System and fixing device for electrode connection

Abstract

Example electrode connection systems and devices for samples during electrochemical machining procedures are disclosed. In particular, the electrode connection system may support, retain, contain a sample and / or otherwise maintain contact with the sample in an electrochemical machining system. For example, a sample may be housed in a fixture with electrodes in electrical contact with the sample and a common return path (e.g., to ground) to flow an electrical current from an electrolyte solution through the sample. The fixture and the sample may include an electrically conductive material.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a non-provisional patent application of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 448,756, filed on February 28, 2023, entitled “Systems And Fixtures For Electrode Connections,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0002] Electrochemical machining operations are performed on samples for numerous purposes and across a wide variety of sectors and industries. In some applications, electrochemical machining is performed by applying a fluid through a nozzle. Some electrochemical machining operations dispense a charged fluid jet toward a conductive sample. However, ensuring that the sample maintains a secure ground connection is often difficult, which can negatively impact operational performance. Therefore, systems and methods for ensuring a consistent ground path during electrochemical machining operations are desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Systems and methods of sample electrode connection systems and apparatus for electrochemical machining are disclosed, substantially as shown and described in conjunction with at least one of the accompanying drawings, as more fully set forth in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIG. 1 illustrates an example electrochemical machining system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0005] FIG. 2A illustrates an example electrode connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0006] FIG. 2B illustrates another example electrode connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2C illustrates another example electrode connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0008] 3A and 3B illustrate example electrode connection systems employing posts to position electrodes according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0009] 4A-4C illustrate example electrode connection systems employing a stage according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0010] 5 illustrates an example electrode connection system for a sample contained within a container, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates an example specimen immobilization system for a sample in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] 7A illustrates an example system for connecting an unmounted sample in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] 7B illustrates a plan view of components of the example system of FIG. 7A , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] 8A-8E illustrate views of another example system for connecting samples according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates another example system for connecting samples according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] 10A and 10B illustrate example conductive pads for supporting conductive samples according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Where appropriate, similar or identical reference numbers are used to designate similar or identical components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Disclosed are electrode connection systems and devices for use with samples during electrochemical machining procedures. Specifically, the electrode connection system can support, hold, contain, and / or otherwise maintain contact with a sample in an electrochemical machining system. For example, the sample can be housed in a fixture, where electrodes are in electrical contact with the sample and a common return path (e.g., to ground) to allow current to flow from an electrolyte solution through the sample. The fixture and sample can include conductive materials.

[0019] In some examples, an electrochemical machining system includes a nozzle configured to dispense a jet of an electrolyte solution toward a surface of a sample. The electrochemical machining is performed by applying an electrical charge to the nozzle and applying an electrical charge to the sample (e.g., ground or other charge return path), such that the nozzle and the sample define a first electrode and a second electrode of an electrolytic cell electrically connected by the jet of charged electrolyte solution.

[0020] During the electrochemical machining procedure, the electrode connection system or device maintains a ground path through the sample.A variety of electrode connection systems or devices are provided, suitable for various samples and / or desired results.

[0021] Conventional systems and methods utilize clamps (such as alligator clips) or laboratory pliers designed to clamp directly onto the sample. However, alligator clip connections are only suitable for a limited range of sample types, machines, and / or processing procedures. For example, maintaining contact with mounted and thick samples can be difficult, while laboratory pliers can be difficult to handle and use during machine processing.

[0022] Advantageously, the disclosed electrode connection systems or devices enable users to quickly create electrode connections and begin etching / polishing cycles. Further, these systems and devices are designed for a variety of sample types and processing procedures, thereby ensuring consistent connections and enhancing sample stability during processing operations. As a result, procedures and sample setups are faster and result in higher, more consistent quality.

[0023] In a disclosed example, an electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system includes a fixture for receiving the sample and electrodes in electrical contact with a common return path for flowing current from an electrolyte solution through the sample.

[0024] In some examples, the sample includes a conductive material.

