Method and apparatus for locating film sample

Abstract

Systems and methods for enhanced film sample gripping solutions are provided. An apparatus for processing a thin film sample may include a sample holder configured to engage the thin film sample, where the sample holder includes one or more holding members configured to receive the thin film sample in a flat position relative to the sample holder, and one or more securing members configured to secure the one or more holding members to the one or more holding members. The one or more securing members are configured to securely maintain the film sample in a flat position during manipulation of the sample holder. The sample holder may include one or more apertures between the one or more fixing members that enable access to both sides of the thin film sample at two or more locations on the thin film sample. The sample holder may include a width adjustment component configured to allow adaptation to different sample widths.

Description

[0001] Priority claim

[0002] This patent application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 357,432, filed on June 30, 2022; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 405,640, filed on September 12, 2022; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 442,432, filed on January 31, 2023. Each of the foregoing applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to processing of thin film samples. More specifically, various implementations according to the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for positioning thin film samples.

[0004] Further limitations and disadvantages of the conventional methods will become apparent to those skilled in the art by comparing the conventional methods with some aspects of the present methods and systems as described in the remainder of this disclosure with reference to the accompanying figures. Summary of the invention

[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to testing solutions and systems for use in conjunction therewith. More particularly, various implementations according to the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for positioning thin film samples, substantially as illustrated by or described in conjunction with at least one of the accompanying drawings, and as more fully set forth in the claims.

[0006] These and other advantages, aspects and novel features of the present disclosure, as well as details of illustrated implementations of the disclosure, will be more fully understood from the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 An example apparatus for holding and clamping thin film samples is shown.

[0008] Figure 2 An example film sample holder that may be used in an apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample is shown.

[0009] Figure 3 An example film sample holder is shown when engaged with one or more holders in an apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample.

[0010] Figure 4 Example alignment features of a gripper that may be used in an apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample are shown.

[0011] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5DVarious perspective views of an example apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample are shown with the various components of the apparatus arranged together.

[0012] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Another example apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample is presented, wherein the apparatus has additional enhanced features.

[0013] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Another example apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample is presented, wherein the apparatus has a sample width adjustment feature. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Various implementations according to the present disclosure are intended to provide enhanced and optimized film clamping and holding solutions, particularly film sample holders for aligning film samples in material testing systems. As used herein, "film samples" are not limited to samples of films, and may also include samples of foils or other sheet-like objects that are thin enough to require careful handling to avoid deforming or otherwise damaging the samples when being handled. Material testing systems are used to measure physical properties of material samples, such as tensile strength or compressive strength. In this regard, the use and handling of film samples requires special care, especially when testing material properties of films.

[0015] Handling thin film samples requires a variety of particularly challenging actions, such as the insertion and alignment of such samples into a materials testing system. In particular, thin film samples are difficult to insert correctly (e.g., into a clamping component used to perform a tensile test). Further, sample alignment is difficult at best. For this reason, sample alignment is probably the most commonly mentioned issue when discussing any clamping solution. This is especially important when the sample being tested is extremely thin and easily damaged, as simply clamping or positioning the sample may damage it and render it unusable for testing.

[0016] Conventional solutions for handling thin film samples have various problems and disadvantages, particularly with respect to the insertion, clamping and alignment of thin film samples. For example, some existing solutions cause the sample to fold, and thus may require re-clamping the sample multiple times. This may damage the sample, cause jaw breakage or inconsistent results. Further, in many existing solutions, alignment is done manually, for example, by the user simply visually aligning.

[0017] The disclosed example film sample holder allows enhanced processing of film samples, particularly with respect to insertion, clamping and alignment. In particular, such a solution can achieve or enhance the ability to easily and repeatedly insert samples while being sure that the samples are aligned. The enhancement of this ability is highly desirable. For example, allowing reliably repeatable alignment is advantageous because it allows users to improve the repeatability of film sample processing. This processing repeatability during testing can, for example, increase throughput, while the retesting required due to unreliable results is reduced. Further, by reducing the variability of the results, the possibility that an operator may need to reject a batch of samples or individual samples (multiple samples from the same batch) can be reduced, which can be particularly important for quality control purposes. Similarly, enhanced clamping will lead to improved performance, because this will give users the confidence that they may be able to correctly clamp their samples for the first time, thereby greatly improving processing throughput.

