steady state value of approximately 3.8 V, with a small variance in direct proportion to the applied current. In all cases the heat output from the cells was measured to reach ∼90% of the total input power. The heat output was also measured using isothermal calorimetry. At higher rates of overcharge, the data shows that the cell containing the shuttle rapidly reaches a steady state voltage, while the temperature increases until a moderately high steady state temperature is reached. The control cell meanwhile rapidly increases in both applied voltage and cell temperature until cell failure. Two cells in series were taken deliberately out of balance individually, then charged as a single pack to observe the time needed to bring the cells into balance with one another.

Curved Piezoelectric Actuators for Stretching Optical Fibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allison, Sidney G.; Shams, Qamar A.; Fox, Robert L.

2008-01-01

Assemblies containing curved piezoceramic fiber composite actuators have been invented as means of stretching optical fibers by amounts that depend on applied drive voltages. Piezoceramic fiber composite actuators are conventionally manufactured as sheets or ribbons that are flat and flexible, but can be made curved to obtain load-carrying ability and displacement greater than those obtainable from the flat versions. In the primary embodiment of this invention, piezoceramic fibers are oriented parallel to the direction of longitudinal displacement of the actuators so that application of drive voltage causes the actuator to flatten, producing maximum motion. Actuator motion can be transmitted to the optical fiber by use of hinges and clamp blocks. In the original application of this invention, the optical fiber contains a Bragg grating and the purpose of the controlled stretching of the fiber is to tune the grating as part of a small, lightweight, mode-hop-free, rapidly tunable laser for demodulating strain in Bragg-grating strain-measurement optical fibers attached to structures. The invention could also be used to apply controllable tensile force or displacement to an object other than an optical fiber.

Synthesis and properties of hydroxyapatite-containing coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy by micro-arc oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Hui; Han, Yu; Wu, Tao; Tao, Wei; Jian, Xian; Wu, Yunfeng; Xu, Fangjun

2017-04-01

In this study, hydroxyapatite-containing coatings were prepared by microarc oxidation on AZ31 magnesium alloy surface to improve its biodegradation performance. Five applied voltages were chosen to prepare the MAO coatings. The results demonstrate that the number of micropores in the films increases but their dimensions decrease after higher voltage is applied. As the surface roughness of the MAO coatings increases with the applied voltage, the wettability of the coatings improves continuously. The MAO coatings were mainly composed of magnesium oxide (MgO) and hydroxyapatite. The amount of hydroxyapatite phase increased with increasing voltage that was applied. The bonding strength became slightly weaker after a higher voltage was applied. But the bonding strengths of all the coatings were consistently higher than 37 MPa, which met the requirement of implant biomaterials. All coatings exhibited higher corrosion resistances and lower hydrogen evolution rate than the bare AZ31 Mg substrate, implying that the degradation rate of the AZ31 Mg alloy was enhanced by the hydroxyapatite-containing coatings. The results indicate that the present treatment of applying hydroxyapatite-containing coatings is a promising technique for the degradable Mg-based biomaterials for orthopedic applications.

c-Axis oriented epitaxial Ba 0.25Sr 0.75TiO 3 films display Curie-Weiss behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boikov, Yu. A.; Claeson, T.

2002-02-01

Thin films of ferroelectrics have inferior dielectric properties, including microwave losses, compared to bulk material and generally do not display a proper Curie-Weiss behavior. This study shows that the film properties can be improved considerably, with a Curie-Weiss behavior, by choosing lattice matched electrodes and proper stoichiometry. A 700 nm thick Ba 0.25Sr 0.75TiO 3 layer was inserted, by laser ablation, between two epitaxial metallic oxide (200 nm) SrRuO 3 electrodes. Because of compressive stress in the plane of the substrate, the c-axis of the unit cell in the Ba 0.25Sr 0.75TiO 3 layer was normal to the substrate plane. Grains were of the order of 100-200 nm (with small misorientation angles in a× b plane) as determined by X-rays and AFM. The positions of pronounced maxima in the temperature dependence of the permittivity depended on external bias voltage applied between the SrRuO 3 electrodes to the dielectric film. The measured ε( T) curves agreed well with existing theoretical models at temperatures below and above the ferroelectric phase transition point. At T≈200 K, ε/ ε0 for the Ba 0.25Sr 0.75TiO 3 layer was suppressed up to 85% (from 4400 down to 560) when ±2.5 V bias voltage was applied to the metallic oxide electrodes. Well saturated polarization-vs.-voltage hysteresis loops were measured for the Ba 0.25Sr 0.75TiO 3 layer in the temperature interval 4.2-200 K. Because of depolarization effects, the polarization of the Ba 0.25Sr 0.75TiO 3 layer was suppressed at positive voltage applied between the electrodes, as compared with a negative one.

Concept Study of Multi Sensor Detection Imaging and Explosive Confirmation of Mines

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-03-20

surface feature removal can be achieved in LMR images. Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Solicitation Topic 97T006 Mufi -Sensor Detection...divided by the applied voltage. This is mathematically given by: 00 Y-I-G+jB = 1o+2E’. COS m4; m1l 1-1 = j120 72(+a) where G = the input conductance...of detector operation that are incorporated into a mathematical algorithm to convert detector impedance characteristics into recognizable indicators

An Analytical Model of Nanometer Scale Viscoelastic Properties of Polymer Surfaces Measured Using an Atomic Force Microscope

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-01

efficient partially buoyant cargo airlifters, fuel-efficient hybrid wing- body aircraft, and hyperprecision low-collateral damage munitions [17]. In order to...between the tip and the surface, or between the tip and the small layer of condensed water on the surface [78]. The third method is a continuum model...crystal near the ringing conditions. The second is by applying an alternating voltage to the piezo crystal in the z-direction. The third method is to

ELECTRONIC MULTIPLIER CIRCUIT

DOEpatents

Thomas, R.E.

1959-08-25

An electronic multiplier circuit is described in which an output voltage having an amplitude proportional to the product or quotient of the input signals is accomplished in a novel manner which facilitates simplicity of circuit construction and a high degree of accuracy in accomplishing the multiplying and dividing function. The circuit broadly comprises a multiplier tube in which the plate current is proportional to the voltage applied to a first control grid multiplied by the difference between voltage applied to a second control grid and the voltage applied to the first control grid. Means are provided to apply a first signal to be multiplied to the first control grid together with means for applying the sum of the first signal to be multiplied and a second signal to be multiplied to the second control grid whereby the plate current of the multiplier tube is proportional to the product of the first and second signals to be multiplied.

Effect of a longitudinally applied voltage upon the growth of Zea mays seedlings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Desrosiers, M. F.; Bandurski, R. S.

1988-01-01

The electrical parameters that affect young seedling growth were investigated. Voltages ranging from 5 to 40 volts were applied longitudinally along the mesocotyl region of 4-day old Zea mays L. (cv Silver Queen) seedlings for periods of 3 or 4 hours. It was determined that: (a) making the tips of the seedlings electrically positive relative to the base strongly inhibited shoot growth at 5 volts, whereas the reverse polarity had no effect; (b) at higher voltages, making the tip of the seedlings negative caused less growth inhibition than the reverse polarity at each voltage level; (c) the higher the applied voltage the greater the degree of inhibition; and, (d) the more growth inhibition experienced by the plants the poorer, and slower, their recovery. Previous observations of a relationship between the amount of free indole-3-acetic acid in the mesocotyl cortex and the growth rate of the mesocotyl and of gravitropism-induced movement of labeled indole-3-acetic acid from the seed to the shoot lead to the prediction of a voltage-dependent gating of the movement of indole-3-acetic acid from the stele to the cortex. This provided the basis for attempting to alter the growth rate of seedlings by means of an applied voltage.

Effect of a longitudinally applied voltage upon the growth of Zea mays seedlings.

PubMed

Desrosiers, M F; Bandurski, R S

1988-01-01

The electrical parameters that affect young seedling growth were investigated. Voltages ranging from 5 to 40 volts were applied longitudinally along the mesocotyl region of 4-day old Zea mays L. (cv Silver Queen) seedlings for periods of 3 or 4 hours. It was determined that: (a) making the tips of the seedlings electrically positive relative to the base strongly inhibited shoot growth at 5 volts, whereas the reverse polarity had no effect; (b) at higher voltages, making the tip of the seedlings negative caused less growth inhibition than the reverse polarity at each voltage level; (c) the higher the applied voltage the greater the degree of inhibition; and, (d) the more growth inhibition experienced by the plants the poorer, and slower, their recovery. Previous observations of a relationship between the amount of free indole-3-acetic acid in the mesocotyl cortex and the growth rate of the mesocotyl and of gravitropism-induced movement of labeled indole-3-acetic acid from the seed to the shoot lead to the prediction of a voltage-dependent gating of the movement of indole-3-acetic acid from the stele to the cortex. This provided the basis for attempting to alter the growth rate of seedlings by means of an applied voltage.

Effect of a Longitudinally Applied Voltage Upon the Growth of Zea mays Seedlings 1

PubMed Central

Desrosiers, Mark F.; Bandurski, Robert S.

1988-01-01

The electrical parameters that affect young seedling growth were investigated. Voltages ranging from 5 to 40 volts were applied longitudinally along the mesocotyl region of 4-day old Zea mays L. (cv Silver Queen) seedlings for periods of 3 or 4 hours. It was determined that: (a) making the tips of the seedlings electrically positive relative to the base strongly inhibited shoot growth at 5 volts, whereas the reverse polarity had no effect; (b) at higher voltages, making the tip of the seedlings negative caused less growth inhibition than the reverse polarity at each voltage level; (c) the higher the applied voltage the greater the degree of inhibition; and, (d) the more growth inhibition experienced by the plants the poorer, and slower, their recovery. Previous observations of a relationship between the amount of free indole-3-acetic acid in the mesocotyl cortex and the growth rate of the mesocotyl and of gravitropism-induced movement of labeled indole-3-acetic acid from the seed to the shoot lead to the prediction of a voltage-dependent gating of the movement of indole-3-acetic acid from the stele to the cortex. This provided the basis for attempting to alter the growth rate of seedlings by means of an applied voltage. Images Fig. 1 PMID:11537877

Effect of voltage waveform on dielectric barrier discharge ozone production efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mericam-Bourdet, N.; Kirkpatrick, M. J.; Tuvache, F.; Frochot, D.; Odic, E.

2012-03-01

Dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) are commonly used for gas effluent cleanup and ozone generation. For these applications, the energy efficiency of the discharge is a major concern. This paper reports on investigations carried out on the voltage shape applied to DBD reactor electrodes, aiming to evaluate a possible energy efficiency improvement for ozone production. Two DBD reactor geometries were used: pin-to-pin and cylinder-to-cylinder, both driven either by a bi-directional power supply (voltage rise rate 1 kV/μs) or by a pulsed power supply (voltage rise rate 1 kV/ns). Ozone formed in dry air was measured at the reactor outlet. Special attention was paid to discharge input power evaluation using different methods including instantaneous current-voltage product and transferred charge-applied voltage figures. The charge transferred by the discharges was also correlated to the ozone production. It is shown that, in the case of the DBD reactors under investigation, the applied voltage shape has no influence on the ozone production efficiency. For the considered voltage rise rate, the charge deposit on the dielectric inserted inside the discharge gap is the important factor (as opposed to the voltage shape) governing the efficiency of the discharge - it does this by tailoring the duration of the current peak into the tens of nanosecond range.

The effect of surface conditions on the work function of insulators and semiconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

George, A.

1973-01-01

Ionization energies of organic semiconductors were determined using single crystals of the material. The theory of the method is essentially that of Millikan's oil drop experiment. The technique employed in the experiment is based on the electrostatic method of balancing a charged particle in an electric field against the force of gravity for different excitation energies above the threshold value, and from an estimate of the balancing voltages, read off the ionization energy from the intercept of the energy axis in a plot wavelength corresponding to the balancing potential for the incident radiation of wavelength. In the modified technique which is adopted in the present experimental investigation, a small single crystal is suspended by a fine quartz fiber between two vertical capacitor plates to which a suitable high voltage is applied.

Quantum resonances in a single plaquette of Josephson junctions: excitations of Rabi oscillations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fistul, M. V.

2002-03-01

We present a theoretical study of a quantum regime of the resistive (whirling) state of dc driven anisotropic single plaquette containing small Josephson junctions. The current-voltage characteristics of such systems display resonant steps that are due to the resonant interaction between the time dependent Josephson current and the excited electromagnetic oscillations (EOs). The voltage positions of the resonances are determined by the quantum interband transitions of EOs. We show that in the quantum regime as the system is driven on the resonance, coherent Rabi oscillations between the quantum levels of EOs occur. At variance with the classical regime the magnitude and the width of resonances are determined by the frequency of Rabi oscillations that in turn, depends in a peculiar manner on an externally applied magnetic field and the parameters of the system.

Low-chirp high-extinction-ratio modulator based on graphene-silicon waveguide.

PubMed

Yang, Longzhi; Hu, Ting; Hao, Ran; Qiu, Chen; Xu, Chao; Yu, Hui; Xu, Yang; Jiang, Xiaoqing; Li, Yubo; Yang, Jianyi

2013-07-15

We present a hybrid graphene-silicon waveguide, which consists of a lateral slot waveguide with three layers of graphene flakes inside. Through a theoretical analysis, an effective index variation for about 0.05 is found in the waveguide by applying a voltage on the graphene. We designed a Mach-Zehnder modulator based on this waveguide and demonstrated it can process signals nearly chirp-free. The calculation shows that the driving voltage is only 1 V even if the length of the arm is shortened to be 43.54 μm. An extinction up to 34.7 dB and a minimum chirp parameter of -0.006 are obtained. Its insertion loss is roughly -1.37 dB. This modulator consumes low power and has a small footprint. It can potentially be ultrafast as well as CMOS compatible.

Investigation of high-voltage pulse trigger generator based on photo-conductive semiconductor switch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chu, Xu; Liu, Jin-Liang; Wang, Lang-Ning; Qiu, Yong-Feng

2018-06-01

The trigger to generate high-voltage pulse is one of the most important parts in a pulsed-power system, especially for the conduction characteristics of the main switch. However, traditional triggers usually have the drawbacks of large structure and worse long-term working stability, which goes against the demands of pulsed-power system miniaturization and stability. In the paper, a pulse trigger using photo-conductive semiconductor switch was developed, which is of small size, stable performance and steep leading edge of the output pulse rise. It is found that the output trigger pulse rise time is 14 ns, and the jitter of 20 shots is 330 ps. Applying the designed pulsed trigger in a field distortion switch and a triggered vacuum switch, experiments show that the switches could be triggered stably with reduced jitter.

A theory of single-electron non-adiabatic tunneling through a small metal nanoparticle with due account of the strong interaction of valence electrons with phonons of the condensed matter environment.

PubMed

Medvedev, Igor G

2011-11-07

A theory of electrochemical behavior of small metal nanoparticles (NPs) which is governed both by the charging effect and the effect of the solvent reorganization on the dynamic of the electron transfer (ET) is considered under ambient conditions. The exact expression for the rate constant of ET from an electrode to NP which is valid for all values of the reorganization free energy E(r), bias voltage, and overpotential is obtained in the non-adiabatic limit. The tunnel current/overpotential relations are studied and calculated for different values of the bias voltage and E(r). The effect of E(r) on the full width at half maximum of the charging peaks is investigated at different values of the bias voltage. The differential conductance/bias voltage and the tunnel current/bias voltage dependencies are also studied and calculated. It is shown that, at room temperature, the pronounced Coulomb blockade oscillations in the differential conductance/bias voltage curves and the noticeable Coulomb staircase in the tunnel current/bias voltage relations are observed only at rather small values of E(r) in the case of the strongly asymmetric tunneling contacts.

High performance low voltage organic field effect transistors on plastic substrate for amplifier circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Houin, G.; Duez, F.; Garcia, L.; Cantatore, E.; Torricelli, F.; Hirsch, L.; Belot, D.; Pellet, C.; Abbas, M.

2016-09-01

The high performance air stable organic semiconductor small molecule dinaphtho[2,3-b:2',3'-f]thieno[3,2-b]thiophene (DNTT) was chosen as active layer for field effect transistors built to realize flexible amplifier circuits. Initial device on rigid Si/SiO2 substrate showed appreciable performance with hysteresis-free characteristics. A number of approaches were applied to simplify the process, improve device performance and decrease the operating voltage: they include an oxide interfacial layer to decrease contact resistance; a polymer passivation layer to optimize semiconductor/dielectric interface and an anodized high-k oxide as dielectric layer for low voltage operation. The devices fabricated on plastic substrate yielded excellent electrical characteristics, showing mobility of 1.6 cm2/Vs, lack of hysteresis, operation below 5 V and on/off current ratio above 105. An OFET model based on variable ranging hopping theory was used to extract the relevant parameters from the transfer and output characteristics, which enabled us to simulate our devices achieving reasonable agreement with the measurements

The Breakdown Characteristics of the Silicone Oil for Electric Power Apparatus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshida, Hisashi; Yanabu, Satoru

The basic breakdown characteristics of the silicone oil as an insulating medium was studied with aim of realization of electric power apparatus which may be considered to be SF6 free and flame-retarding. As the first step, the impulse breakdown characteristics was measured with three kinds of electrodes whose electric field distributions differed. The breakdown characteristics in silicone oil was explained in relation to stressed oil volume (SOV) and the breakdown stress. At the second step the surface breakdown characteristic for impulse voltage was measured with two kinds of insulators which was set to between plane electrodes. The surface breakdown characteristic for impulse voltage was explained in relation to the ratio of the relative permittivity of oil and insulator. And on the third step, the breakdown characteristics of oil gap after interrupting small capacitive current was studied. In this experiment, the disconnecting switch to interrupt capacitive current was simulated by oil gap after interrupting impulse current, and to measure breakdown characteristics the high impulse voltage was subsequently applied. The breakdown stress in silicone oil after application of impulse current was discussed for insulation recovery characteristics.

Modeling of surface flashover on spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kushner, Mark J.

1991-01-01

A model for predicting the onset of surface flashover discharges (SFDs) in the context of high voltage pulse power modulators was developed and used to investigate mechanisms leading to the onset of SFDs. We demonstrated that it is possible to analyze surface discharges in a manner similar to gas phase discharges using transport coefficients such as the first Townsend coefficient. Our parameterization of various methods to prevent, or at least delay, the onset of SFDs was not particularly successful in that many of the strategies that we investigated do not yield significantly improved performance. The only safe strategy to reduce the occurrence of SFDs is to prevent the dielectric from being charged in the first place. This leads one to consider passive or active schemes which employ the low pressure of attaching gases which flood the surface prior or coincident to pulsing the high voltage apparatus. Our calculations indicate that only small amounts gas (10s Torr effective pressure at substrate) would be sufficient for many of the anticipated applications. If the surface is flooded only when high voltage is applied across the dielectric, the gas consumption would be nominal.

The effect of voltage waveform and tube diameter on transporting cold plasma strings through a flexible dielectric tube

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sohbatzadeh, Farshad, E-mail: f.sohbat@umz.ac.ir; Nano and Biotechnology Research Group, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar 47416-95447, Mazandaran; Omran, Azadeh Valinataj

2014-11-15

In this work, we developed transporting atmospheric pressure cold plasma using single electrode configuration through a sub-millimetre flexible dielectric tube beyond 100 cm. It was shown that the waveform of the applied high voltage is essential for controlling upstream and downstream plasma inside the tube. In this regard, sawtooth waveform enabled the transport of plasma with less applied high voltage compared to sinusoidal and pulsed form voltages. A cold plasma string as long as 130 cm was obtained by only 4 kV peak-to-peak sawtooth high voltage waveform. Optical emission spectroscopy revealed that reactive chemical species, such as atomic oxygen and hydroxyl, are generatedmore » at the tube exit. The effect of tube diameter on the transported plasma was also examined: the smaller the diameter, the higher the applied voltage. The device is likely to be used for sterilization, decontamination, and therapeutic endoscopy as already suggested by other groups in recent past years.« less

DLC Film Formation Technologies by Applying Pulse Voltage Coupled with RF Voltage to Complicated 3-dimensional Substrates and Industrial Application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Yasuo

A uniform plasma-based ion implantation and DLC film formation technologies on the surface of complicated 3-dimensional substrates have been developed by applying pulse voltage coupled with RF voltage to the substrates such as plastics, rubber as well as metals with the similar deposition rate. These technologies are widely applicable to both ion implantation and DLC film formation onto the automobile parts, mechanical parts and metal molds. A problem to be solved is reducing cost. The deposition rate of DLC films is expected to increase to around 10μm/hr, which is ten times larger than that of the conventional method, by hybridizing the ICP (Induction Coupling Plasma) with a plus-minus voltage source. This epoch-making technology will be able to substitute for the electro-plating method in the near future. In this paper, the DLC film formation technology by applying both RF and pulse voltage, its applications and its prospect are presented.

Forecasting of high voltage insulation performance: Testing of recommended potting materials and of capacitors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bever, R. S.

1984-01-01

Nondestructive high voltage test techniques (mostly electrical methods) are studied to prevent total or catastrophic breakdown of insulation systems under applied high voltage in space. Emphasis is on the phenomenon of partial breakdown or partial discharge (P.D.) as a symptom of insulation quality, notably partial discharge testing under D.C. applied voltage. Many of the electronic parts and high voltage instruments in space experience D.C. applied stress in service, and application of A.C. voltage to any portion thereof would be prohibited. Suggestions include: investigation of the ramp test method for D.C. partial discharge measurements; testing of actual flight-type insulation specimen; perfect plotting resin samples with controlled defects for test; several types of plotting resins and recommendations of the better ones from the electrical characteristics; thermal and elastic properties are also considered; testing of commercial capaciters; and approximate acceptance/rejection/rerating criteria for sample test elements for space use, based on D.C. partial discharge.

The contactless detection of local normal transitions in superconducting coils by using Poynting’s vector method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Habu, K.; Kaminohara, S.; Kimoto, T.; Kawagoe, A.; Sumiyoshi, F.; Okamoto, H.

2010-11-01

We have developed a new monitoring system to detect an unusual event in the superconducting coils without direct contact on the coils, using Poynting's vector method. In this system, the potential leads and pickup coils are set around the superconducting coils to measure local electric and magnetic fields, respectively. By measuring the sets of magnetic and electric fields, the Poynting's vectors around the coil can be obtained. An unusual event in the coil can be detected as the result of the change of the Poynting's vector. This system has no risk of the voltage breakdown which may happen with the balance voltage method, because there is no need of direct contacts on the coil windings. In a previous paper, we have demonstrated that our system can detect the normal transitions in the Bi-2223 coil without direct contact on the coil windings by using a small test system. For our system to be applied to practical devices, it is necessary for the early detection of an unusual event in the coils to be able to detect local normal transitions in the coils. The signal voltages of the small sensors to measure local magnetic and electric fields are small. Although the increase in signals of the pickup coils is attained easily by an increase in the number of turns of the pickup coils, an increase in the signals of the potential lead is not easily attained. In this paper, a new method to amplify the signal of local electric fields around the coil is proposed. The validity of the method has been confirmed by measuring local electric fields around the Bi-2223 coil.

Voltage Sensors Monitor Harmful Static

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2009-01-01

A tiny sensor, small enough to be worn on clothing, now monitors voltage changes near sensitive instruments after being created to alert Agency workers to dangerous static buildup near fuel operations and avionics. San Diego s Quasar Federal Systems received a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from Kennedy Space Center to develop its remote voltage sensor (RVS), a dime-sized electrometer designed to measure triboelectric changes in the environment. One of the unique qualities of the RVS is that it can detect static at greater distances than previous devices, measuring voltage changes from a few centimeters to a few meters away, due to its much-improved sensitivity.

Effect of secondary electron emission on subnanosecond breakdown in high-voltage pulse discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schweigert, I. V.; Alexandrov, A. L.; Gugin, P.; Lavrukhin, M.; Bokhan, P. A.; Zakrevsky, Dm E.

2017-11-01

The subnanosecond breakdown in open discharge may be applied for producing superfast high power switches. Such fast breakdown in high-voltage pulse discharge in helium was explored both in experiment and in kinetic simulations. The kinetic model of electron avalanche development was developed using PIC-MCC technique. The model simulates motion of electrons, ions and fast helium atoms, appearing due to ions scattering. It was shown that the mechanism responsible for ultra-fast breakdown development is the electron emission from cathode. The photoemission and emission by ions or fast atoms impact is the main reason of current growth at the early stage of breakdown, but at the final stage, when the voltage on discharge gap drops, the secondary electron emission (SEE) is responsible for subnanosecond time scale of current growth. It was also found that the characteristic time of the current growth τS depends on the SEE yield of the cathode material. Three types of cathode material (titanium, SiC, and CuAlMg-alloy) were tested. It is shown that in discharge with SiC and CuAlMg-alloy cathodes (which have enhanced SEE) the current can increase with a subnanosecond characteristic time as small as τS = 0.4 ns, for the pulse voltage amplitude of 5- 12 kV..

Ion extraction capabilities of closely spaced grids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rovang, D. C.; Wilbur, P. J.

1982-01-01

The ion extraction capabilities of accelerator systems with small screen hole diameters (less than 2.0 mm) are investigated at net-accelerating voltages of 100, 300, and 500 V. Results show that the impingement-limited perveance is not dramatically affected by reductions in screen hole diameter to 1.0 mm, but impingement-limited performance was found to be dependent on the grid separation distance, the discharge-to-total accelerating voltage ratio, and the net-to-total accelerating voltage ratio. Results obtained using small hole diameters and closely spaced grids indicate a new mode of grid operation where high current density operation can be achieved with a specified net acceleration voltage by operating the grids at a high rather than low net-to-total acceleration voltage. Beam current densities as high as 25 mA/sq cm were obtained using grids with 1.0 mm diameter holes operating at a net accelerating voltage of 500 V.

Conservation voltage regulation (CVR) applied to energy savings by voltage-adjusting equipment through AMI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lan, B.-R.; Chang, C.-A.; Huang, P.-Y.; Kuo, C.-H.; Ye, Z.-J.; Shen, B.-C.; Chen, B.-K.

2017-11-01

Conservation voltage reduction (CVR) includes peak demand reduction, energy conservation, carbon emission reduction, and electricity bill reduction. This paper analyzes the energy-reduction of Siwei Feeders with applying CVR, which are situated in Penghu region and equipped with smart meters. Furthermore, the applicable voltage reduction range for the feeders will be explored. This study will also investigate how the CVR effect and energy conservation are improved with the voltage control devices integrated. The results of this study can serve as a reference for the Taiwan Power Company to promote and implement voltage reduction and energy conservation techniques. This study is expected to enhance the energy-reduction performance of the Penghu Low Carbon Island Project.

Selective Dirac voltage engineering of individual graphene field-effect transistors for digital inverter and frequency multiplier integrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sul, Onejae; Kim, Kyumin; Jung, Yungwoo; Choi, Eunsuk; Lee, Seung-Beck

2017-09-01

The ambipolar band structure of graphene presents unique opportunities for novel electronic device applications. A cycle of gate voltage sweep in a conventional graphene transistor produces a frequency-doubled output current. To increase the frequency further, we used various graphene doping control techniques to produce Dirac voltage engineered graphene channels. The various surface treatments and substrate conditions produced differently doped graphene channels that were integrated on a single substrate and multiple Dirac voltages were observed by applying a single gate voltage sweep. We applied the Dirac voltage engineering techniques to graphene field-effect transistors on a single chip for the fabrication of a frequency multiplier and a logic inverter demonstrating analog and digital circuit application possibilities.

Voltage controlled spintronic devices for logic applications

DOEpatents

You, Chun-Yeol; Bader, Samuel D.

2001-01-01

A reprogrammable logic gate comprising first and second voltage-controlled rotation transistors. Each transistor comprises three ferromagnetic layers with a spacer and insulating layer between the first and second ferromagnetic layers and an additional insulating layer between the second and third ferromagnetic layers. The third ferromagnetic layer of each transistor is connected to each other, and a constant external voltage source is applied to the second ferromagnetic layer of the first transistor. As input voltages are applied to the first ferromagnetic layer of each transistor, the relative directions of magnetization of the ferromagnetic layers and the magnitude of the external voltage determines the output voltage of the gate. By altering these parameters, the logic gate is capable of behaving as AND, OR, NAND, or NOR gates.

Selective Dirac voltage engineering of individual graphene field-effect transistors for digital inverter and frequency multiplier integrations.

PubMed

Sul, Onejae; Kim, Kyumin; Jung, Yungwoo; Choi, Eunsuk; Lee, Seung-Beck

2017-09-15

The ambipolar band structure of graphene presents unique opportunities for novel electronic device applications. A cycle of gate voltage sweep in a conventional graphene transistor produces a frequency-doubled output current. To increase the frequency further, we used various graphene doping control techniques to produce Dirac voltage engineered graphene channels. The various surface treatments and substrate conditions produced differently doped graphene channels that were integrated on a single substrate and multiple Dirac voltages were observed by applying a single gate voltage sweep. We applied the Dirac voltage engineering techniques to graphene field-effect transistors on a single chip for the fabrication of a frequency multiplier and a logic inverter demonstrating analog and digital circuit application possibilities.

The effects of cathodic micro-voltage combined with hydrothermal pretreatment on methane fermentation of lignocellulose substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Dianxin; Ning, Ping; Qu, Guangfei; Huang, Xi; Liu, Yuhuan; Zhang, Jian

2017-05-01

The methane fermentation study assisted with cathodic micro-voltage was carried out to investigate the electric field effects on the fermentation of hydrothermally pretreated lignocellulose substrate. It was illustrated that a 0.25V cathode voltage and hydrothermal pretreatment could improve the biogas production, biogas quality and lignocellulose degradation ratio significantly. The cumulative biogas productions in the fermentation of hydrothermally pretreated cow dungs at 50°C, 150°C and 200°C with a 0.25V cathode voltage were observed in a total of 6640mL, 9218mL and 9456mL respectively over a detention time of 33 days. In comparison with the fermentation pretreated at 200°C without any voltage, nearly doubled of cumulative biogas production was obtained in the process of cathode-assisted fermentation. It was also observed that the daily methane content greater than or equal to 70% in the biogas generated with cathode voltage were clearly greater than that without voltages. Furthermore, the fermentation applied with a 0.25V cathode voltage had resulted into significant increases of 12.64% and 9.44% in lignin and cellulose degradation ratio relative to voltage free fermentation. And in the process of fermentation applied with cathode voltage, the final lignocellulose degradation ratio increased with the hydrothermal pretreatment temperature. Thus, the hydrothermal pretreatment and assisting fermentation with low cathode voltage can effectively promote the lignocellulose degradation. All results revealed that cathodic micro-voltage combined with hydrothermal pretreatment can remarkably improve the fermentation of lignocellulosic materials, indicating that a more effective fermentation technology can be developed by applying with cathodic micro-voltage.

Method for the depth corrected detection of ionizing events from a co-planar grids sensor

DOEpatents

De Geronimo, Gianluigi [Syosset, NY; Bolotnikov, Aleksey E [South Setauket, NY; Carini, Gabriella [Port Jefferson, NY

2009-05-12

A method for the detection of ionizing events utilizing a co-planar grids sensor comprising a semiconductor substrate, cathode electrode, collecting grid and non-collecting grid. The semiconductor substrate is sensitive to ionizing radiation. A voltage less than 0 Volts is applied to the cathode electrode. A voltage greater than the voltage applied to the cathode is applied to the non-collecting grid. A voltage greater than the voltage applied to the non-collecting grid is applied to the collecting grid. The collecting grid and the non-collecting grid are summed and subtracted creating a sum and difference respectively. The difference and sum are divided creating a ratio. A gain coefficient factor for each depth (distance between the ionizing event and the collecting grid) is determined, whereby the difference between the collecting electrode and the non-collecting electrode multiplied by the corresponding gain coefficient is the depth corrected energy of an ionizing event. Therefore, the energy of each ionizing event is the difference between the collecting grid and the non-collecting grid multiplied by the corresponding gain coefficient. The depth of the ionizing event can also be determined from the ratio.

Optical and Electrical Performance of MOS-Structure Silicon Solar Cells with Antireflective Transparent ITO and Plasmonic Indium Nanoparticles under Applied Bias Voltage.

PubMed

Ho, Wen-Jeng; Sue, Ruei-Siang; Lin, Jian-Cheng; Syu, Hong-Jang; Lin, Ching-Fuh

2016-08-10

This paper reports impressive improvements in the optical and electrical performance of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS)-structure silicon solar cells through the incorporation of plasmonic indium nanoparticles (In-NPs) and an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrode with periodic holes (perforations) under applied bias voltage. Samples were prepared using a plain ITO electrode or perforated ITO electrode with and without In-NPs. The samples were characterized according to optical reflectance, dark current voltage, induced capacitance voltage, external quantum efficiency, and photovoltaic current voltage. Our results indicate that induced capacitance voltage and photovoltaic current voltage both depend on bias voltage, regardless of the type of ITO electrode. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, MOS cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO, respectively, presented conversion efficiencies of 17.53% and 15.80%. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, the inclusion of In-NPs increased the efficiency of cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO to 17.80% and 16.87%, respectively.

Optical and Electrical Performance of MOS-Structure Silicon Solar Cells with Antireflective Transparent ITO and Plasmonic Indium Nanoparticles under Applied Bias Voltage

PubMed Central

Ho, Wen-Jeng; Sue, Ruei-Siang; Lin, Jian-Cheng; Syu, Hong-Jang; Lin, Ching-Fuh

2016-01-01

This paper reports impressive improvements in the optical and electrical performance of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS)-structure silicon solar cells through the incorporation of plasmonic indium nanoparticles (In-NPs) and an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrode with periodic holes (perforations) under applied bias voltage. Samples were prepared using a plain ITO electrode or perforated ITO electrode with and without In-NPs. The samples were characterized according to optical reflectance, dark current voltage, induced capacitance voltage, external quantum efficiency, and photovoltaic current voltage. Our results indicate that induced capacitance voltage and photovoltaic current voltage both depend on bias voltage, regardless of the type of ITO electrode. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, MOS cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO, respectively, presented conversion efficiencies of 17.53% and 15.80%. Under a bias voltage of 4.0 V, the inclusion of In-NPs increased the efficiency of cells with perforated ITO and plain ITO to 17.80% and 16.87%, respectively. PMID:28773801

High-Efficiency Power Module

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Rainee N (Inventor); Wintucky, Edwin G (Inventor)

2013-01-01

One or more embodiments of the present invention pertain to an all solid-state microwave power module. The module includes a plurality of solid-state amplifiers configured to amplify a signal using a low power stage, a medium power stage, and a high power stage. The module also includes a power conditioner configured to activate a voltage sequencer (e.g., bias controller) when power is received from a power source. The voltage sequencer is configured to sequentially apply voltage to a gate of each amplifier and sequentially apply voltage to a drain of each amplifier.

High-Efficiency Power Module

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Rainee N. (Inventor); Wintucky, Edwin G. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

One or more embodiments of the present invention pertain to an all solid-state microwave power module. The module includes a plurality of solid-state amplifiers configured to amplify a signal using a low power stage, a medium power stage, and a high power stage. The module also includes a power conditioner configured to activate a voltage sequencer (e.g., bias controller) when power is received from a power source. The voltage sequencer is configured to sequentially apply voltage to a gate of each amplifier and sequentially apply voltage to a drain of each amplifier.

Observation of electric potential in organic thin-film transistor by bias-applied hard X-ray photoemission spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Takeshi; Tada, Keisuke; Yasuno, Satoshi; Oji, Hiroshi; Yoshimoto, Noriyuki; Hirosawa, Ichiro

2016-03-01

The effect of gate voltage on electric potential in a pentacene (PEN) layer was studied by hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy under a bias voltage. It was observed that applying a negative gate voltage substantially increases the width of a C 1s peak. This suggested that injected and accumulated carriers in an organic thin film transistor channel modified the potential depth profile in PEN. It was also observed that the C 1s kinetic energy tends to increase monotonically with threshold voltage.

High-voltage crowbar circuit with cascade-triggered series ignitrons

DOEpatents

Baker, William R. [Orinda, CA

1980-11-04

A series string of ignitrons for switching a large current at high voltage to ground. Switching is initiated by means of a negative trigger pulse applied to the cathode of the lowest voltage level ignitron next to ground to draw ground current through diodes in the ignitor circuit. The trigger pulse is applied thereby to the next higher ignitron cathode and sequentially to the remainder of the ignitrons in the string through diodes in respective ignitor circuits. Full line voltage is held off of nonconducting diodes and ignitrons by means of varistors.

High-voltage crowbar circuit with cascade-triggered series ignitrons

DOEpatents

Baker, W.R.

A series string of ignitrons for switching a large current at high voltage to ground is discussed. Switching is initiated by means of a negative trigger pulse applied to the cathode of the lowest voltage level ignitron next to ground to draw ground current through diodes in the ignitor circuit. The trigger pulse is applied thereby to the next higher ignitron cathode and sequentially to the remainder of the ignitrons in the string through diodes in respective ignitor circuits. Full line voltage is held off of nonconducting diodes and ignitrons by means of varistors.

High-voltage crowbar circuit with cascade-triggered series ignitrons

DOEpatents

Baker, W.R.

1980-11-04

A series string of ignitrons for switching a large current at high voltage to ground. Switching is initiated by means of a negative trigger pulse applied to the cathode of the lowest voltage level ignitron next to ground to draw ground current through diodes in the ignitor circuit. The trigger pulse is applied thereby to the next higher ignitron cathode and sequentially to the remainder of the ignitrons in the string through diodes in respective ignitor circuits. Full line voltage is held off of nonconducting diodes and ignitrons by means of varistors. 1 fig.

Analysis and Control of Pulse-Width Modulated AC to DC Voltage Source Converters.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Rusong

The pulse width modulated AC to DC voltage source converter is comprehensively analyzed in the thesis. A general mathematical model of the converter is first established, which is discontinuous, time-variant and non-linear. The following three techniques are used to obtain closed form solutions: Fourier analysis, transformation of reference frame and small signal linearization. Three models, namely, a steady-state DC model, a low frequency small signal AC model and a high frequency model, are consequently developed. Finally, three solution sets, namely, the steady-state solution, various dynamic transfer functions and the high frequency harmonic components, are obtained from the three models. Two control strategies, the Phase and Amplitude Control (PAC) and a new proposed strategy, Predicted Current Control with a Fixed Switching Frequency (PCFF), are investigated. Based on the transfer functions derived from the above mentioned analysis, regulators for a closed-loop control are designed. A prototype circuit is built to experimentally verify the theoretical predictions. The analysis and experimental results show that both strategies produce nearly sinusoidal line current with unity power factor on the utility side in both rectifying and regenerating operations and concurrently provide a regulated DC output voltage on the load side. However the proposed PCFF control has a faster and improved dynamic response over the PAC control. Moreover it is also easier to be implemented. Therefore, the PCFF control is preferable to the PAC control. As an example of application, a configuration of variable DC supply under PCFF control is proposed. The quasi-optimal dynamic response obtained shows that the PWM AC to DC converter lays the foundation for building a four-quadrant, fast-dynamic system, and the PCFF control is an effective strategy for improving dynamic performances not only as applied to the AC to DC converter, but also as applied to the DC to DC chopper or other circuits.

Macro Fiber Piezocomposite Actuator Poling Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Werlink, Rudy J.; Bryant, Robert G.; Manos, Dennis

2002-01-01

The performance and advantages of Piezocomposite Actuators are to provide a low cost, in-situ actuator/sensor that is flexible, low profile and high strain per volt performance in the same plane of poled voltage. This paper extends reported data for the performance of these Macrofiber Composite (MFC) Actuators to include 4 progressively narrower Intedigitized electrode configurations with several line widths and spacing ratios. Data is reported for max free strain, average strain per applied volt, poling (alignment of the electric dipoles of the PZT ceramic) voltage vs. strain and capacitance, time to poling voltage 95% saturation. The output strain per volt progressively increases as electrode spacing decreases, with saturation occurring at lower poling voltages. The narrowest spacing ratio becomes prone to voltage breakdown or short circuits limiting the spacing width with current fabrication methods. The capacitance generally increases with increasing poling voltage level but has high sensitivity to factors such as temperature, moisture and time from poling which limit its usefulness as a simple indicator. The total time of applied poling voltage to saturate or fully line up the dipoles in the piezoceramic was generally on the order of 5-20 seconds. Less sensitivity to poling due to the applied rate of voltage increase over a 25 to 500 volt/second rate range was observed.

Nanosecond liquid crystalline optical modulator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Borshch, Volodymyr; Shiyanovskii, Sergij V.; Lavrentovich, Oleg D.

2016-07-26

An optical modulator includes a liquid crystal cell containing liquid crystal material having liquid crystal molecules oriented along a quiescent director direction in the unbiased state, and a voltage source configured to apply an electric field to the liquid crystal material wherein the direction of the applied electric field does not cause the quiescent director direction to change. An optical source is arranged to transmit light through or reflect light off the liquid crystal cell with the light passing through the liquid crystal material at an angle effective to undergo phase retardation in response to the voltage source applying themore » electric field. The liquid crystal material may have negative dielectric anisotropy, and the voltage source configured to apply an electric field to the liquid crystal material whose electric field vector is transverse to the quiescent director direction. Alternatively, the liquid crystal material may have positive dielectric anisotropy and the voltage source configured to apply an electric field to the liquid crystal material whose electric field vector is parallel with the quiescent director direction.« less

Trace Impurity Analysis in Ta Films Using Glow Discharge Mass Spectrometry: Concentration Change of Impurities by Applying Negative Substrate Bias Voltage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Jae-Won; Mimura, Kouji; Isshiki, Minoru

2004-12-01

Glow discharge mass spectrometry (GDMS) was used to analyze a Ta target and Ta films for trace impurities. The Ta films were deposited on Si (100) substrate at substrate bias voltages of 0 V and -125 V using a non-mass separated ion beam deposition system. Although both Ta films were contaminated by impurities during the deposition, the Ta film deposited at a substrate bias voltage of -125 V showed lower impurity content than the Ta film deposited without the substrate bias voltage, which means that applying a negative bias voltage to the substrate decreased the total concentration of impurities. Furthermore, the concentration change of individual impurities in the Ta film is related to their ionization ratio in the argon discharge plasma. Considering the effect of the ionization potential of an individual impurity on the ionization ratio, purification by applying a negative bias voltage to the substrate results from Penning ionization and an ionization mechanism proposed in this study, as well as from the difference between the kinetic energies of Ta neutral atoms and Ta+ ions accelerated toward the substrate with/without a negative substrate bias voltage.

