A novel current density distribution sensor for use in parallel plate transmission lines

As part of an on-going electromagnetic flyer plate research programme, it has been established that a method to determine the current distribution (or at least confirm its uniformity) is now required to establish predictable acceleration of the flyer plate. To achieve this diagnostic capability, a bespoke sensor array has been developed, termed the MIDOT (a relative Mutual Inductance sensor array). It has been specifically developed as a method of determining the current density distribution across a thin, close coupled, parallel plate transmission line. This novel sensor has been developed to a point where the proof of principle has been successfully demonstrated on a low voltage test bed, with some preliminary high voltage shots being carried out on a bespoke experimental arrangement prior to it being fielded on the flyer plate accelerator facilities at both Loughborough University and AWE.