[0018] Further, the solutions described herein can be configured for adjusting the clamping pressure. Allowing adjustment of the clamping pressure can be desirable because this can avoid damaging the sample, for example, before the test begins. In some cases, existing systems or devices (e.g., existing compressed air kits) can be used to facilitate or support such adjustment.

[0019] In various implementations based on the present disclosure, a holder for holding a film sample of a special design and construction is used. Such a holder can be configured to be used in combination with a clamping device, which is configured to clamp the film sample in a firm manner (i.e., without deforming the film sample or otherwise damaging it, while also maintaining the alignment of the film sample). In some implementations, a power (e.g., pneumatic) film sample clamping device can be used. In this regard, a dedicated film power clamp is provided, which provides easy sample alignment, combined with the ability to easily set and adjust the clamping pressure, thereby providing the user with the ability required for processing the film sample in an enhanced manner. In this regard, in some cases, this can be accomplished by using a dedicated enhanced clamping attachment that can operate in conjunction with an existing clamping device. In other words, in some cases, instead of using a clamping device of a completely new design and construction, an enhanced attachment and alignment component configured to operate in conjunction with an existing clamping device can be used. These features are described in more detail with respect to the example implementation described below.

[0020] As used herein, "and / or" refers to any one or more of the multiple items connected by "and / or" in a list. As an example, "x and / or y" refers to any element in a three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" refers to "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" refers to any element in a seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" refers to "one or more of x, y and z". As used herein, the term "exemplary" refers to being used as a non-limiting example, instance or illustration. As used herein, the terms "for example" and "eg" lead to a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations.

[0021] As used herein, the terms "circuit" and "circuitry" refer to physical electronic components (e.g., hardware) and any software and / or firmware ("code") that can configure the hardware, be executed by the hardware, and / or be otherwise associated with the hardware. For example, as used herein, a specific processor and memory (e.g., volatile or non-volatile memory device, general computer readable medium, etc.) can constitute a first "circuit" when executing a first set of one or more lines of code, and a second "circuit" when executing a second set of one or more lines of code. Additionally, a circuit may include an analog circuit system and / or a digital circuit system. Such a circuit system may, for example, operate on analog signals and / or digital signals. It should be understood that a circuit may be in a single device or chip, on a single motherboard, in a single housing, in multiple housings at a single geographic location, in multiple chassis distributed in multiple geographic locations, etc. Similarly, for example, the term "module" may refer to physical electronic components (e.g., hardware) and any software and / or firmware ("code") that can configure the hardware, be executed by the hardware, and / or be otherwise associated with the hardware.

[0022] As used herein, a circuit system or module is “operable” to perform a function when it includes the necessary hardware and code (if necessary) to perform that function, regardless of whether performance of that function is disabled or not enabled (e.g., by user-configurable settings, factory adjustments, etc.).

[0023] Various implementations according to the present disclosure are intended to provide enhanced and optimized film clamping and holding solutions, particularly film sample holders. In this regard, the use and handling of film samples is very critical, particularly in certain industries such as the manufacture of batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs), where film samples or components (e.g., sorters, etc.) containing such samples are handled when assembling or forming batteries. Processing film samples requires various particularly difficult actions, such as the insertion and alignment of such samples. In particular, film samples are difficult to insert correctly (e.g., into a clamping component for a processing system). Further, sample alignment is difficult at best. In this regard, sample alignment may be the most frequently mentioned issue when discussing any clamping solution. This is especially important when the sample being tested is extremely thin and easily damaged, because simply clamping the sample may damage it and make it unusable for testing.

[0024] Conventional solutions for handling thin film samples, if any, have various problems and drawbacks, particularly with respect to the insertion, clamping and alignment of thin film samples. For example, some existing solutions cause the sample to fold, and thus may require re-clamping the sample multiple times. This may damage the sample, cause jaw breakage or inconsistent results. Further, in many existing solutions, alignment is done manually, for example, by a user simply visually aligning.

[0025] Solutions based on the present disclosure allow for better handling of thin film samples, particularly for insertion, clamping and alignment. In particular, such solutions can achieve or enhance the ability to easily and repeatedly insert samples while being confident that the samples are aligned. The enhancement of this ability is highly desirable. For example, allowing reliably repeatable alignment is advantageous because it allows users to improve the repeatability of thin film sample handling. This handling repeatability during testing can, for example, increase throughput while reducing the retesting required due to unreliable results. Similarly, enhanced clamping will result in improved performance because it will give users the confidence that they may be able to correctly clamp their samples for the first time, thereby greatly improving processing throughput.