Two-stage electrostatic precipitator using induction charging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takashima, Kazunori; Kohno, Hiromu; Katatani, Atsushi; Kurita, Hirofumi; Mizuno, Akira

2018-05-01

An electrostatic precipitator (ESP) without using corona discharge was investigated herein. The ESP employed a two-stage configuration, consisting of an induction charging-based particle charger and a parallel plate type particle collector. By applying a high voltage of several kV, under which no corona discharge was generated in the charger, particles were charged by induction due to contact with charger electrodes. The amount of charge on the charged particles increased with the applied voltage and turbulent air flow in the charger. Performance of the ESP equipped with the induction charger was investigated using ambient air. The removal efficiency for particles ranging 0.3 µm to 5 µm in diameter increased with applied voltage and turbulence intensity of gas flow in the charger when the applied voltage was sufficiently low not to generate corona discharge. This suggests that induction charging can be used for electrostatic precipitation, which can reduce ozone generation and power consumption significantly.

High-speed wavelength switching of tunable MEMS vertical cavity surface emitting laser by ringing suppression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inoue, Shunya; Nishimura, Shun; Nakahama, Masanori; Matsutani, Akihiro; Sakaguchi, Takahiro; Koyama, Fumio

2018-04-01

For use in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) with high-speed wavelength routing functions, the fast wavelength switching of tunable lasers is a key function. A tunable MEMS vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) is a good candidate as a light source for this purpose. The cantilever in MEMS VCSELs has a high mechanical resonance frequency thanks to its small size, but the switching time is limited by the ringing of the cantilever structure. In this paper, we analyzed the mechanical behavior of a cantilever MEMS mirror and demonstrated ringing-free operation with an engineered voltage signal. The applied voltage waveform was optimized in a two-step format and we experimentally obtained ringing free wavelength switching. We measured the transient response of the wavelength by inserting a tunable filter, exhibiting the settling time of less than 2.5 µs, which corresponds to a half period of the cantilever resonance frequency.

Lidar Electro-Optic Beam Switch with a Liquid Crystal Variable Retarder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baer, James

2012-01-01

A document discusses a liquid crystal variable retarder, an electro-optic element that changes the polarization of an optical beam in response to a low-voltage electronic signal. This device can be fabricated so that the element creates, among other states, a half-wave of retardance that can be reduced to a very small retardance. When aligned to a polarized source, this can act to rotate the polarization by 90 in one state, but generate no rotation in the other state. If the beam is then incident on a polarization beam splitter, it will efficiently switch from one path to the other when the voltage is applied. The laser beam switching system has no moving parts, improving reliability over mechanical switching. It is low cost, tolerant of high laser power density, and needs only simple drive electronics, minimizing the required system resources.

Design and Development of Non-Contact Bio-Potential Electrodes for Pervasive Health Monitoring Applications.

PubMed

Portelli, Anthony J; Nasuto, Slawomir J

2017-01-01

For the advent of pervasive bio-potential monitoring, it will be necessary to utilize a combination of cheap, quick to apply, low-noise electrodes and compact electronics with wireless technologies. Once available, all electrical activity resulting from the processes of the human body could be actively and constantly monitored without the need for cumbersome application and maintenance. This could significantly improve the early diagnosis of a range of different conditions in high-risk individuals, opening the possibility for new treatments and interventions as conditions develop. This paper presents the design and implementation of compact, non-contact capacitive bio-potential electrodes utilising a low impedance current-to-voltage configuration and a bootstrapped voltage follower, demonstrating results applicable to research applications for capacitive electrocardiography and capacitive electromyography. The presented electrodes use few components, have a small surface area and are capable of acquiring a range of bio-potential signals.

Design and Development of Non-Contact Bio-Potential Electrodes for Pervasive Health Monitoring Applications

PubMed Central

Portelli, Anthony J.; Nasuto, Slawomir J.

2017-01-01

For the advent of pervasive bio-potential monitoring, it will be necessary to utilize a combination of cheap, quick to apply, low-noise electrodes and compact electronics with wireless technologies. Once available, all electrical activity resulting from the processes of the human body could be actively and constantly monitored without the need for cumbersome application and maintenance. This could significantly improve the early diagnosis of a range of different conditions in high-risk individuals, opening the possibility for new treatments and interventions as conditions develop. This paper presents the design and implementation of compact, non-contact capacitive bio-potential electrodes utilising a low impedance current-to-voltage configuration and a bootstrapped voltage follower, demonstrating results applicable to research applications for capacitive electrocardiography and capacitive electromyography. The presented electrodes use few components, have a small surface area and are capable of acquiring a range of bio-potential signals. PMID:28045439

Equivalent dynamic model of DEMES rotary joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jianwen; Wang, Shu; Xing, Zhiguang; McCoul, David; Niu, Junyang; Huang, Bo; Liu, Liwu; Leng, Jinsong

2016-07-01

The dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure (DEMES) can realize large angular deformations by a small voltage-induced strain of the dielectric elastomer (DE), so it is a suitable candidate to make a rotary joint for a soft robot. Dynamic analysis is necessary for some applications, but the dynamic response of DEMESs is difficult to model because of the complicated morphology and viscoelasticity of the DE film. In this paper, a method composed of theoretical analysis and experimental measurement is presented to model the dynamic response of a DEMES rotary joint under an alternating voltage. Based on measurements of equivalent driving force and damping of the DEMES, the model can be derived. Some experiments were carried out to validate the equivalent dynamic model. The maximum angle error between model and experiment is greater than ten degrees, but it is acceptable to predict angular velocity of the DEMES, therefore, it can be applied in feedforward-feedback compound control.

Pharmacological and anatomical separation of calcium currents in rat dentate granule neurones in vitro.

PubMed Central

Blaxter, T J; Carlen, P L; Niesen, C

1989-01-01

1. Rat dentate granule neurones in hippocampal slices were voltage-clamped at 21-23 degrees C using CsCl-filled microelectrodes. The perfusate contained TTX and K+ channel blockers to isolate pharmacologically inward Ca2+ currents. 2. From hyperpolarized holding potentials of -65 to -85 mV, depolarizing test potentials to between -50 and -40 mV elicited a transient (100-200 ms) low-threshold (TLT) current which was also elicited from more depolarized holding potentials following hyperpolarizing voltage steps of -40 mV or greater. 3. Larger depolarizing steps from a hyperpolarized holding potential triggered a large (2-6 nA), transient high-threshold (THT) inward current, rapidly peaking and decaying over 500 ms, followed by a sustained inward current component. 4. At depolarized holding potentials (-50 to -20 mV), the THT current was apparently inactivated and a sustained high-threshold (SHT) inward current was evident during depolarizing voltage steps of 10 mV or more. 5. From hyperpolarized holding potentials with depolarizing voltage steps of 10-30 mV, most neurones demonstrated a small-amplitude, sustained low-threshold (SLT) inward current with similar characteristics to the SHT current. 6. Zero-Ca2+ perfusate or high concentrations of Ca2+ channel blockers (Cd2+, Mn2+ or Ni2+) diminished or abolished all inward currents. 7. Repetitive voltage step activation of each current at 0.5 Hz reduced the large THT current to less than 25% of an unconditioned control current, reduced the SHT current by 50%, but had little effect on the TLT current. 8. A low concentration of Cd2+ (50 microM) blocked the THT and SHT currents with little effect on the TLT current. Nimodipine (1 microM) attenuated the SHT current. Ni2+ (100 microM) selectively attenuated the TLT current. 9. In low-Ca2+ perfusate, high concentrations of Ca2+ (10-15 mM), focally applied to different parts of the neurone, increased the THT current when applied to the dendrites, the SHT current when applied to the soma and the TLT current at all locations. Conversely, in regular perfusate, Cd2+ (1-5 mM), focally applied to the dendrites decreased the THT current and somatic applications decreased the SHT current. The TLT current was diminished regardless of the site of Cd2+ application. 10. These results suggest the existence of three different Ca2+ currents in dentate granule cells separable by their activation and inactivation characteristics, pharmacology and site of initiation. PMID:2557433

Active voltage contrast imaging of cross-sectional surface of multilayer ceramic capacitor using helium ion microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakai, C.; Ishida, N.; Masuda, H.; Nagano, S.; Kitahara, M.; Ogata, Y.; Fujita, D.

2016-08-01

We studied active voltage contrast (AVC) imaging using helium ion microscopy (HIM). We observed secondary electron (SE) images of the cross-sectional surface of multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) with and without a voltage applied to the internal electrodes. When no voltage was applied, we obtained an image reflecting the material contrast between the Ni internal electrode region and the BaTiO3 dielectric region of the cross-sectional surface of the MLCC. When a voltage was applied, the electrical potential difference between the grounded and the positively biased internal electrodes affected the contrast (voltage contrast). Moreover, attenuation of the SE intensity from the grounded to the positively biased internal electrodes was observed in the dielectric region. Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) measurements of the contact potential difference (CPD) were performed on the same sample. By using the AVC image from the HIM observation and the CPD image from the KPFM measurement, we could quantitatively evaluate the electrical potential. We think that the results of this study will lead to an expansion in the number of applications of HIM.

Pitch variable liquid lens array using electrowetting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, YooKwang; Lee, Jin Su; Kim, Junoh; Won, Yong Hyub

2017-02-01

These days micro lens array is used in various fields such as fiber coupling, laser collimation, imaging and sensor system and beam homogenizer, etc. One of important thing in using micro lens array is, choice of its pitch. Especially imaging systems like integral imaging or light-field camera, pitch of micro lens array defines the system property and thus it could limit the variability of the system. There are already researches about lens array using liquid, and droplet control by electrowetting. This paper reports the result of combining them, the liquid lens array that could vary its pitch by electrowetting. Since lens array is a repeated system, realization of a small part of lens array is enough to show its property. The lens array is composed of nine (3 by 3) liquid droplets on flat surface. On substrate, 11 line electrodes are patterned along vertical and horizontal direction respectively. The width of line electrodes is 300um and interval is 200um. Each droplet is positioned to contain three electrode lines for both of vertical and horizontal direction. So there is one remaining electrode line in each of outermost side for both direction. In original state the voltage is applied to inner electrodes. When voltage of outermost electrodes are turned on, eight outermost droplets move to outer side, thereby increasing pitch of lens array. The original pitch was 1.5mm and it increased to 2.5mm after electrodes of voltage applied is changed.

Effects of tacrolimus on action potential configuration and transmembrane ion currents in canine ventricular cells.

PubMed

Szabó, László; Szentandrássy, Norbert; Kistamás, Kornél; Hegyi, Bence; Ruzsnavszky, Ferenc; Váczi, Krisztina; Horváth, Balázs; Magyar, János; Bányász, Tamás; Pál, Balázs; Nánási, Péter P

2013-03-01

Tacrolimus is a commonly used immunosuppressive agent which causes cardiovascular complications, e.g., hypertension and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In spite of it, there is little information on the cellular cardiac effects of the immunosuppressive agent tacrolimus in larger mammals. In the present study, therefore, the concentration-dependent effects of tacrolimus on action potential morphology and the underlying ion currents were studied in canine ventricular cardiomyocytes. Standard microelectrode, conventional whole cell patch clamp, and action potential voltage clamp techniques were applied in myocytes enzymatically dispersed from canine ventricular myocardium. Tacrolimus (3-30 μM) caused a concentration-dependent reduction of maximum velocity of depolarization and repolarization, action potential amplitude, phase-1 repolarization, action potential duration, and plateau potential, while no significant change in the resting membrane potential was observed. Conventional voltage clamp experiments revealed that tacrolimus concentrations ≥3 μM blocked a variety of ion currents, including I(Ca), I(to), I(K1), I(Kr), and I(Ks). Similar results were obtained under action potential voltage clamp conditions. These effects of tacrolimus developed rapidly and were fully reversible upon washout. The blockade of inward currents with the concomitant shortening of action potential duration in canine myocytes is the opposite of those observed previously with tacrolimus in small rodents. It is concluded that although tacrolimus blocks several ion channels at higher concentrations, there is no risk of direct interaction with cardiac ion channels when applying tacrolimus in therapeutic concentrations.

The effect of the geomagnetic field on negative voltage spheres in the ionospheric plasma: Fluid simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, T.-Z.; Schunk, R. W.

1994-07-01

Experiments involving the interaction of spherical conducting objects biases with hight voltages in the Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) environment have been conducted and designed. In these experiments, both positive and negative voltages have been applied to the spheres. Previously, there have been theoretical and numerical studies of positive voltage spheres in plasmas with and without magnetic fields. There also have been studies of negative voltage objects in unmagnetized plasmas. Here, we used a fluid model to study the plasma response to a negative voltage sphere immersed in a magnetized plasma. Our main purpose was to investigate the role of the magnetic field during the early-time interaction between the negative voltage sphere and the ambient plasma in the LEO environment. In this study, different applied voltages, magnetic field strengths, and rise-times of the applied voltages were considered. It was found that with the strength of the geomagnetic field the ions are basically not affected by the magnetic field on the time scale of hundreds of plasma periods considered in this study. The ion density distribution around the sphere and the collected ion flux by the sphere are basically the same as in the case without the magnetic field. The electron motion is strongly affected by the magnetic field. One effect is to change the nature of the electron over-shoot oscillation from regular to somewhat turbulent. Although the electrons move along the magnetic field much more easily than across the magnetic field, some redirection effect causes the electron density to distribute as if the magnetic field effect is minimal. The sheath struture and the electric field around the sphere tend to be spherical. A finite rise-time of the applied voltage reduces the oscillatory activities and delays the ion acceleration. However, the effect of the rise-time depends on both the duration of the rise-time and the ion plasma period.

Ion ejection from a permanent-magnet mini-helicon thruster

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Francis F.

2014-09-01

A small helicon source, 5 cm in diameter and 5 cm long, using a permanent magnet (PM) to create the DC magnetic field B, is investigated for its possible use as an ion spacecraft thruster. Such ambipolar thrusters do not require a separate electron source for neutralization. The discharge is placed in the far-field of the annular PM, where B is fairly uniform. The plasma is ejected into a large chamber, where the ion energy distribution is measured with a retarding-field energy analyzer. The resulting specific impulse is lower than that of Hall thrusters but can easily be increased to relevant values by applying to the endplate of the discharge a small voltage relative to spacecraft ground.

Ion ejection from a permanent-magnet mini-helicon thruster

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Francis F.

2014-09-15

A small helicon source, 5 cm in diameter and 5 cm long, using a permanent magnet (PM) to create the DC magnetic field B, is investigated for its possible use as an ion spacecraft thruster. Such ambipolar thrusters do not require a separate electron source for neutralization. The discharge is placed in the far-field of the annular PM, where B is fairly uniform. The plasma is ejected into a large chamber, where the ion energy distribution is measured with a retarding-field energy analyzer. The resulting specific impulse is lower than that of Hall thrusters but can easily be increased to relevant valuesmore » by applying to the endplate of the discharge a small voltage relative to spacecraft ground.« less

Design and Testing of a Small Inductive Pulsed Plasma Thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Adam K.; Eskridge, Richard H.; Dominguez, Alexandra; Polzin, Kurt A.; Riley, Daniel P.; Kimberlin, Adam C.

2015-01-01

The design and testing of a small inductive pulsed plasma thruster (IPPT), shown in Fig. 1 with all the major subsystems required for a thruster of this kind are described. Thrust measurements and imaging of the device operated in rep-rated mode are presented to quantify the performance envelope of the device. The small IPPT described in this paper was designed to serve as a test-bed for the pulsed gas-valves and solid-state switches required for a IPPTs. A modular design approach was used to permit future modifications and upgrades. The thruster consists of the following sub-systems: a) a multi-turn, spiral-wound acceleration coil (27 cm o.d., 10 cm i.d.) driven by a 10 microFarad capacitor and switched with a high-voltage thyristor, b) a fast pulsed gas-valve, and c.) a glow-discharge pre-ionizer (PI) circuit. The acceleration-coil circuit may be operated at voltages up to 4 kV (the thyristor limit is 4.5 kV). The device may be operated at rep-rates up to 30 Hz with the present gas-valve. Thrust measurements and imaging of the device operated in rep-rated mode will be presented. The pre-ionizer consists of a 0.3 microFarad capacitor charged to 4 kV and connected to two annular stainless-steel electrodes bounding the area of the coil-face. The 4 kV potential is held across them and when the gas is puffed in over the coil, the PI circuit is completed, and a plasma is formed. Even at the less than optimal base-pressure in the chamber (approximately 5 × 10(exp -4) torr), the PI held-off the applied voltage, and only discharged upon command. For a capacitor charge of 2 kV the peak coil current is 4.1 kA, and during this pulse a very bright discharge (much brighter than from the PI alone) was observed (see Fig. 2). Interestingly, for discharges at this charge voltage the PI was not required as the current rise rate, dI/dt, of the coil itself was sufficient to ionize the gas.

46 CFR 183.324 - Dual voltage generators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Dual voltage generators. 183.324 Section 183.324 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) SMALL PASSENGER VESSELS (UNDER 100 GROSS TONS) ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 183.324 Dual voltage generators...

46 CFR 183.324 - Dual voltage generators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Dual voltage generators. 183.324 Section 183.324 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) SMALL PASSENGER VESSELS (UNDER 100 GROSS TONS) ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 183.324 Dual voltage generators...

46 CFR 183.324 - Dual voltage generators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Dual voltage generators. 183.324 Section 183.324 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) SMALL PASSENGER VESSELS (UNDER 100 GROSS TONS) ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 183.324 Dual voltage generators...

46 CFR 183.324 - Dual voltage generators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Dual voltage generators. 183.324 Section 183.324 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) SMALL PASSENGER VESSELS (UNDER 100 GROSS TONS) ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 183.324 Dual voltage generators...

Characterization, Optimization, and Test of the NPSAT1 MEMS 3-Axis Rate Sensor Suite for Use in Small Satellite Attitude Control

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

Power Control and Filter Boards (PCFB) are powered. The anticipated temperature range is based on a model, and like all models, it is subject to...voltage regulation, filtering , or averaging at room temperature , and with no rate applied. This data was taken at 1K samples/sec, and resulted in an...buffering or amplification should be done as near to the signal source as possible. The low pass filter was added to the rate, BIT, and temperature

Effects of surface dielectric barrier discharge on aerodynamic characteristic of train

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Lei; Gao, Guoqiang; Peng, Kaisheng; Wei, Wenfu; Li, Chunmao; Wu, Guangning

2017-07-01

High-speed railway today has become an indispensable means of transportation due to its remarkable advantages, including comfortability, convenience and less pollution. The increase in velocity makes the air drag become the main source of energy consumption, leading to receiving more and more concerns. The surface dielectric barrier discharge has shown some unique characteristics in terms of active airflow control. In this paper, the influences of surface dielectric barrier discharge on the aerodynamic characteristics of a scaled train model have been studied. Aspects of the discharge power consumption, the temperature distribution, the velocity of induced flow and the airflow field around the train model were considered. The applied AC voltage was set in the range of 20 kV to 28 kV, with a fixed frequency of 9 kHz. Results indicated that the discharge power consumption, the maximum temperature and the induced flow velocity increased with increasing applied voltage. Mechanisms of applied voltage influencing these key parameters were discussed from the point of the equivalent circuit. The airflow field around the train model with different applied voltages was observed by the smoke visualization experiment. Finally, the effects of surface dielectric barrier discharge on the train drag reduction with different applied voltages were analyzed.

16 CFR 1505.6 - Performance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... horizontal. No spillage of molten material or hot liquids from containers shall occur while the toy is... breakdown for 1 minute a sinusoidal test potential applied between the high-voltage and low-voltage windings... volts plus twice the rated voltage of the high-voltage winding. The test potential shall be supplied...

Measuring surfactant concentration in plating solutions

DOEpatents

Bonivert, William D.; Farmer, Joseph C.; Hachman, John T.

1989-01-01

An arrangement for measuring the concentration of surfactants in a electrolyte containing metal ions includes applying a DC bias voltage and a modulated voltage to a counter electrode. The phase angle between the modulated voltage and the current response to the modulated voltage at a working electrode is correlated to the surfactant concentration.

Cylindrical Asymmetrical Capacitors for Use in Outer Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, Jonathan W.

2007-01-01

A report proposes that cylindrical asymmetrical capacitors (CACs) be used to generate small thrusts for precise maneuvering of spacecraft on long missions. The report notes that it has been known for decades that when high voltages are applied to CACs in air, thrusts are generated - most likely as a result of ionization of air molecules and acceleration of the ions by the high electric fields. The report goes on to discuss how to optimize the designs of CACs for operation as thrusters in outer space. Components that could be used to enable outerspace operation include a supply of gas and a shroud, partly surrounding a CAC, into which the gas would flow. Other elements of operation and design discussed in the report include variation of applied voltage and/or of gas flow to vary thrust, effects of CAC and shroud dimensions on thrust and weight, some representative electrode configurations, and several alternative designs, including one in which the basic CAC configuration would be modified into something shaped like a conventional rocket engine with converging/diverging nozzle and an anode with gas feed in the space that, in a conventional rocket engine, would be the combustion chamber.

Nanoscale control of stripe-ordered magnetic domain walls by vertical spin transfer torque in La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jing; Wu, Shizhe; Ma, Ji; Xie, Lishan; Wang, Chuanshou; Malik, Iftikhar Ahmed; Zhang, Yuelin; Xia, Ke; Nan, Ce-Wen; Zhang, Jinxing

2018-02-01

Stripe-ordered domains with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy have been intensively investigated due to their potential applications in high-density magnetic data-storage devices. However, the conventional control methods (e.g., epitaxial strain, local heating, magnetic field, and magnetoelectric effect) of the stripe-ordered domain walls either cannot meet the demands for miniaturization and low power consumption of spintronic devices or require high strength of the electric field due to the small value of the magnetoelectric effect at room temperature. Here, a domain-wall resistive effect of 0.1% was clarified in La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 thin films between the configurations of current in the plane and perpendicular to the plane of walls. Furthermore, a reversible nanoscale control of the domain-wall re-orientation by vertical spin transfer torque across the probe/film interface was achieved, where a probe voltage of 0.1 V was applied on a manganite-based capacitor. We also demonstrated that the stripe-ordered magnetic domain-wall re-orientation strongly depends on the AC frequency of the scanning probe voltage which was applied on the capacitor.

MEMS-based liquid lens for capsule endoscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seo, S. W.; Han, S.; Seo, J. H.; Kim, Y. M.; Kang, M. S.; Min, N. G.; Choi, W. B.; Sung, M. Y.

2008-03-01

The capsule endoscope, a new application area of digital imaging, is growing rapidly but needs the versatile imaging capabilities such as auto-focusing and zoom-in to be an active diagnostic tool. The liquid lens based on MEMS technology can be a strong candidate because it is able to be small enough. In this paper, a cylinder-type liquid lens was designed based on Young-Lippmann model and then fabricated with MEMS technology combining the silicon thin-film process and the wafer bonding process. The focal length of the lens module including the fabricated liquid lens was changed reproducibly as a function of the applied voltage. With the change of 30V in the applied bias, the focal length of the constructed lens module could be tuned in the range of about 42cm. The fabricated liquid lens was also proven to be small enough to be adopted in the capsule endoscope, which means the liquid lens can be utilized for the imaging capability improvement of the capsule endoscope.

Fiber-optic voltage measuring system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Miaoyuan; Nie, De-Xin; Li, Yan; Peng, Yu; Lin, Qi-Qing; Wang, Jing-Gang

1993-09-01

A new fibre optic voltage measuring system has been developed based on the electrooptic effect of bismuth germanium oxide (Bi4Ge3O12)crystal. It uses the LED as the light source. The light beam emitted from the light source is transmitted to the sensor through the optic fibre and the intensity of the output beam is changed by the applied voltage. This optic signal is transmitted to the PIN detector and converted to an electric signal which is processed by the electronic circuit and 8098 single chip microcomputer the output voltage signal obtained is directly proportional to the applied voltage. This paper describes the principle the configuration and the performance parameters of the system. Test results are evaluated and discussed.

PEAK READING VOLTMETER

DOEpatents

Dyer, A.L.

1958-07-29

An improvement in peak reading voltmeters is described, which provides for storing an electrical charge representative of the magnitude of a transient voltage pulse and thereafter measuring the stored charge, drawing oniy negligible energy from the storage element. The incoming voltage is rectified and stored in a condenser. The voltage of the capacitor is applied across a piezoelectric crystal between two parallel plates. Amy change in the voltage of the capacitor is reflected in a change in the dielectric constant of the crystal and the capacitance between a second pair of plates affixed to the crystal is altered. The latter capacitor forms part of the frequency determlning circuit of an oscillator and means is provided for indicating the frequency deviation which is a measure of the peak voltage applied to the voltmeter.

Current transport mechanisms in mercury cadmium telluride diode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gopal, Vishnu, E-mail: vishnu-46@yahoo.com, E-mail: wdhu@mail.sitp.ac.cn; Li, Qing; He, Jiale

This paper reports the results of modelling of the current-voltage characteristics (I-V) of a planar mid-wave Mercury Cadmium Telluride photodiode in a gate controlled diode experiment. It is reported that the diode exhibits nearly ideal I-V characteristics under the optimum surface potential leading to the minimal surface leakage current. Deviations from the optimum surface potential lead to non ideal I–V characteristics, indicating a strong relationship between the ideality factor of the diode with its surface leakage current. Diode's I–V characteristics have been modelled over a range of gate voltages from −9 V to −2 V. This range of gate voltages includes accumulation,more » flat band, and depletion and inversion conditions below the gate structure of the diode. It is shown that the I–V characteristics of the diode can be very well described by (i) thermal diffusion current, (ii) ohmic shunt current, (iii) photo-current due to background illumination, and (iv) excess current that grows by the process of avalanche multiplication in the gate voltage range from −3 V to −5 V that corresponds to the optimum surface potential. Outside the optimum gate voltage range, the origin of the excess current of the diode is associated with its high surface leakage currents. It is reported that the ohmic shunt current model applies to small surface leakage currents. The higher surface leakage currents exhibit a nonlinear shunt behaviour. It is also shown that the observed zero-bias dynamic resistance of the diode over the entire gate voltage range is the sum of ohmic shunt resistance and estimated zero-bias dynamic resistance of the diode from its thermal saturation current.« less

Transient sodium current at subthreshold voltages: activation by EPSP waveforms

PubMed Central

Carter, Brett C.; Giessel, Andrew J.; Sabatini, Bernardo L.; Bean, Bruce P.

2012-01-01

Summary Tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive sodium channels carry large transient currents during action potentials and also “persistent” sodium current, a non-inactivating TTX-sensitive current present at subthreshold voltages. We examined gating of subthreshold sodium current in dissociated cerebellar Purkinje neurons and hippocampal CA1 neurons, studied at 37 °C with near-physiological ionic conditions. Unexpectedly, in both cell types small voltage steps at subthreshold voltages activated a substantial component of transient sodium current as well as persistent current. Subthreshold EPSP-like waveforms also activated a large component of transient sodium current, but IPSP-like waveforms engaged primarily persistent sodium current with only a small additional transient component. Activation of transient as well as persistent sodium current at subthreshold voltages produces amplification of EPSPs that is sensitive to the rate of depolarization and can help account for the dependence of spike threshold on depolarization rate, as previously observed in vivo. PMID:22998875

Studies on transient characteristics of unipolar resistive switching processes in TiO2 thin film grown by atomic layer deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahu, Vikas Kumar; Das, Amit K.; Ajimsha, R. S.; Misra, P.

2018-05-01

The transient characteristics of resistive switching processes have been investigated in TiO2 thin films grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) to study the temporal evolution of the switching processes and measure the switching times. The reset and set switching times of unipolar Au/TiO2/Pt devices were found to be ~250 µs and 180 ns, respectively in the voltage windows of 0.5–0.9 V for reset and 1.9–4.8 V for set switching processes, obtained from quasi-static measurements. The reset switching time decreased exponentially with increasing amplitude of applied reset voltage pulse, while the set switching time remained insensitive to the amplitude of the set voltage pulse. A fast reset process with a switching time of ~400 ns was achieved by applying a reset voltage of ~1.8 V, higher than that of the quasi-static reset voltage window but below the set voltage window. The sluggish reset process in TiO2 thin film and the dependence of the reset switching time on the amplitude of the applied voltage pulse was understood on the basis of a self-accelerated thermal dissolution model of conducting filaments (CFs), where a higher temperature of the CFs owing to enhanced Joule heating at a higher applied voltage imposes faster diffusion of oxygen vacancies, resulting in a shorter reset switching time. Our results clearly indicate that fast resistive switching with switching times in hundreds of nanoseconds can be achieved in ALD-grown TiO2 thin films. This may find applications in fast non-volatile unipolar resistive switching memories.

Development of Laser Based Remote Sensing System for Inner-Concrete Defects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimada, Yoshinori; Kotyaev, Oleg

Laser-based remote sensing using a vibration detection system has been developed using a photorefractive crystal to reduce the effect of concrete surface-roughness. An electric field was applied to the crystal and the reference beam was phase shifted to increase the detection efficiency (DE). The DE increased by factor of 8.5 times compared to that when no voltage and no phase shifting were applied. Vibration from concrete defects can be detected at a distance of 5 m from the system. A vibration-canceling system has also developed that appears to be promising for canceling vibrations between the laser system and the concrete. Finally, we have constructed a prototype system that can be transported in a small truck.

Voltage Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

Under a Lewis Research Center Small Business Innovation Research contract, SRICO, Inc. developed a fiber optic voltage sensor to measure voltage in electronic systems in spacecraft. The sensor uses glass and light to sense and transmit electricity, and is relatively safe and accurate. SRICO then commercialized the sensor for measurement of electric field and voltage in applications such as electric power systems and hazardous environments, lightning detection, and fiber optic communication systems.

Electrochromatographic retention of peptides on strong cation-exchange stationary phases.

PubMed

Nischang, Ivo; Höltzel, Alexandra; Tallarek, Ulrich

2010-03-01

We analyze the systematic and substantial electrical field-dependence of electrochromatographic retention for four counterionic peptides ([Met5]enkephalin, oxytocin, [Arg8]vasopressin, and luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) ) on a strong cation-exchange (SCX) stationary phase. Our experiments show that retention behavior in the studied system depends on the charge-selectivity of the stationary phase particles, the applied voltage, and the peptides' net charge. Retention factors of twice positively charged peptides ([Arg8]vasopressin and LHRH at pH 2.7) decrease with increasing applied voltage, whereas lower charged peptides (oxytocin and [Met5]enkephalin at pH 2.7, [Arg8]vasopressin and LHRH at pH 7.0) show a concomitant increase in their retention factors. The observed behavior is explained on the basis of electrical field-induced concentration polarization (CP) that develops around the SCX particles of the packing. The intraparticle concentration of charged species (buffer ions, peptides) increases with increasing applied voltage due to diffusive backflux from the enriched CP zone associated with each SCX particle. For twice charged and on the SCX phase strongly retained peptides the local increase in mobile phase ionic strength reduces the electrostatic interactions with the stationary phase, which explains the decrease of retention factors with increasing applied voltage and CP intensity. Lower charged and weaker retained peptides experience a much stronger relative intraparticle enrichment than the twice-charged peptides, which results in a net increase of retention factors with increasing applied voltage. The CP-related contribution to electrochromatographic retention of peptides on the SCX stationary phase is modulated by the applied voltage, the mobile phase ionic strength, and the peptides' net charge and could be used for selectivity tuning in difficult separations.

Synthesis of Pt nanoparticles as catalysts of oxygen reduction with microbubble-assisted low-voltage and low-frequency solution plasma processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horiguchi, Genki; Chikaoka, Yu; Shiroishi, Hidenobu; Kosaka, Shinpei; Saito, Morihiro; Kameta, Naohiro; Matsuda, Naoki

2018-04-01

In the preparation of metallic nanoparticles by conventional solution plasma (SP) techniques, unstable plasma emission becomes an issue when the voltage and frequency of the waves applied between two electrodes placed in solution are lowered to avoid the boiling of the solution. In this study, we confirm that, in the presence of microbubbles, plasma is generated stably at low voltage (440 V) and low frequency (50-100 Hz) and small-size (≤10 nm) Pt nanoparticles (PtNPs) are synthesized in succession using a flow cell. The smallest PtNPs, ∼3.3 nm in diameter, are obtained using half-wave rectification, a tungsten wire anode, and a platinum wire cathode. The PtNPs are characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimeter-differential thermal analysis. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is investigated in 0.1 M HClO4 solution on carbon-supported PtNPs using a rotating ring-disk electrode. The catalytic activities per initial electrochemical active surface area of the carbon-supported PtNPs synthesized employing the low-voltage, low-frequency (LVLF)-SP technique is higher than that of the commercially available 20 wt% Pt on Vulcan XC-72R. These results indicate that the LVLF-SP technique is a promising approach to producing carbon-supported PtNPs that catalyze ORR with low energy consumption.

Characteristics of electroluminescence phenomenon in virgin and thermally aged LDPE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bani, N. A.; Abdul-Malek, Z.; Ahmad, H.; Muhammad-Sukki, F.; Mas'ud, A. A.

2015-08-01

High voltage cable requires a good insulating material such as low density polyethylene (LDPE) to be able to operate efficiently in high voltage stresses and high temperature environment. However, any polymeric material will experience degradation after prolonged application of high electrical stresses or other extreme conditions. The continuous degradation will shorten the life of a cable therefore further understanding on the behaviour of the aged high voltage cable needs to be undertaken. This may be observed through electroluminescence (EL) measurement. EL occurs when a solid-state material is subjected to a high electrical field stress and associated with the generation of charge carriers within the polymeric material and that these charges can be produced by injection, de-trapping and field-dissociation at the metal-polymer interface. The behaviour of EL emission can be affected by applied field, applied frequency, ageing time, ageing temperature and types of materials, among others. This paper focuses on the measurement of EL emission of additive-free LDPE thermally aged at different temperature subjected to varying electric stresses at 50Hz. It can be observed that EL emission increases as voltage applied is increased. However, EL emission decreases as ageing temperature is increased for varying applied voltage.

Analysis of low-offset CTIA amplifier for small-size-pixel infrared focal plane array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xue; Huang, Zhangcheng; Shao, Xiumei

2014-11-01

The design of input stage amplifier becomes more and more difficult as the expansion of format arrays and reduction of pixel size. A design method of low-offset amplifier based on 0.18-μm process used in small-size pixel is analyzed in order to decrease the dark signal of extended wavelength InGaAs infrared focal plane arrays (IRFPA). Based on an example of a cascode operational amplifier (op-amp), the relationship between input offset voltage and size of each transistor is discussed through theoretical analysis and Monte Carlo simulation. The results indicate that input transistors and load transistors have great influence on the input offset voltage while common-gate transistors are negligible. Furthermore, the offset voltage begins to increase slightly when the width and length of transistors decrease along with the diminution of pixel size, and raises rapidly when the size is smaller than a proximate threshold value. The offset voltage of preamplifiers with differential architecture and single-shared architecture in small pitch pixel are studied. After optimization under same conditions, simulation results show that single-shared architecture has smaller offset voltage than differential architecture.

Preparation and characterization of oriented poly(vinyl alcohol)/carbon nanotube composite nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimizu, Akikazu; Kato, Hayato; Sato, Taiga; Kushida, Masahito

2017-07-01

Oriented nanofiber mats blended with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are expected to be applied as cell seeding scaffolds. Biomaterials that are often used for cell seeding scaffolds generally have low mechanical strength and low electrical conductivity; thus, it has been difficult to apply them to tissues such as heart and nerve. In this study, we prepared oriented poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber mats blended with various CNT concentrations (up to 10 wt %) by electrospinning using the parallel plate electrodes as collectors with applied voltage. The morphology, mechanical properties, and electrical properties of the prepared oriented nanofiber mats were measured by using various techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tensile strength of the oriented nanofiber mats in the applied voltage direction increased from 2.5 to 9.7 MPa with CNT concentration. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity of the oriented nanofiber mats in the applied voltage direction increased from 0.67 × 10-7 to 4.3 × 10-7 S·m-1. Also, the mechanical strength and electrical conductivity of the oriented nanofiber mats in the applied voltage direction were 3-4 and 2-3 times higher than those in the perpendicular direction, respectively.

Numerical investigation of the effect of driving voltage pulse shapes on the characteristics of low-pressure argon dielectric barrier discharge

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eslami, E., E-mail: eeslami@iust.ac.ir; Barjasteh, A.; Morshedian, N.

2015-06-15

In this work, we numerically compare the effect of a sinusoidal, triangular, and rectangular pulsed voltage profile on the calculated particle production, electric current, and gas voltage in a dielectric barrier discharge. The total argon gas pressure of 400 Pa, the distance between dielectrics of 5 mm, the dielectric thickness of 0.7 mm, and the temperature of T = 300 K were considered as input parameters. The different driving voltage pulse shapes (triangular, rectangular, and sinusoidal) are considered as applied voltage with a frequency of 7 kHz and an amplitude of 700 V peak to peak. It is shown thatmore » applying a rectangular voltage, as compared with a sinusoidal or triangle voltage, increases the current peak, while the peak width is decreased. Higher current density is related to high production of charged particles, which leads to the generation of some highly active species, such as Ar* (4s level), and Ar** (4p level) in the gap.« less

Preparation, characterization and electroluminescence studies of ZnO nanorods for optoelectronic device applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Singh, Anju, E-mail: singh-nk24@yahoo.com; Vishwakarma, H. L., E-mail: horilal5@yahoo.com

2015-07-31

In this work, ZnO nanorods were achieved by a simple chemical precipitation method in the presence of capping agent Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone (PVP) at room temperature. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) result indicates that the synthesized undoped ZnO nanorods have wurtzite hexagonal structure without any impurities. It has been seen that the growth orientation of the prepared ZnO nanorods were (101). XRD analysis revealed that the nanorods having the crystallite size 49 nm. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) image confirmed the size and shape of these nanorods. The diameter of nanorods has been found that 1.52 µm to 1.61 µm and the lengthmore » of about 4.89 µm. It has also been found that at room temperature Ultra Violet Visible (UV-VIS) absorption band is around 355 nm (blue shifted as compared to bulk). Electroluminescence (EL) studies show that emission of light is possible at very small threshold voltage and increases rapidly with increasing applied voltage. It is seen that smaller ZnO nanoparticles give higher electroluminescence brightness starting at lower threshold voltage. The brightness is also affected by increasing the frequency of AC signal.« less

Electrotonic and action potentials in the Venus flytrap.

PubMed

Volkov, Alexander G; Vilfranc, Chrystelle L; Murphy, Veronica A; Mitchell, Colee M; Volkova, Maia I; O'Neal, Lawrence; Markin, Vladislav S

2013-06-15

The electrical phenomena and morphing structures in the Venus flytrap have attracted researchers since the nineteenth century. We have observed that mechanical stimulation of trigger hairs on the lobes of the Venus flytrap induces electrotonic potentials in the lower leaf. Electrostimulation of electrical circuits in the Venus flytrap can induce electrotonic potentials propagating along the upper and lower leaves. The instantaneous increase or decrease in voltage of stimulating potential generates a nonlinear electrical response in plant tissues. Any electrostimulation that is not instantaneous, such as sinusoidal or triangular functions, results in linear responses in the form of small electrotonic potentials. The amplitude and sign of electrotonic potentials depend on the polarity and the amplitude of the applied voltage. Electrical stimulation of the lower leaf induces electrical signals, which resemble action potentials, in the trap between the lobes and the midrib. The trap closes if the stimulating voltage is above the threshold level of 4.4V. Electrical responses in the Venus flytrap were analyzed and reproduced in the discrete electrical circuit. The information gained from this study can be used to elucidate the coupling of intracellular and intercellular communications in the form of electrical signals within plants. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Buckling of Dielectric Elastomeric Plates for Electrically Active Microfludic Pumps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holmes, Douglas; Tavakol, Behrouz; Bozlar, Michael; Froehlicher, Guillaume; Stone, Howard; Aksay, Ilhan

2013-11-01

Fluid flow can be directed and controlled by a variety of mechanisms within industrial and biological environments. Advances in microfluidic technology have required innovative ways to control fluid flow on a small scale, and the ability to actively control fluid flow within microfluidic devices is crucial for advancements in nanofluidics, biomedical fluidic devices, and digital microfluidics. In this work, we present a means for microfluidic control via the electrical actuation of thin, flexible valves within microfluidic channels. These structures consist of a dielectric elastomer confined between two compliant electrodes that can be actively and reversibly buckle out of plane to pump fluids from an applied voltage. The out-of-plane deformation can be quantified using two parameters: net change in surface area and the shape of deformation. Change in surface area depends on the voltage, while the deformation shape, which significantly affects the flow rate, is a function of voltage, and the pressure and volume of the chambers on each side of the thin plate. The use of solid electrodes enables a robust and reversible pumping mechanism that will have will enable advancements in rapid microfluidic diagnostics, adaptive materials, and artificial muscles.

High voltage holding in the negative ion sources with cesium deposition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Belchenko, Yu.; Abdrashitov, G.; Ivanov, A.

High voltage holding of the large surface-plasma negative ion source with cesium deposition was studied. It was found that heating of ion-optical system electrodes to temperature >100 °C facilitates the source conditioning by high voltage pulses in vacuum and by beam shots. The procedure of electrode conditioning and the data on high-voltage holding in the negative ion source with small cesium seed are described. The mechanism of high voltage holding improvement by depletion of cesium coverage is discussed.

Plenoptic camera based on a liquid crystal microlens array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Yu; Tong, Qing; Zhang, Xinyu; Sang, Hongshi; Xie, Changsheng

2015-09-01

A type of liquid crystal microlens array (LCMLA) with tunable focal length by the voltage signals applied between its top and bottom electrodes, is fabricated and then the common optical focusing characteristics are tested. The relationship between the focal length and the applied voltage signals is given. The LCMLA is integrated with an image sensor and further coupled with a main lens so as to construct a plenoptic camera. Several raw images at different voltage signals applied are acquired and contrasted through the LCMLA-based plenoptic camera constructed by us. Our experiments demonstrate that through utilizing a LCMLA in a plenoptic camera, the focused zone of the LCMLA-based plenoptic camera can be shifted effectively only by changing the voltage signals loaded between the electrodes of the LCMLA, which is equivalent to the extension of the depth of field.