[0025] In some examples, a mount supports the sample, the mount being housed within the fixture. In examples, the fixture or mount comprises a conductive material, and a common return path directs current through the sample, the electrode, and the mount or fixture.

[0026] In some examples, the fixture is an annular fixture having a substantially circular shape.

[0027] In some examples, the post positions the electrode to make electrical contact with the sample. In some examples, the post comprises a conductive material. In some examples, the post comprises an electrically insulating material. In some examples, the biasing element forces the electrode into physical and electrical contact with the sample.

[0028] In some examples, the electrode is configured to extend through a portion of the mount via the opening to make physical and electrical contact with the sample.

[0029] In some examples, the electrode connector is in electrical contact with the electrode and the common return path.In an example, the electrode connector is mounted to the fixture by one or more of a clip, a weld, a fastener, a bolt, a screw, a plug, a banana jack, or a press fit.

[0030] In some examples, the stage is configured to support a sample or a fixture. In an example, the stage is in electrical contact with the common return path and the sample or the fixture.

[0031] In some disclosed examples, an electrochemical machining system for machining a surface of a sample includes: a nozzle configured to direct a jet of an electrolyte solution toward the surface of the sample, wherein an electric charge is applied to the nozzle; a fixture for holding the sample; a stage in electrical contact with the sample or the fixture; and a common return path in electrical contact with the stage to allow electric charge to flow from the electrolyte solution to the common return path via the sample.

[0032] In some examples, a mount holds the sample, the mount comprising a conductive material. In examples, charge flows from the electrolyte solution through the sample and the stage via a fixture or mount for holding the sample.

[0033] In some examples, the chamber houses a sample during the electrochemical machining process.

[0034] In some examples, the sample is supported by a mount that is received within the fixture.

[0035] In some examples, the electrodes are in electrical contact with a common return path and the sample.

[0036] As used herein, the word "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." The embodiments described herein are not limiting, but merely exemplary. It should be understood that the described embodiments are not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Furthermore, the term "embodiment" does not require that all disclosed embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation.

[0037] 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 the 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 the 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 serving as a non-limiting example, instance, or diagram. As used herein, the terms “e.g.” and “for example” introduce a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or diagrams.

[0038] To facilitate an understanding of the principles of the claimed technology and to present its best currently understood mode of operation, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe these embodiments. It will be understood, however, that this is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed technology, as such alterations and further modifications of the principles of the claimed technology, the illustrated devices, and further applications thereof as illustrated herein are within the ordinary scope of those skilled in the art to which the claimed technology pertains.

[0039] FIG1 illustrates an example electrochemical machining system 100 for machining a surface of a sample or workpiece 105. In particular, system 100 enables a user to process one or more samples 105 within an etching chamber 103. In some examples, one or more nozzles 108 are connected to one or more tanks or reservoirs 120 via one or more conduits 122, with flow control of a fluid 126 from the reservoirs being controlled via one or more pumps 124. Fluid 126 (e.g., an electrolyte solution) can be dispensed from nozzles 108 as a jet directed toward sample 105.

[0040] As shown in FIG1 , a sample 105 is placed on a stage 106. In some examples, the stage 106 can be formed of a conductive material connected to a common return path 114 (e.g., to ground). An electrolyte solution 126 can be charged at the nozzle 108 so that contact between the electrolyte solution 126 and the conductive sample 105 placed on and in contact with the stage 106 directs an electrical current through the sample 105 and the stage 106. In some examples, the sample 105 is placed in a fixture 102 (e.g., a sample holder), which can additionally or alternatively be conductive, thereby making electrical contact with both the sample 105 and the stage 106.

[0041] In some examples, the system 100 can control one or more operating parameters to process different samples and / or different regions of a sample according to a desired processing program and / or cycle. A processing program or cycle can provide the desired treatment by adjusting one or more operating parameters of the system, such as the speed at which the program is executed, the position of one or more components (e.g., the nozzle 108 and / or the stage 106), the flow rate of a fluid, the imaging of the sample, temperature, current, voltage, duration of the program or cycle, traversal rate, number of cycles, etc.