[0026] Further, the solutions described herein can be configured for adjusting the clamping pressure. Allowing adjustment of the clamping pressure can be desirable because this can avoid damaging the sample, for example, before the test begins. In some cases, existing systems or devices (e.g., existing compressed air kits) can be used to facilitate or support such adjustment.

[0027] In various implementations based on the present disclosure, a specially designed and constructed holder for holding a film sample is used. Such a holder can be configured for use in combination with a clamping device, which is configured to clamp the film sample in a secure manner (i.e., without deforming or otherwise damaging the film sample, while also maintaining the alignment of the film sample). In some implementations, a power (e.g., pneumatic) film sample clamping device can be used. In this regard, a power clamp is provided, which provides easy sample alignment, coupled with the ability to easily set and adjust the clamping pressure, thereby providing the user with the ability to handle the film sample in an enhanced manner. These features will be described in more detail with reference to the example implementation described below.

[0028] Figure 1 An example device for holding and clamping thin film samples is shown. Figure 1 Shown in the drawings is an apparatus 100 (or its various components) that can be used to hold and clamp a thin film sample, particularly in an enhanced and improved manner. Figure 1 As shown, the apparatus 100 includes a sample holder 110 , one or more grippers 120 , and one or more gripper controllers 130 .

[0029] The sample holder 110 is configured to hold the thin film sample in a secure manner, i.e., to allow the insertion of the thin film sample 140, wherein the thin film sample 140 is then securely held so that the sample 140 is maintained in a flat position. During subsequent subsequent processing thereafter (e.g., during transport, positioning and alignment and / or clamping with the clamp 120), the sample holder 110 maintains the sample 140 in a flat (e.g., strained) position without causing deformation or other damage to the sample 140. Any suitable design or method may be used in implementing the sample holder 110, as long as the thin film sample 140 can be securely inserted and securely held, i.e., maintained flat without being deformed or otherwise damaged. Reference will be made to Figure 2 Non-limiting example implementations of the sample holder 110 are shown and described in greater detail.

[0030] The one or more grippers 120 are configured to grip the film sample once engaged by the sample holder 110. For example, the grippers 120 may include gripping members that may be adjusted to engage the film sample 140 to maintain a grip on the film sample 140 (e.g., during a tensile test) but without deforming or otherwise damaging the sample 140. The grippers 120 may also include or otherwise be attached to an alignment member 150. In this regard, the alignment member 150 may be configured to hold the film sample 140 once engaged by the one or more grippers 120. Referring to Figure 3The alignment member 150 is described in more detail in the non-limiting example implementations shown in FIG. In various implementations, the one or more clamps 120 can be powered (e.g., pneumatically, although the present disclosure is not limited to the use of pneumatic-based designs) to allow for adaptively adjustable clamping. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Various features of the holder 120 are described in more detail in the non-limiting example implementation shown in FIG.

[0031] The one or more gripper controllers 130 are configured to engage the one or more grippers 120 and drive them during operation. In this regard, each gripper controller 130 may be configured to engage or otherwise attach to one or more grippers 120, and drive and control the operation of one or more grippers 120. To this end, the gripper controller 130 may include suitable (e.g., having any suitable mechanical design) engaging or attaching components for engaging, coupling to, or otherwise attaching to one or more grippers 120. In addition, the gripper controller 130 may include suitable drive components for driving one or more grippers 120. For example, where one or more grippers 120 are powered devices, the gripper controller 130 may include suitable components for providing and / or otherwise adjusting the power of one or more grippers 120. Where one or more grippers 120 may be pneumatically driven, for example, the gripper controller 130 may include valves and / or conduits for delivering compressed air into and out of one or more grippers 120. In Figure 1 This design is shown in the non-limiting example implementation presented in .

[0032] In some cases, the gripper controller 130 may include circuitry for managing and controlling various functions associated with powering and driving the gripper 120. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and in other implementations, the gripper controller 130 may instead be connected to a dedicated control system (e.g., a programmed computer system) that provides control signals for controlling and managing the powering and driving of the gripper 120.