Single-Cell Electric Lysis on an Electroosmotic-Driven Microfluidic Chip with Arrays of Microwells

PubMed Central

Jen, Chun-Ping; Amstislavskaya, Tamara G.; Liu, Ya-Hui; Hsiao, Ju-Hsiu; Chen, Yu-Hung

2012-01-01

Accurate analysis at the single-cell level has become a highly attractive tool for investigating cellular content. An electroosmotic-driven microfluidic chip with arrays of 30-μm-diameter microwells was developed for single-cell electric lysis in the present study. The cellular occupancy in the microwells when the applied voltage was 5 V (82.4%) was slightly higher than that at an applied voltage of 10 V (81.8%). When the applied voltage was increased to 15 V, the cellular occupancy in the microwells dropped to 64.3%. More than 50% of the occupied microwells contain individual cells. The results of electric lysis experiments at the single-cell level indicate that the cells were gradually lysed as the DC voltage of 30 V was applied; the cell was fully lysed after 25 s. Single-cell electric lysis was demonstrated in the proposed microfluidic chip, which is suitable for high-throughput cell lysis. PMID:22969331

On a Road to "Soft" Optical MEMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Shu; Mach, Peter; Krupenkin, Tom

2003-03-01

A phenomenon of electrowetting has been applied to the actuation of micro-optical devices. The devices use small droplets of transparent conductive liquids to manipulate light in a useful way. The form and position of these droplets is controlled by the applied voltage. Both fiber based and open space optical devices are demonstrated. As an example of an open space optical device, a tunable liquid microlens capable of adjusting its focal length and lateral position is discussed. The microlens consists of a droplet of a transparent conductive liquid placed on a dielectric substrate with underlying electrodes. By varying the voltage applied to the structure, both the position and curvature of microlens can be reversibly changed. Similarly, electrowetting actuation of fluids in micro channels is employed to provide dynamic and reversible tuning of the optical fiber structures. When combined with in-fiber gratings or etched fibers this approach yields tunable broadband and narrowband filters with a large dynamic range. Both the surface and bulk properties of the materials are found important to control the device performance. Fundamental problems, such as stick-slip behavior and contact angle hysteresis associated with the surface roughness and surface contamination, are studied to optimize the choice of dielectric materials and their coatings. Some of the possible ways to control these phenomena are outlined. Several potential applications of the proposed approach are also discussed.

Improved analysis techniques for cylindrical and spherical double probes.

PubMed

Beal, Brian; Johnson, Lee; Brown, Daniel; Blakely, Joseph; Bromaghim, Daron

2012-07-01

A versatile double Langmuir probe technique has been developed by incorporating analytical fits to Laframboise's numerical results for ion current collection by biased electrodes of various sizes relative to the local electron Debye length. Application of these fits to the double probe circuit has produced a set of coupled equations that express the potential of each electrode relative to the plasma potential as well as the resulting probe current as a function of applied probe voltage. These equations can be readily solved via standard numerical techniques in order to determine electron temperature and plasma density from probe current and voltage measurements. Because this method self-consistently accounts for the effects of sheath expansion, it can be readily applied to plasmas with a wide range of densities and low ion temperature (T(i)/T(e) ≪ 1) without requiring probe dimensions to be asymptotically large or small with respect to the electron Debye length. The presented approach has been successfully applied to experimental measurements obtained in the plume of a low-power Hall thruster, which produced a quasineutral, flowing xenon plasma during operation at 200 W on xenon. The measured plasma densities and electron temperatures were in the range of 1 × 10(12)-1 × 10(17) m(-3) and 0.5-5.0 eV, respectively. The estimated measurement uncertainty is +6%∕-34% in density and +∕-30% in electron temperature.

Study of dispersed small wind systems interconnected with a utility distribution system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Curtice, D.; Patton, J.; Bohn, J.; Sechan, N.

1980-03-01

Operating problems for various penetrations of small wind systems connected to the distribution system on a utility are defined. Protection equipment, safety hazards, feeder voltage regulation, line losses, and voltage flicker problems are studied, assuming different small wind systems connected to an existing distribution system. To identify hardware deficiencies, possible solutions provided by off-the-shelf hardware and equipment are assessed. Results of the study indicate that existing techniques are inadequate for detecting isolated operation of a small wind system. Potential safety hazards posed by small wind systems are adequately handled by present work procedures although these procedures require a disconnect device at synchronous generator and self commutated inverter small wind systems.

Voltage-Induced Nonlinear Conduction Properties of Epoxy Resin/Micron-Silver Particles Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zhaoming; Lu, Pin; Yuan, Yang; Wang, Qingguo

2018-01-01

The nonlinear conduction properties of epoxy resin (ER)/micron-silver particles (MP) composites were investigated. Under sufficient high intensity applied constant voltage, the obvious nonlinear conduction properties of the samples with volume fraction 25% were found. With increments in the voltage, the conductive switching effect was observed. The nonlinear conduction mechanism of the ER/MP composites under high applied voltages could be attributed to the electrical current conducted via discrete paths of conductive particles induced by the electric field. The test results show that the ER/MP composites with nonlinear conduction properties are of great potential application in electromagnetic protection of electron devices and systems.

Investigation of high voltage spacecraft system interactions with plasma environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stevens, N. J.; Berkopec, F. D.; Purvis, C. K.; Grier, N.; Staskus, J. V.

1978-01-01

An experimental investigation was undertaken for insulator and conductor test surfaces biased up to + or - 1kV in a simulated low earth orbit charged particle environment. It was found that these interactions are controlled by the insulator surfaces surrounding the biased conductors. For positive applied voltages the electron current collection can be enhanced by the insulators. For negative applied voltages the insulator surface confines the voltage to the conductor region. Understanding these interactions and the technology to control their impact on system operation is essential to the design of solar cell arrays for ion drive propulsion applications that use direct drive power processing.

Epitaxial thinning process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, C. M. (Inventor)

1984-01-01

A method is described for thinning an epitaxial layer of a wafer that is to be used in producing diodes having a specified breakdown voltage and which also facilitates the thinning process. Current is passed through the epitaxial layer, by connecting a current source between the substrate of the wafer and an electrolyte in which the wafer is immersed. When the wafer is initially immersed, the voltage across the wafer initially drops and then rises at a steep rate. When light is applied to the wafer the voltage drops, and when the light is interrupted the voltage rises again. These changes in voltage, each indicate the breakdown voltage of a Schottky diode that could be prepared from the wafer at that time. The epitaxial layer is thinned by continuing to apply current through the wafer while it is immersed and light is applied, to form an oxide film and when the oxide film is thick the wafer can then be cleaned of oxide and the testing and thinning continued. Uninterrupted thinning can be achieved by first forming an oxide film, and then using an electrolyte that dissolves the oxide about as fast as it is being formed, to limit the thickness of the oxide layer.

Active voltage contrast imaging of cross-sectional surface of multilayer ceramic capacitor using helium ion microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sakai, C., E-mail: SAKAI.Chikako@nims.go.jp; Ishida, N.; Masuda, H.

2016-08-01

We studied active voltage contrast (AVC) imaging using helium ion microscopy (HIM). We observed secondary electron (SE) images of the cross-sectional surface of multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) with and without a voltage applied to the internal electrodes. When no voltage was applied, we obtained an image reflecting the material contrast between the Ni internal electrode region and the BaTiO{sub 3} dielectric region of the cross-sectional surface of the MLCC. When a voltage was applied, the electrical potential difference between the grounded and the positively biased internal electrodes affected the contrast (voltage contrast). Moreover, attenuation of the SE intensity from themore » grounded to the positively biased internal electrodes was observed in the dielectric region. Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) measurements of the contact potential difference (CPD) were performed on the same sample. By using the AVC image from the HIM observation and the CPD image from the KPFM measurement, we could quantitatively evaluate the electrical potential. We think that the results of this study will lead to an expansion in the number of applications of HIM.« less

Safety Performance of Small Lithium-Ion Cells in High Voltage Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cowles, Philip R.; Darcy, Eric C.; Davies, Frank J.; Jeevarajan, Judith A.; Spurrett, Robert P.

2003-01-01

Topics covered include: Small-cell EAPU work done by NASA-JSC & COM DEV; Looking at safety features (short circuit protection - PTCs); Early tests showed that long strings do not withstand short circuit; a) Some PTCs experience large negative voltages; b) Destructive results. Solution: group cells into shorter substrings, with bypass diodes Work included: a) Tests with single cells shorted; b) Tests with single cells with imposed-negative voltages; c) 6s, 7s and 8s string shorts; and d) Tests with protection scheme in place, on 12s and 41s x 5p.

Investigation on the energy spectrums of electrons in atmospheric pressure argon plasma jets and their dependences on the applied voltage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xinxian; Tan, Zhenyu; Liu, Yadi; Li, Xiaotong; Pan, Jie; Wang, Xiaolong

2017-08-01

This work presents a systematical investigation on the spatiotemporal evolution of the energy spectrum of electrons in atmospheric pressure argon plasma jets and its dependence on the applied voltage. The investigations are carried out by means of the numerical simulation based on a particle-in-cell Monte-Carlo collision model. The characteristics of the spatiotemporal evolution of the energy spectrum of electrons (ESE) in the discharge space have been presented, and especially the mechanisms of inducing these characteristics have also been revealed. The present work shows the following conclusions. In the evolution of ESE, there is a characteristic time under each applied voltage. Before the characteristic time, the peak value of ESE decreases, the peak position shifts toward high energy, and the distribution of ESE becomes wider and wider, but the reverse is true after the characteristic time. The formation of these characteristics can be mainly attributed to the transport of electrons toward a low electric field as well as a balance between the energy gained from the electric field including the effect of space charges and the energy loss due to inelastic collisions in the process of electron transport. The characteristic time decreases with the applied voltage. In addition, the average energy of electrons at the characteristic time can be increased by enhancing the applied voltage. The results presented in this work are of importance for regulating and controlling the energy of electrons in the plasma jets applied to plasma medicine.

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for study of electronic structure in disordered organic semiconductors—Possibilities and limitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schauer, F.; Nádaždy, V.; Gmucová, K.

2018-04-01

There is potential in applying conjugated polymers in novel organic optoelectronic devices, where a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental processes and energetics involved during transport and recombination is still lacking, limiting further device optimization. The electronic transport modeling and its optimization need the energy distribution of transport and defect states, expressed by the energy distribution of the Density of States (DOS) function, as input/comparative parameters. We present the Energy Resolved-Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (ER-EIS) method for the study of transport and defect electronic states in organic materials. The method allows mapping over unprecedentedly wide energy and DOS ranges. The ER-EIS spectroscopic method is based on the small signal interaction between the surface of the organic film and the liquid electrolyte containing reduction-oxidation (redox) species, which is similar to the extraction of an electron by an acceptor and capture of an electron by a donor at a semiconductor surface. The desired DOS of electronic transport and defect states can be derived directly from the measured redox response signal to the small voltage perturbation at the instantaneous position of the Fermi energy, given by the externally applied voltage. The theory of the ER-EIS method and conditions for its validity for solid polymers are presented in detail. We choose four case studies on poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) and poly[methyl(phenyl)silane] to show the possibilities of the method to investigate the electronic structure expressed by DOS of polymers with a high resolution of about 6 orders of magnitude and in a wide energy range of 6 eV.

Negative Differential Resistance (NDR) frequency conversion with gain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwu, R. J.; Alm, R. W.; Lee, S. C.

1992-01-01

The dependence of the I-V characteristic of the negative differential resistance (NDR) devices on the power level and frequency of the rf input signal has been theoretically analyzed with a modified large- and small-signal nonlinear circuit analysis program. The NDR devices we used in this work include both the tunnel diode (without the antisymmetry in the I-V characteristic) and resonant-tunneling devices (with the antisymmetry in the I-V characteristic). Absolute negative conductance can be found from a zero-biased resonant tunneling device when the applied pump power is within a small range. This study verifies the work of Sollner et al. Variable negative conductances at the fundamental and harmonic frequencies can also be obtained from both the unbiased and biased tunnel diodes. The magnitude of the negative conductances can be adjusted by varying the pump amplitude -- a very useful circuit property. However, the voltage range over which the negative conductance occurs moves towards the more positive side of the voltage axis with increasing frequency. Furthermore, the range of the pumping amplitude to obtain negative conductance varies with the parasitics (resistance and capacitance) of the device. The theoretical observation of the dependence of the I-V characteristic of the NDR devices on the power and frequency of the applied pump signal is supported by the experimental results. In addition, novel functions of a NDR device such as self-oscillating frequency multiplier and mixer with gain have been experimentally demonstrated. The unbiased oscillator have also been successfully realized with a NDR device with an antisymmetrical I-V characteristic. Finally, the applications of these device functions will be discussed.

Ion peak narrowing by applying additional AC voltage (ripple voltage) to FAIMS extractor electrode.

PubMed

Pervukhin, Viktor V; Sheven, Dmitriy G

2010-01-01

The use of a non-uniform electric field in a high-field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) analyzer increases sensitivity but decreases resolution. The application of an additional AC voltage to the extractor electrode ("ripple" voltage, U(ripple)) can overcome this effect, which decreases the FAIMS peak width. In this approach, the diffusion ion loss remains minimal in the non-uniform electric field in the cylindrical part of the device, and all ion losses under U(ripple) occur in a short portion of their path. Application of the ripple voltage to the extractor electrode is twice as efficient as the applying of U(ripple) along the total length of the device. 2010 American Society for Mass Spectrometry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nanowire NMOS Logic Inverter Characterization.

PubMed

Hashim, Yasir

2016-06-01

This study is the first to demonstrate characteristics optimization of nanowire N-Channel Metal Oxide Semiconductor (NW-MOS) logic inverter. Noise margins and inflection voltage of transfer characteristics are used as limiting factors in this optimization. A computer-based model used to produce static characteristics of NW-NMOS logic inverter. In this research two circuit configuration of NW-NMOS inverter was studied, in first NW-NMOS circuit, the noise margin for (low input-high output) condition was very low. For second NMOS circuit gives excellent noise margins, and results indicate that optimization depends on applied voltage to the inverter. Increasing gate to source voltage with (2/1) nanowires ratio results better noise margins. Increasing of applied DC load transistor voltage tends to increasing in decreasing noise margins; decreasing this voltage will improve noise margins significantly.

Off-set stabilizer for comparator output

DOEpatents

Lunsford, James S.

1991-01-01

A stabilized off-set voltage is input as the reference voltage to a comparator. In application to a time-interval meter, the comparator output generates a timing interval which is independent of drift in the initial voltage across the timing capacitor. A precision resistor and operational amplifier charge a capacitor to a voltage which is precisely offset from the initial voltage. The capacitance of the reference capacitor is selected so that substantially no voltage drop is obtained in the reference voltage applied to the comparator during the interval to be measured.

Sensitive Detection of Small Particles in Fluids Using Optical Fiber Tip with Dielectrophoresis

PubMed Central

Tai, Yi-Hsin; Chang, Dao-Ming; Pan, Ming-Yang; Huang, Ding-Wei; Wei, Pei-Kuen

2016-01-01

This work presents using a tapered fiber tip coated with thin metallic film to detect small particles in water with high sensitivity. When an AC voltage applied to the Ti/Al coated fiber tip and indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate, a gradient electric field at the fiber tip induced attractive/repulsive force to suspended small particles due to the frequency-dependent dielectrophoresis (DEP) effect. Such DEP force greatly enhanced the concentration of the small particles near the tip. The increase of the local concentration also increased the scattering of surface plasmon wave near the fiber tip. Combined both DEP effect and scattering optical near-field, we show the detection limit of the concentration for 1.36 μm polystyrene beads can be down to 1 particle/mL. The detection limit of the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria was 20 CFU/mL. The fiber tip sensor takes advantages of ultrasmall volume, label-free and simple detection system. PMID:26927128

Pulsed Direct Current Electrospray: Enabling Systematic Analysis of Small Volume Sample by Boosting Sample Economy.

PubMed

Wei, Zhenwei; Xiong, Xingchuang; Guo, Chengan; Si, Xingyu; Zhao, Yaoyao; He, Muyi; Yang, Chengdui; Xu, Wei; Tang, Fei; Fang, Xiang; Zhang, Sichun; Zhang, Xinrong

2015-11-17

We had developed pulsed direct current electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (pulsed-dc-ESI-MS) for systematically profiling and determining components in small volume sample. Pulsed-dc-ESI utilized constant high voltage to induce the generation of single polarity pulsed electrospray remotely. This method had significantly boosted the sample economy, so as to obtain several minutes MS signal duration from merely picoliter volume sample. The elongated MS signal duration enable us to collect abundant MS(2) information on interested components in a small volume sample for systematical analysis. This method had been successfully applied for single cell metabolomics analysis. We had obtained 2-D profile of metabolites (including exact mass and MS(2) data) from single plant and mammalian cell, concerning 1034 components and 656 components for Allium cepa and HeLa cells, respectively. Further identification had found 162 compounds and 28 different modification groups of 141 saccharides in a single Allium cepa cell, indicating pulsed-dc-ESI a powerful tool for small volume sample systematical analysis.

Comparative performance of a genetically-encoded voltage indicator and a blue voltage sensitive dye for large scale cortical voltage imaging

PubMed Central

Mutoh, Hiroki; Mishina, Yukiko; Gallero-Salas, Yasir; Knöpfel, Thomas

2015-01-01

Traditional small molecule voltage sensitive dye indicators have been a powerful tool for monitoring large scale dynamics of neuronal activities but have several limitations including the lack of cell class specific targeting, invasiveness and difficulties in conducting longitudinal studies. Recent advances in the development of genetically-encoded voltage indicators have successfully overcome these limitations. Genetically-encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) provide sufficient sensitivity to map cortical representations of sensory information and spontaneous network activities across cortical areas and different brain states. In this study, we directly compared the performance of a prototypic GEVI, VSFP2.3, with that of a widely used small molecule voltage sensitive dye (VSD), RH1691, in terms of their ability to resolve mesoscopic scale cortical population responses. We used three synchronized CCD cameras to simultaneously record the dual emission ratiometric fluorescence signal from VSFP2.3 and RH1691 fluorescence. The results show that VSFP2.3 offers more stable and less invasive recording conditions, while the signal-to-noise level and the response dynamics to sensory inputs are comparable to RH1691 recordings. PMID:25964738

Calibration of Voltage Transformers and High- Voltage Capacitors at NIST

PubMed Central

Anderson, William E.

1989-01-01

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) calibration service for voltage transformers and high-voltage capacitors is described. The service for voltage transformers provides measurements of ratio correction factors and phase angles at primary voltages up to 170 kV and secondary voltages as low as 10 V at 60 Hz. Calibrations at frequencies from 50–400 Hz are available over a more limited voltage range. The service for high-voltage capacitors provides measurements of capacitance and dissipation factor at applied voltages ranging from 100 V to 170 kV at 60 Hz depending on the nominal capacitance. Calibrations over a reduced voltage range at other frequencies are also available. As in the case with voltage transformers, these voltage constraints are determined by the facilities at NIST. PMID:28053409

Dielectrophoretic concentration of particles under electrokinetic flow

DOEpatents

Miles, Robin R.; Bettencourt, Kerry A.; Fuller, Christopher K.

2004-09-07

The use of dielectrophoresis to collect particles under the conditions of electrokinetically-driven flow. Dielectrophortic concentration of particles under electrokinetic flow is accomplished by interdigitated electrodes patterned on an inner surface of a microfluid channel, a DC voltage is applied across the ends to the channel, and an AC voltage is applied across the electrodes, and particles swept down the channel electrokinetically are trapped within the field established by the electrodes. The particles can be released when the voltage to the electrodes is released.

Dual-frequency glow discharges in atmospheric helium

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Huang, Xiaojiang; Guo, Ying; Magnetic Confinement Fusion Research Center, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Shanghai 201620

2015-10-15

In this paper, the dual-frequency (DF) glow discharges in atmospheric helium were experimented by electrical and optical measurements in terms of current voltage characteristics and optical emission intensity. It is shown that the waveforms of applied voltages or discharge currents are the results of low frequency (LF) waveforms added to high frequency (HF) waveforms. The HF mainly influences discharge currents, and the LF mainly influences applied voltages. The gas temperatures of DF discharges are mainly affected by HF power rather than LF power.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Milkov, Mihail M.

A comparator circuit suitable for use in a column-parallel single-slope analog-to-digital converter comprises a comparator, an input voltage sampling switch, a sampling capacitor arranged to store a voltage which varies with an input voltage when the sampling switch is closed, and a local ramp buffer arranged to buffer a global voltage ramp applied at an input. The comparator circuit is arranged such that its output toggles when the buffered global voltage ramp exceeds the stored voltage. Both DC- and AC-coupled comparator embodiments are disclosed.

Technical Note: An investigation of polarity effects for wide-angle free-air chambers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shen, H., E-mail: Hong.Shen@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca; Ross,

2016-07-15

Purpose: Wide-angle free-air chambers (WAFACs) are used as primary standard measurement devices for establishing the air-kerma strength of low-energy, low-dose rate brachytherapy seeds. The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is commissioning a primary standard wide-angle free-air chamber (NRC WAFAC) to serve the calibration needs of Canadian clients. The University of Wisconsin has developed a similar variable-aperture free-air chamber (UW VAFAC) to be used as a research tool. As part of the NRC commissioning, measurements were carried out for both polarities of the applied bias voltage and the resulting effects were observed to be very large. Similar effects were identifiedmore » with the UW VAFAC. The authors describe the measurements carried out to determine the underlying causes of the polarity effect and the approach used to eliminate it. Methods: The NRC WAFAC is based on the WAFAC design developed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the USA. Charge measurements for {sup 125}I and {sup 241}Am sources were carried out for both negative and positive polarities on the NRC WAFAC and UW VAFAC. Two aperture sizes were also investigated with the UW VAFAC. In addition, measurements on the NRC WAFAC were carried out with a small bias between the collecting electrode and the shield foil at the downstream end of the chamber. To mitigate all of the polarity effects, the downstream surface of the collecting electrode was covered with a thin layer of graphite on both the NRC and UW chambers. Results: Both chamber designs showed a difference of more than 30 % between the charge collected with positive and negative bias voltages for the smallest electrode separation. It was shown for the NRC WAFAC that charge could be collected in the small gap downstream of the collecting volume by applying a voltage between the shield foil and the collecting electrode, even though an insulating foil (Mylar or polyimide film) separated the conducting surface from the small gap region. The unwanted additional current was shown to be proportional to the size of the aperture for the UW VAFAC. The extra ionization produced in the small gap region was eliminated for both chambers by covering the insulating side of the collecting electrode with a grounded conducting layer. Conclusions: The small gap region downstream of the collecting electrode in the NRC WAFAC and UW VAFAC can serve as an unwanted source of ion current. It is concluded that a residual electric field in the small gap region may lead to ion transport and to charge being trapped on the surface of the foil. The foil then acts as a capacitor with an equal charge, but of opposite sign, being attracted to the conducting surface. Covering the back of the collecting electrode surface with a grounded conducting layer eliminated the polarity effect.« less

The Sheath-less Planar Langmuir Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooke, D. L.

2017-12-01

The Langmuir probe is one of the oldest plasma diagnostics, provided the plasma density and species temperature from analysis of a current-voltage curve as the voltage is swept over a practically chosen range. The analysis depends on a knowledge or theory of the many factors that influence the current-voltage curve including, probe shape, size, nearby perturbations, and the voltage reference. For applications in Low Earth Orbit, the Planar Langmuir Probe, PLP, is an attractive geometry because the ram ion current is very constant over many Volts of a sweep, allowing the ion density and electron temperature to be determined independently with the same instrument, at different points on the sweep. However, when the physical voltage reference is itself small and electrically floating as with a small spacecraft, the spacecraft and probe system become a double probe where the current collection theory depends on the interaction of the spacecraft with the plasma which is generally not as simple as the probe itself. The Sheath-less PLP, SPLP, interlaces on a single ram facing surface, two variably biased probe elements, broken into many small and intertwined segments on a scale smaller than the plasma Debye length. The SPLP is electrically isolated from the rest of the spacecraft. For relative bias potentials of a few volts, the ion current to all segments of each element will be constant, while the electron currents will vary as a function of the element potential and the electron temperature. Because the segments are small, intertwined, and floating, the assembly will always present the same floating potential to the plasma, with minimal growth as a function of voltage, thus sheath-less and still planar. This concept has been modelled with Nascap, and tested with a physical model inserted into a Low Earth Orbit-like chamber plasma. Results will be presented.

Demonstrations with a Liquid Crystal Shutter

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kraftmakher, Yaakov

2012-01-01

The experiments presented show the response of a liquid crystal shutter to applied electric voltages and the delay of the operations. Both properties are important for liquid crystal displays of computers and television sets. Two characteristics of the shutter are determined: (i) the optical transmittance versus applied voltage of various…

Discharge processes and an electrical model of atmospheric pressure plasma jets in argon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Zhi; Shao, Tao; Yang, Jing; Zhang, Cheng

2016-01-01

In this paper, an atmospheric pressure plasma discharge in argon was generated using a needle-to-ring electrode configuration driven by a sinusoidal excitation voltage. The electric discharge processes and discharge characteristics were investigated by inspecting the voltage-current waveforms, Lissajous curves and lighting emission images. The change in discharge mode with applied voltage amplitude was studied and characterised, and three modes of corona discharge, dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and jet discharge were identified, which appeared in turn with increasing applied voltage and can be distinguished clearly from the measured voltage-current waveforms, light-emission images and the changing gradient of discharge power with applied voltage. Based on the experimental results and discharge mechanism analysis, an equivalent electrical model and the corresponding equivalent circuit for characterising the whole discharge processes accurately was proposed, and the three discharge stages were characterised separately. A voltage-controlled current source (VCCS) associated with a resistance and a capacitance were used to represent the DBD stage, and the plasma plume and corona discharge were modelled by a variable capacitor in series with a variable resistor. Other factors that can influence the discharge, such as lead and stray capacitance values of the circuit, were also considered in the proposed model. Contribution to the Topical Issue "Recent Breakthroughs in Microplasma Science and Technology", edited by Kurt Becker, Jose Lopez, David Staack, Klaus-Dieter Weltmann and Wei Dong Zhu.

Tunable liquid crystal photonic devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Yun-Hsing

2005-07-01

Liquid crystal (LC)-based adaptive optics are important for information processing, optical interconnections, photonics, integrated optics, and optical communications due to their tunable optical properties. In this dissertation, we describe novel liquid crystal photonic devices. In Chap. 3, we demonstrate a novel electrically tunable-efficiency Fresnel lens which is devised for the first time using nanoscale PDLC. The tunable Fresnel lens is very desirable to eliminate the need of external spatial light modulator. The nanoscale LC devices are polarization independent and exhibit a fast response time. Because of the small droplet sizes, the operating voltage is higher than 100 Vrms. To lower the driving voltage, in Chap. 2 and Chap. 3, we have investigated tunable Fresnel lens using polymer-network liquid crystal (PNLC) and phase-separated composite film (PSCOF). The operating voltage is below 12 Vrms. The PNLC and PSCOF devices are polarization dependent. To overcome this shortcoming, stacking two cells with orthogonal alignment directions is a possibility. Using PNLC, we also demonstrated LC blazed grating. The diffraction efficiency of these devices is continuously controlled by the electric field. We also develop a system with continuously tunable focal length. A conventional mechanical zooming system is bulky and power hungry. In Chap. 4, we developed an electrically tunable-focus flat LC spherical lens and microlens array. A huge tunable range from 0.6 m to infinity is achieved by the applied voltage. In Chap. 5, we describe a LC microlens array whose focal length can be switched from positive to negative by the applied voltage. The fast response time feature of our LC microlens array will be very helpful in developing 3-D animated images. In Chap. 6, we demonstrate polymer network liquid crystals for switchable polarizers and optical shutters. The use of dual-frequency liquid crystal and special driving scheme leads to a sub-millisecond response time. In Chap. 7, for the first time, we demonstrate a fast-response and scattering-free homogeneously-aligned PNLC light modulator. The PNLC response time is ˜300x faster than that of a pure LC mixture. The PNLC cell also holds promise for mid and long infrared applications where response time is a critical issue.

Current-voltage characteristics of the semiconductor nanowires under the metal-semiconductor-metal structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Jing; Zhang, Xitian; Gao, Hong; Wang, Mingjiao

2013-12-01

We present a method to calculate the I-V characteristics of semiconductor nanowires under the metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) structure. The carrier concentration as an important parameter is introduced into the expression of the current. The subband structure of the nanowire has been considered for associating it with the position of the Fermi level and circumventing the uncertainties of the contact areas in the contacts. The tunneling and thermionic emission currents in the two Schottky barriers at the two metal-semiconductor contacts are discussed. We find that the two barriers have different influences on the I-V characteristics of the MSM structure, one of which under the forward bias plays the role of threshold voltage if its barrier height is large and the applied voltage is small, and the other under the reverse bias controls the shapes of I-V curves. Our calculations show that the shapes of the I-V curves for the MSM structure are mainly determined by the barrier heights of the contacts and the carrier concentration. The nearly identical I-V characteristics can be obtained by using different values of the barrier heights and carrier concentration, which means that the contact type conversion can be ascribed not only to the changes of the barrier heights but also that of the carrier concentration. We also discuss the mechanisms of the ohmic-Schottky conversions and clarify the ambiguity in the literature. The possibility about the variation of the carrier concentration under the applied fields has been confirmed by experimental results.

Eddy Current Method for Fatigue Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simpson, John W. (Inventor); Fulton, James P. (Inventor); Wincheski, Russell A. (Inventor); Todhunter, Ronald G. (Inventor); Namkung, Min (Inventor); Nath, Shridhar C. (Inventor)

1997-01-01

Flux-focusing electromagnetic sensor using a ferromagnetic flux-focusing lens simplifies inspections and increases detectability of fatigue cracks and material loss in high conductivity material. A ferrous shield isolates a high-turn pick-up coil from an excitation coil. Use of the magnetic shield produces a null voltage output across the receiving coil in presence of an unflawed sample. Redistribution of the current flow in the sample caused by the presence of flaws. eliminates the shielding condition and a large output voltage is produced, yielding a clear unambiguous flaw signal. Maximum sensor output is obtained when positioned symmetrically above the crack. By obtaining position of maximum sensor output, it is possible to track the fault and locate the area surrounding its tip. Accuracy of tip location is enhanced by two unique features of the sensor; a very high signal-to-noise ratio of the probe's output resulting in an extremely smooth signal peak across the fault, and a rapidly decaying sensor output outside a small area surrounding the crack tip enabling the search region to be clearly defined. Under low frequency operation, material thinning due to corrosion causes incomplete shielding of the pick-up coil. Low frequency output voltage of the probe is therefore a direct indicator of thickness of the test sample. Fatigue testing a conductive material is accomplished by applying load to the material, applying current to the sensor, scanning the material with the sensor, monitoring the sensor output signal, adjusting material load based on the sensor output signal of the sensor, and adjusting position of the sensor based on its output signal.

Voltage control in Z-source inverter using low cost microcontroller for undergraduate approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zulkifli, Shamsul Aizam; Sewang, Mohd Rizal; Salimin, Suriana; Shah, Noor Mazliza Badrul

2017-09-01

This paper is focussing on controlling the output voltage of Z-Source Inverter (ZSI) using a low cost microcontroller with MATLAB-Simulink that has been used for interfacing the voltage control at the output of ZSI. The key advantage of this system is the ability of a low cost microcontroller to process the voltage control blocks based on the mathematical equations created in MATLAB-Simulink. The Proportional Integral (PI) control equations are been applied and then, been downloaded to the microcontroller for observing the changes on the voltage output regarding to the changes on the reference on the PI. The system has been simulated in MATLAB and been verified with the hardware setup. As the results, the Raspberry Pi and Arduino that have been used in this work are able to respond well when there is a change of ZSI output. It proofed that, by applying/introducing this method to student in undergraduate level, it will help the student to understand more on the process of the power converter combine with a control feedback function that can be applied at low cost microcontroller.

First principle study of transport properties of a graphene nano structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Naveen; Sharma, Munish; Sharma, Jyoti Dhar; Ahluwalia, P. K.

2013-06-01

The first principle quantum transport calculations have been performed for graphene using Tran SIESTA which calculates transport properties using nonequilibrium Green's function method in conjunction with density-functional theory. Transmission functions, electron density of states and current-voltage characteristic have been calculated for a graphene nano structure using graphene electrodes. Transmission function, density of states and projected density of states show a discrete band structure which varies with applied voltage. The value of current is very low for applied voltage between 0.0 V to 5.0 V and lies in the range of pico ampere. In the V-I characteristic current shows non-linear fluctuating pattern with increase in voltage.

High resolution separations of charge variants and disulfide isomers of monoclonal antibodies and antibody drug conjugates using ultra-high voltage capillary electrophoresis with high electric field strength.

PubMed

Henley, W Hampton; He, Yan; Mellors, J Scott; Batz, Nicholas G; Ramsey, J Michael; Jorgenson, James W

2017-11-10

Ultra-high voltage capillary electrophoresis with high electric field strength has been applied to the separation of the charge variants, drug conjugates, and disulfide isomers of monoclonal antibodies. Samples composed of many closely related species are difficult to resolve and quantify using traditional analytical instrumentation. High performance instrumentation can often save considerable time and effort otherwise spent on extensive method development. Ideally, the resolution obtained for a given CE buffer system scales with the square root of the applied voltage. Currently available commercial CE instrumentation is limited to an applied voltage of approximately 30kV and a maximum electric field strength of 1kV/cm due to design limitations. The instrumentation described here is capable of safely applying potentials of at least 120kV with electric field strengths over 2000V/cm, potentially doubling the resolution of the best conventional CE buffer/capillary systems while decreasing analysis time in some applications. Separations of these complex mixtures using this new instrumentation demonstrate the potential of ultra-high voltage CE to identify the presence of previously unresolved components and to reduce analysis time for complex mixtures of antibody variants and drug conjugates. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

PHASE DETECTOR

DOEpatents

Kippenhan, D.O.

1959-09-01

A phase detector circuit is described for use at very high frequencies of the order of 50 megacycles. The detector circuit includes a pair of rectifiers inverted relative to each other. One voltage to be compared is applied to the two rectifiers in phase opposition and the other voltage to be compared is commonly applied to the two rectifiers. The two result:ng d-c voltages derived from the rectifiers are combined in phase opposition to produce a single d-c voltage having amplitude and polarity characteristics dependent upon the phase relation between the signals to be compared. Principal novelty resides in the employment of a half-wave transmission line to derive the phase opposing signals from the first voltage to be compared for application to the two rectifiers in place of the transformer commonly utilized for such purpose in phase detector circuits for operation at lower frequency.

RESONANT CAVITY EXCITATION SYSTEM

DOEpatents

Baker, W.R.; Kerns, Q.A.; Riedel, J.

1959-01-13

An apparatus is presented for exciting a cavity resonator with a minimum of difficulty and, more specifically describes a sub-exciter and an amplifier type pre-exciter for the high-frequency cxcitation of large cavities. Instead of applying full voltage to the main oscillator, a sub-excitation voltage is initially used to establish a base level of oscillation in the cavity. A portion of the cavity encrgy is coupled to the input of the pre-exciter where it is amplified and fed back into the cavity when the pre-exciter is energized. After the voltage in the cavity resonator has reached maximum value under excitation by the pre-exciter, full voltage is applied to the oscillator and the pre-exciter is tunned off. The cavity is then excited to the maximum high voltage value of radio frequency by the oscillator.

Current Flow and Pair Creation at Low Altitude in Rotation-Powered Pulsars' Force-Free Magnetospheres: Space Charge Limited Flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Timokhin, A. N.; Arons, J.

2013-01-01

We report the results of an investigation of particle acceleration and electron-positron plasma generation at low altitude in the polar magnetic flux tubes of rotation-powered pulsars, when the stellar surface is free to emit whatever charges and currents are demanded by the force-free magnetosphere. We apply a new 1D hybrid plasma simulation code to the dynamical problem, using Particle-in-Cell methods for the dynamics of the charged particles, including a determination of the collective electrostatic fluctuations in the plasma, combined with a Monte Carlo treatment of the high-energy gamma-rays that mediate the formation of the electron-positron pairs.We assume the electric current flowing through the pair creation zone is fixed by the much higher inductance magnetosphere, and adopt the results of force-free magnetosphere models to provide the currents which must be carried by the accelerator. The models are spatially one dimensional, and designed to explore the physics, although of practical relevance to young, high-voltage pulsars. We observe novel behaviour (a) When the current density j is less than the Goldreich-Julian value (0 < j/j(sub GJ) < 1), space charge limited acceleration of the current carrying beam is mild, with the full Goldreich-Julian charge density comprising the charge densities of the beam and a cloud of electrically trapped particles with the same sign of charge as the beam. The voltage drops are of the order of mc(sup 2)/e, and pair creation is absent. (b) When the current density exceeds the Goldreich-Julian value (j/j(sub GJ) > 1), the system develops high voltage drops (TV or greater), causing emission of curvature gamma-rays and intense bursts of pair creation. The bursts exhibit limit cycle behaviour, with characteristic time-scales somewhat longer than the relativistic fly-by time over distances comparable to the polar cap diameter (microseconds). (c) In return current regions, where j/j(sub GJ) < 0, the system develops similar bursts of pair creation. These discharges are similar to those encountered in previous calculations by Timokhin of pair creation when the surface has a high work function and cannot freely emit charge. In cases (b) and (c), the intermittently generated pairs allow the system to simultaneously carry the magnetospherically prescribed currents and adjust the charge density and average electric field to force-free conditions. We also elucidate the conditions for pair creating beam flow to be steady (stationary with small fluctuations in the rotating frame), finding that such steady flows can occupy only a small fraction of the current density parameter space exhibited by the force-free magnetospheric model. The generic polar flow dynamics and pair creation are strongly time dependent. The model has an essential difference from almost all previous quantitative studies, in that we sought the accelerating voltage (with pair creation, when the voltage drops are sufficiently large; without, when they are small) as a function of the applied current.

Voltage-sensing domain of voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 shares mechanism of block with pore domains.

PubMed

Hong, Liang; Pathak, Medha M; Kim, Iris H; Ta, Dennis; Tombola, Francesco

2013-01-23

Voltage-gated sodium, potassium, and calcium channels are made of a pore domain (PD) controlled by four voltage-sensing domains (VSDs). The PD contains the ion permeation pathway and the activation gate located on the intracellular side of the membrane. A large number of small molecules are known to inhibit the PD by acting as open channel blockers. The voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 is made of two VSDs and lacks the PD. The location of the activation gate in the VSD is unknown and open channel blockers for VSDs have not yet been identified. Here, we describe a class of small molecules which act as open channel blockers on the Hv1 VSD and find that a highly conserved phenylalanine in the charge transfer center of the VSD plays a key role in blocker binding. We then use one of the blockers to show that Hv1 contains two intracellular and allosterically coupled gates. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Piezoelectric transformers for low-voltage generation of gas discharges and ionic winds in atmospheric air

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, Michael J.; Go, David B., E-mail: dgo@nd.edu; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indianapolis 46556

To generate a gas discharge (plasma) in atmospheric air requires an electric field that exceeds the breakdown threshold of ∼30 kV/cm. Because of safety, size, or cost constraints, the large applied voltages required to generate such fields are often prohibitive for portable applications. In this work, piezoelectric transformers are used to amplify a low input applied voltage (<30 V) to generate breakdown in air without the need for conventional high-voltage electrical equipment. Piezoelectric transformers (PTs) use their inherent electromechanical resonance to produce a voltage amplification, such that the surface of the piezoelectric exhibits a large surface voltage that can generate corona-like dischargesmore » on its corners or on adjacent electrodes. In the proper configuration, these discharges can be used to generate a bulk air flow called an ionic wind. In this work, PT-driven discharges are characterized by measuring the discharge current and the velocity of the induced ionic wind with ionic winds generated using input voltages as low as 7 V. The characteristics of the discharge change as the input voltage increases; this modifies the resonance of the system and subsequent required operating parameters.« less

Approach to fitting parameters and clustering for characterising measured voltage dips based on two-dimensional polarisation ellipses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

García-Sánchez, Tania; Gómez-Lázaro, Emilio; Muljadi, E.

An alternative approach to characterise real voltage dips is proposed and evaluated in this study. The proposed methodology is based on voltage-space vector solutions, identifying parameters for ellipses trajectories by using the least-squares algorithm applied on a sliding window along the disturbance. The most likely patterns are then estimated through a clustering process based on the k-means algorithm. The objective is to offer an efficient and easily implemented alternative to characterise faults and visualise the most likely instantaneous phase-voltage evolution during events through their corresponding voltage-space vector trajectories. This novel solution minimises the data to be stored but maintains extensivemore » information about the dips including starting and ending transients. The proposed methodology has been applied satisfactorily to real voltage dips obtained from intensive field-measurement campaigns carried out in a Spanish wind power plant up to a time period of several years. A comparison to traditional minimum root mean square-voltage and time-duration classifications is also included in this study.« less

Junction-based field emission structure for field emission display

DOEpatents

Dinh, Long N.; Balooch, Mehdi; McLean, II, William; Schildbach, Marcus A.

2002-01-01

A junction-based field emission display, wherein the junctions are formed by depositing a semiconducting or dielectric, low work function, negative electron affinity (NEA) silicon-based compound film (SBCF) onto a metal or n-type semiconductor substrate. The SBCF can be doped to become a p-type semiconductor. A small forward bias voltage is applied across the junction so that electron transport is from the substrate into the SBCF region. Upon entering into this NEA region, many electrons are released into the vacuum level above the SBCF surface and accelerated toward a positively biased phosphor screen anode, hence lighting up the phosphor screen for display. To turn off, simply switch off the applied potential across the SBCF/substrate. May be used for field emission flat panel displays.

Recent developments in novel freezing and thawing technologies applied to foods.

PubMed

Wu, Xiao-Fei; Zhang, Min; Adhikari, Benu; Sun, Jincai

2017-11-22

This article reviews the recent developments in novel freezing and thawing technologies applied to foods. These novel technologies improve the quality of frozen and thawed foods and are energy efficient. The novel technologies applied to freezing include pulsed electric field pre-treatment, ultra-low temperature, ultra-rapid freezing, ultra-high pressure and ultrasound. The novel technologies applied to thawing include ultra-high pressure, ultrasound, high voltage electrostatic field (HVEF), and radio frequency. Ultra-low temperature and ultra-rapid freezing promote the formation and uniform distribution of small ice crystals throughout frozen foods. Ultra-high pressure and ultrasound assisted freezing are non-thermal methods and shorten the freezing time and improve product quality. Ultra-high pressure and HVEF thawing generate high heat transfer rates and accelerate the thawing process. Ultrasound and radio frequency thawing can facilitate thawing process by volumetrically generating heat within frozen foods. It is anticipated that these novel technologies will be increasingly used in food industries in the future.

Voltage stress effects on microcircuit accelerated life test failure rates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, G. M.

1976-01-01

The applicability of Arrhenius and Eyring reaction rate models for describing microcircuit aging characteristics as a function of junction temperature and applied voltage was evaluated. The results of a matrix of accelerated life tests with a single metal oxide semiconductor microcircuit operated at six different combinations of temperature and voltage were used to evaluate the models. A total of 450 devices from two different lots were tested at ambient temperatures between 200 C and 250 C and applied voltages between 5 Vdc and 15 Vdc. A statistical analysis of the surface related failure data resulted in bimodal failure distributions comprising two lognormal distributions; a 'freak' distribution observed early in time, and a 'main' distribution observed later in time. The Arrhenius model was shown to provide a good description of device aging as a function of temperature at a fixed voltage. The Eyring model also appeared to provide a reasonable description of main distribution device aging as a function of temperature and voltage. Circuit diagrams are shown.

