Patent ID: 7420182
Filing Date: 2008-09-02
Classification: F03H,H01J,H05H

Abstract:
1. A combined radio frequency (RF) and Hall Effect ion source and plasma accelerator system comprising: a plasma accelerator including an anode and a discharge zone, said plasma accelerator for providing plasma discharge; a gas distributor for introducing a gas into the plasma accelerator; a cathode for emitting electrons attracted to the anode and for neutralizing ion flux emitted from the plasma accelerator; an electrical circuit coupled between the anode and the cathode having a DC power source for providing DC voltage; a magnetic circuit structure including a magnetic field source for establishing a transverse magnetic field in said plasma accelerator that creates an impedance to the flow of the electrons toward said anode to enhance ionization of the gas to create plasma and which in combination with said electric circuit establishes an axial electric field in said plasma accelerator; and an RF power source for providing RF power to at least one electrode disposed about and/or inside said plasma accelerator that induces current for ionizing the gas to create the plasma such that said axial electric field accelerates ions through said plasma accelerator to provide ion flux.