[0033] In an example operation, a film sample may be inserted into the sample holder 110 and then securely held thereby. The gripper 120 may then be engaged or otherwise attached to the gripper controller 130. One or more combinations of the gripper 120 and the gripper controller 130 may then be engaged with the sample holder 110, wherein the gripper 120 directly engages and clamps the film sample 140 held in the sample holder 110. In this regard, the gripper 120 may ensure that the alignment of the film sample 140 is maintained when engaging and clamping the film sample 140. To this end, the gripper 120 may include specific components, mechanisms, and / or design features for maintaining the alignment of the film sample. For example, the gripper 120 may include alignment components to maintain such alignment. Such alignment components may include, for example, alignment channels that are specifically designed to align with the film sample held in the sample holder 110 and maintain the alignment when the film sample is engaged and clamped by the gripper 120. The following reference is made to Figures 2 to 5D The various components of the device 100 and their operation and specific features are described in more detail.

[0034] Figure 2 An example film holder that may be used in an apparatus for holding and clamping thin film samples is shown. Figure 2 It is shown in Figure 1 A sample holder 110 is provided.

[0035] In this regard, as described above, the sample holder 110 is configured to hold the thin film sample in a secure manner. Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the sample holder 110 includes a flat holding surface 220 on which the thin film sample is placed and one or more fixing elements 210 that fix the thin film sample once it is laid on the flat holding surface 220. Figure 2 In the non-limiting example implementation shown in , the fixing element 210 can have a hinge or clamping (e.g., spring clip) design. However, the present disclosure is not limited to such designs, and therefore, any suitable design can be used as long as such design allows the thin film sample 140 to be fixed once applied to the sample holder 110. For example, when the sample 140 is positioned on an external surface, a detachable spring clip can be used to hold the sample 140, or the sample 140 can be held using a built-in or detachable clamp.

[0036] The fixing elements 210 are located on either side of the holding surface 220 (e.g., at each end of the sample holder 110), and one or more apertures 230 are defined between the fixing elements 210 to provide access of the holder 120 to the sample 140. Figure 2In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, there is an orifice 230 between each fixing element 210 and the holding surface 220. The orifice 230 can be sized based on the size of the clamping surface that contacts the sample 140. In the example where there is no holding surface 220 between the fixing elements 210, the orifice 230 can extend the entire length between the fixing elements. By fixing the sample 140 via the fixing elements 210 and clamping the sample 140 at the orifice 230 between the fixing elements 210, the film sample 140 can be more easily aligned and clamped while being kept in a flat and taut position.

[0037] Figure 3 An example film holder is shown when engaged with one or more holders in an apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample 140 . Figure 3 It is shown in Figure 1 A sample holder 110 is provided, wherein two clamps 120 are engaged with the sample holder.

[0038] In this regard, as described above, in an example operation, after the film sample is applied and held within the sample holder 110, the clamp 120 may be applied. The clamp 120 may include suitable components or elements for ensuring a secure and safe clamping of the film sample, i.e., wherein the film sample 140 is clamped such that it remains flat and does not suffer any damage or deformation thereto due to the holding and clamping. For example, in Figure 3 In the non-limiting example implementation shown in , each clamp 120 may include an alignment component 310 and a clamping component 320 .

[0039] The alignment member 310 can be configured to align the thin film sample 140 with the clamping member 320. In this regard, the alignment member 310 can be represented by a non-limiting example implementation of the alignment member 150 as described herein. The alignment member 310 can include an alignment channel that is specifically designed to align with the flat holding surface 220 of the sample holder 110 so that the thin film sample 140 remains aligned and flat when the clamping member 320 engages the sample 140.

[0040] The clamping member 320 may be configured to clamp the film sample 140. In this regard, various designs or methods may be used to achieve this effect. Figure 3 In the non-limiting example implementation shown in , the clamping member 320 may include two opposing square plates that can move inward (toward each other) or outward (away from each other). In the industry, certain implementations of the clamping member 320 may be referred to as "jaws" or "jaw faces."

[0041] Various mechanisms can be used to facilitate this movement. For example, in some cases, a pneumatic mechanism can be used, for example, using the injection of compressed air to facilitate inward movement, and using the release of air to cause outward movement. Thus, in order to achieve clamping, the plates can move inward.

[0042] Figure 4 Example alignment features of a gripper that may be used in an apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample are shown. Figure 4 Shown in FIG. 4 is an alignment component 400 that may be used with a holder, such as holder 120, used in an apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample according to the present disclosure.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown in , the alignment member 400 can have a section that forms an alignment channel 410 for ensuring and maintaining the alignment of the thin film sample 140 once it is inserted into and held by a holder member (e.g., sample holder 110) as described herein. The alignment member 400 can further include a section for attaching it to a clamping device (e.g., clamp 120). For example, as Figure 4 As shown in the non-limiting example implementation illustrated in , the alignment member 400 may include an attachment section that includes a hole for bolting or otherwise attaching the alignment member 400 to one or more holders 120 as shown in the various figures.