Errors due to measuring voltage on current-carrying electrodes in electric current computed tomography.

PubMed

Cheng, K S; Simske, S J; Isaacson, D; Newell, J C; Gisser, D G

1990-01-01

Electric current computed tomography is a process for determining the distribution of electrical conductivity inside a body based upon measurements of voltage or current made at the body's surface. Most such systems use different electrodes for the application of current and the measurement of voltage. This paper shows that when a multiplicity of electrodes are attached to a body's surface, the voltage data are most sensitive to changes in resistivity in the body's interior when voltages are measured from all electrodes, including those carrying current. This assertion is true despite the presence of significant levels of skin impedance at the electrodes. This conclusion is supported both theoretically and by experiment. Data were first taken using all electrodes for current and voltage. Then current was applied only at a pair of electrodes, with voltages measured on all other electrodes. We then constructed the second data set by calculation from the first. Targets could be detected with better signal-to-noise ratio by using the reconstructed data than by using the directly measured voltages on noncurrent-carrying electrodes. Images made from voltage data using only noncurrent-carrying electrodes had higher noise levels and were less able to accurately locate targets. We conclude that in multiple electrode systems for electric current computed tomography, current should be applied and voltage should be measured from all available electrodes.

Effective calculation of power system low-voltage solutions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Overbye, T.J.; Klump, R.P.

1996-02-01

This paper develops a method for reliably determining the set of low-voltage solutions which are closest to the operable power flow solution. These solutions are often used in conjunction with techniques such as energy methods and the voltage instability proximity index (VIPI) for assessing system voltage stability. This paper presents an algorithm which provides good initial guesses for these solutions. The results are demonstrated on a small system and on larger systems with up to 2,000 buses.

Nonvolatile Analog Memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

MacLeod, Todd C. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A nonvolatile analog memory uses pairs of ferroelectric field effect transistors (FFETs). Each pair is defined by a first FFET and a second FFET. When an analog value is to be stored in one of the pairs, the first FFET has a saturation voltage applied thereto, and the second FFET has a storage voltage applied thereto that is indicative of the analog value. The saturation and storage voltages decay over time in accordance with a known decay function that is used to recover the original analog value when the pair of FFETs is read.

Membrane reference electrode

DOEpatents

Redey, L.; Bloom, I.D.

1988-01-21

A reference electrode utilizes a small thin, flat membrane of a highly conductive glass placed on a small diameter insulator tube having a reference material inside in contact with an internal voltage lead. When the sensor is placed in a non-aqueous ionic electrolytic solution, the concentration difference across the glass membrane generates a low voltage signal in precise relationship to the concentration of the species to be measured, with high spatial resolution. 2 figs.

Experimental Verification of a Dynamic Voltage Restorer Capable of Significantly Reducing an Energy-Storage Element

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jimichi, Takushi; Fujita, Hideaki; Akagi, Hirofumi

This paper deals with a dynamic voltage restorer (DVR) characterized by installing the shunt converter at the load side. The DVR can compensate for the load voltage when a voltage sag appears in the supply voltage. An existing DVR requires a large capacitor bank or other energy-storage elements such as double-layer capacitors or batteries. The DVR presented in this paper requires only a small dc capacitor intended for smoothing the dc-link voltage. Moreover, three control methods for the series converter are compared and discussed to reduce the series-converter rating, paying attention to the zero-sequence voltages included in the supply voltage and the compensating voltage. Experimental results obtained from a 200-V, 5-kW laboratory system are shown to verify the viability of the system configuration and the control methods.

Single Event Transients in Voltage Regulators for FPGA Power Supply Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poivey, Christian; Sanders, Anthony; Kim, Hak; Phan, Anthony; Forney, Jim; LaBel, Kenneth A.; Karsh, Jeremy; Pursley, Scott; Kleyner, Igor; Katz, Richard

2006-01-01

As with other bipolar analog devices, voltage regulators are known to be sensitive to single event transients (SET). In typical applications, large output capacitors are used to provide noise immunity. Therefore, since SET amplitude and duration are generally small, they are often of secondary importance due to this capacitance filtering. In low voltage applications, however, even small SET are a concern. Over-voltages may cause destructive conditions. Under-voltages may cause functional interrupts and may also trigger electrical latchup conditions. In addition, internal protection circuits which are affected by load as well as internal thermal effects can also be triggered from heavy ions, causing dropouts or shutdown ranging from milliseconds to seconds. In the case of FPGA power supplies applications, SETS are critical. For example, in the case of Actel FPGA RTAX family, core power supply voltage is 1.5V. Manufacturer specifies an absolute maximum rating of 1.6V and recommended operating conditions between 1.425V and 1.575V. Therefore, according to the manufacturer, any transient of amplitude greater than 75 mV can disrupt normal circuit functions, and overvoltages greater than 100 mV may damage the FPGA. We tested five low dropout voltage regulators for SET sensitivity under a large range of circuit application conditions.

Numerical simulation of operation modes in atmospheric pressure uniform barrier discharge excited by a saw-tooth voltage

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li Xuechen; Niu Dongying; Yin Zengqian

2012-08-15

The characteristics of dielectric barrier discharge excited by a saw-tooth voltage are simulated in atmospheric pressure helium based on a one-dimensional fluid model. A stepped discharge is obtained per half voltage cycle with gas gap width less than 2 mm by the simulation, which is different to the pulsed discharge excited by a sinusoidal voltage. For the stepped discharge, the plateau duration increases with increasing the voltage amplitude and decreasing the gas gap. Therefore, uniform discharge with high temporal duty ratio can be realized with small gap through increasing the voltage amplitude. The maximal densities of both electron and ionmore » appear near the anode and the electric field is almost uniformly distributed along the gap, which indicates that the stepped discharge belongs to a Townsend mode. In contrast to the stepped discharge with small gas gap, a pulsed discharge can be obtained with large gas gap. Through analyzing the spatial density distributions of electron and ion and the electric field, the pulsed discharge is in a glow mode. The voltage-current (V-I) characteristics are analyzed for the above mentioned discharges under different gas gaps, from which the different discharge modes are verified.« less

Voltage-sensitive rhodol with enhanced two-photon brightness.

PubMed

Kulkarni, Rishikesh U; Kramer, Daniel J; Pourmandi, Narges; Karbasi, Kaveh; Bateup, Helen S; Miller, Evan W

2017-03-14

We have designed, synthesized, and applied a rhodol-based chromophore to a molecular wire-based platform for voltage sensing to achieve fast, sensitive, and bright voltage sensing using two-photon (2P) illumination. Rhodol VoltageFluor-5 (RVF5) is a voltage-sensitive dye with improved 2P cross-section for use in thick tissue or brain samples. RVF5 features a dichlororhodol core with pyrrolidyl substitution at the nitrogen center. In mammalian cells under one-photon (1P) illumination, RVF5 demonstrates high voltage sensitivity (28% ΔF/F per 100 mV) and improved photostability relative to first-generation voltage sensors. This photostability enables multisite optical recordings from neurons lacking tuberous sclerosis complex 1, Tsc1, in a mouse model of genetic epilepsy. Using RVF5, we show that Tsc1 KO neurons exhibit increased activity relative to wild-type neurons and additionally show that the proportion of active neurons in the network increases with the loss of Tsc1. The high photostability and voltage sensitivity of RVF5 is recapitulated under 2P illumination. Finally, the ability to chemically tune the 2P absorption profile through the use of rhodol scaffolds affords the unique opportunity to image neuronal voltage changes in acutely prepared mouse brain slices using 2P illumination. Stimulation of the mouse hippocampus evoked spiking activity that was readily discerned with bath-applied RVF5, demonstrating the utility of RVF5 and molecular wire-based voltage sensors with 2P-optimized fluorophores for imaging voltage in intact brain tissue.

Improved Method of Locating Defects in Wiring Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greulich, Owen R.

2004-01-01

An improved method of locating small breaches in insulation on electrical wires combines aspects of the prior dielectric withstand voltage (DWV) and time-domain reflectometry (TDR) methods. The method was invented to satisfy a need for reliably and quickly locating insulation defects in spacecraft, aircraft, ships, and other complex systems that contain large amounts of wiring, much of it enclosed in structures that make it difficult to inspect. In the DWV method, one applies a predetermined potential (usually 1.5 kV DC) to the wiring and notes whether the voltage causes any arcing between the wiring and ground. The DWV method does not provide an indication of the location of the defect (unless, in an exceptional case, the arc happens to be visible). In addition, if there is no electrically conductive component at ground potential within about 0.010 in. (approximately equal to 0.254 mm) of the wire at the location of an insulation defect, then the DWV method does not provide an indication of the defect. Moreover, one does not have the option to raise the potential in an effort to increase the detectability of such a defect because doing so can harm previously undamaged insulation. In the TDR method as practiced heretofore, one applies a pulse of electricity having an amplitude of less than 25 V to a wire and measures the round-trip travel time for the reflection of the pulse from a defect. The distance along the wire from the point of application of the pulse to the defect is then calculated as the product of half the round-trip travel time and the characteristic speed of a propagation of an electromagnetic signal in the wire. While the TDR method as practiced heretofore can be used to locate a short or open circuit, it does not ordinarily enable one to locate a small breach in insulation because the pulse voltage is too low to cause arcing and thus too low to induce an impedance discontinuity large enough to generate a measurable reflection. The present improved method overcomes the weaknesses of both the prior DWV and the prior TDR method.

Electrohydrodynamic deposition of polymeric droplets under low-frequency pulsation.

PubMed

Xu, Lei; Wang, Xiang; Lei, Tingping; Sun, Daoheng; Lin, Liwei

2011-05-17

Circularly shaped polymeric droplets with diameter of about 20 μm have been intermittently ejected and deposited in an orderly manner on a collector from a syringe needle by means of near-field, electrohydrodynamic reactions using pulsating voltages at around 2.25 kV. The needle has an inner diameter of 100 μm and was placed 1 mm above a silicon conductor substrate to have location control for droplet depositions. Under low-frequency operation of less than 100 Hz, the deposition frequency of droplets, f(dep), has been observed to be equal to the frequency of the applied driving voltage divided by an integer, N, as small as 1. Furthermore, the diameter of the deposited droplets has been found to be linearly dependent on (Q/f(dep))(1/3), where Q is the polymer solution supply rate at around 30 nL/s. These experimentally observed droplet ejection rules under low-frequency pulsation provide useful design guidelines for controllable deposition of polymer droplets in various potential applications, including electrohydrodynamic printing.

Quantum-continuum simulation of the electrochemical response of pseudocapacitor electrodes under realistic conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keilbart, Nathan; Okada, Yasuaki; Feehan, Aion; Higai, Shin'ichi; Dabo, Ismaila

2017-03-01

Pseudocapacitors are energy-storage devices characterized by fast and reversible redox reactions that enable them to store large amounts of electrical energy at high rates. We simulate the response of pseudocapacitive electrodes under realistic conditions to identify the microscopic factors that determine their performance, focusing on ruthenia (RuO2) as a prototypical electrode material. Electronic-structure methods are used together with a self-consistent continuum solvation (SCCS) model to build a complete data set of free energies as the surface of the charged electrode is gradually covered with protons under applied voltage. The resulting data set is exploited to compute hydrogen-adsorption isotherms and charge-voltage responses by means of grand-canonical sampling, finding close agreement with experimental voltammetry. These simulations reveal that small changes on the order of 5 μ F /cm2 in the intrinsic double-layer capacitance of the electrode-electrolyte interface can induce variations of up to 40 μ F /cm2 in the overall pseudocapacitance.

Chitosugar translocation by an unexpressed monomeric protein channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soysa, H. Sasimali M.; Suginta, Wipa; Moonsap, Watcharaporn; Smith, M. F.

2018-05-01

The outer membrane protein channel Ec ChiP , associated with a silent gene in E . coli, is a monomeric chitoporin. In a glucose-deficient environment, E . coli can express the ChiP gene to exploit chitin degradation products. Single-channel small ion current measurements, which reveal the dynamics of single sugar molecules trapped in channel, are used here to study the exotic transport of chitosugars by E . coli. Molecules escape from the channel on multiple timescales. Voltage-dependent trapping rates observed for charged chitosan molecules, as well as model calculations, indicate that the rapid escape processes are those in which the molecule escapes back to the side of the membrane from which it originated. The probability that a sugar molecule is translocated through the membrane is thus estimated from the current data and the dependence of this translocation probability on the length of the chitosugar molecule and the applied voltage analyzed. The described method for obtaining the translocation probability and related molecular translocation current is applicable to other transport channels.

Asymmetric pathways in the electrochemical conversion reaction of NiO as battery electrode with high storage capacity

PubMed Central

Boesenberg, Ulrike; Marcus, Matthew A.; Shukla, Alpesh K.; Yi, Tanghong; McDermott, Eamon; Teh, Pei Fen; Srinivasan, Madhavi; Moewes, Alexander; Cabana, Jordi

2014-01-01

Electrochemical conversion reactions of transition metal compounds create opportunities for large energy storage capabilities exceeding modern Li-ion batteries. However, for practical electrodes to be envisaged, a detailed understanding of their mechanisms is needed, especially vis-à-vis the voltage hysteresis observed between reduction and oxidation. Here, we present such insight at scales from local atomic arrangements to whole electrodes. NiO was chosen as a simple model system. The most important finding is that the voltage hysteresis has its origin in the differing chemical pathways during reduction and oxidation. This asymmetry is enabled by the presence of small metallic clusters and, thus, is likely to apply to other transition metal oxide systems. The presence of nanoparticles also influences the electrochemical activity of the electrolyte and its degradation products and can create differences in transport properties within an electrode, resulting in localized reactions around converted domains that lead to compositional inhomogeneities at the microscale. PMID:25410966

A method to stabilise the performance of negatively fed KM3NeT photomultipliers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adrián-Martínez, S.; Ageron, M.; Aiello, S.; Albert, A.; Ameli, F.; Anassontzis, E. G.; Andre, M.; Androulakis, G.; Anghinolfi, M.; Anton, G.; Ardid, M.; Avgitas, T.; Barbarino, G.; Barbarito, E.; Baret, B.; Barrios-Martí, J.; Belias, A.; Berbee, E.; van den Berg, A.; Bertin, V.; Beurthey, S.; van Beveren, V.; Beverini, N.; Biagi, S.; Biagioni, A.; Billault, M.; Bondì, M.; Bormuth, R.; Bouhadef, B.; Bourlis, G.; Bourret, S.; Boutonnet, C.; Bouwhuis, M.; Bozza, C.; Bruijn, R.; Brunner, J.; Buis, E.; Buompane, R.; Busto, J.; Cacopardo, G.; Caillat, L.; Calamai, M.; Calvo, D.; Capone, A.; Caramete, L.; Cecchini, S.; Celli, S.; Champion, C.; Cherubini, S.; Chiarella, V.; Chiarelli, L.; Chiarusi, T.; Circella, M.; Classen, L.; Cobas, D.; Cocimano, R.; Coelho, J. A. B.; Coleiro, A.; Colonges, S.; Coniglione, R.; Cordelli, M.; Cosquer, A.; Coyle, P.; Creusot, A.; Cuttone, G.; D'Amato, C.; D'Amico, A.; D'Onofrio, A.; De Bonis, G.; De Sio, C.; Di Capua, F.; Di Palma, I.; Distefano, C.; Donzaud, C.; Dornic, D.; Dorosti-Hasankiadeh, Q.; Drakopoulou, E.; Drouhin, D.; Durocher, M.; Eberl, T.; Eichie, S.; van Eijk, D.; El Bojaddaini, I.; Elsaesser, D.; Enzenhöfer, A.; Favaro, M.; Fermani, P.; Ferrara, G.; Frascadore, G.; Furini, M.; Fusco, L. A.; Gal, T.; Galatà, S.; Garufi, F.; Gay, P.; Gebyehu, M.; Giacomini, F.; Gialanella, L.; Giordano, V.; Gizani, N.; Gracia, R.; Graf, K.; Grégoire, T.; Grella, G.; Grmek, A.; Guerzoni, M.; Habel, R.; Hallmann, S.; van Haren, H.; Harissopulos, S.; Heid, T.; Heijboer, A.; Heine, E.; Henry, S.; Hernández-Rey, J. J.; Hevinga, M.; Hofestädt, J.; Hugon, C. M. F.; Illuminati, G.; James, C. W.; Jansweijer, P.; Jongen, M.; de Jong, M.; Kadler, M.; Kalekin, O.; Kappes, A.; Katz, U. F.; Keller, P.; Kieft, G.; Kießling, D.; Koffeman, E. N.; Kooijman, P.; Kouchner, A.; Kreter, M.; Kulikovskiy, V.; Lahmann, R.; Lamare, P.; Leisos, A.; Leonora, E.; Clark, M. Lindsey; Liolios, A.; Llorens Alvarez, C. D.; Lo Presti, D.; Löhner, H.; Lonardo, A.; Lotze, M.; Loucatos, S.; Maccioni, E.; Mannheim, K.; Manzali, M.; Margiotta, A.; Margotti, A.; Marinelli, A.; Mariš, O.; Markou, C.; Martínez-Mora, J. A.; Martini, A.; Marzaioli, F.; Mele, R.; Melis, K. W.; Michael, T.; Migliozzi, P.; Migneco, E.; Mijakowski, P.; Miraglia, A.; Mollo, C. M.; Mongelli, M.; Morganti, M.; Moussa, A.; Musico, P.; Musumeci, M.; Nicolau, C. A.; Olcina, I.; Olivetto, C.; Orlando, A.; Orzelli, A.; Pancaldi, G.; Paolucci, A.; Papaikonomou, A.; Papaleo, R.; Păvălaš, G. E.; Peek, H.; Pellegrini, G.; Pellegrino, C.; Perrina, C.; Pfutzner, M.; Piattelli, P.; Pikounis, K.; Poma, G. E.; Popa, V.; Pradier, T.; Pratolongo, F.; Pühlhofer, G.; Pulvirenti, S.; Quinn, L.; Racca, C.; Raffaelli, F.; Randazzo, N.; Real, D.; Resvanis, L.; Reubelt, J.; Riccobene, G.; Rossi, C.; Rovelli, A.; Saldaña, M.; Salvadori, I.; Samtleben, D. F. E.; Sánchez García, A.; Sánchez Losa, A.; Sanguineti, M.; Santangelo, A.; Santonocito, D.; Sapienza, P.; Schimmel, F.; Schmelling, J.; Schnabel, J.; Sciacca, V.; Sedita, M.; Seitz, T.; Sgura, I.; Simeone, F.; Sipala, V.; Spisso, B.; Spurio, M.; Stavropoulos, G.; Steijger, J.; Stellacci, S. M.; Stransky, D.; Taiuti, M.; Tayalati, Y.; Terrasi, F.; Tézier, D.; Theraube, S.; Timmer, P.; Töonnis, C.; Trasatti, L.; Travaglini, R.; Trovato, A.; Tsirigotis, A.; Tzamarias, S.; Tzamariudaki, E.; Vallage, B.; Van Elewyck, V.; Vermeulen, J.; Versari, F.; Vicini, P.; Viola, S.; Vivolo, D.; Volkert, M.; Wiggers, L.; Wilms, J.; de Wolf, E.; Zachariadou, K.; Zani, S.; Zornoza, J. D.; Zúñiga, J.

2016-12-01

The KM3NeT research infrastructure, currently under construction in the Mediterranean Sea, will host neutrino telescopes for the identification of neutrino sources in the Universe and for studies of the neutrino mass hierarchy. These telescopes will house hundreds of thousands of photomultiplier tubes that will have to be operated in a stable and reliable fashion. In this context, the stability of the dark counts has been investigated for photomultiplier tubes with negative high voltage on the photocathode and held in insulating support structures made of 3D printed nylon material. Small gaps between the rigid support structure and the photomultiplier tubes in the presence of electric fields can lead to discharges that produce dark count rates that are highly variable. A solution was found by applying the same insulating varnish as used for the high voltage bases directly to the outside of the photomultiplier tubes. This transparent conformal coating provides a convenient and inexpensive method of insulation.

Evidence of Mixed-mode oscillations and Farey arithmetic in double plasma system in presence of fireball

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitra, Vramori; Sarma, Bornali; Sarma, Arun

2017-10-01

Plasma fireballs are luminous glowing region formed around a positively biased electrode. The present work reports the observation of mix mode oscillation (MMO) in the dynamics of plasma oscillations that are excited in the presence of fireball in a double plasma device. Source voltage and applied electrode voltage are considered as the controlling parameters for the experiment. Many sequences of distinct multi peaked periodic states reflects the presence of MMO with the variation of control parameter. The sequences of states with two patterns are characterized well by Farey arithmetic, which provides rational approximations of irrational numbers. These states can be characterized by a firing number, the ratio of the number of small amplitude oscillations to the total number of oscillations per period. The dynamical transition in plasma fireball is also demonstrated by spectral analysis, recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) and by statistical measures viz., skewness and kurtosis. The mix mode phenomenon observed in the experiment is consistent with a model that describes the dynamics of ionization instabilities.

Asymmetric pathways in the electrochemical conversion reaction of NiO as battery electrode with high storage capacity

DOE PAGES

Boesenberg, Ulrike; Marcus, Matthew A.; Shukla, Alpesh K.; ...

2014-11-20

Electrochemical conversion reactions of transition metal compounds create opportunities for large energy storage capabilities exceeding modern Li-ion batteries. However, for practical electrodes to be envisaged, a detailed understanding of their mechanisms is needed, especially vis-à-vis the voltage hysteresis observed between reduction and oxidation. Here, we present such insight at scales from local atomic arrangements to whole electrodes. NiO was chosen as a simple model system. The most important finding is that the voltage hysteresis has its origin in the differing chemical pathways during reduction and oxidation. This asymmetry is enabled by the presence of small metallic clusters and, thus, ismore » likely to apply to other transition metal oxide systems. Lastly, the presence of nanoparticles also influences the electrochemical activity of the electrolyte and its degradation products and can create differences in transport properties within an electrode, resulting in localized reactions around converted domains that lead to compositional inhomogeneities at the microscale.« less

SU-E-T-623: Polarity Effects for Small Volume Ionization Chambers in Cobalt-60 Beams

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xu, Y; Bhatnagar, J; Huq, M Saiful

2015-06-15

Purpose: To investigate the polarity effects for small volume ionization chambers in {sup 60}Co gamma-ray beams using the Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion. Methods: Measurements were made for 7 small volume ionization chambers (a PTW 31016, an Exradin A14, 2 Capintec PR0-5P, and 3 Exradin A16) using a PTW UNIDOSwebline Universal Dosemeter and an ELEKTA solid water phantom with proper inserts. For each ion chamber, the temperature/pressure corrected electric charge readings were obtained for 16 voltage values (±50V, ±100V, ±200V, ±300V, ±400V, ±500V, ±600V, ±700V). For each voltage, a five-minute leakage charge reading and a series of 2-minute readings were continuouslymore » taken during irradiation until 5 stable signals (less than 0.05% variation) were obtained. The average of the 5 reading was then used for the calculation of the polarity corrections at the voltage and for generating the saturation curves. Results: The polarity effects are more pronounced at high or low voltages than at the medium voltages for all chambers studied. The voltage dependence of the 3 Exradin A16 chambers is similar in shape. The polarity corrections for the Exradin A16 chambers changes rapidly from about 1 at 500V to about 0.98 at 700V. The polarity corrections for the 7 ion chambers at 300V are in the range from 0.9925 (for the PTW31016) to 1.0035 (for an Exradin A16). Conclusion: The polarity corrections for certain micro-chambers are large even at normal operating voltage.« less

Experimental investigation on a vectorized aerodynamic dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neretti, Gabriele; Cristofolini, Andrea; Borghi, Carlo A.

2014-04-01

The Electro-Hydro-Dynamics (EHD) interaction, induced in atmospheric pressure still air by a surface dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) actuator, had been experimentally studied. A plasma aerodynamic actuator array, able to produce a vectorized jet, with the induced airflow oriented toward the desired direction, had been developed. The array was constituted by a sequence of single surface DBD actuators with kapton as dielectric material. An ac voltage in the range of 0-6 kV peak at 15 kHz had been used. The vectorization had been obtained by feeding the upper electrodes with different voltages and by varying the electrical connections. The lower electrodes had been connected either to ground or to the high voltage source, to produce the desired jet orientation and to avoid plasma formation acting in an undesired direction. Voltage and current measurements had been carried out to evaluate waveforms and to estimate the active power delivered to the discharge. Schlieren imaging allowed to visualize the induced jet and to estimate its orientation. Pitot measurements had been performed to obtain velocity profiles for all jet configurations. A proportional relation between the jet deflection angle and the applied voltage had been found. Moreover, a linear relation had been obtained between the maximum speed in the jet direction and the applied voltage. The active power of the discharge is approximated by both a power law function and an exponential function of the applied voltage.

Treatment of emulsified oils by electrocoagulation: pulsed voltage applications.

PubMed

Genc, Ayten; Bakirci, Busra

2015-01-01

The effect of pulsed voltage application on energy consumption during electrocoagulation was investigated. Three voltage profiles having the same arithmetic average with respect to time were applied to the electrodes. The specific energy consumption for these profiles were evaluated and analyzed together with oil removal efficiencies. The effects of applied voltages, electrode materials, electrode configurations, and pH on oil removal efficiency were determined. Electrocoagulation experiments were performed by using synthetic and real wastewater samples. The pulsed voltages saved energy during the electrocoagulation process. In continuous operation, energy saving was as high as 48%. Aluminum electrodes used for the treatment of emulsified oils resulted in higher oil removal efficiencies in comparison with stainless steel and iron electrodes. When the electrodes gap was less than 1 cm, higher oil removal efficiencies were obtained. The highest oil removal efficiencies were 95% and 35% for the batch and continuous operating modes, respectively.

Effects of various applied voltages on physical properties of TiO2 nanotubes by anodization method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoseinzadeh, T.; Ghorannevis, Z.; Ghoranneviss, M.; Sari, A. H.; Salem, M. K.

2017-09-01

Three steps anodization process is used to synthesize highly ordered and uniform multilayered titanium oxide (TiO2) nanotubes and effect of different anodization voltages are studied on their physical properties such as structural, morphological and optical. The crystalized structure of the synthesized tubes is investigated by X-ray diffractometer analysis. To study the morphology of the tubes, field emission scanning electron microscopy is used, which showed that the wall thicknesses and the diameters of the tubes are affected by the different anodization voltages. Moreover, optical studies performed by diffuse reflection spectra suggested that band gap of the TiO2 nanotubes are also changed by applying different anodization voltages. In this study using physical investigations, an optimum anodization voltage is obtained to synthesize the uniform crystalized TiO2 nanotubes with suitable diameter, wall thickness and optical properties.

Analytical and experimental investigation of flutter suppression by piezoelectric actuation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heeg, Jennifer

1993-01-01

The objective of this research was to analytically and experimentally study the capabilities of piezoelectric plate actuators for suppressing flutter. Piezoelectric materials are characterized by their ability to produce voltage when subjected to a mechanical strain. The converse piezoelectric effect can be utilized to actuate a structure by applying a voltage. For this investigation, a two-degree-of-freedom wind tunnel model was designed, analyzed, and tested. The model consisted of a rigid wing and a flexible mount system that permitted a translational and a rotational degree of freedom. The model was designed such that flutter was encountered within the testing envelope of the wind tunnel. Actuators made of piezoelectric material were affixed to leaf springs of the mount system. Command signals, applied to the piezoelectric actuators, exerted control over the damping and stiffness properties. A mathematical aeroservoelastic model was constructed by using finite element methods, laminated plate theory, and aeroelastic analysis tools. Plant characteristics were determined from this model and verified by open loop experimental tests. A flutter suppression control law was designed and implemented on a digital control computer. Closed loop flutter testing was conducted. The experimental results represent the first time that adaptive materials have been used to actively suppress flutter. They demonstrate that small, carefully placed actuating plates can be used effectively to control aeroelastic response.

An analytical and experimental investigation of flutter suppression via piezoelectric actuation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heeg, Jennifer

1992-01-01

The objective of this research was to analytically and experimentally study the capabilities of adaptive material plate actuators for suppressing flutter. Piezoelectrics are materials which are characterized by their ability to produce voltage when subjected to a mechanical strain. The converse piezoelectric effect can be utilized to actuate a structure by applying a voltage. For this investigation, a two degree of freedom wind-tunnel model was designed, analyzed, and tested. The model consisted of a rigid wing and a flexible mount system which permitted translational and rotational degrees of freedom. Actuators, made of piezoelectric material were affixed to leaf springs on the mount system. Command signals, applied to the piezoelectric actuators, exerted control over the closed-loop damping and stiffness properties. A mathematical aeroservoelastic model was constructed using finite element and stiffness properties. A mathematical aeroservoelastic model was constructed using finite element methods, laminated plate theory, and aeroelastic analysis tools. A flutter suppression control law was designed, implemented on a digital control computer, and tested to conditions 20 percent above the passive flutter speed of the model. The experimental results represent the first time that adaptive materials have been used to actively suppress flutter. It demonstrates that small, carefully-placed actuating plates can be used effectively to control aeroelastic response.

Insulation Technology in Dry Air and Vacuum for a 72kV Low Pressured Dry Air Insulated Switchgear

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshida, Tadahiro; Koga, Hiromi; Harada, Takakazu; Miki, Shinichi; Arioka, Masahiro; Sato, Shinji; Yoshida, Satoru; Inoue, Naoaki; Maruyama, Akihiko; Takeuchi, Toshie

A new 72kV rated low pressured dry air insulated switchgear applying electromagnetic actuation and function that supports CBM has been developed. First, dielectric characteristics in dry air under lightning impulse application has been investigated at bare and insulator covered electrodes. Dependence of the breakdown electric field strength on the effective area has been clarified to apply the configuration design of the insulation mold for the vacuum interrupter. In addition, moisture volume dependence on surface resistance has been clarified to decide moisture volume in gas pressure tank. Next, a new vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) has been designed. To keep dimensions from former 72kV SF6 gas insulated switchgear, distance between contacts in vacuum interrupter is needed to be shorter than that of former switchgear. Voltage withstand capability between electrodes practically designed for vacuum interrupter has been investigated under dc voltage application simulated the small capacitive current breaking test. Gap configuration including contacts and slits has been optimized and distance has been shortened 11% from former switchgear. As a result, the new low pressured dry air insulated switchgear has been designed comparably in outer size to former SF6 gas insulated switchgear. Using dry air as an insulation medium with low pressure has been able to reduce the environmental burden.

Mechanism for Si–Si Bond Rupture in Single Molecule Junctions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Haixing; Kim, Nathaniel T.; Su, Timothy A.

The stability of chemical bonds can be studied experimentally by rupturing single molecule junctions under applied voltage. Here, we compare voltage-induced bond rupture in two Si–Si backbones: one has no alternate conductive pathway whereas the other contains an additional naphthyl pathway in parallel to the Si–Si bond. We show that in contrast to the first system, the second can conduct through the naphthyl group when the Si–Si bond is ruptured using an applied voltage. We investigate this voltage induced Si–Si bond rupture by ab initio density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations that ultimately demonstrate that the excitation ofmore » molecular vibrational modes by tunneling electrons leads to homolytic Si–Si bond rupture.« less

Mechanism for Si-Si Bond Rupture in Single Molecule Junctions.

PubMed

Li, Haixing; Kim, Nathaniel T; Su, Timothy A; Steigerwald, Michael L; Nuckolls, Colin; Darancet, Pierre; Leighton, James L; Venkataraman, Latha

2016-12-14

The stability of chemical bonds can be studied experimentally by rupturing single molecule junctions under applied voltage. Here, we compare voltage-induced bond rupture in two Si-Si backbones: one has no alternate conductive pathway whereas the other contains an additional naphthyl pathway in parallel to the Si-Si bond. We show that in contrast to the first system, the second can conduct through the naphthyl group when the Si-Si bond is ruptured using an applied voltage. We investigate this voltage induced Si-Si bond rupture by ab initio density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations that ultimately demonstrate that the excitation of molecular vibrational modes by tunneling electrons leads to homolytic Si-Si bond rupture.

Genetically-encoded fluorescent voltage sensors using the voltage-sensing domain of Nematostella and Danio phosphatases exhibit fast kinetics

PubMed Central

Baker, Bradley J.; Jin, Lei; Han, Zhou; Cohen, Lawrence B.; Popovic, Marko; Platisa, Jelena; Pieribone, Vincent

2012-01-01

A substantial increase in the speed of the optical response of genetically-encoded Fluorescent Protein voltage sensors (FP voltage sensors) was achieved by using the voltage-sensing phosphatase genes of Nematostella vectensis and Danio rerio. A potential N. vectensis voltage-sensing phosphatase was identified in silico. The voltage-sensing domain (S1–S4) of the N. vectensis homolog was used to create an FP voltage sensor called Nema. By replacing the phosphatase with a cerulean/citrine FRET pair, a new FP voltage sensor was synthesized with fast off kinetics (Tauoff <5 msec). However, the signal was small (ΔF/F= 0.6%/200 mV). FP voltage sensors using the D. rerio voltage-sensing phosphatase homolog, designated Zahra and Zahra 2, exhibited fast on and off kinetics within 2 msec of the time constants observed with the organic voltage-sensitive dye, di4-ANEPPS. Mutagenesis of the S4 region of the Danio FP voltage sensor shifted the voltage dependence to more negative potentials but did not noticeably affect the kinetics of the optical signal. PMID:22634212

Nonlinear magnetoelectric effects at high magnetic field amplitudes in composite multiferroics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fetisov, L. Y.; Burdin, D. A.; Ekonomov, N. A.; Chashin, D. V.; Zhang, J.; Srinivasan, G.; Fetisov, Y. K.

2018-04-01

Magnetoelectric effects (ME) in ferromagnetic-ferroelectric layered composites arise due to magnetostriction and piezoelectric effect in the ferroic phases and are mediated by mechanical strain. The ME coupling strength in such composites could be measured by electrical response to an applied ac magnetic field h and a bias magnetic field H. The coupling, in general, is linear for small ac field amplitudes, but one expects nonlinear ME interactions for high field strengths since the dependence of magnetostriction λ on magnetic fields is nonlinear. Here we report on nonlinear voltage response of a composite of ferromagnetic Metglas and piezoelectric lanthanum gallium tantalate (langatate) subjected to an ac and a bias magnetic fields, resulting in the generation of voltages at harmonics of the frequency of h. The dependences of the ME voltage of the first four harmonics on the magnetic fields for H  =  0–20 Oe and h  =  0–50 Oe were measured. Up to a hundred harmonics were observed in the voltage versus frequency spectra and was indicative of high nonlinearity of the ME coupling in the multiferroic structure. It is shown that for h smaller than the saturation magnetic field H S for magnetostriction in the ferromagnetic layer, the amplitudes of the ME voltages are proportional to the derivatives of λ with respect to H and show a power-law dependence on the pumping field amplitude A n (H) ~ λ (n)(H)h n . We discuss a procedure for estimating the amplitudes of the harmonics for large pumping fields h, on the order of H S. The nonlinear ME effects in the composites are of interest for application in signal processing devices and highly sensitive magnetic field sensors.

The voltage control for self-excited induction generator based on STATCOM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Dandan; Wang, Feifeng; Pan, Juntao; Long, Weijie

2018-05-01

The small independent induction generator can build up voltage under its remanent magnetizing and excitation capacitance, but it is prone to voltage sag and harmonic increment when running with load. Therefore, the controller for constant voltage is designed based on the natural coordinate system to adjust the static synchronous compensator (STATCOM), which provides two-way dynamic reactive power compensation for power generation system to achieve voltage stability and harmonic suppression. The control strategy is verified on Matlab/Sinmulik, and the results show that the STATCOM under the controller can effectively improve the load capacity and reliability of asynchronous generator.

Numerical study of the influence of applied voltage on the current balance factor of single layer organic light-emitting diodes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lu, Fei-ping, E-mail: lufp-sysu@163.com; Liu, Xiao-bin; Xing, Yong-zhong

2014-04-28

Current balance factor (CBF) value, the ratio of the recombination current density and the total current density of a device, has an important function in fluorescence-based organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), as well as in the performance of the organic electrophosphorescent devices. This paper investigates the influence of the applied voltage of a device on the CBF value of single layer OLED based on the numerical model of a bipolar single layer OLED with organic layer trap free and without doping. Results show that the largest CBF value can be achieved when the electron injection barrier (ϕ{sub n}) is equal tomore » the hole injection barrier (ϕ{sub p}) in the lower voltage region at any instance. The largest CBF in the higher voltage region can be achieved in the case of ϕ{sub n} > ϕ{sub p} under the condition of electron mobility (μ{sub 0n}) > hole mobility (μ{sub 0p}), whereas the result for the case of μ{sub 0n} < μ{sub 0p}, is opposite. The largest CBF when μ{sub 0n} = μ{sub 0p} can be achieved in the case of ϕ{sub n} = ϕ{sub p} in the entire region of the applied voltage. In addition, the CBF value of the device increases with increasing applied voltage. The results obtained in this paper can present an in-depth understanding of the OLED working mechanism and help in the future fabrication of high efficiency OLEDs.« less

16 CFR 1505.6 - Performance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... waveform of the test voltage shall approximate a sine wave as closely as possible. (iii) The applied test... stalled-rotor current of the toy at maximum rated voltage. There shall be no electrical or mechanical... voltage with the rotor of the motor locked into position. During the test, exposed dead metal parts of the...

16 CFR 1505.6 - Performance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... waveform of the test voltage shall approximate a sine wave as closely as possible. (iii) The applied test... stalled-rotor current of the toy at maximum rated voltage. There shall be no electrical or mechanical... voltage with the rotor of the motor locked into position. During the test, exposed dead metal parts of the...

16 CFR 1505.6 - Performance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... waveform of the test voltage shall approximate a sine wave as closely as possible. (iii) The applied test... stalled-rotor current of the toy at maximum rated voltage. There shall be no electrical or mechanical... voltage with the rotor of the motor locked into position. During the test, exposed dead metal parts of the...

Temperature controlled high voltage regulator

DOEpatents

Chiaro, Jr., Peter J.; Schulze, Gerald K.

2004-04-20

A temperature controlled high voltage regulator for automatically adjusting the high voltage applied to a radiation detector is described. The regulator is a solid state device that is independent of the attached radiation detector, enabling the regulator to be used by various models of radiation detectors, such as gas flow proportional radiation detectors.

Microcircuit Modeling and Simulation beyond Ohm's Law

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saxena, T.; Chek, D. C. Y.; Tan, M. L. P.; Arora, V. K.

2011-01-01

Circuit theory textbooks rely heavily on the applicability of Ohm's law, which collapses as electronic components reach micro- and nanoscale dimensions. Circuit analysis is examined in the regime where the applied voltage V is greater than the critical voltage V[subscript c], which triggers the nonlinear behavior. The critical voltage is infinity…

Changes in behavioral responses of Lygus lineolaris (Hemiptera: Miridae) from various applied signal voltages during EPG recordings

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A 3rd-generation AC-DC electrical penetration graph (EPG) monitor was used to study feeding behaviors of pre-reproductive adult Lygus lineolaris (Hemiptera: Miridae) on pinhead (<3mm) cotton squares, applying different signal voltages at several input impedances. The AC-DC monitor allows a user to s...

Removal of sodium chloride from human urine via batch recirculation electrodialysis at constant applied voltage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gordils-Striker, Nilda E.; Colon, Guillermo

2003-01-01

The removal of sodium chloride (NaCl) from human urine using a six-compartment electrodialysis cell with batch recirculation mode of operation for use in advanced life support systems (ALSS) was studied. From the results obtained, batch recirculation at constant applied voltage yields high values (approximately 94% of NaCl removal. Based on the results, the initial rate of NaCl removal was correlated to a power function of the applied voltage: -r=2.0 x 10(-4)E(3.8). With impedance spectroscopy methods, it was also found that the anion membranes were more affected by fouling with an increase of the ohmic resistance of almost 11% compared with 7.4% for the cationic ones.

Experimental investigation on On-Off current ratio behavior near onset voltage for a pentacene based organic thin film transistor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amrani, Aumeur El; Es-saghiri, Abdeljabbar; Boufounas, El-Mahjoub; Lucas, Bruno

2018-06-01

The performance of a pentacene based organic thin film transistor (OTFT) with polymethylmethacrylate as a dielectric insulator and indium tin oxide based electrical gate is investigated. On the one hand, we showed that the threshold voltage increases with gate voltage, and on the other hand that it decreases with drain voltage. Thus, we noticed that the onset voltage shifts toward positive voltage values with the drain voltage increase. In addition, threshold-onset differential voltage (TODV) is proposed as an original approach to estimate an averaged carrier density in pentacene. Indeed, a value of about 4.5 × 1016 cm-3 is reached at relatively high gate voltage of -50 V; this value is in good agreement with that reported in literature with other technique measurements. However, at a low applied gate voltage, the averaged pentacene carrier density remains two orders of magnitude lower; it is of about 2.8 × 1014 cm-3 and remains similar to that obtained from space charge limited current approach for low applied bias voltage of about 2.2 × 1014 cm-3. Furthermore, high IOn/IOff and IOn/IOnset current ratios of 5 × 106 and 7.5 × 107 are reported for lower drain voltage, respectively. The investigated OTFTs also showed good electrical performance including carrier mobility increasing with gate voltage; mobility values of 4.5 × 10-2 cm2 V-1 s-1 and of 4.25 × 10-2 cm2 V-1 s-1 are reached for linear and saturation regimes, respectively. These results remain enough interesting since current modulation ratio exceeds a value of 107 that is a quite important requirement than high mobility for some particular logic gate applications.

Modeling and control of a self-sensing polymer metal composite actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nam, Doan Ngoc Chi; Ahn, Kyoung Kwan

2014-02-01

An ion polymer metal composite (IPMC) is an electro-active polymer (EAP) that bends in response to a small applied electrical field as a result of mobility of cations in the polymer network and vice versa. One drawback in the use of an IPMC is the sensing problem for such a small size actuator. The aim of this paper is to develop a physical model for a self-sensing IPMC actuator and to verify its applicability for practical position control. Firstly, ion dynamics inside a polymer membrane is investigated with an asymmetric solution in the presence of distributed surface resistance. Based on this analysis, a modified equivalent circuit and a simple configuration to realize the self-sensing IPMC actuator are proposed. Mathematical modelling and experimental evaluation indicate that the bending curvature can be obtained accurately using several feedback voltage signals along with the IPMC length. Finally, the controllability of the developed self-sensing IPMC actuator is investigated using a robust position control. Experimental results prove that the self-sensing characteristics can be applied in engineering control problems to provide a more convenient sensing method for IPMC actuating systems.

Bio-optical sensor for brain activity measurement based on whispering gallery modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Amir R.; Massoud, Yasmin M.

