Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1987
Title: Thomas Burkes: Innovator in Thyratron Technology
Introduction
Thomas Burkes is a notable inventor based in Lubbock, TX (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of electrical engineering, particularly with his innovative work on thyratron technology. His expertise and inventions have garnered attention in various applications, especially in high-power switching.
Latest Patents
Burkes holds a patent for a device known as the Linear Geometry Thyratron. This low-pressure gas-filled thyratron is designed to be scalable in the long dimension. The internal structure of the tube is formed as a tetrode, featuring an auxiliary grid positioned between the cathode and the control grid. A DC or pulsed power source drives the auxiliary grid to ensure uniform cathode emission and to establish a grid-cathode plasma prior to commutation. The high voltage holdoff structure comprises the anode, the control grid, and its electrostatic shielding baffles, along with a main quartz insulator. Additionally, a small gas flow supply and exhaust system is utilized, eliminating the need for a hydrogen reservoir and allowing for the use of other gases, such as helium. This thyratron configuration provides a low inductance, high current, long lifetime switch, making it particularly useful for switch-on applications involving large-scale lasers and similar loads distributed in a linear geometry.
Career Highlights
Burkes is currently associated with the United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force. His work has been instrumental in advancing technologies that require reliable and efficient switching mechanisms.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Burkes has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Stanley R Byron and Rodney A Petr. These collaborations have contributed to the development and refinement of his innovative technologies.
Conclusion
Thomas Burkes is a distinguished inventor whose work on the Linear Geometry Thyratron has made a significant impact in the field of electrical engineering. His contributions continue to influence advancements in high-power switching applications.