[0042] Although some example systems are shown as employing a single nozzle, one or more of the disclosed systems and / or methods can be comprised of two or more nozzles. For multiple nozzles, during a processing cycle or program, a user can select multiple nozzles to be employed to act on a sample, or the system can determine the appropriate and / or optimal processing steps for each nozzle. The system will then independently control each nozzle to cycle. For example, one or more actuators, motors, drive mechanisms, or gear mechanisms can control the movement of the nozzle to execute the selected cycle or program. In some examples, more than one reservoir 120 can be used to store different electrolyte solutions, water, or other fluids.

[0043] FIG2A illustrates a top view of an example electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system. As shown, a sample 105 is positioned within a mount or holder 104, which itself has a fixture 102 surrounding the mount 104. In some examples, the fixture 102 is a container similar to a cup that holds the mount 104 and / or the sample on three sides. In some examples, the fixture 102 is a ring or band that surrounds the outer circumference of the mount or sample, thereby providing an electrical connection between the mount / sample and a current path 114.

[0044] 2A , electrodes 110 are arranged to contact one or more surfaces of sample 105, mount 104, and / or fixture 102. In some examples, electrodes 110 are directly connected to a common return path 114, while in some examples, electrode connectors 112 provide electrical contact between electrodes 110 and common return path 114. In some examples, sample 105, mount 104, and / or fixture 102 are placed on stage 106, which may additionally or alternatively be connected to common return path 114.

[0045] FIG2B illustrates a perspective view of another example electrode connection system. As shown in FIG2B , fixture 102 is formed as a ring designed to accommodate a cylindrical or disk-shaped sample 105 (although any shape or geometry can be used). Fixture 102 allows the user to quickly establish an electrical connection with electrodes 110 mounted on fixture 102. For example, the user can simply insert sample 105 (and / or mounting member 104) into ring-shaped fixture 102, forcing electrodes 110 into contact with the surface of sample 105. The user then loads fixture 102 into system 100 and completes the common return path by connecting electrodes 110 and / or electrode connectors 112 using clamps 109, wires 107 on the sides of the ring-shaped fixture, or by making electrical contact with stage 106. In some examples, the electrodes 110 and / or electrode connectors 112 are mounted to the retaining ring 102, sample 105, and / or workpiece by one or more of clips, welds, fasteners, bolts, screws, plugs, banana jacks or press fits, conductive tape, or conductive paint.

[0046] FIG2C illustrates a top view of another example electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system. As shown, sample 105 is positioned in a fixture 102A having an angled portion 111. Fixture 102A can support samples of varying sizes at three contact points: at two locations within the fixture and via fasteners 113. In some examples, electrodes 110 and / or connectors 112 are positioned to contact one or more surfaces of sample 105 and / or fixture 102A. Electrodes 110 provide an electrical connection between the mount / sample and a current path 114.

[0047] 3A and 3B illustrate cross-sectional views of an example electrode connection system that utilizes post 116 to support and / or position electrode 110A for contacting sample 105. In some examples, the position or orientation of post 116 and / or electrode 110A is adjustable such that once sample 105 is placed on stage 106, electrode 110A is positioned over sample 105 and adjusted (e.g., lowered) to establish electrical contact.

[0048] FIG3B illustrates an example adjustment mechanism employing a biasing element 118 (e.g., a spring). As shown, biasing element 118 presses electrode 110B toward sample 105. Thus, the user raises electrode 110B to insert the sample onto stage 106 and then releases electrode 110B once the sample is in place. The pressure from biasing element 118 pushes the electrode downward to create and maintain an electrical connection.

[0049] Although sample 105 is shown in Figures 3A and 3B as being within fixture 102, in some examples, the sample may additionally or alternatively be inserted into mount 104, or may be placed directly on stage 106. In some examples, electrodes 110A, 110B may be directly connected to common return path 114, or may additionally or alternatively be connected to common return path 114 via post 116 and / or stage 106.