[0044] Each holder 120 may include a corresponding alignment feature 400. In some examples, the alignment channel 410 is defined by a first surface 420 that determines the position of a sample side of the sample holder 110 (e.g., the side of the holding feature 120 that contacts the sample 140), a second surface 430 that determines the position of a non-sample side of the sample holder 110, and a stop surface 440 that provides an indication of the vertical alignment of the sample holder 110. In some examples, one or more of these surfaces and / or the holding features 120 may be slightly magnetically attractive to maintain the holder 110 engaged with the alignment feature 400 without substantially affecting the operator's ability to adjust the position of the sample holder 110 relative to the alignment feature 400. In other examples, the alignment feature 400 and / or the holder 110 may have a sufficiently high coefficient of friction to keep the holder 110 in place in the alignment channel 410 when properly positioned.

[0045] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D Various perspective views of an example apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample are shown with the various components of the apparatus arranged together. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D , an example device for holding and clamping a thin film sample according to the present disclosure (e.g., Figure 1 100), wherein different components of the device (e.g., a holder 110, one or more grippers 120, and one or more gripper controllers 130) are arranged together, for example, when engaging / holding a thin film sample. In this regard, FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D The fully assembled device 100 is shown from different views to illustrate how the components engage with each other as a thin film sample is applied and retained within the device.

[0046] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Another example device for holding and clamping a thin film sample is shown with additional enhanced features. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Shown in FIG. 6 is an apparatus 600 (or a component thereof) that may be used to hold and clamp a thin film sample, particularly in an enhanced and improved manner.

[0047] Device 600 may be substantially similar to other devices described herein (e.g., device 100) and may operate in a substantially similar manner. In this regard, FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B As shown, the device 600 includes a sample holder 610 and one or more alignment components 620. Further, although FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Not shown, the device 600 may include other components, such as one or more grippers, one or more gripper controllers, etc. The different components of the device 600 may be similar or identical to similar components in other example implementations described above, and may operate in a substantially similar or identical manner to similar components in other example implementations described above.

[0048] For example, sample holder 610 may be similar to sample holder 110 and may be similarly configured to hold a thin film sample in a fixed manner, i.e., to allow a thin film sample (e.g., Fig. 6A 630). In this way, once engaged by the holder 610, the sample 630 can be securely held so that the sample 630 is maintained in a flat position. Similarly, each alignment component 620 can be similar or identical to any one of the one or more sample alignment components 150, 310 and / or 400 described herein, and can be similarly configured to maintain the alignment of the sample 630 held in the sample holder 610. For example, once engaged by one or more clamps (not shown), for example, when the sample 630 is engaged and clamped by the clamps, the alignment component 620 can be aligned with the sample 630 held in the sample holder 610 and can maintain the alignment, as described in more detail above.

[0049] However, the components of device 600 may include additional features for enhanced performance. For example, Fig. 6AAs shown in , the alignment member 620 may include longer fins (thereby creating a longer channel) than other example implementations described above to achieve better alignment of the sample. Fig. 6A 6, wherein a holder 610 (in which a sample 620 is inserted) is shown engaged with one or more alignment features 630 having a plurality of alignment features. Figure 4 The example shown in aligns the components with longer fins.

[0050] Furthermore, if Figure 6B , the holder 610 can include one or more pads (e.g., rubber pads) 640 on the base 612 of the holder 610. In this regard, the use of such pads can enhance engagement of the sample by ensuring that the holder remains stationary (i.e., does not move) while the sample is being inserted and engaged (e.g., by a fixed element of the holder 610).

[0051] like Figure 6B As shown in, holder 610 can also include one or more magnetic elements 650 to further enhance the engagement of sample. In this regard, one or more magnetic elements 650 can be included in one or both of the relative inner sides of the inner side of the base 612 of holder 610 and the connection fixing element of holder arm 614. In this regard, when the sample is placed in the holder 610, the holder arm 614 is pushed to allow the fixing element to be opened. Therefore, when engaging the sample, once the holder arm 614 is pushed toward the base, one or more magnetic elements can be engaged, and the fixing element is kept open until the sample is laid or placed. In some cases, a single magnet can be used on one of the two relative inner sides, and a metal piece is placed on the opposite side. Alternatively, two magnets (one on each side) can be used. Further, in some implementations, a single magnetic-based arrangement is used, for example, in the middle / center of the retainer arm 614 that connects the fixed element, while in other implementations, multiple arrangements may be used (e.g., two (one at each end), three (one in the center, one at each end), etc.).

