Patent ID: 8693160
Filing Date: 2014-04-08
Classification: H02N,H05F

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for inducing the flow of charged particles from the charge-rich outer atmosphere to ground, comprising: a. means for generating a first conductive channel through the atmosphere and in communication with the charge-rich outer atmosphere, said first conductive channel being substantially ring-shaped in cross-section and comprised of a wall of partially ionized atmosphere; said first conductive channel having a diameter; b. means for generating a second conductive channel through the atmosphere and in communication with the charge-rich outer atmosphere, said second conductive channel being substantially ring-shaped in cross-section and comprised of a wall of partially ionized atmosphere; said second conductive channel having a diameter greater than said diameter of said first conductive channel; said first conductive channel and said second conductive channel being concentric; and c. charged particle collection means associated with said means for generating said first and said second conductive channels.