2017-05-01

In this paper, a high-resolution bio-optical sensor is developed for brain activity measurement. The aim is to develop an optical sensor with enough sensitivity to detect small electric field perturbations caused by neuronal action potential. The sensing element is a polymeric dielectric micro-resonator fabricated in a spherical shape with a few hundred microns in diameter. They are made of optical quality polymers that are soft which make them mechanically compatible with tissue. The sensors are attached to or embedded in optical fibers which serve as input/output conduits for the sensors. Hundreds or even thousands of spheres can be attached to a single fiber to detect and transmit signals at different locations. The high quality factor for the optical resonator makes it significantly used in such bio-medical applications. The sensing phenomenon is based on whispering gallery modes (WGM) shifts of the optical sensor. To mimic the brain signals, the spherical resonator is immersed in a homogeneous electrical field that is created by applying potential difference across two metallic plates. One of the plates has a variable voltage while the volt on the other plate kept fixed. Any small perturbations of the potential difference (voltage) lead to change in the electric field intensity. In turn the sensor morphology will be affected due to the change in the electrostriction force acting on it causing change in its WGM. By tracking these WGM shift on the transmission spectrum, the induced potential difference (voltage change) could be measured. Results of a mathematical model simulation agree well with the preliminary experiments. Also, the results show that the brain activity could be measured using this principle.

Spontaneous Self-Organization Enables Dielectrophoresis of Small Nanoparticles and Formation of Photoconductive Microbridges

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jung, Seung-Ho; Chen, Chen; Cha, Sang-Ho

Detailed understanding of the mechanism of dielectrophoresis (DEP) and the drastic improvement of its efficiency for small size-quantized nanoparticles (NPs) open the door for the convergence of microscale and nanoscale technologies. It is hindered, however, by the severe reduction of DEP force in particles with volumes below a few hundred cubic nanometers. We report here DEP assembly of size-quantized CdTe nanoparticles (NPs) with a diameter of 4.2 nm under AC voltage of 4–10 V. Calculations of the nominal DEP force for these NPs indicate that it is several orders of magnitude smaller than the force of the Brownian motion destroyingmore » the assemblies even for the maximum applied AC voltage. Despite this, very efficient formation of NP bridges between electrodes separated by a gap of 2 μm was observed even for AC voltages of 6 V and highly diluted NP dispersions. The resolution of this conundrum was found in the intrinsic ability of CdTe NPs to self-assemble. The species being assembled by DEP are substantially bigger than the individual NPs. DEP assembly should be treated as a process taking place for NP chains with a length of ~140 nm. The self-assembled chains increase the nominal volume where the polarization of the particles takes place, while retaining the size-quantized nature of the material. The produced NP bridges were found to be photoactive, producing photocurrent upon illumination. DEP bridges of quantum confined NPs can be used in fast parallel manufacturing of novel MEMS components, sensors, and optical and optoelectronic devices. Purposeful engineering of self-assembling properties of NPs makes possible further facilitation of the DEP and increase of complexity of the produced nano- and microscale structures.« less

Exploration of the Townsend regime by discharge light emission in a gas discharge device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hilal Yucel, Kurt

2014-01-01

The Townsend discharge mechanism has been explored in a planar microelectronic gas discharge device (MGDD) with different applied voltages U and interelectrode distance d under various pressures in air. The anode and the cathode of the MGDD are formed by a transparent SnO2 covered glass and a GaAs semiconductor, respectively. In the experiments, the discharge is found to be unstable just below the breakdown voltage Ub, whereas the discharge passes through a homogeneous stable Townsend mode beyond the breakdown voltage. The measurements are made by an electrical circuit and a CCD camera by recording the currents and light emission (LE) intensities. The intensity profiles, which are converted from the 3D light emission images along the semiconductor diameter, have been analysed for different system parameters. Different instantaneous conductivity σt regimes are found below and beyond the Townsend region. These regimes govern the current and spatio-temporal LE stabilities in the plasma system. It has been proven that the stable LE region increases up to 550 Torr as a function of pressure for small d. If the active area of the semiconductor becomes larger and the interlectrode distance d becomes smaller, the stable LE region stays nearly constant with pressure.

Electrical conduction hysteresis in carbon black-filled butyl rubber compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alzamil, M. A.; Alfaramawi, K.; Abboudy, S.; Abulnasr, L.

2018-04-01

Temperature and concentration dependence of electrical resistance of butyl rubber filled with GPF carbon black was carried out. Current-voltage (I-V) characteristics at room-temperature were also investigated. The I-V characteristics show that the behavior is linear at small voltages up to approximately 0.15 V and currents up to 0.05 mA indicating that the conduction mechanism was probably due to electron tunneling from the end of conductive path to the other one under the action of the applied electric field. At higher voltages, a nonlinear behavior was noticed. The nonlinearity was attributed to the joule heating effects. Electrical resistance of the butyl/GPF composites was measured as a function of temperature during heating and cooling cycles from 300 K and upward to a specific temperature. When the specimens were heated up, the resistance was observed to increase continuously with the rise of temperature. However, when the samples were cooled down, the resistance was observed to decrease following a different path. The presence of conduction hysteresis behavior in the resistance-temperature curves during the heating and cooling cycles was then verified. The electrical conduction of the composite system is supposed to follow an activation conduction mechanism. Activation energy was calculated at different filler concentrations for both the heating and cooling processes.

Measurement of OH, NO, O and N atoms in helium plasma jet for ROS/RNS controlled biomedical processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yonemori, Seiya; Kamakura, Taku; Ono, Ryo

2014-10-01

Atmospheric-pressure plasmas are of emerging interest for new plasma applications such as cancer treatment, cell activation and sterilization. In those biomedical processes, reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) are said that they play significant role. It is though that active species give oxidative stress and induce biomedical reactions. In this study, we measured OH, NO, O and N atoms using laser induced fluorescence (LIF) measurement and found that voltage polarity affect particular ROS. When negative high voltage was applied to the plasma jet, O atom density was tripled compared to the case of positive applied voltage. In that case, O atom density was around 3 × 1015 [cm-3] at maximum. In contrast, OH and NO density did not change their density depending on the polarity of applied voltage, measured as in order of 1013 and 1014 [cm-3] at maximum, respectively. From ICCD imaging measurement, it could be seen that negative high voltage enhanced secondary emission in plasma bullet propagation and it can affect the effective production of particular ROS. Since ROS/RNS dose can be a quantitative criterion to control plasma biomedical application, those measurement results is able to be applied for in vivo and in vitro plasma biomedical experiments. This study is supported by the Grant-in-Aid for Science Research by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport, Science and Technology.

Effects of applied voltages and dissolved oxygen on sustained power generation by microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Oh, S E; Kim, J R; Joo, J-H; Logan, B E

2009-01-01

Oxygen intrusion into the anode chamber through proton exchange membrane can result in positive redox conditions in fed-batch, two chamber MFCs at the end of a cycle when the substrate is depleted. A slight increase in dissolved oxygen to 0.3 mg/L during MFC operation was not found to adversely affect power generation over subsequent cycles if sufficient substrate (acetate) was provided. Purging the anode chamber with air or pure oxygen for up to 10 days and 10 hrs also did not affect power generation, as power rapidly returned to previous levels when the chamber was sparged with nitrogen gas. When MFCs are connected in series, voltage reversal can occur resulting in a positive voltage applied to the anode biofilm. To investigate if this adversely affected the bacteria, voltages of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 9 V, were applied for 1 hr to the MFC before reconnecting it back to a fixed external load (1,000 Omega). A voltage of <2 V did not affect power generation. However, applying 3 V resulted in a 15 h lag phase before recovery, and 9 V produced a 60 h lag phase suggesting substantial damage to the bacteria that required re-growth of bacteria in the biofilm. These results indicate that charge reversal will be a more serious problem than oxygen intrusion into the anode chamber for sustained performance of MFCs.

Small Deflection Energy Analyzer for Energy and Angular Distributions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herrero, Federico A.

2009-01-01

The development of the Small Deflection Energy Analyzer (SDEA) charged-particle spectrometer for energy and angle distributions responds to a longstanding need to measure the wind velocity vector in Earth s thermosphere, and to obtain the ion-drift vector in the ionosphere. The air and ions above 120 km are endowed with bulk velocities and temperatures just like air near the ground, but with separate spatial and temporal variations. It is important to understand these not only for study of the physics and chemistry of the Sun-Earth connection, but also for spacecraft orbit predictions, and communications through the ionosphere. The SDEA consists of a pair of parallel conducting plates separated by a small distance, with an entrance slit on one end, and an exit slit on the other. A voltage applied to these plates develops an electric field between the plates, and this field deflects ions passing through it. If an ion has too little energy, it will strike one of the plates. If it has too much, it will strike the back wall. An ion with the amount of energy being searched for will have its trajectory bent just enough to exit the back slit. The SDEA units are compact, rectangular, and operate with low voltages. The units can be built up into small arrays. These arrays could be used either to widen the field of view or to sharpen an existing one. This approach can also be used to obtain angular distributions in two planes simultaneously, thus cutting down the ion source power requirements in half. This geometry has enabled a new mass-spectrometer concept that can provide miniaturized mass spectrometers for use in industrial plants, air-pollution monitoring, and noxious-gas detection.

Inductive voltage adder (IVA) for submillimeter radius electron beam

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mazarakis, M.G.; Poukey, J.W.; Maenchen, J.E.

The authors have already demonstrated the utility of inductive voltage adder accelerators for production of small-size electron beams. In this approach, the inductive voltage adder drives a magnetically immersed foilless diode to produce high-energy (10--20 MeV), high-brightness pencil electron beams. This concept was first demonstrated with the successful experiments which converted the linear induction accelerator RADLAC II into an IVA fitted with a small 1-cm radius cathode magnetically immersed foilless diode (RADLAC II/SMILE). They present here first validations of extending this idea to mm-scale electron beams using the SABRE and HERMES-III inductive voltage adders as test beds. The SABRE experimentsmore » are already completed and have produced 30-kA, 9-MeV electron beams with envelope diameter of 1.5-mm FWHM. The HERMES-III experiments are currently underway.« less

Optimizing MOS-gated thyristor using voltage-based equivalent circuit model for designing steep-subthreshold-slope PN-body-tied silicon-on-insulator FET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueda, Daiki; Takeuchi, Kiyoshi; Kobayashi, Masaharu; Hiramoto, Toshiro

2018-04-01

A new circuit model that provides a clear guide on designing a MOS-gated thyristor (MGT) is reported. MGT plays a significant role in achieving a steep subthreshold slope of a PN-body tied silicon-on-insulator (SOI) FET (PNBTFET), which is an SOI MOSFET merged with an MGT. The effects of design parameters on MGT and the proposed equivalent circuit model are examined to determine how to regulate the voltage response of MGT and how to suppress power dissipation. It is demonstrated that MGT with low threshold voltages, small hysteresis widths, and small power dissipation can be designed by tuning design parameters. The temperature dependence of MGT is also examined, and it is confirmed that hysteresis width decreases with the average threshold voltage kept nearly constant as temperature rises. The equivalent circuit model can be conveniently used to design low-power PNBTFET.

Positive temperature coefficient thermistors based on carbon nanotube/polymer composites

PubMed Central

Zeng, You; Lu, Guixia; Wang, Han; Du, Jinhong; Ying, Zhe; Liu, Chang

2014-01-01

In order to explore availability of carbon nanotube (CNT)-based positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors in practical application, we prepared carbon nanotube (CNT) filled high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites by using conventional melt-mixing methods, and investigated their PTC effects in details. The CNT-based thermistors exhibit much larger hold current and higher hold voltage, increasing by 129% in comparison with the commercial carbon black (CB) filled HDPE thermistors. Such high current-bearing and voltage-bearing capacity for the CNT/HDPE thermistors is mainly attributed to high thermal conductivity and heat dissipation of entangled CNT networks. Moreover, the CNT/HDPE thermistors exhibit rapid electrical response to applied voltages, comparable to commercial CB-based thermistors. In light of their high current-bearing capacity and quick response, the CNT-based thermistors have great potential to be used as high-performance thermistors in practical application, especially in some critical circumstances of high temperature, large applied currents, and high applied voltages. PMID:25327951

Effect of an alternating current electric field on Co(OH)2 periodic precipitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karam, Tony; Sultan, Rabih

2013-02-01

The present paper studies the effect of an alternating current (AC) electric field on Co(OH)2 Liesegang patterns. In the presence of an AC electric field, the band spacing increases with spacing number, but reaches a plateau at large spacing (or band) numbers. The band spacing increases with applied AC voltage, but to a much lesser extent than the effect of a DC electric field under the same applied voltage [see R. Sultan, R. Halabieh, Chem. Phys. Lett. 332 (2000) 331][1]. At low enough applied voltage, the band spacing increases with frequency. At higher voltages, the band spacing becomes independent of the field frequency. The effect of concentration of the inner electrolyte (Co2+), exactly opposes that observed under DC electric field; i.e., the band spacing decreases with increasing concentration. The dynamics were shown to be governed by a competitive scenario between the diffusion gradient and the alternating current electric field factor.

Technical Trend of Environment-friendly High Voltage Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okubo, Hitoshi

Vacuum Circuit Breakers (VCBs) have widely been used for low and medium voltage level, because of their high current interruption performance, maintenance free operations and environment-friendly characteristics. The VCB is now going to be applied to higher voltage systems for transmission and substation use. In this paper, the recent technical trend and future perspectives of high voltage VCBs are described, as well as their technical background.

ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS USING COLD-CATHODE TRIODE VALVES

DOEpatents

Goulding, F.S.

1957-11-26

An electrical circuit which may be utilized as a pulse generator or voltage stabilizer is presented. The circuit employs a cold-cathode triode valve arranged to oscillate between its on and off stages by the use of selected resistance-capacitance time constant components in the plate and trigger grid circuits. The magnitude of the d-c voltage applied to the trigger grid circuit effectively controls the repetition rate of the output pulses. In the voltage stabilizer arrangement the d-c control voltage is a portion of the supply voltage and the rectified output voltage is substantially constant.

Reversible voltage dependent transition of abnormal and normal bipolar resistive switching.

PubMed

Wang, Guangyu; Li, Chen; Chen, Yan; Xia, Yidong; Wu, Di; Xu, Qingyu

2016-11-14

Clear understanding the mechanism of resistive switching is the important prerequisite for the realization of high performance nonvolatile resistive random access memory. In this paper, binary metal oxide MoO x layer sandwiched by ITO and Pt electrodes was taken as a model system, reversible transition of abnormal and normal bipolar resistive switching (BRS) in dependence on the maximum voltage was observed. At room temperature, below a critical maximum voltage of 2.6 V, butterfly shaped I-V curves of abnormal BRS has been observed with low resistance state (LRS) to high resistance state (HRS) transition in both polarities and always LRS at zero field. Above 2.6 V, normal BRS was observed, and HRS to LRS transition happened with increasing negative voltage applied. Temperature dependent I-V measurements showed that the critical maximum voltage increased with decreasing temperature, suggesting the thermal activated motion of oxygen vacancies. Abnormal BRS has been explained by the partial compensation of electric field from the induced dipoles opposite to the applied voltage, which has been demonstrated by the clear amplitude-voltage and phase-voltage hysteresis loops observed by piezoelectric force microscopy. The normal BRS was due to the barrier modification at Pt/MoO x interface by the accumulation and depletion of oxygen vacancies.

Application of bias voltage to tune the resonant frequency of membrane-based electroactive polymer energy harvesters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Lin; Grissom, Michael; Fisher, Frank T.

2016-05-01

Vibration-based energy harvesting has been widely investigated to as a means to generate low levels of electrical energy for applications such as wireless sensor networks. However, for optimal performance it is necessary to ensure that resonant frequencies of the device match the ambient vibration frequencies for maximum energy harvested. Here a novel resonant frequency tuning approach is proposed by applying a bias voltage to a pre-stretched electroactive polymer (EAP) membrane, such that the resulting changes in membrane tension can tune the device to match the environmental vibration source. First, a material model which accounts for the change in properties due to the pre-stretch of a VHB 4910 EAP membrane is presented. The effect of the bias voltage on the EAP membrane, which induces an electrostatic pressure and corresponding reduction in membrane thickness, are then determined. The FEM results from ANSYS agree well with an analytical hyperelastic model of the activation response of the EAP membrane. Lastly, through a mass-loaded circular membrane vibration model, the effective resonant frequency of the energy harvester can be determined as a function of changes in membrane tension due to the applied bias voltage. In the case of an EAP membrane, pre-stretch contributes to the pre-stretch stiffness of the system while the applied bias voltage contributes to a change in bias voltage stiffness of the membrane. Preliminary experiments verified the resonant frequencies corresponding to the bias voltages predicted from the appropriate models. The proposed bias voltage tuning approach for the EAP membrane may provide a novel tuning strategy to enable energy harvesting from various ambient vibration sources in various application environments.

An Optimal Control Strategy for DC Bus Voltage Regulation in Photovoltaic System with Battery Energy Storage

PubMed Central

Daud, Muhamad Zalani; Mohamed, Azah; Hannan, M. A.

2014-01-01

This paper presents an evaluation of an optimal DC bus voltage regulation strategy for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system with battery energy storage (BES). The BES is connected to the PV system DC bus using a DC/DC buck-boost converter. The converter facilitates the BES power charge/discharge to compensate for the DC bus voltage deviation during severe disturbance conditions. In this way, the regulation of DC bus voltage of the PV/BES system can be enhanced as compared to the conventional regulation that is solely based on the voltage-sourced converter (VSC). For the grid side VSC (G-VSC), two control methods, namely, the voltage-mode and current-mode controls, are applied. For control parameter optimization, the simplex optimization technique is applied for the G-VSC voltage- and current-mode controls, including the BES DC/DC buck-boost converter controllers. A new set of optimized parameters are obtained for each of the power converters for comparison purposes. The PSCAD/EMTDC-based simulation case studies are presented to evaluate the performance of the proposed optimized control scheme in comparison to the conventional methods. PMID:24883374

Chiral tunneling modulated by a time-periodic potential on the surface states of a topological insulator

PubMed Central

Li, Yuan; Jalil, Mansoor B. A.; Tan, S. G.; Zhao, W.; Bai, R.; Zhou, G. H.

2014-01-01

Time-periodic perturbation can be used to modify the transport properties of the surface states of topological insulators, specifically their chiral tunneling property. Using the scattering matrix method, we study the tunneling transmission of the surface states of a topological insulator under the influence of a time-dependent potential and finite gate bias voltage. It is found that perfect transmission is obtained for electrons which are injected normally into the time-periodic potential region in the absence of any bias voltage. However, this signature of Klein tunneling is destroyed when a bias voltage is applied, with the transmission probability of normally incident electrons decreasing with increasing gate bias voltage. Likewise, the overall conductance of the system decreases significantly when a gate bias voltage is applied. The characteristic left-handed helicity of the transmitted spin polarization is also broken by the finite gate bias voltage. In addition, the time-dependent potential modifies the large-angle transmission profile, which exhibits an oscillatory or resonance-like behavior. Finally, time-dependent transport modes (with oscillating potential in the THz frequency) can result in enhanced overall conductance, irrespective of the presence or absence of the gate bias voltage. PMID:24713634

TIME CALIBRATED OSCILLOSCOPE SWEEP

DOEpatents

Owren, H.M.; Johnson, B.M.; Smith, V.L.

1958-04-22

The time calibrator of an electric signal displayed on an oscilloscope is described. In contrast to the conventional technique of using time-calibrated divisions on the face of the oscilloscope, this invention provides means for directly superimposing equal time spaced markers upon a signal displayed upon an oscilloscope. More explicitly, the present invention includes generally a generator for developing a linear saw-tooth voltage and a circuit for combining a high-frequency sinusoidal voltage of a suitable amplitude and frequency with the saw-tooth voltage to produce a resultant sweep deflection voltage having a wave shape which is substantially linear with respect to time between equal time spaced incremental plateau regions occurring once each cycle of the sinusoidal voltage. The foregoing sweep voltage when applied to the horizontal deflection plates in combination with a signal to be observed applied to the vertical deflection plates of a cathode ray oscilloscope produces an image on the viewing screen which is essentially a display of the signal to be observed with respect to time. Intensified spots, or certain other conspicuous indications corresponding to the equal time spaced plateau regions of said sweep voltage, appear superimposed upon said displayed signal, which indications are therefore suitable for direct time calibration purposes.

An optimal control strategy for DC bus voltage regulation in photovoltaic system with battery energy storage.

PubMed

Daud, Muhamad Zalani; Mohamed, Azah; Hannan, M A

2014-01-01

This paper presents an evaluation of an optimal DC bus voltage regulation strategy for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system with battery energy storage (BES). The BES is connected to the PV system DC bus using a DC/DC buck-boost converter. The converter facilitates the BES power charge/discharge to compensate for the DC bus voltage deviation during severe disturbance conditions. In this way, the regulation of DC bus voltage of the PV/BES system can be enhanced as compared to the conventional regulation that is solely based on the voltage-sourced converter (VSC). For the grid side VSC (G-VSC), two control methods, namely, the voltage-mode and current-mode controls, are applied. For control parameter optimization, the simplex optimization technique is applied for the G-VSC voltage- and current-mode controls, including the BES DC/DC buck-boost converter controllers. A new set of optimized parameters are obtained for each of the power converters for comparison purposes. The PSCAD/EMTDC-based simulation case studies are presented to evaluate the performance of the proposed optimized control scheme in comparison to the conventional methods.

Origin of Reduced Open-Circuit Voltage in Highly Efficient Small-Molecule-Based Solar Cells upon Solvent Vapor Annealing.

PubMed

Deng, Wanyuan; Gao, Ke; Yan, Jun; Liang, Quanbin; Xie, Yuan; He, Zhicai; Wu, Hongbin; Peng, Xiaobin; Cao, Yong

2018-03-07

In this study, we demonstrate that remarkably reduced open-circuit voltage in highly efficient organic solar cells (OSCs) from a blend of phenyl-C 61 -butyric acid methyl ester and a recently developed conjugated small molecule (DPPEZnP-THD) upon solvent vapor annealing (SVA) is due to two independent sources: increased radiative recombination and increased nonradiative recombination. Through the measurements of electroluminescence due to the emission of the charge-transfer state and photovoltaic external quantum efficiency measurement, we can quantify that the open-circuit voltage losses in a device with SVA due to the radiative recombination and nonradiative recombination are 0.23 and 0.31 V, respectively, which are 0.04 and 0.07 V higher than those of the as-cast device. Despite of the reduced open-circuit voltage, the device with SVA exhibited enhanced dissociation of charge-transfer excitons, leading to an improved short-circuit current density and a remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 9.41%, one of the best for solution-processed OSCs based on small-molecule donor materials. Our study also clearly shows that removing the nonradiative recombination pathways and/or suppressing energetic disorder in the active layer would result in more long-lived charge carriers and enhanced open-circuit voltage, which are prerequisites for further improving the PCE.

Electric-field induced surface instabilities of soft dielectrics and their effects on optical transmittance and scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shian, Samuel; Kjeer, Peter; Clarke, David R.

2018-03-01

When a voltage is applied to a percolative, mechanically compliant mat of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on a smooth elastomer bilayer attached to an ITO coated glass substrate, the in-line optical transmittance decreases with increasing voltage. Two regimes of behavior have been identified based on optical scattering, bright field optical microscopy, and confocal optical microscopy. In the low field regime, the electric field produces a spatially inhomogeneous surface deformation of the elastomer that causes local variations in optical refraction and modulates the light transmittance. The spatial variation is associated with the distribution of the CNTs over the surface. At higher fields, above a threshold voltage, an array of pits in the surface form by a nucleation and growth mechanism and these also scatter light. The formation of pits, and creases, in the thickness of the elastomer, is due to a previously identified electro-mechanical surface instability. When the applied voltage is decreased from its maximum, the transmittance returns to its original value although there is a transmittance hysteresis and a complicated time response. When the applied voltage exceeds the threshold voltage, there can be remnant optical contrast associated with creasing of the elastomer and the recovery time appears to be dependent on local jamming of CNTs in areas where the pits formed. A potential application of this work as an electrically tunable privacy window or camouflaging devices is demonstrated.

Control of power to an inductively heated part

DOEpatents

Adkins, Douglas R.; Frost, Charles A.; Kahle, Philip M.; Kelley, J. Bruce; Stanton, Suzanne L.

1997-01-01

A process for induction hardening a part to a desired depth with an AC signal applied to the part from a closely coupled induction coil includes measuring the voltage of the AC signal at the coil and the current passing through the coil; and controlling the depth of hardening of the part from the measured voltage and current. The control system determines parameters of the part that are functions of applied voltage and current to the induction coil, and uses a neural network to control the application of the AC signal based on the detected functions for each part.

Control of power to an inductively heated part

DOEpatents

Adkins, D.R.; Frost, C.A.; Kahle, P.M.; Kelley, J.B.; Stanton, S.L.

1997-05-20

A process for induction hardening a part to a desired depth with an AC signal applied to the part from a closely coupled induction coil includes measuring the voltage of the AC signal at the coil and the current passing through the coil; and controlling the depth of hardening of the part from the measured voltage and current. The control system determines parameters of the part that are functions of applied voltage and current to the induction coil, and uses a neural network to control the application of the AC signal based on the detected functions for each part. 6 figs.

Voltage-sensitive rhodol with enhanced two-photon brightness

PubMed Central

Kulkarni, Rishikesh U.; Kramer, Daniel J.; Pourmandi, Narges; Karbasi, Kaveh; Bateup, Helen S.

2017-01-01

We have designed, synthesized, and applied a rhodol-based chromophore to a molecular wire-based platform for voltage sensing to achieve fast, sensitive, and bright voltage sensing using two-photon (2P) illumination. Rhodol VoltageFluor-5 (RVF5) is a voltage-sensitive dye with improved 2P cross-section for use in thick tissue or brain samples. RVF5 features a dichlororhodol core with pyrrolidyl substitution at the nitrogen center. In mammalian cells under one-photon (1P) illumination, RVF5 demonstrates high voltage sensitivity (28% ΔF/F per 100 mV) and improved photostability relative to first-generation voltage sensors. This photostability enables multisite optical recordings from neurons lacking tuberous sclerosis complex 1, Tsc1, in a mouse model of genetic epilepsy. Using RVF5, we show that Tsc1 KO neurons exhibit increased activity relative to wild-type neurons and additionally show that the proportion of active neurons in the network increases with the loss of Tsc1. The high photostability and voltage sensitivity of RVF5 is recapitulated under 2P illumination. Finally, the ability to chemically tune the 2P absorption profile through the use of rhodol scaffolds affords the unique opportunity to image neuronal voltage changes in acutely prepared mouse brain slices using 2P illumination. Stimulation of the mouse hippocampus evoked spiking activity that was readily discerned with bath-applied RVF5, demonstrating the utility of RVF5 and molecular wire-based voltage sensors with 2P-optimized fluorophores for imaging voltage in intact brain tissue. PMID:28242676

Development of High Level Electrical Stress Failure Threshold and Prediction Model for Small Scale Junction Integrated Circuits

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-09-01

AWACS EMP Guidelines presents two different models to predict the damage pcwer of the dev-ce and the circuit damage EMP voltage ( VEMP ). Neither of...calculated as K P~ I V BD 6. The damage EMP voltage ( VEMP ) is calculated KZ EMP +IZ =D +BD VBD1F 7. The damage EMP voltage is calculated for collector

Design and Simulation Test of an Open D-Dot Voltage Sensor

PubMed Central

Bai, Yunjie; Wang, Jingang; Wei, Gang; Yang, Yongming

2015-01-01

Nowadays, sensor development focuses on miniaturization and non-contact measurement. According to the D-dot principle, a D-dot voltage sensor with a new structure was designed based on the differential D-dot sensor with a symmetrical structure, called an asymmetric open D-dot voltage sensor. It is easier to install. The electric field distribution of the sensor was analyzed through Ansoft Maxwell and an open D-dot voltage sensor was designed. This open D-voltage sensor is characteristic of accessible insulating strength and small electric field distortion. The steady and transient performance test under 10 kV-voltage reported satisfying performances of the designed open D-dot voltage sensor. It conforms to requirements for a smart grid measuring sensor in intelligence, miniaturization and facilitation. PMID:26393590

Voltage control of ferromagnetic resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Ziyao; Peng, Bin; Zhu, Mingmin; Liu, Ming

2016-05-01

Voltage control of magnetism in multiferroics, where the ferromagnetism and ferroelectricity are simultaneously exhibiting, is of great importance to achieve compact, fast and energy efficient voltage controllable magnetic/microwave devices. Particularly, these devices are widely used in radar, aircraft, cell phones and satellites, where volume, response time and energy consumption is critical. Researchers realized electric field tuning of magnetic properties like magnetization, magnetic anisotropy and permeability in varied multiferroic heterostructures such as bulk, thin films and nanostructure by different magnetoelectric (ME) coupling mechanism: strain/stress, interfacial charge, spin-electromagnetic (EM) coupling and exchange coupling, etc. In this review, we focus on voltage control of ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) in multiferroics. ME coupling-induced FMR change is critical in microwave devices, where the electric field tuning of magnetic effective anisotropic field determines the tunability of the performance of microwave devices. Experimentally, FMR measurement technique is also an important method to determine the small effective magnetic field change in small amount of magnetic material precisely due to its high sensitivity and to reveal the deep science of multiferroics, especially, voltage control of magnetism in novel mechanisms like interfacial charge, spin-EM coupling and exchange coupling.

Development of CMOS Imager Block for Capsule Endoscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shafie, S.; Fodzi, F. A. M.; Tung, L. Q.; Lioe, D. X.; Halin, I. A.; Hasan, W. Z. W.; Jaafar, H.

2014-04-01

This paper presents the development of imager block to be associated in a capsule endoscopy system. Since the capsule endoscope is used to diagnose gastrointestinal diseases, the imager block must be in small size which is comfortable for the patients to swallow. In this project, a small size 1.5V button battery is used as the power supply while the voltage supply requirements for other components such as microcontroller and CMOS image sensor are higher. Therefore, a voltage booster circuit is proposed to boost up the voltage supply from 1.5V to 3.3V. A low power microcontroller is used to generate control pulses for the CMOS image sensor and to convert the 8-bits parallel data output to serial data to be transmitted to the display panel. The results show that the voltage booster circuit was able to boost the voltage supply from 1.5V to 3.3V. The microcontroller precisely controls the CMOS image sensor to produce parallel data which is then serialized again by the microcontroller. The serial data is then successfully translated to 2fps image and displayed on computer.

16 CFR § 1505.6 - Performance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... waveform of the test voltage shall approximate a sine wave as closely as possible. (iii) The applied test... stalled-rotor current of the toy at maximum rated voltage. There shall be no electrical or mechanical... voltage with the rotor of the motor locked into position. During the test, exposed dead metal parts of the...

Study of electric field distorted by space charges under positive lightning impulse voltage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zezhong; Geng, Yinan

2018-03-01

Actually, many insulation problems are related to electric fields. And measuring electric fields is an important research topic of high-voltage engineering. In particular, the electric field distortion caused by space charge is the basis of streamer theory, and thus quantitatively measuring the Poisson electric field caused by space charge is significant to researching the mechanism of air gap discharge. In this paper, we used our photoelectric integrated sensor to measure the electric field distribution in a 1-m rod-plane gap under positive lightning impulse voltage. To verify the reliability of this quantitative measurement, we compared the measured results with calculated results from a numerical simulation. The electric-field time domain waveforms on the axis of the 1-m rod-plane out of the space charge zone were measured with various electrodes. The Poisson electric fields generated by space charge were separated from the Laplace electric field generated by applied voltages, and the amplitudes and variations were measured for various applied voltages and at various locations. This work also supplies the feasible basis for directly measuring strong electric field under high voltage.

Experimental study on the responsivity enhancement of Mn1.56Co0.96Ni0.48O4 detector under moderate bias field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Wei; Hou, Yun; Gao, Yan Qing; Zhang, Leibo; Huang, Zhi Ming

2011-08-01

As a typical thermal sensitive material, Mn1.56Co0.96Ni0.48O4 (MCN) has achieved widely applications in uncooled bolometer. In this paper, we report that a large increase in electrical conductivity of MCN is obtained with moderate electric-field strengths (E~103V/cm) applied at room temperature (about 300K). Great enhancement in the responsivity is observed when operating with a proper electric bias field, which corresponds to a threshold voltage VTh. MCN bulk materials are prepared by using the sintering method. Micro MCN detector is fabricated by scribing the bulk material into pieces sized 200×100×10μm. The detector is clinged to an Al2O3 substrate with some electrical insulated epoxy glue which is mounted onto a Cu sink. The surrounding temperature is controlled precisely by a temperature controller with a precision of 1mK. Voltage-current characteristics at 270-330K are carefully examined. Different sweeping speeds of the bias-voltage are applied in different orders so as to find out a proper scanning rate, in which the electrical measurement is proceeded in a state of quasi-thermal equilibrium. According to quasi-thermal equilibrium and the time dependent nominal D.C. power, the temperature increase during the measurement is estimated. The conduction mechanism can be well explained with small polaron theory. Empirical equations are used to describe the thermal dynamic process in the pulsed mode, and the process is also simply simulated via numerical calculations. The experimental results and simulation works will be of some referential value to future studies in uncooled microbolometer made in transition metal oxides.

Fundamental investigation of vacuum PD tubes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Suyama, M.; Hirano, K.; Asakura, N.

1994-08-01

As a fundamental study of photodiodes (PDs) for electron bombardment, two types of PDs have been experimentally investigated to be applied in electron tubes. A PD bombarded from the front surface (FB-PD), where pn junction of planer structure existed, was evaluated to measure fast response characteristics such as 2.1ns in rise time, however, more than an order of magnitude increase of dark current was also confirmed after a long term stability test of 1,000 hours. On the other hand, a PD bombarded by electrons from the rear surface (RB-PD) showed no increase of dark current after the stability test andmore » fast rise time of 2.7ns. However, it was clarified that the rise time of RB-PD depended on applied voltage to the PD, and applied voltage of 200 V was necessary to achieve such fast response. Since it was a much higher voltage than expected, some modifications may be necessary to achieve fast response with lower applied voltage, considering the yield of the PDs. Comparison of two types of PDs on some other characteristics are discussed. Preliminary test results of an electron bombardment APD are also discussed.« less

Hot-Electron-Induced Device Degradation during Gate-Induced Drain Leakage Stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kwang-Soo; Han, Chang-Hoon; Lee, Jun-Ki; Kim, Dong-Soo; Kim, Hyong-Joon; Shin, Joong-Shik; Lee, Hea-Beoum; Choi, Byoung-Deog

2012-11-01

We studied the interface state generation and electron trapping by hot electrons under gate-induced drain leakage (GIDL) stress in p-type metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (P-MOSFETs), which are used as the high-voltage core circuit of flash memory devices. When negative voltage was applied to a drain in the off-state, a GIDL current was generated, but when high voltage was applied to the drain, electrons had a high energy. The hot electrons produced the interface state and electron trapping. As a result, the threshold voltage shifted and the off-state leakage current (trap-assisted drain junction leakage current) increased. On the other hand, electron trapping mitigated the energy band bending near the drain and thus suppressed the GIDL current generation.

Zero temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrical-breakdown path in ultrathin hafnia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, H. Z.; Ang, D. S.

2017-09-01

The recent widespread attention on the use of the non-volatile resistance switching property of a microscopic oxide region after electrical breakdown for memory applications has prompted basic interest in the conduction properties of the breakdown region. Here, we report an interesting crossover from a negative to a positive temperature dependence of the resistance of a breakdown region in ultrathin hafnia as the applied voltage is increased. As a consequence, a near-zero temperature coefficient of resistance is obtained at the crossover voltage. The behavior may be modeled by (1) a tunneling-limited transport involving two farthest-spaced defects along the conduction path at low voltage and (2) a subsequent transition to a scattering-limited transport after the barrier is overcome by a larger applied voltage.

Voltage-step pulsed electromembrane as a novel view of electrical field-induced liquid-phase microextraction.

PubMed

Rezazadeh, Maryam; Yamini, Yadollah; Seidi, Shahram; Arjomandi-Behzad, Leila

2014-01-10

In the present work, the effect of application of voltage steps on extraction efficiency of pulsed electromembrane extraction (PEME) was investigated for the first time. The effects of voltage variations including initial and final voltages, number of steps between the initial and final voltages as well as their time durations were studied on the extraction efficiencies of three different classes of analytes. These classes include amitriptyline (AMI) and nortriptyline (NOR) as more hydrophobic analytes, diclofenac (DIC) and mefenamic acid (MEF) as acidic drugs and salbutamol (SB) and terbutaline (TB) as hydrophilic compounds. It was anticipated that the application of high voltages is not necessary at the beginning of the extraction, since large amounts of target analytes exist around the supported liquid membrane (SLM)/sample solution interface. So, they could be easily transferred into the acceptor phase utilizing lower voltages. Results showed that the benefits of voltage-step PEME (VS-PEME) are more obvious in systems with low electrical resistance (regarding the SLM composition). Efficiencies of VS-PEME for extraction of AMI and NOR (96% and 89% for AMI and NOR, respectively) were comparable with those achieved from applying a constant voltage (95% for AMI and 83% for NOR). However, recoveries from the VS-PEME of DIC and MEF (53% and 44% for DIC and MEF, respectively) were significantly higher than those from the application of a constant voltage (33% for DIC and 31% for MEF). Also, recoveries obtained from the VS-PEME for SB and TB were approximately 3 orders of magnitude greater than those from a constant voltage. Moreover, it was demonstrated that in all cases analytes could effectively be extracted at the beginning of extraction by applying low voltages. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Voltage-clamp study of the activation currents and fast block to polyspermy in the egg of Xenopus laevis.

PubMed

Glahn, David; Nuccitelli, Richard

2003-04-01

Voltage-clamped mature, jelly-intact Xenopus eggs were used to carefully examine the ionic currents crossing the plasma membrane before, during, and after fertilization. The bulk of the fertilization current was transient, of large amplitude, and reversed at the predicted Cl- reversal potential. However, the large amplitude fertilization current was preceded by a small, step-like increase in holding current. This small increase in holding current is referred to in this paper as Ion to acknowledge its qualitative similarity to the Ion current previously described in the sea urchin. It was observed in both fertilized and artificially activated eggs, and was found to be unaffected by 10 mm tetra-ethyl ammonium (TEA), a concentration found to block K+ currents in Rana pipiens. Current-voltage relationships are presented for the large fertilization potential, and show that the fertilization currents have a marked outward rectification and are voltage sensitive. These properties are in contrast to the total lack of rectification and slight voltage sensitivity seen before or after the fertilization currents. The time required for sperm to fertilize the egg was found to be voltage dependent with a relatively more depolarized voltage requiring a longer time for fertilization to occur. The percentage of eggs blocked with varying potential levels was determined and this information was fitted to a modified Boltzmann equation having a midpoint of -9 mV.

Spin Seebeck effect and thermoelectric phenomena in superconducting hybrids with magnetic textures or spin-orbit coupling

PubMed Central

Bathen, Marianne Etzelmüller; Linder, Jacob

2017-01-01

We theoretically consider the spin Seebeck effect, the charge Seebeck coefficient, and the thermoelectric figure of merit in superconducting hybrid structures including either magnetic textures or intrinsic spin-orbit coupling. We demonstrate that large magnitudes for all these quantities are obtainable in Josephson-based systems with either zero or a small externally applied magnetic field. This provides an alternative to the thermoelectric effects generated in high-field (~1 T) superconducting hybrid systems, which were recently experimentally demonstrated. The systems studied contain either conical ferromagnets, spin-active interfaces, or spin-orbit coupling. We present a framework for calculating the linear thermoelectric response for both spin and charge of a system upon applying temperature and voltage gradients based on quasiclassical theory which allows for arbitrary spin-dependent textures and fields to be conveniently incorporated. PMID:28139667

Identifying Read/Write Speeds for Field-Induced Interfacial Resistive Switching.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsui, Stephen; Das, Nilanjan; Wang, Yaqi; Xue, Yuyi; Chu, C. W.

2007-03-01

Efforts continue to explore new phenomena that may allow for next generation nonvolatile memory technology. Much attention has been drawn to the field-induced resistive switch occurring at the interface between a metal electrode and perovskite oxide. The switch between high (off) and low (on) resistance states is controlled by the polarity of applied voltage pulsing. Characterization of Ag-Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3 interfaces via impedance spectroscopy shows that the resistances above 10^6 Hz are the same at the on and off states, which limits the reading speed to far slower than the applied switching pulses, or device write speed at the order of 10^7 Hz. We deduce that the switching interface is percolative in nature and that small local rearrangement of defect structures may play a major role.

Spin Seebeck effect and thermoelectric phenomena in superconducting hybrids with magnetic textures or spin-orbit coupling.

PubMed

Bathen, Marianne Etzelmüller; Linder, Jacob

2017-01-31

We theoretically consider the spin Seebeck effect, the charge Seebeck coefficient, and the thermoelectric figure of merit in superconducting hybrid structures including either magnetic textures or intrinsic spin-orbit coupling. We demonstrate that large magnitudes for all these quantities are obtainable in Josephson-based systems with either zero or a small externally applied magnetic field. This provides an alternative to the thermoelectric effects generated in high-field (~1 T) superconducting hybrid systems, which were recently experimentally demonstrated. The systems studied contain either conical ferromagnets, spin-active interfaces, or spin-orbit coupling. We present a framework for calculating the linear thermoelectric response for both spin and charge of a system upon applying temperature and voltage gradients based on quasiclassical theory which allows for arbitrary spin-dependent textures and fields to be conveniently incorporated.

Activation by intracellular GDP, metabolic inhibition and pinacidil of a glibenclamide-sensitive K-channel in smooth muscle cells of rat mesenteric artery.