[0052] One or more magnetic elements and their arrangement can be selected or adjusted to provide a magnetic force that is just strong enough to hold the fixing element open (so that an operator is not required to do so) but not so strong that too much force is required to overcome (which may adversely affect the positioning of the sample before being engaged by the fixing element). In other examples, one or more magnets can be replaced by other types of retaining devices to hold the fixing element in an open position. For example, other retaining devices that can be attached and / or integrated into the sample holder 610 can include hooks, clips or clamps (e.g., to hold the retainer arm 614 against the body of the sample holder), stops or supports (e.g., to hold one or both fixing elements away from the body 620) and / or any other type of retaining device.

[0053] In some implementations, a device (such as any of the devices described herein) may also include adjustment-related features and / or components that can be used to adjust the device, particularly the sample holder, to allow for accommodation of samples of different sizes and / or shapes. For example, in an example implementation, the sample holding component can be split downward in the middle, with each side being configurable to be individually moved and locked in place as needed. In another example implementation, an adjustable internal slider with markings along the device can be used to indicate a set length and width of the sample. Relatedly, in such an implementation, a plurality of magnet-based arrangements can be used, each magnet-based arrangement being on a different portion of the sample holding device, such as on each end, for holding.

[0054] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Another example apparatus for holding and clamping a thin film sample with a sample width adjustment feature is shown. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Shown in FIG. 7 is an apparatus 700 (or a component thereof) that may be used to hold and clamp a thin film sample, particularly in an enhanced and improved manner.

[0055] Device 700 may be substantially similar to other devices described herein (e.g., device 100 and device 600), and may operate in a substantially similar manner. In this regard, FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B As shown, the device 700 includes a sample holder 710, one or more grippers 720, one or more gripper controllers 730, and one or more alignment components 750. These components of the device 700 may be similar or identical to similar components in other example implementations described above, and may operate in a substantially similar or identical manner to similar components in other example implementations described above.

[0056] For example, sample holder 710 can be similar to each of sample holder 110 and sample holder 610, and can be similarly configured to hold a thin film sample in a secure manner, i.e., to allow insertion of a thin film sample. In this regard, sample holder 710 can include components and / or features for securely engaging and holding a sample such that once engaged, the sample is maintained in a flat position. For example, as FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B As shown, the sample holder 710 can include a central planar holding surface and securing elements (eg, clamps) that secure the film sample once it is laid on the planar holding surface.

[0057] Similarly, the alignment component 750 can be similar or identical to any of the one or more sample alignment components 150, 310, 400, and / or 620 described herein, and can similarly be configured to maintain alignment of a sample held in the sample holder 710. However, example implementations based on the present disclosure can ensure that the sample is aligned in a different manner such that an alignment device attached to the holder may not be required. For example, the width adjustment component can include an alignment feature (e.g., such as Figure 7B 7 ), the alignment features are indicated to corresponding alignment indicating features (e.g., holes or spaces) on the front face of the holder as shown in FIG. Once engaged by one or more holders (not shown), for example, when the sample is engaged and clamped by the holder, the alignment member 750 can be aligned with the sample held in the sample holder 710 and the alignment can be maintained, as described in more detail above.

[0058] Additionally, however, the apparatus 700 may be configured to allow sample width adjustment. In this regard, in some cases, it may be desirable to allow width adjustment so that different sample widths may be desired. This may be accomplished, for example, by allowing adjustment movement of at least a portion of the sample holder in a lateral direction (e.g., FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B ). In this regard, in some cases, indicator features can be incorporated into the clamp (e.g., extending out of the end of the clamp) that control engagement with the sample holder (e.g., how far the sample holder can be inserted), wherein the width adjustment feature allows samples of different widths to be accommodated by adjusting the amount of insertion. Thus, the use of a width adjustment feature in a sample holder can allow a portion of the sample holder to be moved laterally so that samples of different widths can be accommodated.

[0059] In some example implementations, width adjustment may be provided by using a spring or similar tension-based element, such as FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B However, the present disclosure is not limited to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7BThe embodiments presented in , and any other suitable implementations providing width adjustment in a substantially similar manner will similarly apply.