[0050] 4A through 4C illustrate an example electrode connection system that utilizes stage 106 as a connection between sample 105 and common return path 114. Thus, stage 106 functions as an electrode for sample 105. FIG4A illustrates a mounting arrangement similar to that shown in FIG1 ; however, mount 104 is included between sample 105 and fixture 102.

[0051] The sample 105 may be mounted in a mount 104 comprising a conductive mounting medium such that electrode connection is made from the stage 106 through the mount 104 and to the sample 105, as shown in FIG4B.

[0052] If the sample 105 itself is conductive, it can be placed directly on the stage 106 without any other fixing points or connection points, as shown in FIG4C .

[0053] FIG5 illustrates an example electrode connection system for a sample 105 housed in a mount 104. To create and maintain a direct electrical connection between the common return path 114 and the sample 105, an electrode 110C is inserted into a hole 121 extending to a surface 128 of the sample 105. For example, a user can drill a hole 121 in a sidewall of the mount 104 to provide access to the sample 105. The user then inserts the electrode 110C through the hole 121 until contact is made. This technique can be used with non-conductive mounts and / or when the sample 105 is placed on a non-conductive stage or system.

[0054] FIG6 illustrates an example of a sample holding system 200 for holding multiple conductive samples 105A and 105B for electromachining to achieve controlled material removal at a predetermined depth. System 200 includes a non-conductive holding mechanism 134 (e.g., a mold, housing, fixture, clamp, etc.) designed to hold the samples in a desired position and / or orientation. Conductive electrodes 137 (e.g., wires, strips, traces, ribbons, fluid, etc.) are arranged on, around, and / or within mechanism 134 in electrical contact with one or more samples while also being connected to a common return path 114. While two samples are shown in the example of FIG6 , in some examples, a single sample may be mounted in mechanism 134, or three or more samples may be mounted therein (e.g., four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more samples). In some examples, as in the example system 100 of FIG1 , system 200 may be supported by stage 106.

[0055] FIG7A illustrates an example system 202 for connecting an unmounted sample 105C (e.g., a smaller and / or differently shaped sample) so that the sample 105C can be electromechanically processed. In this example, the sample 105C is in the shape of a disk with a nominal thickness (e.g., approximately 3 mm in diameter). The sample 105C can be mounted in a flat orientation, but can also be arranged in any given orientation to support the sample, such that the sample's surface 146 is exposed. To create and maintain a direct electrical connection between the common return path 114 and the sample 105C, the system 202 includes a conductive lever 130 that is biased toward a fixture 138 by a spring 144 or another mechanism that provides sufficient deflection resistance for various purposes.

[0056] For example, a spring-loaded conductive lever 130 or a deflection-resistant lever applies force to the sample 105C against a fixture 138 (e.g., a non-metallic collar fixture) to secure the sample 105C in place. The conductive lever 130 also acts as an electrode contact, creating a direct electrical connection between the sample 105C and the common return path 114.

[0057] Electrochemical machining is performed on the sample from above and continues until it is programmed to stop, or until the sample 105C becomes thinner to the point where the electrolyte jet penetrates the sample 105C. In this case, the electrolyte is brought into contact with the circuit breaker circuit 142. This contact is sensed by the circuit breaker 143, and the electromechanical machining process ends. In some examples, in the example system 100 of FIG. 1 , the system 202 can be supported by the stage 106.

[0058] FIG7B illustrates an example plan view of system 202 along section line AA of FIG7A . As shown, fixture 138, conductive lever 130, and a portion of circuit breaker circuit 142 utilize a substantially circular shape. In some examples, this shape may utilize different geometries and / or shapes to accommodate specific designs and / or applications. In some examples, insulator 140 isolates circuit breaker circuit 142 from conductive lever 130 to prevent unwanted electrical contact.