PubMed Central

Zhang, H; Bolton, T B

1995-01-01

1. Single-channel recordings were made from cell-attached and isolated patches, and whole-cell currents were recorded under voltage clamp from single smooth muscle cells obtained by enzymic digestion of a small branch of the rat mesenteric artery. 2. In single voltage-clamped cells 1 mM uridine diphosphate (UDP) or guanidine diphosphate (GDP) added to the pipette solution, or pinacidil (100 microM) a K-channel opener (KCO) applied in the bathing solution, evoked an outward current of up to 100pA which was blocked by glibenclamide (10 microM). In single cells from which recordings were made by the 'perforated patch' (nystatin pipette) technique, metabolic inhibition by 1 mM NaCN and 10 mM 2-deoxy-glucose also evoked a similar glibenclamide-sensitive current. 3. Single K-channel activity was observed in cell-attached patches only infrequently unless the metabolism of the cell was inhibited, whereupon channel activity blocked by glibenclamide was seen; pinacidil applied to the cell evoked similar glibenclamide-sensitive channel activity. If the patch was pulled off the cell to form an isolated inside-out patch, similar glibenclamide-sensitive single-channel currents were observed in the presence of UDP and/or pinacidil to those seen in cell-attached mode; channel conductance was 20 pS (60:130 K-gradient) and openings showed no voltage-dependence and noisy inward currents, typical of the nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) activated K-channel (KNDP) seen previously in rabbit portal vein. 4. Formation of an isolated inside-out patch into an ATP-free solution did not increase the probability of channel opening which declined with time even when some single-channel activity had occurred in the cell-attached mode before detachment. However, application of 1 mM UDP or GDP, but not ATP, to inside-out patches evoked single-channel activity. Application of ATP-free solution to isolated patches, previously exposed to ATP and in which channel activity had been seen, did not evoke channel activity. 5. It is concluded that small conductance K-channels (KNDP) open in smooth muscle cells from this small artery in response to UDP or GDP acting from the inside, or pinacidil acting from the outside; the same channels open during inhibition of metabolism presumably mainly due to the rise in nucleoside diphosphates, but a fall in the ATP concentration on the inside of the channel did not by itself evoke channel activity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID:7735693

Evaluation of resistive switching properties of Si-rich oxide embedded with Ti nanodots by applying constant voltage and current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohta, Akio; Kato, Yusuke; Ikeda, Mitsuhisa; Makihara, Katsunori; Miyazaki, Seiichi

2018-06-01

We have studied the resistive switching behaviors of electron beam (EB) evaporated Si-rich oxide (SiO x ) sandwiched between Ni electrodes by applying a constant voltage and current. Additionally, the impact of Ti nanodots (NDs) embedded into SiO x on resistive switching behaviors was investigated because it is expected that NDs can trigger the formation of a conductive filament path in SiO x . The resistive switching behaviors of SiO x show that the response time during resistance switching was decreased by increasing the applied constant current or constant voltage. It was found that Ti-NDs in SiO x enhance the conductive filament path formation owing to electric field concentration by Ti-NDs.

Screening Fluorescent Voltage Indicators with Spontaneously Spiking HEK Cells

PubMed Central

Venkatachalam, Veena; Kralj, Joel M.; Dib-Hajj, Sulayman D.; Waxman, Stephen G.; Cohen, Adam E.

2013-01-01

Development of improved fluorescent voltage indicators is a key challenge in neuroscience, but progress has been hampered by the low throughput of patch-clamp characterization. We introduce a line of non-fluorescent HEK cells that stably express NaV 1.3 and KIR 2.1 and generate spontaneous electrical action potentials. These cells enable rapid, electrode-free screening of speed and sensitivity of voltage sensitive dyes or fluorescent proteins on a standard fluorescence microscope. We screened a small library of mutants of archaerhodopsin 3 (Arch) in spiking HEK cells and identified two mutants with greater voltage-sensitivity than found in previously published Arch voltage indicators. PMID:24391999

Genetically encoded fluorescent voltage sensors using the voltage-sensing domain of Nematostella and Danio phosphatases exhibit fast kinetics.

PubMed

Baker, Bradley J; Jin, Lei; Han, Zhou; Cohen, Lawrence B; Popovic, Marko; Platisa, Jelena; Pieribone, Vincent

2012-07-15

A substantial increase in the speed of the optical response of genetically encoded fluorescent protein voltage sensors (FP voltage sensors) was achieved by using the voltage-sensing phosphatase genes of Nematostella vectensis and Danio rerio. A potential N. vectensis voltage-sensing phosphatase was identified in silico. The voltage-sensing domain (S1-S4) of the N. vectensis homolog was used to create an FP voltage sensor called Nema. By replacing the phosphatase with a cerulean/citrine FRET pair, a new FP voltage sensor was synthesized with fast off kinetics (Tau(off)<5ms). However, the signal was small (ΔF/F=0.4%/200mV). FP voltage sensors using the D. rerio voltage-sensing phosphatase homolog, designated Zahra and Zahra 2, exhibited fast on and off kinetics within 2ms of the time constants observed with the organic voltage-sensitive dye, di4-ANEPPS. Mutagenesis of the S4 region of the Danio FP voltage sensor shifted the voltage dependence to more negative potentials but did not noticeably affect the kinetics of the optical signal. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electronic ripple indicator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davidson, J. K.; Houck, W. H.

1971-01-01

Electronic circuit for monitoring excessive ripple voltage on dc power lines senses voltage variations from few millivolts to maximum of 10 volts rms. Instrument is used wherever power supply fluctuations might endanger system operations or damage equipment. Device is inexpensive and easily packaged in small chassis.

Cable Tester

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

NASA Tech Brief's provided Sonics Associates, Inc. with a method of saving many hours of testing time and money. James B. Cawthon, Sonics Vice-President, read about a device developed at Ames Research Center. Sonics adapted the device and produced an effective tester that uses a clocked shift register to apply a voltage to a cable under test. This is the active part of the Ames development, and the passive is a small box containing light emitting diodes (LEDs). When connected to the other end of the tested cable, the LEDs light in the same sequence as the generator. This procedure allows the technician to immediately identify a miswired cable.

Device and method for electron beam heating of a high density plasma

DOEpatents

Thode, L.E.

A device and method for relativistic electron beam heating of a high density plasma in a small localized region are described. A relativistic electron beam generator produces a high voltage electron beam which propagates along a vacuum drift tube and is modulated to initiate electron bunching within the beam. The beam is then directed through a low density gas chamber which provides isolation between the vacuum modulator and the relativistic electron beam target. The relativistic beam is then applied to a high density target plasma which typically comprises DT, DD, hydrogen boron or similar thermonuclear gas at a density of 10/sup 17/ to 10/sup 20/.

Electrostatic and Small-Signal Analysis of CMUTs With Circular and Square Anisotropic Plates.

PubMed

Funding la Cour, Mette; Christiansen, Thomas Lehrmann; Jensen, Jørgen Arendt; Thomsen, Erik Vilain

2015-08-01

Traditionally, capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUTs) are modeled using the isotropic plate equation, and this leads to deviations between analytical calculations and finite element modeling (FEM). In this paper, the deflection is calculated for both circular and square plates using the full anisotropic plate equation. It is shown that the anisotropic calculations match excellently with FEM, whereas an isotropic approach causes up to 10% deviations in deflection. For circular plates, an exact solution can be found. For square plates using the Galerkin method, and utilizing the symmetry of the silicon crystal, a compact and accurate expression for the deflection can be obtained. The deviation from FEM in center deflection is <0.1%. The theory of multilayer plates is also applied to the CMUT. The deflection of a square plate was measured on fabricated CMUTs using a white light interferometer. Fitting the plate parameter for the anisotropic calculated deflection to the measurement, a deviation of 0.07% is seen. Electrostatic and small-signal dynamic analysis are performed using energy considerations including anisotropy. The stable position, effective spring constant, pullin distance, and pull-in voltage are found for both circular and square anisotropic plates, and the pressure dependence is included by comparison with the corresponding analysis for a parallel plate. Measurements on fabricated devices with both circular and square plates subjected to increasing bias voltage are performed, and it is observed that the models including anisotropic effects are within the uncertainty interval of the measurements. Finally, a lumped element small-signal model for both circular and square anisotropic plates is derived to describe the dynamics of the CMUT.

A Multi-agent Based Cooperative Voltage and Reactive Power Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishida, Masato; Nagata, Takeshi; Saiki, Hiroshi; Shimada, Ikuhiko; Hatano, Ryousuke

In order to maintain system voltage within the optimal range and prevent voltage instability phenomena before they occur, a variety of phase modifying equipment is installed in optimal locations throughout the power system network and a variety of methods of voltage reactive control are employed. The proposed system divided the traditional method to control voltage and reactive power into two sub problems; “voltage control” to adjust the secondary bus voltage of substations, and “reactive power control” to adjust the primary bus voltage. In this system, two types of agents are installed in substations in order to cooperate “voltage control” and “reactive power control”. In order to verify the performance of the proposed method, it has been applied to the model network system. The results confirm that our proposed method is able to control violent fluctuations in load.

Two-dimensional numerical study of two counter-propagating helium plasma jets in air at atmospheric pressure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yan, Wen; Sang, Chaofeng; Wang, Dezhen, E-mail: wangdez@dlut.edu.cn

In this paper, a computational study of two counter-propagating helium plasma jets in ambient air is presented. A two-dimensional fluid model is applied to investigate the physical processes of the two plasma jets interaction (PJI) driven by equal and unequal voltages, respectively. In all studied cases, the PJI results in a decrease of both plasma bullets propagation velocity. When the two plasma jets are driven by equal voltages, they never merge but rather approach each other around the middle of the gas gap at a minimum approach distance, and the minimal distance decreases with the increase of both the appliedmore » voltages and initial electron density, but increases with the increase of the relative permittivity. When the two plasma jets are driven by unequal voltages, we observe the two plasma jets will merge at the position away from the middle of the gas gap. The effect of applied voltage difference on the PJI is also studied.« less

A grid-connected single-phase photovoltaic micro inverter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, X. Y.; Lin, P. J.; Chen, Z. C.; Wu, L. J.; Cheng, S. Y.

2017-11-01

In this paper, the topology of a single-phase grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) micro-inverter is proposed. The PV micro-inverter consists of DC-DC stage with high voltage gain boost and DC-AC conversion stage. In the first stage, we apply the active clamp circuit and two voltage multipliers to achieve soft switching technology and high voltage gain. In addition, the flower pollination algorithm (FPA) is employed for the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in the PV module in this stage. The second stage cascades a H-bridge inverter and LCL filter. To feed high quality sinusoidal power into the grid, the software phase lock, outer voltage loop and inner current loop control method are adopted as the control strategy. The performance of the proposed topology is tested by Matlab/Simulink. A PV module with maximum power 300W and maximum power point voltage 40V is applied as the input source. The simulation results indicate that the proposed topology and the control strategy are feasible.

Pulsed source ion implantation apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Leung, Ka-Ngo

1996-01-01

A new pulsed plasma-immersion ion-implantation apparatus that implants ions in large irregularly shaped objects to controllable depth without overheating the target, minimizing voltage breakdown, and using a constant electrical bias applied to the target. Instead of pulsing the voltage applied to the target, the plasma source, for example a tungsten filament or a RF antenna, is pulsed. Both electrically conducting and insulating targets can be implanted.

Method and apparatus to provide power conversion with high power factor

DOEpatents

Perreault, David J.; Lim, Seungbum; Otten, David M.

2017-05-23

A power converter circuit rectifies a line voltage and applies the rectified voltage to a stack of capacitors. Voltages on the capacitors are coupled to a plurality of regulating converters to be converted to regulated output signals. The regulated output signals are combined and converted to a desired DC output voltage of the power converter. Input currents of the regulating converters are modulated in a manner that enhances the power factor of the power converter.

Derivation of linearized transfer functions for switching-mode regulations. Phase A: Current step-up and voltage step-up converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wong, R. C.; Owen, H. A., Jr.; Wilson, T. G.

1981-01-01

Small-signal models are derived for the power stage of the voltage step-up (boost) and the current step-up (buck) converters. The modeling covers operation in both the continuous-mmf mode and the discontinuous-mmf mode. The power stage in the regulated current step-up converter on board the Dynamics Explorer Satellite is used as an example to illustrate the procedures in obtaining the small-signal functions characterizing a regulated converter.

Serial Charging Test on High Capacity Li-Ion Cells for the Orbiter Advanced Hydraulic Power System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeevarajan, Judith A.; Irlbeck, Brad

2006-01-01

Although it looks like module level voltage drives the cutoff for charge, the actual cutoff is due to unbalanced cell voltages that drive the module voltage up. Individual cell voltage drives the cutoff for discharge Low resistance cells are the first to reach the low-voltage cutoff Cell-to-Cell voltage differences are generally small and show similar trends for each cycle Increase for a distinct window during charge and at the end of discharge Increase in max to min cell voltage difference with time/cycles Decrease in max to min cell voltage difference during high current pulses with time/cycles Individual cell voltage trends (with respect to other cells) are very repeatable from cycle to cycle, although voltage slowly degrades with time/cycles (resistance growth) Much more difference observed near end of discharge Little change in order of cell voltage (cell with highest voltage to cell with lowest voltage) Temp sensor on the side of cell (between 2 cells) shows much greater rise during discharge than for single cell tests (18 C vs 5 C) Conclusion: Serial Charging of this string of cells is feasible as it has only a minor impact on useful capacity

Oxygen Displacement in Cuprates under Ionic Liquid Field-Effect Gating

PubMed Central

Dubuis, Guy; Yacoby, Yizhak; Zhou, Hua; He, Xi; Bollinger, Anthony T.; Pavuna, Davor; Pindak, Ron; Božović, Ivan

2016-01-01

We studied structural changes in a 5 unit cell thick La1.96Sr0.04CuO4 film, epitaxially grown on a LaSrAlO4 substrate with a single unit cell buffer layer, when ultra-high electric fields were induced in the film by applying a gate voltage between the film (ground) and an ionic liquid in contact with it. Measuring the diffraction intensity along the substrate-defined Bragg rods and analyzing the results using a phase retrieval method we obtained the three-dimensional electron density in the film, buffer layer, and topmost atomic layers of the substrate under different applied gate voltages. The main structural observations were: (i) there were no structural changes when the voltage was negative, holes were injected into the film making it more metallic and screening the electric field; (ii) when the voltage was positive, the film was depleted of holes becoming more insulating, the electric field extended throughout the film, the partial surface monolayer became disordered, and equatorial oxygen atoms were displaced towards the surface; (iii) the changes in surface disorder and the oxygen displacements were both reversed when a negative voltage was applied; and (iv) the c-axis lattice constant of the film did not change in spite of the displacement of equatorial oxygen atoms. PMID:27578237

Voltage-controlled magnetization switching in MRAMs in conjunction with spin-transfer torque and applied magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munira, Kamaram; Pandey, Sumeet C.; Kula, Witold; Sandhu, Gurtej S.

2016-11-01

Voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) effect has attracted a significant amount of attention in recent years because of its low cell power consumption during the anisotropy modulation of a thin ferromagnetic film. However, the applied voltage or electric field alone is not enough to completely and reliably reverse the magnetization of the free layer of a magnetic random access memory (MRAM) cell from anti-parallel to parallel configuration or vice versa. An additional symmetry-breaking mechanism needs to be employed to ensure the deterministic writing process. Combinations of voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy together with spin-transfer torque (STT) and with an applied magnetic field (Happ) were evaluated for switching reliability, time taken to switch with low error rate, and energy consumption during the switching process. In order to get a low write error rate in the MRAM cell with VCMA switching mechanism, a spin-transfer torque current or an applied magnetic field comparable to the critical current and field of the free layer is necessary. In the hybrid processes, the VCMA effect lowers the duration during which the higher power hungry secondary mechanism is in place. Therefore, the total energy consumed during the hybrid writing processes, VCMA + STT or VCMA + Happ, is less than the energy consumed during pure spin-transfer torque or applied magnetic field switching.

Application of the superposition principle to solar-cell analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindholm, F. A.; Fossum, J. G.; Burgess, E. L.

1979-01-01

The superposition principle of differential-equation theory - which applies if and only if the relevant boundary-value problems are linear - is used to derive the widely used shifting approximation that the current-voltage characteristic of an illuminated solar cell is the dark current-voltage characteristic shifted by the short-circuit photocurrent. Analytical methods are presented to treat cases where shifting is not strictly valid. Well-defined conditions necessary for superposition to apply are established. For high injection in the base region, the method of analysis accurately yields the dependence of the open-circuit voltage on the short-circuit current (or the illumination level).

Variable frequency inverter for ac induction motors with torque, speed and braking control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nola, F. J. (Inventor)

1975-01-01

A variable frequency inverter was designed for driving an ac induction motor which varies the frequency and voltage to the motor windings in response to varying torque requirements for the motor so that the applied voltage amplitude and frequency are of optimal value for any motor load and speed requirement. The slip frequency of the motor is caused to vary proportionally to the torque and feedback is provided so that the most efficient operating voltage is applied to the motor. Winding current surge is limited and a controlled negative slip causes motor braking and return of load energy to a dc power source.

Low-power transcutaneous current stimulator for wearable applications.

PubMed

Karpul, David; Cohen, Gregory K; Gargiulo, Gaetano D; van Schaik, André; McIntyre, Sarah; Breen, Paul P

2017-10-03

Peripheral neuropathic desensitization associated with aging, diabetes, alcoholism and HIV/AIDS, affects tens of millions of people worldwide, and there is little or no treatment available to improve sensory function. Recent studies that apply imperceptible continuous vibration or electrical stimulation have shown promise in improving sensitivity in both diseased and healthy participants. This class of interventions only has an effect during application, necessitating the design of a wearable device for everyday use. We present a circuit that allows for a low-power, low-cost and small form factor implementation of a current stimulator for the continuous application of subthreshold currents. This circuit acts as a voltage-to-current converter and has been tested to drive + 1 to - 1 mA into a 60 k[Formula: see text] load from DC to 1 kHz. Driving a 60 k[Formula: see text] load with a 2 mA peak-to-peak 1 kHz sinusoid, the circuit draws less than 21 mA from a 9 V source. The minimum operating current of the circuit is less than 12 mA. Voltage compliance is ± 60 V with just 1.02 mA drawn by the high voltage current drive circuitry. The circuit was implemented as a compact 46 mm × 21 mm two-layer PCB highlighting its potential for use in a body-worn device. No design to the best of our knowledge presents comparably low quiescent power with such high voltage compliance. This makes the design uniquely appropriate for low-power transcutaneous current stimulation in wearable applications. Further development of driving and instrumentation circuitry is recommended.

A contribution to the expansion of the applicability of electrostatic forces in micro transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schenk, Harald; Conrad, Holger; Gaudet, Matthieu; Uhlig, Sebastian; Kaiser, Bert; Langa, Sergiu; Stolz, Michael; Schimmanz, Klaus

2017-02-01

Electrostatic actuation is highly efficient at micro and nanoscale. However, large deflection in common electrostatically driven MEMS requires large electrode separation and thus high driving voltages. To offer a solution to this problem we developed a novel electrostatic actuator class, which is based on a force-to-stress transformation in the periodically patterned upper layer of a silicon cantilever beam. We report on advances in the development of such electrostatic bending actuators. Several variants of a CMOS compatible and RoHS-directive compliant fabrication processes to fabricate vertical deflecting beams with a thickness of 30 μm are presented. A concept to extend the actuation space towards lateral deflecting elements is introduced. The fabricated and characterized vertical deflecting cantilever beam variants make use of a 0.2 μm electrode gap and achieve deflections of up to multiples of this value. Simulation results based on an FE-model applied to calculate the voltage dependent curvature for various actuator cell designs are presented. The calculated values show very good agreement with the experimentally determined voltage controlled actuation curvatures. Particular attention was paid to parasitic effects induced by small, sub micrometer, electrode gaps. This includes parasitic currents between the two electrode layers. No experimental hint was found that such effects significantly influence the curvature for a control voltage up to 45 V. The paper provides an outlook for the applicability of the technology based on specifically designed and fabricated actuators which allow for a large variety of motion patterns including out-of-plane and in-plane motion as well as membrane deformation and linear motion.

Analysis and Modeling of Fullerene Single Electron Transistor Based on Quantum Dot Arrays at Room Temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khadem Hosseini, Vahideh; Ahmadi, Mohammad Taghi; Ismail, Razali

2018-05-01

The single electron transistor (SET) as a fast electronic device is a candidate for future nanoscale circuits because of its low energy consumption, small size and simplified circuit. It consists of source and drain electrodes with a quantum dot (QD) located between them. Moreover, it operates based on the Coulomb blockade (CB) effect. It occurs when the charging energy is greater than the thermal energy. Consequently, this condition limits SET operation at cryogenic temperatures. Hence, using QD arrays can overcome this temperature limitation in SET which can therefore work at room temperature but QD arrays increase the threshold voltage with is an undesirable effect. In this research, fullerene as a zero-dimensional material with unique properties such as quantum capacitance and high critical temperature has been selected for the material of the QDs. Moreover, the current of a fullerene QD array SET has been modeled and its threshold voltage is also compared with a silicon QD array SET. The results show that the threshold voltage of fullerene SET is lower than the silicon one. Furthermore, the comparison study shows that homogeneous linear QD arrays have a lower CB range and better operation than a ring QD array SET. Moreover, the effect of the number of QDs in a QD array SET is investigated. The result confirms that the number of QDs can directly affect the CB range. Moreover, the desired current can be achieved by controlling the applied gate voltage and island diameters in a QD array SET.

Electrochemical capacitance voltage measurements in highly doped silicon and silicon-germanium alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sermage, B.; Essa, Z.; Taleb, N.

2016-04-21

The electrochemical capacitance voltage technique has been used on highly boron doped SiGe and Si layers. Although the boron concentration is constant over the space charge depth, the 1/C{sup 2} versus voltage curves are not linear. They indeed present a negative curvature. This can be explained by the existence of deep acceptors which ionise under a high electric field (large inverse voltage) and not at a low inverse voltage. The measured doping concentration in the electrochemical capacitance voltage increases strongly as the inverse voltage increases. Thanks to a comparison with the boron concentration measured by secondary ions mass spectrometry, wemore » show that the relevant doping concentrations in device layers are obtained for small inverse voltage in agreement with the existence of deep acceptors. At the large inverse voltage, the measured doping can be more than twice larger than the boron concentration measured with a secondary ion mass spectroscopy.« less

Contribution of the backstreaming ions to the self-magnetic pinch (SMP) diode current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazarakis, Michael G.; Bennett, Nichelle; Cuneo, Michael E.; Fournier, Sean D.; Johnston, Mark D.; Kiefer, Mark L.; Leckbee, Joshua J.; Nielsen, Dan S.; Oliver, Bryan V.; Sceiford, Matthew E.; Simpson, Sean C.; Renk, Timothy J.; Ruiz, Carlos L.; Webb, Timothy J.; Ziska, Derek; Droemer, Darryl W.; Gignac, Raymond E.; Obregon, Robert J.; Wilkins, Frank L.; Welch, Dale R.

2018-04-01

The results presented here were obtained with a self-magnetic pinch (SMP) diode mounted at the front high voltage end of the RITS accelerator. RITS is a Self-Magnetically Insulated Transmission Line (MITL) voltage adder that adds the voltage pulse of six 1.3 MV inductively insulated cavities. The RITS driver together with the SMP diode has produced x-ray spots of the order of 1 mm in diameter and doses adequate for the radiographic imaging of high area density objects. Although, through the years, a number of different types of radiographic electron diodes have been utilized with SABER, HERMES III and RITS accelerators, the SMP diode appears to be the most successful and simplest diode for the radiographic investigation of various objects. Our experiments had two objectives: first to measure the contribution of the back-streaming ion currents emitted from the anode target and second to try to evaluate the energy of those ions and hence the Anode-Cathode (A-K) gap actual voltage. In any very high voltage inductive voltage adder utilizing MITLs to transmit the power to the diode load, the precise knowledge of the accelerating voltage applied on the A-K gap is problematic. This is even more difficult in an SMP diode where the A-K gap is very small (˜1 cm) and the diode region very hostile. The accelerating voltage quoted in the literature is from estimates based on the measurements of the anode and cathode currents of the MITL far upstream from the diode and utilizing the para-potential flow theories and inductive corrections. Thus, it would be interesting to have another independent measurement to evaluate the A-K voltage. The diode's anode is made of a number of high-Z metals in order to produce copious and energetic flash x-rays. It was established experimentally that the back-streaming ion currents are a strong function of the anode materials and their stage of cleanness. We have measured the back-streaming ion currents emitted from the anode and propagating through a hollow cathode tip for various diode configurations and different techniques of target cleaning treatment: namely, heating at very high temperatures with DC and pulsed current, with RF plasma cleaning, and with both plasma cleaning and heating. We have also evaluated the A-K gap voltage by energy filtering technique. Experimental results in comparison with LSP simulations are presented.

Apparatus and methods for memory using in-plane polarization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Junwei; Chang, Kai; Ji, Shuai-Hua

A memory device includes a semiconductor layer with an in-plane polarization component switchable between a first direction and a second direction. A writing electrode is employed to apply a writing voltage to the semiconductor layer to change the in-plane polarization component between the first direction and the second direction. A reading electrode is employed to apply a reading voltage to the semiconductor layer to measure a tunneling current substantially perpendicular to the polarization direction of the in-plane polarization component. The directions of the reading voltage and the writing voltage are substantially perpendicular to each other. Therefore, the reading process ismore » non-destructive. Thin films (e.g., one unit cell thick) of ferroelectric material can be used in the memory device to increase the miniaturization of the device.« less

The Mechanism of Extracellular Stimulation of Nerve Cells on an Electrolyte-Oxide-Semiconductor Capacitor

PubMed Central

Schoen, Ingmar; Fromherz, Peter

2007-01-01

Extracellular excitation of neurons is applied in studies of cultured networks and brain tissue, as well as in neuroprosthetics. We elucidate its mechanism in an electrophysiological approach by comparing voltage-clamp and current-clamp recordings of individual neurons on an insulated planar electrode. Noninvasive stimulation of neurons from pedal ganglia of Lymnaea stagnalis is achieved by defined voltage ramps applied to an electrolyte/HfO2/silicon capacitor. Effects on the smaller attached cell membrane and the larger free membrane are distinguished in a two-domain-stimulation model. Under current-clamp, we study the polarization that is induced for closed ion channels. Under voltage-clamp, we determine the capacitive gating of ion channels in the attached membrane by falling voltage ramps and for comparison also the gating of all channels by conventional variation of the intracellular voltage. Neuronal excitation is elicited under current-clamp by two mechanisms: Rising voltage ramps depolarize the free membrane such that an action potential is triggered. Falling voltage ramps depolarize the attached membrane such that local ion currents are activated that depolarize the free membrane and trigger an action potential. The electrophysiological analysis of extracellular stimulation in the simple model system is a basis for its systematic optimization in neuronal networks and brain tissue. PMID:17098803

Reliability Design for Neutron Induced Single-Event Burnout of IGBT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shoji, Tomoyuki; Nishida, Shuichi; Ohnishi, Toyokazu; Fujikawa, Touma; Nose, Noboru; Hamada, Kimimori; Ishiko, Masayasu

Single-event burnout (SEB) caused by cosmic ray neutrons leads to catastrophic failures in insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs). It was found experimentally that the incident neutron induced SEB failure rate increases as a function of the applied collector voltage. Moreover, the failure rate increased sharply with an increase in the applied collector voltage when the voltage exceeded a certain threshold value (SEB cutoff voltage). In this paper, transient device simulation results indicate that impact ionization at the n-drift/n+ buffer boundary is a crucially important factor in the turning-on of the parasitic pnp transistor, and eventually latch-up of the parasitic thyristor causes SEB. In addition, the device parameter dependency of the SEB cutoff voltage was analytically derived from the latch-up condition of the parasitic thyristor. As a result, it was confirmed that reducing the current gain of the parasitic transistor, such as by increasing the n-drift region thickness d was effective in increasing the SEB cutoff voltage. Furthermore, `white' neutron-irradiation experiments demonstrated that suppressing the inherent parasitic thyristor action leads to an improvement of the SEB cutoff voltage. It was confirmed that current gain optimization of the parasitic transistor is a crucial factor for establishing highly reliable design against chance failures.

Design of a high voltage input - output ratio dc-dc converter dedicated to small power fuel cell systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Béthoux, O.; Cathelin, J.

2010-12-01

Consuming chemical energy, fuel cells produce simultaneously heat, water and useful electrical power [J.M. Andújar, F. Segura, Renew. Sust. Energy Rev. 13, 2309 (2009)], [J. Larminie, A. Dicks, Fuel Cell Systems Explained, 2nd edn. (John Wiley & Sons, 2003)]. As a matter of fact, the voltage generated by a fuel cell strongly depends on both the load power demand and the operating conditions. Besides, as a result of many design aspects, fuel cells are low voltage and high current electric generators. On the contrary, electric loads are commonly designed for small voltage swing and a high V/I ratio in order to minimize Joule losses. Therefore, electric loads supplied by fuel cells are typically fed by means of an intermediate power voltage regulator. The specifications of such a power converter are to be able to step up the input voltage with a high ratio (a ratio of 10 is a classic situation) and also to work with an excellent efficiency (in order to minimize its size, its weight and its losses) [A. Shahin, B. Huang, J.P. Martin, S. Pierfederici, B. Davat, Energy Conv. Manag. 51, 56 (2010)]. This paper deals with the design of this essential ancillary device. It intends to bring out the best structure for fulfilling this function. Several dc-dc converters with large voltage step-up ratios are introduced. A topology based on a coupled inductor or tapped inductor is closely studied. A detailed modelling is performed with the purpose of providing designing rules. This model is validated with both simulation and implementation. The experimental prototype is based on the following specifications: the fuel cell output voltage ranges from a 50 V open-voltage to a 25 V rated voltage while the load requires a constant 250 V voltage. The studied coupled inductor converter is compared with a classic boost converter commonly used in this voltage elevating application. Even though the voltage regulator faces severe FC specifications, the measured efficiency reaches 96% at the rated power whereas conventional boost efficiency barely achieves 91.5% in the same operating conditions.

Fabrication and Characterization of Plasma Electrolytic Borocarburized Layers on Q235 Low-Carbon Steel at Different Discharge Voltages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Bin; Wu, Jie; Jin, Xiaoyue; Wu, Xiaoling; Wu, Zhenglong; Xue, Wenbin

The influence of applied voltage on the plasma electrolytic borocarburizing (PEB/C) layer of Q235 low-carbon steel in high-concentration borax solution was investigated. XRD and XPS spectra of PEB/C layer confirmed that the modified boride layer mainly consisted of Fe2B phase, and the FeB phase only exists in the loose top layer. The applied voltage on Q235 steel played a key role in determining the properties of hardened layers. The thickness and microhardness of boride layers increased with the increase of the applied voltage, which led to superior corrosion and wear resistances of Q235 low-carbon steel. The diffusion coefficient (D) of boride layer at 280, 300 and 330V increased with borocarburizing temperature and ranged from 0.062×10-12m2/s to 0.462×10-12m2/s. The activation energy (Q) of boride layer growth during PEB/C treatment was only 52.83kJṡmol-1, which was much lower than that of the conventional boriding process.

Dynamic characteristics of corona discharge generated under rainfall condition on AC charged conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Pengfei; Zhang, Bo; Wang, Zezhong; Chen, Shuiming; He, Jinliang

2017-12-01

By synchronous measurement of corona current and the water droplet deformation process on a conductor surface, different types of corona discharge are visualized when AC voltage is applied on a line-ground electrode system. The corona characteristics are closely related to the applied voltage and water supply rate. With the increase of AC voltage, the positive Taylor cone discharge firstly appears and then disappears, replaced by the dripping and crashing discharge. Furthermore, the number of pulses in each pulse train increases with the increase of applied voltage. The mechanism of the transfer from the positive Taylor cone discharge to the dripping and crashing discharge is found to be related to the oscillation process of the water droplet. The water supply rate also has a great influence on the characteristics of corona currents. The number of positive pulse trains increases linearly when the water supply rate gets larger, leading to a higher audible noise and radio interference level from the AC corona, which is quite different from that of the DC corona. The difference between the AC and DC coronas under rainfall conditions is analyzed finally.

Asymptotic analysis of corona discharge from thin electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Durbin, P. A.

1986-01-01

The steady discharge of a high-voltage corona is analyzed as a singular perturbation problem. The small parameter is the ratio of the length of the ionization region to the total gap length. By this method, current versus voltage characteristics can be calculated analytically.

Impedances of electrochemically impregnated nickel electrodes as functions of potential, KOH concentration, and impregnation method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, Margaret A.

1989-01-01

Impedances of fifteen electrodes form each of the four U.S. manufactures were measured at 0.200 V vs. the Hg/HgO reference electrode. This corresponds to a voltage of 1.145 for a Ni/H2 cell. Measurements were also made of a representative sample of these at 0.44 V. At the higher voltage, the impedances were small and very similar, but at the lower voltage there were major differences between manufacturers. Electrodes from the same manufacturers showed only small differences. The impedances of electrodes from two manufacturers were considerably different in 26 percent KOH from those in 31 percent KOH. These preliminary results seen to correlate with the limited data from earlier life testing of cells from these manufacturers. The impedances of cells being tested for Space Station Freedom are being followed, and more impendance measurements of electrodes are being performed as functions of manufacturer, voltage, electrolyte concentration, and cycle history in hopes of finding better correlations of impedance with life.

Highly Uniform Carbon Nanotube Field-Effect Transistors and Medium Scale Integrated Circuits.

PubMed

Chen, Bingyan; Zhang, Panpan; Ding, Li; Han, Jie; Qiu, Song; Li, Qingwen; Zhang, Zhiyong; Peng, Lian-Mao

2016-08-10

Top-gated p-type field-effect transistors (FETs) have been fabricated in batch based on carbon nanotube (CNT) network thin films prepared from CNT solution and present high yield and highly uniform performance with small threshold voltage distribution with standard deviation of 34 mV. According to the property of FETs, various logical and arithmetical gates, shifters, and d-latch circuits were designed and demonstrated with rail-to-rail output. In particular, a 4-bit adder consisting of 140 p-type CNT FETs was demonstrated with higher packing density and lower supply voltage than other published integrated circuits based on CNT films, which indicates that CNT based integrated circuits can reach to medium scale. In addition, a 2-bit multiplier has been realized for the first time. Benefitted from the high uniformity and suitable threshold voltage of CNT FETs, all of the fabricated circuits based on CNT FETs can be driven by a single voltage as small as 2 V.

Voltage-Load Sensitivity Matrix Based Demand Response for Voltage Control in High Solar Penetration Distribution Feeders

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Xiangqi; Wang, Jiyu; Mulcahy, David

This paper presents a voltage-load sensitivity matrix (VLSM) based voltage control method to deploy demand response resources for controlling voltage in high solar penetration distribution feeders. The IEEE 123-bus system in OpenDSS is used for testing the performance of the preliminary VLSM-based voltage control approach. A load disaggregation process is applied to disaggregate the total load profile at the feeder head to each load nodes along the feeder so that loads are modeled at residential house level. Measured solar generation profiles are used in the simulation to model the impact of solar power on distribution feeder voltage profiles. Different casemore » studies involving various PV penetration levels and installation locations have been performed. Simulation results show that the VLSM algorithm performance meets the voltage control requirements and is an effective voltage control strategy.« less

Electrowetting in a water droplet with a movable floating substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahzad, Amir; Masud, A. R.; Song, Jang-Kun

2016-05-01

Electrowetting (EW) enables facile manipulation of a liquid droplet on a hydrophobic surface. In this study, manipulation of an electrolyte droplet having a small floating object on it was investigated on a solid hydrophobic substrate under the EW process. Herein, the floating object exhibited a vertical motion under an applied electric field owing to the spreading and contraction of the droplet on its connecting substrates. The field-induced height variation of the floating object was significantly influenced by the thicknesses of the dielectric and hydrophobic materials. A small mass was also placed on the top floating object and its effect on the spreading of the droplet was observed. In this system, the height of the top floating object is precisely controllable under the application of an electric voltage. The proposed system is expected to be highly useful in the design of nano- and micro-oscillatory systems for microengineering.

Electrowetting in a water droplet with a movable floating substrate.

PubMed

Shahzad, Amir; Masud, A R; Song, Jang-Kun

2016-05-01

Electrowetting (EW) enables facile manipulation of a liquid droplet on a hydrophobic surface. In this study, manipulation of an electrolyte droplet having a small floating object on it was investigated on a solid hydrophobic substrate under the EW process. Herein, the floating object exhibited a vertical motion under an applied electric field owing to the spreading and contraction of the droplet on its connecting substrates. The field-induced height variation of the floating object was significantly influenced by the thicknesses of the dielectric and hydrophobic materials. A small mass was also placed on the top floating object and its effect on the spreading of the droplet was observed. In this system, the height of the top floating object is precisely controllable under the application of an electric voltage. The proposed system is expected to be highly useful in the design of nano- and micro-oscillatory systems for microengineering.

Two-axis direct fluid shear stress sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bajikar, Sateesh (Inventor); Scott, Michael A. (Inventor); Adcock, Edward E. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A micro sized multi-axis semiconductor skin friction/wall shear stress induced by fluid flow. The sensor design includes a shear/strain transduction gimble connected to a force collecting plate located at the flow boundary surface. The shear force collecting plate is interconnected by an arm to offset the tortional hinges from the fluid flow. The arm is connected to the shear force collecting plate through dual axis torsional hinges with piezoresistive torsional strain gauges. These gauges are disposed on the tortional hinges and provide a voltage output indicative of applied shear stress acting on the force collection plate proximate the flow boundary surface. Offsetting the torsional hinges creates a force concentration and resolution structure that enables the generation of a large stress on the strain gauge from small shear stress, or small displacement of the collecting plate. The design also isolates the torsional sensors from exposure to the fluid flow.

Power-MOSFET Voltage Regulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, W. N.; Gray, O. E.

1982-01-01

Ninety-six parallel MOSFET devices with two-stage feedback circuit form a high-current dc voltage regulator that also acts as fully-on solid-state switch when fuel-cell out-put falls below regulated voltage. Ripple voltage is less than 20 mV, transient recovery time is less than 50 ms. Parallel MOSFET's act as high-current dc regulator and switch. Regulator can be used wherever large direct currents must be controlled. Can be applied to inverters, industrial furnaces photovoltaic solar generators, dc motors, and electric autos.

Adaptive control system for pulsed megawatt klystrons

DOEpatents

Bolie, Victor W.

1992-01-01

The invention provides an arrangement for reducing waveform errors such as errors in phase or amplitude in output pulses produced by pulsed power output devices such as klystrons by generating an error voltage representing the extent of error still present in the trailing edge of the previous output pulse, using the error voltage to provide a stored control voltage, and applying the stored control voltage to the pulsed power output device to limit the extent of error in the leading edge of the next output pulse.

Constant-current regulator improves tunnel diode threshold-detector performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cancro, C. A.

1965-01-01

Grounded-base transistor is placed in a tunnel diode threshold detector circuit, and a bias voltage is applied to the tunnel diode. This provides the threshold detector with maximum voltage output and overload protection.

High voltage power transistor development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hower, P. L.

1981-01-01

Design considerations, fabrication procedures, and methods of evaluation for high-voltage power-transistor development are discussed. Technique improvements such as controlling the electric field at the surface and perserving lifetimes in the collector region which have advanced the state of the art in high-voltage transistors are discussed. These improvements can be applied directly to the development of 1200 volt, 200 ampere transistors.

Strain-optic voltage monitor wherein strain causes a change in the optical absorption of a crystalline material

DOEpatents

Weiss, Jonathan D.

1997-01-01

A voltage monitor which uses the shift in absorption edge of crystalline material to measure strain resulting from electric field-induced deformation of piezoelectric or electrostrictive material, providing a simple and accurate means for measuring voltage applied either by direct contact with the crystalline material or by subjecting the material to an electric field.

Pulsed source ion implantation apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Leung, K.N.

1996-09-24

A new pulsed plasma-immersion ion-implantation apparatus that implants ions in large irregularly shaped objects to controllable depth without overheating the target, minimizing voltage breakdown, and using a constant electrical bias applied to the target. Instead of pulsing the voltage applied to the target, the plasma source, for example a tungsten filament or a RF antenna, is pulsed. Both electrically conducting and insulating targets can be implanted. 16 figs.

Utilizing Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Micro-Shutter Designs for Adaptive Coded Aperture Imaging (ACAI) Technologies

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-01

52 Figure 4-1: Applied voltage versus deflection curve for Poly1/Poly2 stacked 300-μm single hot-arm actuator (shown on right...58 Figure 4-2: Applied voltage versus deflection curve for Poly1/Poly2 stacked 300-μm double hot-arm actuator (shown on...61 Figure 4-5: Deflection vs. power curves for an individual wedge from

Capacitance-voltage measurement in memory devices using ferroelectric polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Chien A.; Lee, Pooi See

2006-01-01

Application of thin polymer film as storing mean for non-volatile memory devices is investigated. Capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurement of metal-ferroelectric-metal device using ferroelectric copolymer P(VDF-TrFE) as dielectric layer shows stable 'butter-fly' curve. The two peaks in C-V measurement corresponding to the largest capacitance are coincidental at the coercive voltages that give rise to zero polarization in the polarization hysteresis measurement. By comparing data of C-V and P-E measurement, a correlation between two types of hysteresis is established in which it reveals simultaneous electrical processes occurring inside the device. These processes are caused by the response of irreversible and reversible polarization to the applied electric field that can be used to present a memory window. The memory effect of ferroelectric copolymer is further demonstrated for fabricating polymeric non-volatile memory devices using metal-ferroelectric-insulator-semiconductor structure (MFIS). By applying different sweeping voltages at the gate, bidirectional flat-band voltage shift is observed in the ferroelectric capacitor. The asymmetrical shift after negative sweeping is resulted from charge accumulation at the surface of Si substrate caused by the dipole direction in the polymer layer. The effect is reversed for positive voltage sweeping.

Thermal Assisted In Vivo Gene Electrotransfer

PubMed Central

Donate, Amy; Bulysheva, Anna; Edelblute, Chelsea; Jung, Derrick; Malik, Mohammad A.; Guo, Siqi; Burcus, Niculina; Schoenbach, Karl; Heller, Richard

2016-01-01

Gene electrotransfer is an effective approach for delivering plasmid DNA to a variety of tissues. Delivery of molecules with electric pulses requires control of the electrical parameters to achieve effective delivery. Since discomfort or tissue damage may occur with high applied voltage, the reduction of the applied voltage while achieving the desired expression may be an important improvement. One possible approach is to combine electrotransfer with exogenously applied heat. Previous work performed in vitro demonstrated that increasing temperature before pulsing can enhance gene expres sion and made it possible to reduce electric fields while maintaining expression levels. In the study reported here, this combination was evaluated in vivo using a novel electrode device designed with an inserted laser for application of heat. The results obtained in this study demonstrated that increased temperature during electrotransfer increased expression or maintained expression with a reduction in applied voltage. With further optimization this approach may provide the basis for both a novel method and a novel instrument that may greatly enhance translation of gene electrotransfer. PMID:27029944

Unsteady electroosmosis in a microchannel with Poisson-Boltzmann charge distribution.

