Current multiplier to improved generator-to-load coupling for pulse-power generators

Modem pulse-power generators allow obtaining multi - Mega-Ampere currents with sub-microsecond rise-times in useful loads. However, at least during a portion of the rise-time, the load inductance, L_d, can be several times smaller than that of the generator, L₀, limiting the energy transfer efficiency. We define a relatively simple circuit modification, which improves the generator-to-load coupling, multiplying the load current in the case of interest, where L₀>;>;L_d. The suggested intermediate connection operates similarly to an N:1 transformer. In its simplest configuration, for N=2, the proposed current multiplier requires an additional volume having high self-inductance, L, connected through a single convolute to both generator and load. The modified hardware allows, having possibly one additional unknown, the convolute, and without changing the current rise-time very much an increase of the load current by the factor of I_d/I₀=2L/(L+L_d), where Io represents the generator current and L can be easily made much greater than L_d. The benefit of the scheme usage is illustrated in simple circuit simulations for two types of potential applications with static, L_d = const, and dynamic, L_d(t), loads.