[0060] For example, FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B As shown in , the sample holder 710 can include a width adjustment component 760 that can be configured to enable or support width-based adjustments. In this regard, the width adjustment component 760 can be implemented as a mounting feature to allow sample alignment without having to use a back-side part attached to a clamp (e.g., the clamp 720 in the device 700). In particular, in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B In the example implementation shown in FIG. 1 , the width adjustment component 760 can be implemented as a spring-loaded component, for example, including a load spring 764 whose tension or compression can be adjusted, wherein the compression of the load spring 764 is adjusted by, for example, Figure 7B 764. Thus, the user can turn the thumb screw 762 and set the distance from the center of the load spring 764 so that samples of different widths can all be aligned with the center of the load spring 764 using the same device.

[0061] In an example implementation, a fixed element of the sample holder (e.g., FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B ) can be configured to engage synchronously (i.e., in unison). Alternatively, in other implementations, the fixing elements can be engaged individually and independently, for example, first via one fixing element (e.g., one of the clips) and then via another fixing element (e.g., a second clip). Moreover, although the fixing elements are shown in the various figures as being of the same type (e.g., clips), the disclosure is not limited thereto, and thus different fixing elements, e.g., different types of the same mechanism (e.g., different clips), or completely different types of engagement mechanisms, etc., can be used with the same sample holder.

[0062] In some implementations, the sample holder may also include a mechanism for allowing length adjustment (optionally in combination with a width adjustment feature).

[0063] In an example use case, the sample can be joined to the sample holder (after making necessary width adjustments). This may require clamping one side, then clamping the second side after ensuring the sample is flattened. The sample holder with the sample is then joined to the clamp.

[0064] An example device for processing a thin film sample according to the present disclosure includes a sample holder configured to engage the thin film sample, wherein the sample holder includes one or more holding components and one or more fixing components, the one or more holding components are configured to receive the thin film sample in a flat position relative to the sample holder, the one or more fixing components are configured to securely maintain the thin film sample in the flat position during manipulation of the sample holder, and wherein the sample holder includes one or more orifices between the one or more fixing components, the one or more orifices enabling access to both sides of the thin film sample at two or more locations on the thin film sample.

[0065] In an example embodiment, the one or more retaining features include a planar retaining surface located between the one or more apertures.

[0066] In an example embodiment, the apparatus further includes a first alignment component configured to attach to a first clamp of the material testing system and to receive the flat retaining surface such that when the flat retaining surface is fully inserted into the first alignment component, the sample is aligned with the first clamp of the material testing system.

[0067] In an example embodiment, the apparatus further includes a second alignment component configured to be attached to a second clamp of the material testing system, and the first alignment component and the second alignment component are configured to receive the flat retaining surface such that when the flat retaining surface is fully inserted into the first alignment component and the second alignment component, the sample is aligned with the first clamp and the second clamp of the material testing system.

[0068] In an example embodiment, the one or more securing components include one or more clamping components.

[0069] In example embodiments, at least one clamping member is integral to the sample holder.

[0070] In an example embodiment, at least one clamping component includes a surface integral to the sample holder and a removable retaining clip.

[0071] In an example embodiment, the one or more apertures provide access to both sides of the thin film sample from the grips of the materials testing system.

[0072] In an example embodiment, the sample holder further comprises one or more pads on a bottom surface of the sample holder, the one or more pads configured to maintain the sample holder stationary when engaging the thin film sample.

[0073] In an example embodiment, the sample holder further comprises one or more magnetic-based arrangements configured to hold the one or more securing components open while the thin film sample is being inserted or engaged to the sample holder.

[0074] An example device for processing a thin film sample according to the present disclosure includes a sample holder configured to engage the thin film sample, wherein the sample holder includes: one or more holding components, the one or more holding components are configured to receive the thin film sample in a flat position relative to the sample holder; and one or more fixing components, the one or more fixing components are configured to firmly maintain the thin film sample in the flat position during manipulation of the sample holder; a width adjustment component, the width adjustment component is configured to allow different sample widths to be accommodated.

[0075] In an example embodiment, wherein the width adjustment component is configured to enable at least a portion of the sample holder to move in a lateral direction.

[0076] In an example embodiment, the width adjustment component comprises a spring based component.

[0077] In an example embodiment, a spring-based component includes a load spring and a control element configured to allow adjustment of the tension or compression of the load spring.

[0078] In an example embodiment, the control element comprises a thumbscrew.

[0079] In example embodiments, each of the one or more securing components are of the same type and / or utilize the same type of securing mechanism.