PubMed

Chang, Chien C; Kuo, Chih-Yu; Wang, Chang-Yi

2011-11-01

The present study is concerned with unsteady electroosmotic flow (EOF) in a microchannel with the electric charge distribution described by the Poisson-Boltzmann (PB) equation. The nonlinear PB equation is solved by a systematic perturbation with respect to the parameter λ which measures the strength of the wall zeta potential relative to the thermal potential. In the small λ limits (λ<1), we recover the linearized PB equation - the Debye-Hückel approximation. The solutions obtained by using only three terms in the perturbation series are shown to be accurate with errors <1% for λ up to 2. The accurate solution to the PB equation is then used to solve the electrokinetic fluid transport equation for two types of unsteady flow: transient flow driven by a suddenly applied voltage and oscillatory flow driven by a time-harmonic voltage. The solution for the transient flow has important implications on EOF as an effective means for transporting electrolytes in microchannels with various electrokinetic widths. On the other hand, the solution for the oscillatory flow is shown to have important physical implications on EOF in mixing electrolytes in terms of the amplitude and phase of the resulting time-harmonic EOF rate, which depends on the applied frequency and the electrokinetic width of the microchannel as well as on the parameter λ. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Concomitant sensing and actuation for piezoelectric microrobots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayaram, Kaushik; Jafferis, Noah T.; Doshi, Neel; Goldberg, Ben; Wood, Robert J.

2018-06-01

Sensor fabrication for microrobots is challenging due to their small size and low mass. As a potential solution, we present a technique for estimating the velocity of piezoelectric bending bimorph actuators, a popular choice for driving such microscale devices, that requires simple electronics and no additional mechanical components. Our approach relies on the insight that motion of the actuators causes varying strains on the surface on the piezoelectric material, which via the direct piezoelectric effect, results in a current proportional to the actuator velocity. We propose that the actuator be electrically approximated as a parallel combination of a frequency and voltage dependent resistor and capacitor, and a velocity proportional current source. We develop an experimental procedure to measure these quantities, and are able to experimentally determine the actuator tip velocity to within 10% accuracy over a range of voltages (25–200 V) and frequencies (1–2000 Hz, well beyond actuator resonance). We successfully apply this sensing methodology to two microrobots, the RoboBee and the Harvard Ambulatory MicroRobot (HAMR), to estimate the wing and limb motion respectively. We further use sensor feedback to close the loop on HAMR’s leg phase and obtain desired leg trajectories near transmission resonance. The proposed sensor methodology is generic and can be applied to piezoelectric actuators of different geometries and configurations for uses in microrobotic applications.

Numerical characterization of plasma breakdown in reversed field pinches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yanli; Zhang, Ya; Mao, Wenzhe; Yang, Zhoujun; Hu, Xiwei; Jiang, Wei

2018-02-01

In the reversed field pinch, there is considerable interest in investigating the plasma breakdown. Indeed, the plasma formed during the breakdown may have an influence on the confinement and maintenance in the latter process. However, up to now there has been no related work, experimentally or in simulation, regarding plasma breakdown in reversed field pinch (RFP). In order to figure out the physical mechanism behind plasma breakdown, the effects of the toroidal and error magnetic field, as well as the loop voltage have been studied. We find that the error magnetic field cannot be neglected even though it is quite small in the short plasma breakdown phase. As the toroidal magnetic field increases, the averaged electron energy is reduced after plasma breakdown is complete, which is disadvantageous for the latter process. In addition, unlike the voltage limits in the tokamak, loop voltages can be quite high because there are no requirements for superconductivity. Volt-second consumption has a small difference under different loop voltages. The breakdown delay still exists in various loop voltage cases, but it is much shorter compared to that in the tokamak case. In all, successful breakdowns are possible in the RFP under a fairly broad range of parameters.

The simulation on diode-clamped five-level converters common-mode voltage suppression with zero-vector PWM strategy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yonggao; Gao, Yanli; Long, Lizhong

2012-04-01

More and more researchers have great concern on the issue of Common-mode voltage (CMV) in high voltage large power converter. A novel common-mode voltage suppression scheme based on zero-vector PWM strategy (ZVPWM) is present in this paper. Taking a diode-clamped five-level converter as example, the principle of zero vector PWM common-mode voltage (ZCMVPWM) suppression method is studied in detail. ZCMVPWM suppression strategy is including four important parts, which are locating the sector of reference voltage vector, locating the small triangular sub-sector of reference voltage vector, reference vector synthesis, and calculating the operating time of vector. The principles of four important pars are illustrated in detail and the corresponding MATLAB models are established. System simulation and experimental results are provided. It gives some consultation value for the development and research of multi-level converters.

An electrostatic potassium channel opener targeting the final voltage sensor transition

PubMed Central

Börjesson, Sara I.

2011-01-01

Free polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) modulate the voltage dependence of voltage-gated ion channels. As an important consequence thereof, PUFAs can suppress epileptic seizures and cardiac arrhythmia. However, molecular details for the interaction between PUFA and ion channels are not well understood. In this study, we have localized the site of action for PUFAs on the voltage-gated Shaker K channel by introducing positive charges on the channel surface, which potentiated the PUFA effect. Furthermore, we found that PUFA mainly affects the final voltage sensor movement, which is closely linked to channel opening, and that specific charges at the extracellular end of the voltage sensor are critical for the PUFA effect. Because different voltage-gated K channels have different charge profiles, this implies channel-specific PUFA effects. The identified site and the pharmacological mechanism will potentially be very useful in future drug design of small-molecule compounds specifically targeting neuronal and cardiac excitability. PMID:21624947

Separations of corticosteroids using electrochemically modulated liquid chromatography: Selectivity enhancements at a porous graphitic carbon stationary phase

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ting, E.Y.; Porter, M.D.

Electrochemically modulated liquid chromatography has been applied to the separation of a mixture of structurally similar corticosteroids (i.e., prednisone, prednisolone, cortisone, and hydrocortisone) using a porous graphitic carbon stationary phase. Changes in the voltage applied to the column markedly affected the efficiency as well as the elution order of the separation, with the mixture fully resolved at large negative values of applied potential. Mechanistic aspects in terms of the influence of changes in the applied voltage on the extent of the interactions between these analytes and the stationary phase are briefly discussed. 19 refs., 2 figs.

Vertical architecture for enhancement mode power transistors based on GaN nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, F.; Rümmler, D.; Hartmann, J.; Caccamo, L.; Schimpke, T.; Strassburg, M.; Gad, A. E.; Bakin, A.; Wehmann, H.-H.; Witzigmann, B.; Wasisto, H. S.; Waag, A.

2016-05-01

The demonstration of vertical GaN wrap-around gated field-effect transistors using GaN nanowires is reported. The nanowires with smooth a-plane sidewalls have hexagonal geometry made by top-down etching. A 7-nanowire transistor exhibits enhancement mode operation with threshold voltage of 1.2 V, on/off current ratio as high as 108, and subthreshold slope as small as 68 mV/dec. Although there is space charge limited current behavior at small source-drain voltages (Vds), the drain current (Id) and transconductance (gm) reach up to 314 mA/mm and 125 mS/mm, respectively, when normalized with hexagonal nanowire circumference. The measured breakdown voltage is around 140 V. This vertical approach provides a way to next-generation GaN-based power devices.

Effect of the intra-layer potential distributions and spatial currents on the performance of graphene SymFETs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hasan, Mehdi; Sensale-Rodriguez, Berardi, E-mail: berardi.sensale@utah.edu

2015-09-15

In this paper, a two-dimensional (2-D) model for a graphene symmetric field effect transistor (SymFET), which considers (a) the intra-graphene layer potential distributions and (b) the internal current flows through the device, is presented and discussed. The local voltages along the graphene electrodes as well as the current-voltage characteristics of the device are numerically calculated based on a single-particle tunneling model. Our numerical results show that: (i) when the tunneling current is small, due to either a large tunneling thickness (≥ 2 atomic layers of BN) or a small coherence length, the voltage distributions along the graphene electrodes have almostmore » zero variations upon including these distributed effects, (ii) when the tunnel current is large, due to either a small tunneling thickness (∼ 1 atomic layer of BN) or due to a large coherence length, the local voltage distributions along the graphene electrodes become appreciable and the device behavior deviates from that predicted by a 1-D approximation. These effects, which are not captured in one-dimensional SymFET models, can provide a better understanding about the electron dynamics in the device and might indicate potential novel applications for this proposed device.« less

A comprehensive study to evaluate the effect of constant low voltage iontophoresis on transungual delivery.

PubMed

Nair, Anroop B; Singh, Kishan; Shinu, Pottathil; Harsha, Sree; Al-Dhubiab, Bandar E

2013-05-01

Treatment of nail diseases by topical drug delivery continues to draw much attention in the recent days. This study aims to systematically investigate the effect of constant voltage iontophoresis in the transungual drug delivery, using ciclopirox as a model drug. Preliminary permeation studies were carried out by applying constant voltage (6 V for 24 h) using a gel formulation across the human nail plate in a Franz diffusion cell. Different protocols have been studied to authenticate the potential of the proposed technique. Antifungal studies were carried out to assess the pharmacodynamic effect of drug depot formed in the nail plate. Initial studies revealed that application of constant voltage iontophoresis enhanced the permeation by an order of magnitude (p = 0.019) and delivered significant amount of drug into the deeper nail layers. Noticeably higher permeation was observed during the active phase in on-off studies. Excellent correlation was observed in permeation (r(2) = 0.98) and drug load (r(2) = 0.97) with the increase in applied voltage (3-12 V), indicating that the current technique is predictable. The data observed suggest that any further increase in voltage could eventually lead to increase in the permeation and drug load, as the saturation level is very distant. Furthermore, the enhancement in permeation with the applied voltage (3-12 V) was found to be 6-20 folds, compared to the passive process. Results of step up and step down studies substantiated the viability of the current technique. Zone of inhibition measured during the antifungal studies demonstrated that the drug molecules loaded into the nail plate by low voltage iontophoresis is active and releases over an extended period of time (~32 days). Given the excellent results, the current technique could be used as an effective approach for the delivery of antimycotics, which would localize the drug at the infection site and potentially offer higher patient compliance.

Visualization of Cortical Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grinvald, Amiram

2003-03-01

Recent progress in studies of cortical dynamics will be reviewed including the combination of real time optical imaging based on voltage sensitive dyes, single and multi- unit recordings, LFP, intracellular recordings and microstimulation. To image the flow of neuronal activity from one cortical site to the next, in real time, we have used optical imaging based on newly designed voltage sensitive dyes and a Fuji 128x 128 fast camera which we modified. A factor of 20-40 fold improvement in the signal to noise ratio was obtained with the new dye during in vivo imaging experiments. This improvements has facilitates the exploration of cortical dynamics without signal averaging in the millisecond time domain. We confirmed that the voltage sensitive dye signal indeed reflects membrane potential changes in populations of neurons by showing that the time course of the intracellular activity recorded intracellularly from a single neuron was highly correlated in many cases with the optical signal from a small patch of cortex recorded nearby. We showed that the firing of single cortical neurons is not a random process but occurs when the on-going pattern of million of neurons is similar to the functional architecture map which correspond to the tuning properties of that neuron. Chronic optical imaging, combined with electrical recordings and microstimulation, over a long period of times of more than a year, was successfully applied also to the study of higher brain functions in the behaving macaque monkey.

Co-percolation to tune conductive behaviour in dynamical metallic nanowire networks.

PubMed

Fairfield, J A; Rocha, C G; O'Callaghan, C; Ferreira, M S; Boland, J J

2016-11-03

Nanowire networks act as self-healing smart materials, whose sheet resistance can be tuned via an externally applied voltage stimulus. This memristive response occurs due to modification of junction resistances to form a connectivity path across the lowest barrier junctions in the network. While most network studies have been performed on expensive noble metal nanowires like silver, networks of inexpensive nickel nanowires with a nickel oxide coating can also demonstrate resistive switching, a common feature of metal oxides with filamentary conduction. However, networks made from solely nickel nanowires have high operation voltages which prohibit large-scale material applications. Here we show, using both experiment and simulation, that a heterogeneous network of nickel and silver nanowires allows optimization of the activation voltage, as well as tuning of the conduction behavior to be either resistive switching, memristive, or a combination of both. Small percentages of silver nanowires, below the percolation threshold, induce these changes in electrical behaviour, even for low area coverage and hence very transparent films. Silver nanowires act as current concentrators, amplifying conductivity locally as shown in our computational dynamical activation framework for networks of junctions. These results demonstrate that a heterogeneous nanowire network can act as a cost-effective adaptive material with minimal use of noble metal nanowires, without losing memristive behaviour that is essential for smart sensing and neuromorphic applications.

Improved Signal Chains for Readout of CMOS Imagers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pain, Bedabrata; Hancock, Bruce; Cunningham, Thomas

2009-01-01

An improved generic design has been devised for implementing signal chains involved in readout from complementary metal oxide/semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors and for other readout integrated circuits (ICs) that perform equivalent functions. The design applies to any such IC in which output signal charges from the pixels in a given row are transferred simultaneously into sampling capacitors at the bottoms of the columns, then voltages representing individual pixel charges are read out in sequence by sequentially turning on column-selecting field-effect transistors (FETs) in synchronism with source-follower- or operational-amplifier-based amplifier circuits. The improved design affords the best features of prior source-follower-and operational- amplifier-based designs while overcoming the major limitations of those designs. The limitations can be summarized as follows: a) For a source-follower-based signal chain, the ohmic voltage drop associated with DC bias current flowing through the column-selection FET causes unacceptable voltage offset, nonlinearity, and reduced small-signal gain. b) For an operational-amplifier-based signal chain, the required bias current and the output noise increase superlinearly with size of the pixel array because of a corresponding increase in the effective capacitance of the row bus used to couple the sampled column charges to the operational amplifier. The effect of the bus capacitance is to simultaneously slow down the readout circuit and increase noise through the Miller effect.

Giant magneto-impedance and magneto-inductive effects in amorphous alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panina, L. V.; Mohri, K.; Bushida, K.; Noda, M.

1994-11-01

Recent experiments have discovered giant and sensitive magneto-impedance and magneto-inductive effects in FeCoSiB amorphous wires. These effects include a sensitive change in an ac wire voltage with the application of a small dc longitudinal magnetic field. At low frequencies (1-10 kHz) the inductive voltage drops by 50% for a field of 2 Oe (25%/Oe) reflecting a strong field dependence of the circumferential permeability. At higher frequencies (0.1-10 MHz) when the skin effect is essential, the amplitude of the total wire voltage decreases by 40%-60% for fields of 3-10 Oe (about 10%/Oe). These effects exhibit no hysteresis for the variation of an applied field and can be obtained even in wires of 1 mm length and a few micrometer diameter. These characteristics are very useful to constitute a highly sensitive microsensor head to detect local fields of the order of 10(exp -5) Oe. In this paper, we review recently obtained experimental results on magneto-inductive and magneto-impedance effects and present a detailed discussion for their mechanism, developing a general approach in terms of ac complex impedance in a magnetic conductor. In the case of a strong skin effect the total wire impedance depends on the circumferential permeability through the penetration depth, resulting in the giant magneto-impedance effect.

Ion detection device and method with compressing ion-beam shutter

DOEpatents

Sperline, Roger P [Tucson, AZ

2009-05-26

An ion detection device, method and computer readable medium storing instructions for applying voltages to shutter elements of the detection device to compress ions in a volume defined by the shutter elements and to output the compressed ions to a collector. The ion detection device has a chamber having an inlet and receives ions through the inlet, a shutter provided in the chamber opposite the inlet and configured to allow or prevent the ions to pass the shutter, the shutter having first and second shutter elements, a collector provided in the chamber opposite the shutter and configured to collect ions passed through the shutter, and a processing unit electrically connected to the first and second shutter elements. The processing unit applies, during a first predetermined time interval, a first voltage to the first shutter element and a second voltage to the second shutter element, the second voltage being lower than the first voltage such that ions from the inlet enter a volume defined by the first and second shutter elements, and during a second predetermined time interval, a third voltage to the first shutter element, higher than the first voltage, and a fourth voltage to the second shutter element, the third voltage being higher than the fourth voltage such that ions that entered the volume are compressed as the ions exit the volume and new ions coming from the inlet are prevented from entering the volume. The processing unit is electrically connected to the collector and configured to detect the compressed ions based at least on a current received from the collector and produced by the ions collected by the collector.

Atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3-HfO2-Al2O3 dielectrics for metal-insulator-metal capacitor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Shi-Jin; Zhu, Chunxiang; Li, Ming-Fu; Zhang, David Wei

2005-08-01

Atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3-HfO2-Al2O3 dielectrics have been investigated to replace conventional silicon oxide and nitride for radio frequency and analog metal-insulator-metal capacitors applications. In the case of 1-nm-Al2O3, sufficiently good electrical performances are achieved, including a high dielectric constant of ˜17, a small dissipation factor of 0.018 at 100kHz, an extremely low leakage current of 7.8×10-9A/cm2 at 1MV/cm and 125°C, perfect voltage coefficients of capacitance (74ppm/V2 and 10ppm/V). The quadratic voltage coefficient of capacitance decreases with the applied frequency due to the change of relaxation time with different carrier mobility in insulator, and correlates with the dielectric composition and thickness, which is of intrinsic property owing to electric field polarization. Furthermore, the conduction mechanism of the AHA dielectrics is also discussed, indicating the Schottky emission dominated at room temperature.

A ceramic radial insulation structure for a relativistic electron beam vacuum diode.

PubMed

Xun, Tao; Yang, Hanwu; Zhang, Jiande; Liu, Zhenxiang; Wang, Yong; Zhao, Yansong

2008-06-01

For one kind of a high current diode composed of a small disk-type alumina ceramic insulator water/vacuum interface, the insulation structure was designed and experimentally investigated. According to the theories of vacuum flashover and the rules for radial insulators, a "cone-column" anode outline and the cathode shielding rings were adopted. The electrostatic field along the insulator surface was obtained by finite element analysis simulating. By adjusting the outline of the anode and reshaping the shielding rings, the electric fields were well distributed and the field around the cathode triple junction was effectively controlled. Area weighted statistical method was applied to estimate the surface breakdown field. In addition, the operating process of an accelerator based on a spiral pulse forming line (PFL) was simulated through the PSPICE software to get the waveform of charging and diode voltage. The high voltage test was carried out on a water dielectric spiral PFL accelerator with long pulse duration, and results show that the diode can work stably in 420 kV, 200 ns conditions. The experimental results agree with the theoretical and simulated results.

Deionization shocks in microstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mani, Ali; Bazant, Martin Z.

2011-12-01

Salt transport in bulk electrolytes is limited by diffusion and advection, but in microstructures with charged surfaces (e.g., microfluidic devices, porous media, soils, or biological tissues) surface conduction and electro-osmotic flow also contribute to ionic fluxes. For small applied voltages, these effects lead to well known linear electrokinetic phenomena. In this paper, we predict some surprising nonlinear dynamics that can result from the competition between bulk and interfacial transport at higher voltages. When counterions are selectively removed by a membrane or electrode, a “deionization shock” can propagate through the microstructure, leaving in its wake an ultrapure solution, nearly devoid of coions and colloidal impurities. We elucidate the basic physics of deionization shocks and develop a mathematical theory of their existence, structure, and stability, allowing for slow variations in surface charge or channel geometry. Via asymptotic approximations and similarity solutions, we show that deionization shocks accelerate and sharpen in narrowing channels, while they decelerate and weaken, and sometimes disappear, in widening channels. These phenomena may find applications in separations (deionization, decontamination, biological assays) and energy storage (batteries, supercapacitors) involving electrolytes in microstructures.

New Insights into the Operating Voltage of Aqueous Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Yu, Minghao; Lu, Yongzhuang; Zheng, Haibing; Lu, Xihong

2018-03-12

The main limitation of aqueous supercapacitors (SCs) lies in their narrow operating voltages, especially when compared with organic SCs. Fundamental understanding of factors relevant to the operating voltage helps providing guidance for the assembly of high-voltage aqueous SCs. In this regard, this concept analyzes the deciding factors for the operating voltage of aqueous SCs. Strategies applied to expand the operating voltage are summarized and discussed from the aspects of electrolyte, electrode, and asymmetric structure. Dynamic factors associated with water electrolysis and maximally using the available potential ranges of electrodes are particularly emphasized. Finally, other promising approaches that have not been explored and their challenges are also elaborated, hoping to provide more insights for the design of high-voltage aqueous SCs. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mechanosensitive Channel MscS in the Open State: Modeling of the Transition, Explicit Simulations, and Experimental Measurements of Conductance

PubMed Central

Anishkin, Andriy; Kamaraju, Kishore; Sukharev, Sergei

2008-01-01

Mechanosensitive channels of small conductance (MscS) are ubiquitous turgor pressure regulators found in many walled cells and some intracellular organelles. Escherichia coli MscS acting as a tension-activated osmolyte release valve shows a nonsaturable conductance (1.2 nS in a 39 mS/cm electrolyte) and weak preference for anions. Pursuing the transition pathways in this channel, we applied the extrapolated motion protocol (cycles of displacements, minimizations, and short simulations) to the previously generated compact resting conformation of MscS. We observed tilting and straightening of the kinked pore-forming TM3 helices during the barrel expansion. Extended all-atom simulations confirmed the stability of the open conformation in the bilayer. A 53° spontaneous axial rotation of TM3s observed after equilibration increased the width and polarity of the pore allowing for stable voltage-independent hydration and presence of both cations and anions throughout the pore. The resultant open state, characterized by a pore 1.6 nm wide, satisfied the experimental conductance and in-plane expansion. Applied transmembrane electric field (±100 to ±200 mV) in simulations produced a flow of both K+ and Cl−, with Cl− current dominating at higher voltages. Electroosmotic water flux strongly correlated with the chloride current (∼8 waters per Cl−). The selectivity and rectification were in agreement with the experimental measurements performed in the same range of voltages. Among the charged residues surrounding the pore, only K169 was found to contribute noticeably in the rectification. We conclude that (a) the barrel expansion involving tilting, straightening, and rotation of TM3s provides the geometry and electrostatics that accounts for the conductive properties of the open pore; (b) the observed regimen of ion passage through the pore is similar to electrodiffusion, thus macroscopic estimations closely approximate the experimental and molecular dynamics-simulated conductances; (c) increased interaction of the opposing ionic fluxes at higher voltages may result in selectivities stronger than measured near the reversal potential. PMID:18591417

SU-E-T-414: Experimental Correction of High-Z Electrode Effect in Mini-Ionization Chambers for Small Beam Dosimetry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Larraga-Gutierrez, J

Purpose: To correct for the over-response of mini-ionization chambers with high-Z central electrodes. The hypothesis is that by applying a negative/reverse voltage, it is possible to suppress the signal generated in the high-Z central electrode by low-energy photons. Methods: The mini-ionization chambers used in the experiments were a PTW-31014, PTW-31006 and IBA-CC01. The PTW-31014 has an aluminum central electrode while the PTW-31006 and IBA-CC01 have a steel one. Total scatter factors (Scp) were measured for a 6 MV photon beam down to a square field size of 0.5 cm. The measurements were performed in water at 10 cm depth withmore » SAD of 100 cm. The Scp were measured with the dosimeters with +400V bias voltage. In the case of the PTW-31006 and IBA-CC01, the measurements were repeated with −400V bias voltage. Also, the field factors in water were calculated with Monte Carlo simulations for comparison. Results: The measured Scp at +400V with the PTW-31006 and IBA-CC01 detectors were in agreement within 0.2% down to a field size of 1.5 cm. Both dosimeters shown a systematic difference about 2.5% with the Scp measured with the PTW-31014 and the Monte Carlo calculated field factors. The measured Scp at −400V with the PTW-31006 and IBA-CC01 detectors were in close agreement with the PTW-31014 measured Scp and the field factors within 0.3 and 1.0%, respectively. In the case of the IBA-CC01 it was found a good agreement (1%) down to field size of 1.0 cm. All the dosimeters shown differences up to 17% between the measured Scp and the field factor for the 0.5 cm field size. Conclusion: By applying a negative/reverse voltage to the mini-ionization chambers with high-Z central electrode it was possible to correct for their over-response to low energy photons.« less

Voltage-Controlled Oscillator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

Integrated Component Systems, Inc. incorporated information from a NASA Tech Briefs article into a voltage-controlled oscillator it designed for a customer. The company then applied the technology to its series of phase-locked loop synthesizers, which offer superior phase noise performance.

Zoom system without moving element by using two liquid crystal lenses with spherical electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Ren-Kai; Lin, Chia-Ping; Su, Guo-Dung J.

2017-08-01

A traditional zoom system is composed of several elements moving relatively toward other components to achieve zooming. Unlike tradition system, an electrically control zoom system with liquid crystal (LC) lenses is demonstrated in this paper. To achieve zooming, we apply two LC lenses whose optical power is controlled by voltage to replace two moving lenses in traditional zoom system. The mechanism of zoom system is to use two LC lenses to form a simple zoom system. We found that with such spherical electrodes, we could operate LC lens at voltage range from 31V to 53 V for 3X tunability in optical power. For each LC lens, we use concave spherical electrode which provide lower operating voltage and great tunability in optical power, respectively. For such operating voltage and compact size, this zoom system with zoom ratio approximate 3:1 could be applied to mobile phone, camera and other applications.

Characterization of chaotic electroconvection near flat electrodes under oscillatory voltages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jeonglae; Davidson, Scott; Mani, Ali

2017-11-01

Onset of hydrodynamic instability and chaotic electroconvection in aqueous systems are studied by directly solving the two-dimensional coupled Poisson-Nernst-Planck and Navier-Stokes equations. An aqueous binary electrolyte is bounded by two planar electrodes where time-harmonic voltage is applied at a constant oscillation frequency. The governing equations are solved using a fully-conservative second-order-accurate finite volume discretization and a second-order implicit Euler time advancement. At a sufficiently high amplitude of applied voltage, the system exhibits chaotic behaviors involving strong hydrodynamic mixing and enhanced electroconvection. The system responses are characterized as a function of oscillation frequency, voltage magnitude, and the ratio of diffusivities of two ion species. Our results indicate that electroconvection is most enhanced for frequencies on the order of inverse system RC time scale. We will discuss the dependence of this optimal frequency on the asymmetry of the diffusion coefficients of ionic species. Supported by the Stanford's Precourt Institute.

Fiber-optic voltage sensor with cladded fiber and evanescent wave variation detection

DOEpatents

Wood, Charles B.

1992-01-01

A fiber optic voltage sensor is described which includes a source of light, a reference fiber for receiving a known percentage of the light and an electrostrictive element having terminals across which is applied, a voltage to be measured. The electrostrictive element is responsive to the applied voltage to assume an altered physical state. A measuring fiber also receives a known percentage of light from the light source and is secured about the electrostrictive element. The measuring fiber is provided with a cladding and exhibits an evanescent wave in the cladding. The measuring fiber has a known length which is altered when the electrostrictive element assumes its altered physical state. A differential sensor is provided which senses the intensity of light in both the reference fiber and the measuring fiber and provides an output indicative of the difference between the intensities.

Varactor with integrated micro-discharge source

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Elizondo-Decanini, Juan M.; Manginell, Ronald P.; Moorman, Matthew W.

2016-10-18

An apparatus that includes a varactor element and an integrated micro-discharge source is disclosed herein. In a general embodiment, the apparatus includes at least one np junction and at least one voltage source that is configured to apply voltage across the np junction. The apparatus further includes an aperture that extends through the np junction. When the voltage is applied across the np junction, gas in the aperture is ionized, forming a plasma, in turn causing a micro-discharge (of light, charge particles, and space charge) to occur. The light (charge particles, and space charge) impinges upon the surface of themore » np junction exposed in the aperture, thereby altering capacitance of the np junction. When used within an oscillator circuit, the effect of the plasma on the np-junction extends the capacitance changes of the np-junction and extends the oscillator frequency range in ways not possible by a conventional voltage controlled oscillator (VCO).« less

Fiber-optic voltage sensor with cladded fiber and evanescent wave variation detection

DOEpatents

Wood, C.B.

1992-12-15

A fiber optic voltage sensor is described which includes a source of light, a reference fiber for receiving a known percentage of the light and an electrostrictive element having terminals across which is applied, a voltage to be measured. The electrostrictive element is responsive to the applied voltage to assume an altered physical state. A measuring fiber also receives a known percentage of light from the light source and is secured about the electrostrictive element. The measuring fiber is provided with a cladding and exhibits an evanescent wave in the cladding. The measuring fiber has a known length which is altered when the electrostrictive element assumes its altered physical state. A differential sensor is provided which senses the intensity of light in both the reference fiber and the measuring fiber and provides an output indicative of the difference between the intensities. 3 figs.

Transmission and reflection of charge-density wave packets in a quantum Hall edge controlled by a metal gate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsuura, Masahiro; Mano, Takaaki; Noda, Takeshi; Shibata, Naokazu; Hotta, Masahiro; Yusa, Go

2018-02-01

Quantum energy teleportation (QET) is a proposed protocol related to quantum vacuum. The edge channels in a quantum Hall system are well suited for the experimental verification of QET. For this purpose, we examine a charge-density wave packet excited and detected by capacitively coupled front gate electrodes. We observe the waveform of the charge packet, which is proportional to the time derivative of the applied square voltage wave. Further, we study the transmission and reflection behaviors of the charge-density wave packet by applying a voltage to another front gate electrode to control the path of the edge state. We show that the threshold voltages where the dominant direction is switched in either transmission or reflection for dense and sparse wave packets are different from the threshold voltage where the current stops flowing in an equilibrium state.

Nanotube Aerogel Sheet Flutter for Actuation, Power Generation, and Infrasound Detection

PubMed Central

Kang, Tae June; Kim, Taewoo; Jang, Eui Yun; Im, Hyeongwook; Lepro-Chavez, Xavier; Ovalle-Robles, Raquel; Oh, Jiyoung; Kozlov, Mikhail E.; Baughman, Ray H.; Lee, Hong H.; Kim, Yong Hyup

2014-01-01

Electromagnetic induction (EMI) is a mechanism of classical physics that can be utilized to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy or electrical to mechanical energy. This mechanism has not been exploited fully because of lack of a material with a sufficiently low force constant. We here show that carbon nanotube (CNT) aerogel sheets can exploit EMI to provide mechanical actuation at very low applied voltages, to harvest mechanical energy from small air pressure fluctuations, and to detect infrasound at inaudible frequencies below 20 Hz. Using conformal deposition of 100 nm thick aluminum coatings on the nanotubes in the sheets, mechanical actuation can be obtained by applying millivolts, as compared with the thousand volts needed to achieve giant-stroke electrostatic actuation of carbon nanotube aerogel sheets. Device simplicity and performance suggest possible applications as an energy harvester of low energy air fluctuations and as a sensor for infrasound frequencies. PMID:25130708

Nanotube aerogel sheet flutter for actuation, power generation, and infrasound detection.

PubMed

Kang, Tae June; Kim, Taewoo; Jang, Eui Yun; Im, Hyeongwook; Lepro-Chavez, Xavier; Ovalle-Robles, Raquel; Oh, Jiyoung; Kozlov, Mikhail E; Baughman, Ray H; Lee, Hong H; Kim, Yong Hyup

2014-08-18

Electromagnetic induction (EMI) is a mechanism of classical physics that can be utilized to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy or electrical to mechanical energy. This mechanism has not been exploited fully because of lack of a material with a sufficiently low force constant. We here show that carbon nanotube (CNT) aerogel sheets can exploit EMI to provide mechanical actuation at very low applied voltages, to harvest mechanical energy from small air pressure fluctuations, and to detect infrasound at inaudible frequencies below 20 Hz. Using conformal deposition of 100 nm thick aluminum coatings on the nanotubes in the sheets, mechanical actuation can be obtained by applying millivolts, as compared with the thousand volts needed to achieve giant-stroke electrostatic actuation of carbon nanotube aerogel sheets. Device simplicity and performance suggest possible applications as an energy harvester of low energy air fluctuations and as a sensor for infrasound frequencies.

High voltage pulse generator

DOEpatents

Fasching, George E.

1977-03-08

An improved high-voltage pulse generator has been provided which is especially useful in ultrasonic testing of rock core samples. An N number of capacitors are charged in parallel to V volts and at the proper instance are coupled in series to produce a high-voltage pulse of N times V volts. Rapid switching of the capacitors from the paralleled charging configuration to the series discharging configuration is accomplished by using silicon-controlled rectifiers which are chain self-triggered following the initial triggering of a first one of the rectifiers connected between the first and second of the plurality of charging capacitors. A timing and triggering circuit is provided to properly synchronize triggering pulses to the first SCR at a time when the charging voltage is not being applied to the parallel-connected charging capacitors. Alternate circuits are provided for controlling the application of the charging voltage from a charging circuit to be applied to the parallel capacitors which provides a selection of at least two different intervals in which the charging voltage is turned "off" to allow the SCR's connecting the capacitors in series to turn "off" before recharging begins. The high-voltage pulse-generating circuit including the N capacitors and corresponding SCR's which connect the capacitors in series when triggered "on" further includes diodes and series-connected inductors between the parallel-connected charging capacitors which allow sufficiently fast charging of the capacitors for a high pulse repetition rate and yet allow considerable control of the decay time of the high-voltage pulses from the pulse-generating circuit.

Combining molecular dynamics and an electrodiffusion model to calculate ion channel conductance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, Michael A.; Nguyen, Thuy Hien; Pohorille, Andrew

2014-12-01

Establishing the relation between the structures and functions of protein ion channels, which are protein assemblies that facilitate transmembrane ion transport through water-filled pores, is at the forefront of biological and medical sciences. A reliable way to determine whether our understanding of this relation is satisfactory is to reproduce the measured ionic conductance over a broad range of applied voltages. This can be done in molecular dynamics simulations by way of applying an external electric field to the system and counting the number of ions that traverse the channel per unit time. Since this approach is computationally very expensive we develop a markedly more efficient alternative in which molecular dynamics is combined with an electrodiffusion equation. This alternative approach applies if steady-state ion transport through channels can be described with sufficient accuracy by the one-dimensional diffusion equation in the potential given by the free energy profile and applied voltage. The theory refers only to line densities of ions in the channel and, therefore, avoids ambiguities related to determining the surface area of the channel near its endpoints or other procedures connecting the line and bulk ion densities. We apply the theory to a simple, model system based on the trichotoxin channel. We test the assumptions of the electrodiffusion equation, and determine the precision and consistency of the calculated conductance. We demonstrate that it is possible to calculate current/voltage dependence and accurately reconstruct the underlying (equilibrium) free energy profile, all from molecular dynamics simulations at a single voltage. The approach developed here applies to other channels that satisfy the conditions of the electrodiffusion equation.

Methods, systems and apparatus for adjusting duty cycle of pulse width modulated (PWM) waveforms

DOEpatents

Gallegos-Lopez, Gabriel; Kinoshita, Michael H; Ransom, Ray M; Perisic, Milun

2013-05-21

Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods, systems and apparatus for controlling operation of a multi-phase machine in a vector controlled motor drive system when the multi-phase machine operates in an overmodulation region. The disclosed embodiments provide a mechanism for adjusting a duty cycle of PWM waveforms so that the correct phase voltage command signals are applied at the angle transitions. This can reduce variations/errors in the phase voltage command signals applied to the multi-phase machine so that phase current may be properly regulated thus reducing current/torque oscillation, which can in turn improve machine efficiency and performance, as well as utilization of the DC voltage source.

Demagnetization using a determined estimated magnetic state

DOEpatents

Denis, Ronald J; Makowski, Nathanael J

2015-01-13

A method for demagnetizing comprising positioning a core within the electromagnetic field generated by a first winding until the generated first electrical current is not substantially increasing, thereby determining a saturation current. A second voltage, having the opposite polarity, is then applied across the first winding until the generated second electrical current is approximately equal to the magnitude of the determined saturation current. The maximum magnetic flux within the core is then determined using the voltage across said first winding and the second current. A third voltage, having the opposite polarity, is then applied across the first winding until the core has a magnetic flux equal to approximately half of the determined maximum magnetic flux within the core.

Frequency Response of Graphene Electrolyte-Gated Field-Effect Transistors

PubMed Central

McVay, Elaine; Palacios, Tomás

2018-01-01

This work develops the first frequency-dependent small-signal model for graphene electrolyte-gated field-effect transistors (EGFETs). Graphene EGFETs are microfabricated to measure intrinsic voltage gain, frequency response, and to develop a frequency-dependent small-signal model. The transfer function of the graphene EGFET small-signal model is found to contain a unique pole due to a resistive element, which stems from electrolyte gating. Intrinsic voltage gain, cutoff frequency, and transition frequency for the microfabricated graphene EGFETs are approximately 3.1 V/V, 1.9 kHz, and 6.9 kHz, respectively. This work marks a critical step in the development of high-speed chemical and biological sensors using graphene EGFETs. PMID:29414868

Electric characteristics of a surface barrier discharge with a plasma induction electrode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alemskii, I. N.; Lelevkin, V. M.; Tokarev, A. V.

2006-07-15

Static and dynamic current-voltage and charge-voltage characteristics of a surface barrier discharge with a plasma induction electrode have been investigated experimentally. The dependences of the discharge current on both the gas pressure in the induction electrode tube and the winding pitch of the corona electrode, as well as of the discharge power efficiency on the applied voltage, have been measured.

Strain-optic voltage monitor wherein strain causes a change in the optical absorption of a crystalline material

DOEpatents

Weiss, J.D.

1997-01-14

A voltage monitor which uses the shift in absorption edge of crystalline material to measure strain resulting from electric field-induced deformation of piezoelectric or electrostrictive material, providing a simple and accurate means for measuring voltage applied either by direct contact with the crystalline material or by subjecting the material to an electric field. 6 figs.

Molecule desorption induced by gate-voltage application in MOS structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirota, Nozomu; Hattori, Ken; Daimon, Hiroshi; Hattori, Azusa N.; Tanaka, Hidekazu

2016-04-01

For the first time, we demonstrate desorption from a MOS surface by applying gate voltages (V G). We observed CH4, CO, and CO2 desorption from a MOS (Fe nanofilm/a-SiO2/Si) surface in vacuum only when applying negative V G, suggesting the occurrence of electronic excitation by hot-hole injection. This demonstration is the first step in the application of MOSs to electrically controlled catalysts.

Ion manipulation method and device

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anderson, Gordon A.; Baker, Erin M.; Smith, Richard D.

2017-11-07

An ion manipulation method and device is disclosed. The device includes a pair of substantially parallel surfaces. An array of inner electrodes is contained within, and extends substantially along the length of, each parallel surface. The device includes a first outer array of electrodes and a second outer array of electrodes. Each outer array of electrodes is positioned on either side of the inner electrodes, and is contained within and extends substantially along the length of each parallel surface. A DC voltage is applied to the first and second outer array of electrodes. A RF voltage, with a superimposed electricmore » field, is applied to the inner electrodes by applying the DC voltages to each electrode. Ions either move between the parallel surfaces within an ion confinement area or along paths in the direction of the electric field, or can be trapped in the ion confinement area.« less

Ion manipulation device

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anderson, Gordon A.; Baker, Erin M.; Smith, Richard D.

2018-05-08

An ion manipulation method and device is disclosed. The device includes a pair of substantially parallel surfaces. An array of inner electrodes is contained within, and extends substantially along the length of, each parallel surface. The device includes a first outer array of electrodes and a second outer array of electrodes. Each outer array of electrodes is positioned on either side of the inner electrodes, and is contained within and extends substantially along the length of each parallel surface. A DC voltage is applied to the first and second outer array of electrodes. A RF voltage, with a superimposed electricmore » field, is applied to the inner electrodes by applying the DC voltages to each electrode. Ions either move between the parallel surfaces within an ion confinement area or along paths in the direction of the electric field, or can be trapped in the ion confinement area.« less

Method and system for operating an electric motor

DOEpatents

Gallegos-Lopez, Gabriel; Hiti, Silva; Perisic, Milun

2013-01-22

Methods and systems for operating an electric motor having a plurality of windings with an inverter having a plurality of switches coupled to a voltage source are provided. A first plurality of switching vectors is applied to the plurality of switches. The first plurality of switching vectors includes a first ratio of first magnitude switching vectors to second magnitude switching vectors. A direct current (DC) current associated with the voltage source is monitored during the applying of the first plurality of switching vectors to the plurality of switches. A second ratio of the first magnitude switching vectors to the second magnitude switching vectors is selected based on the monitoring of the DC current associated with the voltage source. A second plurality of switching vectors is applied to the plurality of switches. The second plurality of switching vectors includes the second ratio of the first magnitude switching vectors to the second magnitude switching vectors.

High Efficient THz Emission From Unbiased and Biased Semiconductor Nanowires Fabricated Using Electron Beam Lithography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Balci, Soner; Czaplewski, David A.; Jung, Il Woong

Besides having perfect control on structural features, such as vertical alignment and uniform distribution by fabricating the wires via e-beam lithography and etching process, we also investigated the THz emission from these fabricated nanowires when they are applied DC bias voltage. To be able to apply a voltage bias, an interdigitated gold (Au) electrode was patterned on the high-quality InGaAs epilayer grown on InP substrate bymolecular beam epitaxy. Afterwards, perfect vertically aligned and uniformly distributed nanowires were fabricated in between the electrodes of this interdigitated pattern so that we could apply voltage bias to improve the THz emission. As amore » result, we achieved enhancement in the emitted THz radiation by ~four times, about 12 dB increase in power ratio at 0.25 THz with a DC biased electric field compared with unbiased NWs.« less

Miniaturized ultrafine particle sizer and monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Qi, Chaolong (Inventor); Chen, Da-Ren (Inventor)

2011-01-01

An apparatus for measuring particle size distribution includes a charging device and a precipitator. The charging device includes a corona that generates charged ions in response to a first applied voltage, and a charger body that generates a low energy electrical field in response to a second applied voltage in order to channel the charged ions out of the charging device. The corona tip and the charger body are arranged relative to each other to direct a flow of particles through the low energy electrical field in a direction parallel to a direction in which the charged ions are channeled out of the charging device. The precipitator receives the plurality of particles from the charging device, and includes a disk having a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, wherein a predetermined voltage is applied to the top surface and the bottom surface to precipitate the plurality of particles.

Monolithic high voltage nonlinear transmission line fabrication process

DOEpatents

Cooper, Gregory A.

1994-01-01

A process for fabricating sequential inductors and varactor diodes of a monolithic, high voltage, nonlinear, transmission line in GaAs is disclosed. An epitaxially grown laminate is produced by applying a low doped active n-type GaAs layer to an n-plus type GaAs substrate. A heavily doped p-type GaAs layer is applied to the active n-type layer and a heavily doped n-type GaAs layer is applied to the p-type layer. Ohmic contacts are applied to the heavily doped n-type layer where diodes are desired. Multiple layers are then either etched away or Oxygen ion implanted to isolate individual varactor diodes. An insulator is applied between the diodes and a conductive/inductive layer is thereafter applied on top of the insulator layer to complete the process.

