Core idea
Generate repeatable high-voltage pulses (nanosecond-scale targeted) and couple them into a defined gas path. We prioritize controllability and measurement so results are defensible and reproducible.
Overview
What we’re building
This capstone deliverable is a controllable high-voltage pulsed-discharge platform: pulse-generation electronics, HV conversion, pulse conditioning/protection, a reaction chamber, and basic instrumentation (including mass flow measurement and logging).
What “Car Filter” means here
“Car Filter” is the long-term application framing: a compact module that could be integrated into vehicles to reduce CO₂ emissions. In the capstone timeframe, we are building and validating the prototype platform and test methodology.
Project overview video
Short video update showing the current state of the build and direction.
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Engineering Update
Why we pivoted to nanosecond pulsed discharge
We originally explored a low-frequency, high-voltage spark approach using a Van de Graaff generator. We are now pursuing a nanosecond pulsed-discharge architecture because it supports better controllability, repetition-rate tuning, and measurement-driven iteration.
Original concept: low-frequency, open-air sparks
High-voltage spark behavior is difficult to control, hard to measure consistently, and poorly matched to repeatable experimentation. For a capstone deliverable, we need a platform that can be tuned and instrumented with clear operating conditions.
Current direction: fast pulsed discharge
Nanosecond pulsed discharge emphasizes fast voltage transitions and repeatable pulse delivery into the chamber. The goal is a controllable electrical drive that supports systematic testing (repetition, pulse timing, and flow) with logged conditions.
Phase 2.1 · Bring-up
StormFlask 2.0 platform
Establish a baseline chamber and pulser electronics that can be safely brought up and measured.
- Chamber assembly + electrode iteration
- Pulse-generation electronics integration
- Baseline measurements and repeatable behavior checks
Phase 2.2 · Pulse shaping & iteration
Refine the discharge regime
Improve pulse delivery and discharge stability through electrical and mechanical iteration.
- Pulse conditioning/protection network revisions
- Electrode geometry adjustments and spacing sweeps
- Repeatability mapping versus flow and repetition rate
Targets · Initial Operating Window
Voltage, repetition, control
Early testing uses bounded ranges suitable for safe staged bring-up and instrumentation.
- HV output target: 10–15 kV (load dependent)
- Repetition rate: kHz range (tunable)
- Mass flow monitored and PWM-driven via ESP32/Arduino
Long-term goal: improve efficiency and packaging so the concept could evolve into a compact module compatible with new or existing vehicles. In the near term, we prioritize a safe, repeatable platform and defensible measurements.
System Architecture
Prototype architecture at a glance
Control → pulse generation → HV conversion → pulse conditioning/protection → chamber. Instrumentation includes mass flow measurement and operational logging.
High Voltage
- Transformer-based HV stage (pulsed output)
- Pulse delivery is load dependent and instrumented
- Designed for controlled pulsed operation
Electronics
- MCU control (ESP32/Arduino-class)
- Isolated control path + switching/pulser stage
- Protection elements to reduce overstress
Chamber
- StormFlask 2.0 test article (Phase 2.1)
- Interchangeable electrode configurations
- Defined gas path through the discharge region
Instrumentation
- Mass flow sensor in-line on the gas path
- Electrical measurements (waveforms, stability trends)
- Structured test procedure and logging
Tap / hover a block
Control → Pulses → HV → Conditioning → Chamber → Measurements
Documentation
System diagrams (current) & build status
The diagrams below reflect our current architecture and control approach. Build photos and measured performance will be added after Phase 2.1 bring-up and instrumentation validation.
System flow (control → pulses → chamber → measurement)
MCU control is isolated, drives the pulser stage, feeds the HV conversion stage, then delivers pulses into the chamber through a protection/conditioning network. Mass flow measurement supports repeatable testing and logging.
Pulser electronics (switching + HV step-up)
The pulser stage converts low-voltage control into a fast primary waveform for the transformer-based HV output. Protection elements (as used) reduce switching overstress and improve survivability.
Practical Constraints
Realistic expectations
The goal is a stable, testable prototype platform. Performance claims are bounded by measurement, safety, and the realities of a senior-level engineering build.
What success looks like
Repeatable discharge behavior, a bounded operating window, documented test procedure, and measurable trends (electrical + flow/instrumentation).
Safety constraints
High voltage requires strict grounding, controlled enclosures, staged bring-up, and documented procedures. Safety is treated as a subsystem.
What we won’t overclaim
We do not claim industrial-scale conversion in a capstone. The deliverable is an engineered platform and validated experimental process.
For detailed build phases, roadblocks, and test plans, see the Progress page.
Optional
Short context quiz (non-technical)
This is for visitors who want a quick “why it matters” checkpoint before diving into the technical pages.