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Surface discharge

By observing the phenomenon of surface discharge on glass surfaces, we can understand the scientific principles…

Surface discharge — Basic Science exhibit for science museums
Studio rendering
CategoryBasic Science
InteractionElectromechanical interactive
Standard sizeCustom size
SupplySingle unit or batch · OEM to your drawing
Lead timeStandard 4–8 weeks after deposit (confirmed per contract)
Warranty1 year, structure and control
DocumentsSpecification sheet · control diagram · spare-part list

A standard catalogue model: the dimensions, control package and finish are fixed, which is what keeps the price and the lead time predictable. Size, colour and interface language can be adapted without a new design cycle.

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01 / Overview

By observing the phenomenon of surface discharge on glass surfaces, we can understand the scientific principles behind its occurrence. The exhibit includes a glass panel, with high-voltage electrodes installed at the upper and lower ends of the glass panel. When the visitor presses the confirm button and high-voltage electricity is applied to the exhibit, the air on the glass surface is first ionized, forming multiple discharge channels. High voltage gas discharge occurs along the interface between solid and air. Target audience: Adolescents aged 6-15. Display format: Electromechanical interactive device operation instructions (audience experience) 1 Visitors press the start button, and the glass surface exhibits corona discharge phenomena similar to solar and lunar halos, as well as glow discharge phenomena similar to tree branches; 2. Understand the phenomenon and principle of surface discharge. Describing the intrinsic connections between storylines and exhibits in the field of electromagnetics through surface discharge.

02 / How visitors use it

Interaction type: Electromechanical interactive. The unit is designed for unsupervised public use: controls are recessed or shielded, moving parts are enclosed, and the interface is operable by a child of about six with no instruction. Where a screen is used, the language can be switched without changing the hardware, and the content can be replaced on site.

03 / The science behind it

Surface discharge refers to the discharge phenomenon along the interface of different aggregated dielectric states. Usually, more discharge occurs along the surface of solid media in gas or liquid dielectrics. In practical insulation structures, there is often gas or liquid dielectric present around solid dielectrics, such as air around line insulators or transformer oil around solid insulation of oil immersed transformers. In this case, discharge often occurs along the interface between two dielectrics. This type of discharge is called surface discharge. Reference materials.

04 / Built for a public floor

Every unit leaves the factory after a running test: mechanisms cycled, electronics burned in, edges dressed, fixings torqued and marked. Wear parts — bearings, sliders, lamps, belts, touch panels — are modular and listed on the spare-part sheet, so a venue technician can replace them without returning the exhibit. Crating is plywood with foam blocking; the loading plan and packing list travel with the shipment.

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