[0080] In example embodiments, at least one fixing component has a different fixing mechanism of the same type and / or uses a different type of fixing mechanism than at least one other fixing component.

[0081] In an example embodiment, the one or more securing components include one or more clamping components.

[0082] In example embodiments, at least one clamping member is integral to the sample holder.

[0083] In an example embodiment, at least one clamping component includes a surface integral to the sample holder and a removable retaining clip.

[0084] According to other implementations of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium and / or storage medium, and / or a non-transitory machine-readable medium and / or storage medium may be provided, on which a machine code and / or a computer program having at least one code segment is stored, and the at least one code segment can be executed by a machine and / or a computer, so that the machine and / or the computer performs the process described herein.

[0085] Therefore, various implementations according to the present disclosure can be implemented with hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software. The present disclosure can be implemented in a centralized manner in at least one computing system, or in a distributed manner with different elements spread over several interconnected computing systems. Any type of computing system or other device adapted to perform the method described herein is suitable. A typical combination of hardware and software can be a general-purpose computing system with a program or other code, which controls the computing system when loaded and executed so that the computing system performs the method described herein. Another typical implementation can include a dedicated integrated circuit or chip.

[0086] Various implementations according to the present disclosure may also be embedded in a computer program product, which includes all the features enabling the implementation of the methods described herein and which, when loaded into a computer system, is capable of executing these methods. A computer program in the context of this application refers to any expression in any language, code or annotation of a set of instructions intended to cause a system with information processing capabilities to perform a specific function, either directly or after either or both of the following processes: a) converted into another language, code or annotation; b) reproduced in a different material form.

[0087] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain implementations, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes may be made and may be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the frames and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, divided, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed, but the present disclosure will include all implementations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for processing a thin film sample, the device comprising: a sample holder configured to engage a thin film sample; Wherein, the sample holder comprises: one or more holding members configured to receive the thin film sample in a flat position relative to the sample holder; and one or more securing components configured to securely maintain the thin film sample in the flat position during manipulation of the sample holder; and Wherein the sample holder comprises one or more apertures between the one or more fixing components, the one or more apertures enabling access to both sides of the film sample at two or more locations on the film sample.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more retaining features include a planar retaining surface located between the one or more apertures.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a first alignment component configured to attach to a first clamp of a material testing system and receive the flat retaining surface such that when the flat retaining surface is fully inserted into the first alignment component, the sample is aligned with the first clamp of the material testing system.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a second alignment component configured to attach to a second clamp of the material testing system, the first alignment component and the second alignment component configured to receive the flat retaining surface so that when the flat retaining surface is fully inserted into the first alignment component and the second alignment component, the sample is aligned with the first clamp and the second clamp of the material testing system.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein: The one or more fixing components include one or more clamping components.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein: At least one clamping member is integral with the sample holder.

7. The device of claim 5, wherein: At least one clamping member includes a surface integral to the sample holder and a removable retaining clip.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein: The one or more ports provide access to both sides of the film sample from the grips of the materials testing system.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein: The sample holder further includes one or more pads on a bottom surface of the sample holder configured to maintain the sample holder stationary when engaging the thin film sample.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein: The sample holder further includes one or more magnetic-based arrangements configured to hold the one or more securing components open when the thin film sample is inserted into or engaged to the sample holder.

11. An apparatus for processing a thin film sample, the apparatus comprising: a sample holder configured to engage a thin film sample; Wherein, the sample holder comprises: one or more holding members configured to receive the thin film sample in a flat position relative to the sample holder; and one or more securing components configured to securely maintain the thin film sample in the flat position during manipulation of the sample holder; A width adjustment component is configured to allow different sample widths to be accommodated.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein: The width adjustment feature is configured to enable at least a portion of the sample holder to move in a lateral direction.

13. The device of claim 11, wherein: The width adjustment component includes a spring based component.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein: The spring-based component includes a load spring and a control element configured to allow adjustment of the tension or compression of the load spring.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein: The control element includes a thumbscrew.

16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein: Each of the one or more securing components has and / or uses the same type of securing mechanism.

17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein: At least one fastening component has a different fastening mechanism of the same type than at least one other fastening component and / or uses a different type of fastening mechanism.

18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein: The one or more fixing components include one or more clamping components.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein: At least one clamping member is integral with the sample holder.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein: At least one clamping member includes a surface integral to the sample holder and a removable retaining clip.

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