Oxygen Displacement in Cuprates under IonicLiquid Field-Effect Gating

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dubuis, Guy; Yacoby, Yizhak; Zhou, Hua

We studied structural changes in a 5 unit cell thick La 1.96Sr 0.04CuO 4 film, epitaxially grown on a LaSrAlO 4 substrate with a single unit cell buffer layer, when ultra-high electric fields were induced in the film by applying a gate voltage between the film and an ionic liquid in contact with it. Measuring the diffraction intensity along the substrate-defined Bragg rods and analyzing the results using a phase retrieval method we obtained the three-dimensional electron density in the film, buffer layer, and topmost atomic layers of the substrate under different applied gate voltages. The main structural observations were:more » (i) there were no structural changes when the voltage was negative, holes were injected into the film making it more metallic and screening the electric field; (ii) when the voltage was positive, the film was depleted of holes becoming more insulating, the electric field extended throughout the film, the partial surface monolayer became disordered, and planar oxygen atoms were displaced towards the sample surface; (iii) the changes in surface disorder and the oxygen displacements were both reversed when a negative voltage was applied; and (iv) the c-axis lattice constant of the film did not change in spite of the displacement of planar oxygen atoms.« less

Oxygen Displacement in Cuprates under IonicLiquid Field-Effect Gating

DOE PAGES

Dubuis, Guy; Yacoby, Yizhak; Zhou, Hua; ...

2016-08-15

We studied structural changes in a 5 unit cell thick La 1.96Sr 0.04CuO 4 film, epitaxially grown on a LaSrAlO 4 substrate with a single unit cell buffer layer, when ultra-high electric fields were induced in the film by applying a gate voltage between the film and an ionic liquid in contact with it. Measuring the diffraction intensity along the substrate-defined Bragg rods and analyzing the results using a phase retrieval method we obtained the three-dimensional electron density in the film, buffer layer, and topmost atomic layers of the substrate under different applied gate voltages. The main structural observations were:more » (i) there were no structural changes when the voltage was negative, holes were injected into the film making it more metallic and screening the electric field; (ii) when the voltage was positive, the film was depleted of holes becoming more insulating, the electric field extended throughout the film, the partial surface monolayer became disordered, and planar oxygen atoms were displaced towards the sample surface; (iii) the changes in surface disorder and the oxygen displacements were both reversed when a negative voltage was applied; and (iv) the c-axis lattice constant of the film did not change in spite of the displacement of planar oxygen atoms.« less

Temporal Dynamics of Microbial Rhodopsin Fluorescence Reports Absolute Membrane Voltage

PubMed Central

Hou, Jennifer H.; Venkatachalam, Veena; Cohen, Adam E.

2014-01-01

Plasma membrane voltage is a fundamentally important property of a living cell; its value is tightly coupled to membrane transport, the dynamics of transmembrane proteins, and to intercellular communication. Accurate measurement of the membrane voltage could elucidate subtle changes in cellular physiology, but existing genetically encoded fluorescent voltage reporters are better at reporting relative changes than absolute numbers. We developed an Archaerhodopsin-based fluorescent voltage sensor whose time-domain response to a stepwise change in illumination encodes the absolute membrane voltage. We validated this sensor in human embryonic kidney cells. Measurements were robust to variation in imaging parameters and in gene expression levels, and reported voltage with an absolute accuracy of 10 mV. With further improvements in membrane trafficking and signal amplitude, time-domain encoding of absolute voltage could be applied to investigate many important and previously intractable bioelectric phenomena. PMID:24507604

Operation of a sub-terahertz CW gyrotron with an extremely low voltage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bratman, V. L.; Fedotov, A. E.; Fokin, A. P.; Glyavin, M. Yu.; Manuilov, V. N.; Osharin, I. V.

2017-11-01

Decreasing the operating voltage for medium-power sub-terahertz gyrotrons aimed at industrial and scientific applications is highly attractive, since it allows size and cost reduction of the tubes and power supply units. In this paper, we examine such an opportunity both numerically and experimentally for the fundamental cyclotron resonance operation of an existing gyrotron initially designed for operation at the second cyclotron harmonic with a relatively high voltage. Simulations predict that output power higher than 10 W can be produced at the fundamental harmonic at voltages less than 2 kV. To form a low-voltage helical electron beam with a sufficiently large pitch-factor, a positive voltage was applied to the first anode of the gyrotron three-electrode magnetron-injection gun with a negative voltage at the cathode. CW gyrotron operation at voltages down to 1.5 kV has been demonstrated at a frequency about of 256 GHz.

Current leakage for low altitude satellites - Modeling applications. [simulation of high voltage solar cell array in ionospheric plasma environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Konradi, A.; Mccoy, J. E.; Garriott, O. K.

1979-01-01

To simulate the behavior of a high voltage solar cell array in the ionospheric plasma environment, the large (90 ft x 55 ft diameter) vacuum chamber was used to measure the high-voltage plasma interactions of a 3 ft x 30 ft conductive panel. The chamber was filled with Nitrogen and Argon plasma at electron densities of up to 1,000,000 per cu cm. Measurements of current flow to the plasma were made in three configurations: (a) with one end of the panel grounded, (b) with the whole panel floating while a high bias was applied between the ends of the panel, and (c) with the whole panel at high negative voltage with respect to the chamber walls. The results indicate that a simple model with a constant panel conductivity and plasma resistance can adequately describe the voltage distribution along the panel and the plasma current flow. As expected, when a high potential difference is applied to the panel ends more than 95% of the panel floats negative with respect to the plasma.

High-intensity pulsed beam source with tunable operation mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nashilevskiy, A. V.; Kanaev, G. G.; Ezhov, V. V.; Shamanin, V. I.

2017-05-01

The report presents the design of an electron and an ion pulsed accelerator. The powerful high-voltage pulse generator of the accelerator and the vacuum bushing insulator is able to change the polarity of the output voltage. The low-inductance matching transformer provides an increase in the DFL output impedance by 4 times. The generator based on a high voltage pulse transformer and a pseudo spark switch is applied for DFL charging. The high-impedance magnetically insulated focusing diode with Br magnetic field and the “passive” anode was used to realize the ion beam generation mode. The plasma is formed on the surface of the anode caused by an electrical breakdown at the voltage edge pulse; as a result, the carbon ion and proton beam is generated. This beam has the following parameters: the current density is about 400 A/cm2 (in focus): the applied voltage is up to 450 kV. The accelerator is designed for the research on the interaction of the charged particle pulsed beams with materials and for the development of technological processes of a material modification.

Effect of component compression on the initial performance of an IPV nickel-hydrogen cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gahn, Randall F.

1987-01-01

An experimental method was developed for evaluating the effect of component compression on the charge and discharge voltage characteristics of a 3 1/2 in. diameter boiler plate cell. A standard boiler plate pressure vessel was modified by the addition of a mechanical feedthrough on the bottom of the vessel which permitted different compressions to be applied to the components without disturbing the integrity of the stack. Compression loadings from 0.94 to 27.4 psi were applied by suspending weights from the feedthrough rod. Cell voltages were measured for 0.96-C, 55-min charge and for 1.37-C, 35-min and 2-C, 24-min discharges. An initial change in voltage performance on both charge and discharge as the loading increased was attributed to seating of the components. Subsequent variation of the compression from 2.97 to 27.4 psi caused only minor changes in either the charge or the discharge voltages. Several one month open-circuit voltage stands and 1100 cycles under LEO conditions at the maximum loading have produced no change in performance.

Effect of component compression on the initial performance of an IPV nickel-hydrogen cell. [Individual Pressure Vessel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gahn, Randall F.

1987-01-01

An experimental method was developed for evaluating the effect of component compression on the charge and discharge voltage characteristics of a 3 1/2 in. diameter boiler plate cell. A standard boiler plate pressure vessel was modified by the addition of a mechanical feedthrough on the bottom of the vessel which permitted different compressions to be applied to the components without disturbing the integrity of the stack. Compression loadings from 0.94 to 27.4 psi were applied by suspending weights from the feedthrough rod. Cell voltages were measured for 0.96-C, 55-min charge and for 1.37-C, 35-min and 2-C, 24-min discharges. An initial change in voltage performance on both charge and discharge as the loading increased was attributed to seating of the components. Subsequent variation of the compression from 2.97 to 27.4 psi caused only minor changes in either the charge or the discharge voltages. Several one month open-circuit voltage stands and 1100 cycles under LEO conditions at the maximum loading have produced no change in performance.

Five years of full-scale utility demonstration of pulsed energization of electric precipitators

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schultz, S.A.; Jacobus, P.L.; Casey, P.J.

1996-11-01

In a conventional electrostatic precipitator (ESP) the applied dc voltage fulfills three functions: (1) generation of negative ions, (2) charging of particles, and (3) transport of the charged particles to the collecting plates. In the case of high resistivity fly-ash (often associated with the burning of low sulfur coal) the dc voltage is limited by repeated electrical discharges and in extreme cases by back-corona. Lowering the applied dc voltage reduces sparking and back-corona, but also reduces the field on the discharge wires and leads to poorly distributed ion generation as well as reduced charging and particle transport forces. Pulsed energization,more » which consists of superimposing high voltage pulses of short duration onto the existing base dc voltage, offers an attractive way to improve the collection efficiency of ESPs suffering from poor energization. The superimposed pulses become responsible for uniform ion generation while the underlying dc field continues to fulfill the function of particle charging and transport. This paper describes the five-year test of the ESP at Madison Gas and Electric`s Blount Station.« less

Behavior of neutral solutes in pressurized flow driven electrochromatography using a mixed stationary phase of ODS and anion-exchange.

PubMed

Kitagawa, Shinya; Tsuda, Takao

2003-05-02

The behavior of neutral sample solutes in pressurized flow driven electrochromatography using a mixed stationary phase, which consisted of ODS and anion-exchange (ODS-SAX), was studied. Applications of both positive and negative voltage on a column induced increases in retention factors of sample solutes. The direction of an electroosmotic flow under applications of positive and negative voltage were the same, therefore, the sign of the surface charge density under positive and negative voltage was opposite. We proposed a new equation for the relationship between applied voltage and surface charge density, and the practical electroosmotic flow conformed to this equation. Studying the electroosmotic flow using our proposed equation revealed that the applied negative voltage accelerates the protonation of the quaternary ammonium group and dissociation of the silanol group on packing materials. The retention behavior of a neutral solute was affected by the existence of the charged functional groups. We propose that this phenomenon is applicable to the control of the retention behavior of a sample solute using an electric field.

Alternating current breakdown voltage of ice electret

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oshika, Y.; Tsuchiya, Y.; Okumura, T.; Muramoto, Y.

2017-09-01

Ice has low environmental impact. Our research objectives are to study the availability of ice as a dielectric insulating material at cryogenic temperatures. We focus on ferroelectric ice (iceXI) at cryogenic temperatures. The properties of iceXI, including its formation, are not clear. We attempted to obtain the polarized ice that was similar to iceXI under the applied voltage and cooling to 77 K. The polarized ice have a wide range of engineering applications as electronic materials at cryogenic temperatures. This polarized ice is called ice electret. The structural difference between ice electret and normal ice is only the positions of protons. The effects of the proton arrangement on the breakdown voltage of ice electret were shown because electrical properties are influenced by the structure of ice. We observed an alternating current (ac) breakdown voltage of ice electret and normal ice at 77 K. The mean and minimum ac breakdown voltage values of ice electret were higher than those of normal ice. We considered that the electrically weak part of the normal ice was improved by applied a direct electric field.

Carbon nanotube vacuum gauges with wide-dynamic range and processes thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manohara, Harish (Inventor); Kaul, Anupama B. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A miniature thermal conductivity gauge employs a carbon single-walled-nanotube. The gauge operates on the principle of thermal exchange between the voltage-biased nanotube and the surrounding gas at low levels of power and low temperatures to measure vacuum across a wide dynamic range. The gauge includes two terminals, a source of constant voltage to the terminals, a single-walled carbon nanotube between the terminals, a calibration of measured conductance of the nanotube to magnitudes of surrounding vacuum and a current meter in electrical communication with the source of constant voltage. Employment of the nanotube for measuring vacuum includes calibrating the electrical conductance of the nanotube to magnitudes of vacuum, exposing the nanotube to a vacuum, applying a constant voltage across the nanotube, measuring the electrical conductance of the nanotube in the vacuum with the constant voltage applied and converting the measured electrical conductance to the corresponding calibrated magnitude of vacuum using the calibration. The nanotube may be suspended to minimize heat dissipation through the substrate, increasing sensitivity at even tower pressures.

[Desulphurization with multi-needle-water film electrodes by corona discharge].

PubMed

Huang, Xu-ran; Li, Guo-feng; Li, Jie; Wu, Yan

2008-09-01

The study of this paper adopted stainless steel multi-needle as a high voltage electrode system, and water film as low voltage electrode. The electrodes were supplied with negative DC high voltage. Polluted gas containing sulfur dioxide (SO2) flowed into the corona discharge field from the center of the high voltage electrode system in an axis direction, then get across the water surface. Under the effect of corona discharge plasma and water absorption, SO2 was removed by converting it into sulfuric acid. The effect of the three factors which were the applied voltage, SO2 inlet concentration and duration of the exposure to the corona discharge on desulphurization efficiency has been studied mostly. Moreover, the concentrations of SO3(2-) and SO4(2-) ions in the water were measured and the mechanism of desulphurization was analyzed. The results showed that there was a synergistic effect on the removal of SO2 when combining corona discharge and water absorption, and both the desulphurization efficiency and the amount of sulfuric acid increased evidently. As the applied voltage and the duration increased, the desulphurization efficiency increased. Also, the SO2 inlet concentration had effect on desulphurization efficiency. When the SO2 inlet concentration was 430 x 10(-6), the voltage was 14.5 kV and the duration was 7.5 s, a desulphurization efficiency of more than 90% could be attained.

Method for exciting inductive-resistive loads with high and controllable direct current

DOEpatents

Hill, Jr., Homer M.

1976-01-01

Apparatus and method for transmitting dc power to a load circuit by applying a dc voltage from a standard waveform synthesizer to duration modulate a bipolar rectangular wave generator. As the amplitude of the dc voltage increases, the widths of the rectangular wave generator output pulses increase, and as the amplitude of the dc voltage decreases, the widths of the rectangular wave generator output pulses decrease. Thus, the waveform synthesizer selectively changes the durations of the rectangular wave generator bipolar output pulses so as to produce a rectangular wave ac carrier that is duration modulated in accordance with and in direct proportion to the voltage amplitude from the synthesizer. Thereupon, by transferring the carrier to the load circuit through an amplifier and a rectifier, the load current also corresponds directly to the voltage amplitude from the synthesizer. To this end, the rectified wave at less than 100% duty factor, amounts to a doubled frequency direct voltage pulse train for applying a direct current to the load, while the current ripple is minimized by a high L/R in the load circuit. In one embodiment, a power transmitting power amplifier means having a dc power supply is matched to the load circuit through a transformer for current magnification without sacrificing load current duration capability, while negative voltage and current feedback are provided in order to insure good output fidelity.

Structure control of tungsten nanocontacts through pulsed-voltage application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Yasuchika; Kizuka, Tokushi

2018-05-01

The structural variation in tungsten nanocontacts (NCs) during a pulsed-voltage application was observed in situ by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The direction of electromigration in the NCs changed from the well-known direction to the opposite direction at a critical voltage of 0.9 V. Upon applying a higher pulsed voltage of 2.5 V, the NC structure changed to amorphous, with an average conductance density decreased to 82% of that of the crystalline NCs. We demonstrated that the external shape and texture of tungsten NCs can be controlled with an atomic precision through electromigration and amorphization by a pulsed-voltage application.

Research and Construction of DC Energy Measurement Traceability Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhi, Wang; Maotao, Yang; Jing, Yang

2018-02-01

With the implementation of energy saving and emission reduction policies, DC energy metering has been widely used in many fields. In view of the lack of a DC energy measurementtraceability system, in combination with the process of downward measurement transfer in relation to the DC charger-based field calibration technology and DC energy meter and shunt calibration technologies, the paper proposed DC fast charging, high DC, small DC voltage output and measuring technologies, and built a time-based plan by converting high DC voltage into low voltage and high current into low current and then into low voltage, leaving DC energy traceable to national standards in terms of voltage, current and time and thus filling in the gap in DC energy measurement traceability.

Ionization tube simmer current circuit

DOEpatents

Steinkraus, R.F. Jr.

1994-12-13

A highly efficient flash lamp simmer current circuit utilizes a fifty percent duty cycle square wave pulse generator to pass a current over a current limiting inductor to a full wave rectifier. The DC output of the rectifier is then passed over a voltage smoothing capacitor through a reverse current blocking diode to a flash lamp tube to sustain ionization in the tube between discharges via a small simmer current. An alternate embodiment of the circuit combines the pulse generator and inductor in the form of an FET off line square wave generator with an impedance limited step up output transformer which is then applied to the full wave rectifier as before to yield a similar simmer current. 6 figures.

Chain polymerization of diacetylene compound multilayer films on the topmost surface initiated by a scanning tunneling microscope tip.

PubMed

Takajo, Daisuke; Okawa, Yuji; Hasegawa, Tsuyoshi; Aono, Masakazu

2007-05-08

Chain polymerizations of diacetylene compound multilayer films on graphite substrates were examined with a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) at the liquid/solid interface of the phenyloctane solution. The first layer grew very quickly into many small domains. This was followed by the slow formation of the piled up layers into much larger domains. Chain polymerization on the topmost surface layer could be initiated by applying a pulsed voltage between the STM tip and the substrate, usually producing a long polymer of submicrometer length. In contrast, polymerizations on the underlying layer were never observed. This can be explained by a conformation model in which the polymer backbone is lifted up.

Ionization tube simmer current circuit

DOEpatents

Steinkraus, Jr., Robert F.

1994-01-01

A highly efficient flash lamp simmer current circuit utilizes a fifty percent duty cycle square wave pulse generator to pass a current over a current limiting inductor to a full wave rectifier. The DC output of the rectifier is then passed over a voltage smoothing capacitor through a reverse current blocking diode to a flash lamp tube to sustain ionization in the tube between discharges via a small simmer current. An alternate embodiment of the circuit combines the pulse generator and inductor in the form of an FET off line square wave generator with an impedance limited step up output transformer which is then applied to the full wave rectifier as before to yield a similar simmer current.

Admittance Spectroscopy in CZTSSe: Metastability Behavior and Voltage Dependent Defect Study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Koeper, Mark J.; Hages, Charles J.; Li, Jian V.

2016-11-21

Admittance spectroscopy has been performed on a CZTSSe device with a carrier injection pretreatment and under electronically relaxed conditions to demonstrate metastability behavior. We show that the measurements with the carrier injection pretreatment demonstrate two admittance signatures while the relaxed measurement demonstrates only one admittance signature with a different activation energy. Additionally, voltage dependent admittance spectroscopy was performed using the carrier injection pretreatment method at each of the applied voltage bias. The activation energies of the two admittance signatures were calculated and are shown to be independent of the voltage bias.

Novel analytical model for optimizing the pull-in voltage in a flexured MEMS switch incorporating beam perforation effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guha, K.; Laskar, N. M.; Gogoi, H. J.; Borah, A. K.; Baishnab, K. L.; Baishya, S.

2017-11-01

This paper presents a new method for the design, modelling and optimization of a uniform serpentine meander based MEMS shunt capacitive switch with perforation on upper beam. The new approach is proposed to improve the Pull-in Voltage performance in a MEMS switch. First a new analytical model of the Pull-in Voltage is proposed using the modified Mejis-Fokkema capacitance model taking care of the nonlinear electrostatic force, the fringing field effect due to beam thickness and etched holes on the beam simultaneously followed by the validation of same with the simulated results of benchmark full 3D FEM solver CoventorWare in a wide range of structural parameter variations. It shows a good agreement with the simulated results. Secondly, an optimization method is presented to determine the optimum configuration of switch for achieving minimum Pull-in voltage considering the proposed analytical mode as objective function. Some high performance Evolutionary Optimization Algorithms have been utilized to obtain the optimum dimensions with less computational cost and complexity. Upon comparing the applied algorithms between each other, the Dragonfly Algorithm is found to be most suitable in terms of minimum Pull-in voltage and higher convergence speed. Optimized values are validated against the simulated results of CoventorWare which shows a very satisfactory results with a small deviation of 0.223 V. In addition to these, the paper proposes, for the first time, a novel algorithmic approach for uniform arrangement of square holes in a given beam area of RF MEMS switch for perforation. The algorithm dynamically accommodates all the square holes within a given beam area such that the maximum space is utilized. This automated arrangement of perforation holes will further improve the computational complexity and design accuracy of the complex design of perforated MEMS switch.

High Voltage Seismic Generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogacz, Adrian; Pala, Damian; Knafel, Marcin

2015-04-01

This contribution describes the preliminary result of annual cooperation of three student research groups from AGH UST in Krakow, Poland. The aim of this cooperation was to develop and construct a high voltage seismic wave generator. Constructed device uses a high-energy electrical discharge to generate seismic wave in ground. This type of device can be applied in several different methods of seismic measurement, but because of its limited power it is mainly dedicated for engineering geophysics. The source operates on a basic physical principles. The energy is stored in capacitor bank, which is charged by two stage low to high voltage converter. Stored energy is then released in very short time through high voltage thyristor in spark gap. The whole appliance is powered from li-ion battery and controlled by ATmega microcontroller. It is possible to construct larger and more powerful device. In this contribution the structure of device with technical specifications is resented. As a part of the investigation the prototype was built and series of experiments conducted. System parameter was measured, on this basis specification of elements for the final device were chosen. First stage of the project was successful. It was possible to efficiently generate seismic waves with constructed device. Then the field test was conducted. Spark gap wasplaced in shallowborehole(0.5 m) filled with salt water. Geophones were placed on the ground in straight line. The comparison of signal registered with hammer source and sparker source was made. The results of the test measurements are presented and discussed. Analysis of the collected data shows that characteristic of generated seismic signal is very promising, thus confirms possibility of practical application of the new high voltage generator. The biggest advantage of presented device after signal characteristics is its size which is 0.5 x 0.25 x 0.2 m and weight approximately 7 kg. This features with small li-ion battery makes constructed device very mobile. The project is still developing.

Nonfullerene Tandem Organic Solar Cells with High Open-Circuit Voltage of 1.97 V.

PubMed

Liu, Wenqing; Li, Shuixing; Huang, Jiang; Yang, Shida; Chen, Jiehuan; Zuo, Lijian; Shi, Minmin; Zhan, Xiaowei; Li, Chang-Zhi; Chen, Hongzheng

2016-11-01

Small-molecule nonfullerene-based tandem organic solar cells (OSCs) are fabricated for the first time by utilizing P3HT:SF(DPPB) 4 and PTB7-Th:IEIC bulk heterojunctions as the front and back subcells, respectively. A power conversion efficiency of 8.48% is achieved with an ultrahigh open-circuit voltage of 1.97 V, which is the highest voltage value reported to date among efficient tandem OSCs. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Feasibility Study of a 400 Hz, 4160 Volt 3-Phase Electrical Power Distribution System

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-02-25

accordance with HIL-E-917. 8. The primary insulation shall be adequate to withstand a high potential test of 60 Hz voltage windings to winding and to ground... withstand a short circuit current of 500 percent for 10 seconds without exceeding the voltage rating of any capacitors. They shall operate within...shaft. separation is required to withstand high voltages . The limited contact movement results in a very small contactor size be- cause it permits the use

High-resolution simultaneous voltage and Ca2+ imaging

PubMed Central

Vogt, Kaspar E; Gerharz, Stephan; Graham, Jeremy; Canepari, Marco

2011-01-01

Combining voltage and Ca2+ imaging allows the correlation of electrical and chemical activity at sub-cellular level. Here we describe a novel apparatus designed to obtain simultaneous voltage and Ca2+ measurements with single-trial resolution from sites as small as a few microns. These measurements can be obtained with negligible optical cross-talk between the two signals and negligible photo-damage of the preparation. The capability of the technique was assessed recording either from individual neurons in brain slices or from networks of cultured neurons. The present achievements open the gate to many novel physiological investigations requiring simultaneous measurement of voltage and Ca2+ signals. PMID:21115640

Method and device for ion mobility separations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ibrahim, Yehia M.; Garimella, Sandilya V. B.; Smith, Richard D.

2017-07-11

Methods and devices for ion separations or manipulations in gas phase are disclosed. The device includes a single non-planar surface. Arrays of electrodes are coupled to the surface. A combination of RF and DC voltages are applied to the arrays of electrodes to create confining and driving fields that move ions through the device. The DC voltages are static DC voltages or time-dependent DC potentials or waveforms.

Assumption or Fact? Line-to-Neutral Voltage Expression in an Unbalanced 3-Phase Circuit during Inverter Switching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Masrur, M. A.

2009-01-01

This paper discusses the situation in a 3-phase motor or any other 3-phase system operating under unbalanced operating conditions caused by an open fault in an inverter switch. A dc voltage source is assumed as the input to the inverter, and under faulty conditions of the inverter switch, the actual voltage applied between the line to neutral…

Removal of phenol by activated alumina bed in pulsed high-voltage electric field.

PubMed

Zhu, Li-nan; Ma, Jun; Yang, Shi-dong

2007-01-01

A new process for removing the pollutants in aqueous solution-activated alumina bed in pulsed high-voltage electric field was investigated for the removal of phenol under different conditions. The experimental results indicated the increase in removal rate with increasing applied voltage, increasing pH value of the solution, aeration, and adding Fe2+. The removal rate of phenol could reach 72.1% when air aeration flow rate was 1200 ml/min, and 88.2% when 0.05 mmol/L Fe2+ was added into the solution under the conditions of applied voltage 25 kV, initial phenol concentration of 5 mg/L, and initial pH value 5.5. The addition of sodium carbonate reduced the phenol removal rate. In the pulsed high-voltage electric field, local discharge occurred at the surface of activated alumina, which promoted phenol degradation in the thin water film. At the same time, the space-time distribution of gas-liquid phases was more uniform and the contact areas of the activated species generated from the discharge and the pollutant molecules were much wider due to the effect of the activated alumina bed. The synthetical effects of the pulsed high-voltage electric field and the activated alumina particles accelerated phenol degradation.

How voltage drops are manifested by lithium ion configurations at interfaces and in thin films on battery electrodes

DOE PAGES

Leung, Kevin; Leenheer, Andrew Jay

2015-04-09

Battery electrode surfaces are generally coated with electronically insulating solid films of thickness 1-50 nm. Both electrons and Li + can move at the electrode–surface film interface in response to the voltage, which adds complexity to the “electric double layer” (EDL). We also apply Density Functional Theory (DFT) to investigate how the applied voltage is manifested as changes in the EDL at atomic length scales, including charge separation and interfacial dipole moments. Illustrating examples include Li 3PO 4, Li 2CO 3, and Li xMn 2O 4 thin films on Au(111) surfaces under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Adsorbed organic solvent molecules canmore » strongly reduce voltages predicted in vacuum. We propose that manipulating surface dipoles, seldom discussed in battery studies, may be a viable strategy to improve electrode passivation. We also distinguish the computed potential governing electrons, which is the actual or instantaneous voltage, and the “lithium cohesive energy”-based voltage governing Li content widely reported in DFT calculations, which is a slower-responding self-consistency criterion at interfaces. Furthermore, this distinction is critical for a comprehensive description of electrochemical activities on electrode surfaces, including Li + insertion dynamics, parasitic electrolyte decomposition, and electrodeposition at overpotentials.« less

Electrostatic acceleration of helicon plasma using a cusped magnetic field

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Harada, S.; Mitsubishi Heavy Industry ltd., 16-5 Konan 2-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8215; Baba, T.

2014-11-10

The electrostatic acceleration of helicon plasma is investigated using an electrostatic potential exerted between the ring anode at the helicon source exit and an off-axis hollow cathode in the downstream region. In the downstream region, the magnetic field for the helicon source, which is generated by a solenoid coil, is modified using permanent magnets and a yoke, forming an almost magnetic field-free region surrounded by an annular cusp field. Using a retarding potential analyzer, two primary ion energy peaks, where the lower peak corresponds to the space potential and the higher one to the ion beam, are detected in themore » field-free region. Using argon as the working gas with a helicon power of 1.5 kW and a mass flow rate of 0.21 mg/s, the ion beam energy is on the order of the applied acceleration voltage. In particular, with an acceleration voltage lower than 150 V, the ion beam energy even exceeds the applied acceleration voltage by an amount on the order of the electron thermal energy at the exit of the helicon plasma source. The ion beam energy profile strongly depends on the helicon power and the applied acceleration voltage. Since by this method the whole working gas from the helicon plasma source can, in principle, be accelerated, this device can be applied as a noble electrostatic thruster for space propulsion.« less

Electrostatic acceleration of helicon plasma using a cusped magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harada, S.; Baba, T.; Uchigashima, A.; Yokota, S.; Iwakawa, A.; Sasoh, A.; Yamazaki, T.; Shimizu, H.

2014-11-01

The electrostatic acceleration of helicon plasma is investigated using an electrostatic potential exerted between the ring anode at the helicon source exit and an off-axis hollow cathode in the downstream region. In the downstream region, the magnetic field for the helicon source, which is generated by a solenoid coil, is modified using permanent magnets and a yoke, forming an almost magnetic field-free region surrounded by an annular cusp field. Using a retarding potential analyzer, two primary ion energy peaks, where the lower peak corresponds to the space potential and the higher one to the ion beam, are detected in the field-free region. Using argon as the working gas with a helicon power of 1.5 kW and a mass flow rate of 0.21 mg/s, the ion beam energy is on the order of the applied acceleration voltage. In particular, with an acceleration voltage lower than 150 V, the ion beam energy even exceeds the applied acceleration voltage by an amount on the order of the electron thermal energy at the exit of the helicon plasma source. The ion beam energy profile strongly depends on the helicon power and the applied acceleration voltage. Since by this method the whole working gas from the helicon plasma source can, in principle, be accelerated, this device can be applied as a noble electrostatic thruster for space propulsion.

Bipolar High-Voltage, Long-Duration Pulsed Radiofrequency Improves Pain Relief in Postherpetic Neuralgia.

PubMed

Wan, Cheng-Fu; Liu, Yan; Dong, Dao-Song; Zhao, Lin; Xi, Qi; Yu, Xue; Cui, Wen-Yao; Wang, Qiu-Shi; Song, Tao

2016-07-01

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is often refractory to existing treatments. Treatment of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) using monopolar pulsed radiofrequency (PRF), which is a non- or minimally neurodestructive technique, is not efficacious in all patients. This study aimed to determine the safety and clinical efficacy of bipolar high-voltage, long-duration PRF on the DRG in PHN patients. Self before-after controlled clinical trial. Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University. Ninety patients diagnosed with PHN for > 3months were included. Bipolar high-voltage, long-duration PRF at 42°C for 900 seconds was applied after the induction of paresthesias covered the regions of hyperalgesic skin. The therapeutic effects were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS) and the 36-item Short Form health survey (SF-36) before treatment and one, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after PRF. The VAS scores at one, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after PRF treatment were significantly lower than before treatment (P < 0.001). The SF-36 scores, which included physical functioning, physical role, bodily pain, general health perceptions, vitality, social function, emotional role, and the mental health index, were significantly improved up to 12 weeks after PRF treatment (P < 0.001). No serious adverse effects were identified following treatment. The main adverse reactions included pain, tachycardia, and high blood pressure (especially when the field strength was enhanced). Single center study, relatively small number of patients, lack of a control group. Bipolar high-voltage, long-duration PRF on the DRG is an effective and safe therapeutic alternative for PHN patients. This treatment could improve the quality of life of PHN patients. NO ChiCTR-OCS-14005461.

Tunable dielectric properties of TiO2 thin film based MOS systems for application in microelectronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gyanan; Mondal, Sandip; Kumar, Arvind

2016-12-01

Post-deposition annealing (PDA) is an inherent part of a sol-gel fabrication process to achieve the optimum device performance, especially in CMOS applications. Annealing removes the oxygen vacancies and improves the structural order of the dielectric films. The process also reduces the interface related defects and improves the interfacial properties. Here, we applied a sol-gel spin-coating technique to prepare high-k TiO2 films on the p-Si substrate. These films were fired at 400 °C for the duration of 20, 40, 60 and 80 min to know the effects of annealing time on the device characteristics. The current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics of annealed TiO2 films were examined in Al/TiO2/p-Si device configuration at room temperature. The 60 min annealed film gives the optimum performance and contained 69.5% anatase and 39.5% rutile phase with refractive index 2.40 at 550 nm. The C-V and I-V characteristic showed a significant dependence on annealing time such as variation in dielectric constant and leakage current. This allows us to tune the various electrical properties of MOS systems. The accumulation capacitance (Cox), dielectric constant (κ) and the equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) of the film fired for 60 min were found to be 458 pF, 33, and 4.25 nm, respectively with a low leakage current density (3.13 × 10-7 A/cm2) fired for 80 min at -1 V. The current conduction mechanisms at high bias voltage were dominated by trap-charge limited current (TCLC), while at small voltages, space charge limited current (SCLC) was more prominent.

Small-Signal Dynamic Analysis of LCC-HVDC with STATCOM at the Inverter Busbar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Dong; Jiang, Wen; Guo, Chunyi; Rehman, Atiq Ur; Zhao, Chengyong

2018-01-01

This paper develops a linearized small-signal dynamic model of a Line-Commutated-Converter based HVDC (LCC-HVDC) system with STATCOM at the inverter busbar, and validates its accuracy by comparing time-domain responses from small-signal model and PSCAD-based simulation results. Considering the potential impact of Phase-Locked-Loop (PLL) parameters on the study system and the close connection of STATCOM and LCC inverter station at AC busbar, this paper investigates the impact of PLL gains and AC voltage control parameters of STATCOM on the system small-signal stability. The studies show that (i) the PLL gain has highly impact on the study system and smaller PLL gains are preferable; (ii) larger values of both the proportional gain and the integral gain of AC voltage controller of STATCOM could result in oscillation/instability of the system.

Voltage Dependence of Proton Pumping by Bacteriorhodopsin Mutants with Altered Lifetime of the M Intermediate

PubMed Central

Geibel, Sven; Lörinczi, Èva; Bamberg, Ernst; Friedrich, Thomas

2013-01-01

The light-driven proton pump bacteriorhodopsin (BR) from Halobacterium salinarum is tightly regulated by the [H+] gradient and transmembrane potential. BR exhibits optoelectric properties, since spectral changes during the photocycle are kinetically controlled by voltage, which predestines BR for optical storage or processing devices. BR mutants with prolonged lifetime of the blue-shifted M intermediate would be advantageous, but the optoelectric properties of such mutants are still elusive. Using expression in Xenopus oocytes and two-electrode voltage-clamping, we analyzed photocurrents of BR mutants with kinetically destabilized (F171C, F219L) or stabilized (D96N, D96G) M intermediate in response to green light (to probe H+ pumping) and blue laser flashes (to probe accumulation/decay of M). These mutants have divergent M lifetimes. As for BR-WT, this strictly correlates with the voltage dependence of H+ pumping. BR-F171C and BR-F219L showed photocurrents similar to BR-WT. Yet, BR-F171C showed a weaker voltage dependence of proton pumping. For both mutants, blue laser flashes applied during and after green-light illumination showed reduced M accumulation and shorter M lifetime. In contrast, BR-D96G and BR-D96N exhibited small photocurrents, with nonlinear current-voltage curves, which increased strongly in the presence of azide. Blue laser flashes showed heavy M accumulation and prolonged M lifetime, which accounts for the strongly reduced H+ pumping rate. Hyperpolarizing potentials augmented these effects. The combination of M-stabilizing and -destabilizing mutations in BR-D96G/F171C/F219L (BR-tri) shows that disruption of the primary proton donor Asp-96 is fatal for BR as a proton pump. Mechanistically, M destabilizing mutations cannot compensate for the disruption of Asp-96. Accordingly, BR-tri and BR-D96G photocurrents were similar. However, BR-tri showed negative blue laser flash-induced currents even without actinic green light, indicating that Schiff base deprotonation in BR-tri exists in the dark, in line with previous spectroscopic investigations. Thus, M-stabilizing mutations, including the triple mutation, drastically interfere with electrochemical H+ gradient generation. PMID:24019918

Lightweight Solar Power for Small Satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nabors, Sammy A.

2015-01-01

The innovation targets small satellites or CubeSats for which conventional deployable arrays are not feasible due to their size, weight and complexity. This novel solar cell array includes a thin and flexible photovoltaic cell applied to an inflatable structure to create a high surface area array for collecting solar energy in a lightweight, simple and deployable structure. The inflatable array, with its high functional surface area, eliminates the need and the mechanisms required to point the system toward the sun. The power density achievable in these small arrays is similar to that of conventional high-power deployable/pointable arrays used on large satellites or space vehicles. Although inflatable solar arrays have been previously considered by others, the arrays involved the use of traditional rigid solar cells. Researchers are currently working with thin film photovoltaics from various suppliers so that the NASA innovation is not limited to any particular solar cell technology. NASA has built prototypes and tested functionality before and after inflation. As shown in the current-voltage currents below, deployment does not damage the cell performance.

Measurement of Direct Current Voltage Causing Electrical Pitting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noguchi, Shoji; Kakinuma, Shin-Nosuke; Kanada, Tohru

It is widely known that electrical pitting occurs when an electrical current is passed through a ball or roller bearing. The authors have investigated critical electrical current density causing electrical pitting and have shown that it occurs in a ball bearing even at an extremely low current. In this paper we present the results of an experiment in which a small ball bearing was supplied with a direct current (DC) voltage to determine the voltage required to induce a current. A film of grease acts as the insulator on an antifriction bearing used, and the thickness of this film is an important consideration and the current must pass through this film. Four types of grease were used on the bearing, which was rotated at various speed during 500 hours. A potential of 1.3V to 1.5V was necessary to induce the flow of current. The results indicate that the voltage supplied by typical dry cell batteries is sufficient to drive a currents through a small bearing, and that the experimental conditions had little effect on the magnitude of the flowing current.

Maximum time-dependent space-charge limited diode currents

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Griswold, M. E.; Fisch, N. J.

Recent papers claim that a one dimensional (1D) diode with a time-varying voltage drop can transmit current densities that exceed the Child-Langmuir (CL) limit on average, apparently contradicting a previous conjecture that there is a hard limit on the average current density across any 1D diode, as t → ∞, that is equal to the CL limit. However, these claims rest on a different definition of the CL limit, namely, a comparison between the time-averaged diode current and the adiabatic average of the expression for the stationary CL limit. If the current were considered as a function of the maximummore » applied voltage, rather than the average applied voltage, then the original conjecture would not have been refuted.« less

Voltage control of magnetic monopoles in artificial spin ice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chavez, Andres C.; Barra, Anthony; Carman, Gregory P.

2018-06-01

Current research on artificial spin ice (ASI) systems has revealed unique hysteretic memory effects and mobile quasi-particle monopoles controlled by externally applied magnetic fields. Here, we numerically demonstrate a strain-mediated multiferroic approach to locally control the ASI monopoles. The magnetization of individual lattice elements is controlled by applying voltage pulses to the piezoelectric layer resulting in strain-induced magnetic precession timed for 180° reorientation. The model demonstrates localized voltage control to move the magnetic monopoles across lattice sites, in CoFeB, Ni, and FeGa based ASI’s. The switching is achieved at frequencies near ferromagnetic resonance and requires energies below 620 aJ. The results demonstrate that ASI monopoles can be efficiently and locally controlled with a strain-mediated multiferroic approach.

Four-gate transistor analog multiplier circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mojarradi, Mohammad M. (Inventor); Blalock, Benjamin (Inventor); Cristoloveanu, Sorin (Inventor); Chen, Suheng (Inventor); Akarvardar, Kerem (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A differential output analog multiplier circuit utilizing four G.sup.4-FETs, each source connected to a current source. The four G.sup.4-FETs may be grouped into two pairs of two G.sup.4-FETs each, where one pair has its drains connected to a load, and the other par has its drains connected to another load. The differential output voltage is taken at the two loads. In one embodiment, for each G.sup.4-FET, the first and second junction gates are each connected together, where a first input voltage is applied to the front gates of each pair, and a second input voltage is applied to the first junction gates of each pair. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Voltage-induced swelling and deswelling of weak polybase brushes.

PubMed

Weir, Michael P; Heriot, Sasha Y; Martin, Simon J; Parnell, Andrew J; Holt, Stephen A; Webster, John R P; Jones, Richard A L

2011-09-06

We have investigated a novel method of remotely switching the conformation of a weak polybase brush using an applied voltage. Surface-grafted polyelectrolyte brushes exhibit rich responsive behavior and show great promise as "smart surfaces", but existing switching methods involve physically or chemically changing the solution in contact with the brush. In this study, high grafting density poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) brushes were grown from silicon surfaces using atom transfer radical polymerization. Optical ellipsometry and neutron reflectivity were used to measure changes in the profiles of the brushes in response to DC voltages applied between the brush substrate and a parallel electrode some distance away in the surrounding liquid (water or D(2)O). Positive voltages were shown to cause swelling, while negative voltages in some cases caused deswelling. Neutron reflectometry experiments were carried out on the INTER reflectometer (ISIS, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, UK) allowing time-resolved measurements of polymer brush structure. The PDMAEMA brushes were shown to have a polymer volume fraction profile described by a Gaussian-terminated parabola both in the equilibrium and in the partially swollen states. At very high positive voltages (in this study, positive bias means positive voltage to the brush-bearing substrate), the brush chains were shown to be stretched to an extent comparable to their contour length, before being physically removed from the interface. Voltage-induced swelling was shown to exhibit a wider range of brush swelling states in comparison to pH switching, with the additional advantages that the stimulus is remotely controlled and may be fully automated. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Characteristics of a large vacuum wave precursor on the SABRE voltage adder MITL and extraction ion diode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cuneo, M.E.; Hanson, D.L.; Menge, P.R.

SABRE (Sandia Accelerator and Beam Research Experiment) is a ten-cavity linear induction magnetically insulated voltage adder (6 MV, 300 kA) operated in positive polarity to investigate issues relevant to ion beam production and propagation for inertial confinement fusion. The voltage adder section is coupled to an applied-B extraction ion diode via a long coaxial output transmission line. Observations indicate that the power propagates in a vacuum wave prior to electron emission. After the electron emission threshold is reached, power propagates in a magnetically insulated wave. The precursor is observed to have a dominant impact on he turn-on, impedance history, andmore » beam characteristics of applied-B ion diodes since the precursor voltage is large enough to cause electron emission at the diode from both the cathode feed and cathode tips. The amplitude of the precursor at the load (3--4.5 MV) is a significant fraction of the maximum load voltage (5--6 MV) because (1) the transmission line gaps ( {approx} 9 cm at output) and therefore impedances are relatively large, and hence the electric field threshold for electron emission (200 to 300 kV/cm) is not reached until well into the power pulse rise time; and (2) the rapidly falling forward wave and diode impedance reduces the ratio of main pulse voltage to precursor voltage. Experimental voltage and current data from the transmission line and the ion diode will be presented and compared with TWOQUICK (2-D electromagnetic PIC code) simulations and analytic models.« less