[0059] 8A-8C illustrate views of another example system 203 for attaching a sample 205 so that the sample 205 can be electromechanically processed. In the example, the sample 205 is in the shape of a disk having a nominal thickness, however, the sample can have any shape suitable for mounting on a holder 208 within the system 203. The sample 205 can be mounted in a flat orientation, but can also be arranged in any given orientation to support the sample so that a portion of the sample's surface 246 is exposed.

[0060] To level the sample 205, fix the orientation or position of the sample, and / or create and maintain a direct electrical connection between the common return path and the sample 205, the system 203 includes a spring 244 and a platform 212 biased against one or more conductive flanges 206. As shown in FIG8B, the sample 205 rests on the platform 212 and is pressed against an extension of the flange 206. For example, the spring 244 and the platform 212 can be formed from a conductive material that is in electrical and / or physical contact with the conductive layer 210 of the support 208. In some examples, the flange 206 is supported on one or more fixtures 238, whereby the fastener 236 can change the force, position, and / or orientation of the flange 206 relative to the sample 205 and / or the support 208. As shown, the fastener 236 can be received by a nut or similar feature 218 for receiving the fastener, while creating a ground path via the conductive layer 210.

[0061] In some examples, although shown as being substantially flat in FIG8B , differently shaped samples 205 can be secured at different heights and / or locations along surface 246 by the flange (e.g., as shown in FIG8C ). Further, springs 244 and / or platform 212 can be configured to pivot, rotate, and / or otherwise displace in response to the shape of sample 205 and / or the arrangement of flange 206. This can be accomplished using universal joints or other types of flexible joints or deformable materials.

[0062] Although one or more of the flanges, fasteners, fixtures, platforms, and / or springs are described as providing a ground path, in some examples, one or more of the flanges, fasteners, fixtures, platforms, and / or springs are formed of an insulating material, thereby interrupting the path. In such examples, the electrodes can be secured to contact the sample, thereby creating an alternative electrical connection between the sample and the common return path (e.g., as provided in FIG. 5 ).

[0063] As shown in the example system 203A shown in FIG8C , the height and / or orientation of one or more fixtures 238 and / or flange 206 can be adjusted to accommodate various sample 205 shapes. For example, flange 206 can be configured to extend horizontally or rotate atop fixture 238 and can be formed with a channel 222 to allow flange 206 to extend toward or away from platform 212 and / or the sample. Furthermore, the sample support 216 of flange 206 is shown as being substantially flat and / or parallel to the surface of support 208, but can be formed from any suitable shape and / or mounted in any suitable orientation relative to the support, fixture, platform, and / or sample. For example, support 216 can be formed with wire extensions, teeth for gripping the sample, and can be connected to the flange / fastener via one or more springs or other biasing elements to secure the sample. The finish of the support (and / or flange) can have a rough or smooth surface, be conductive or insulating, and be rigid or flexible to support specific applications.

[0064] Further, a plurality of holes 220 may be arranged around the surface of the bracket 208 to receive fasteners 236 for insertion into the nuts 218. The positions of the springs 244 and / or the platforms 212 may also be arranged at various locations around the bracket 208 using the holes.

[0065] 8D and 8E illustrate additional or alternative examples of flange 206A in which support 216A is configured to receive extension 222. As shown, a removable mounting block 224 can be secured to flange 206A (e.g., via one or more fasteners 226) and used to support extension 222. As shown in FIG8E , extension 222 can be movable relative to support 216A to better accommodate the shape and / or size of a mounted sample. Mounting block 224 can allow extension 222 to move freely within support 216 until contact is made with the sample and force is applied (e.g., by tightening fastener 226). In other examples, fastener 226 can be tightened to secure the position of extension 222 within support 216A.

[0066] FIG9 illustrates another example system 303 for connecting samples 305A and 305B so that the samples can be electromechanically processed. In the illustrated example, sample 305A is a disk of a given diameter, while sample 305B has a smaller diameter. The samples are mounted on a platform 312, which is configured to accommodate samples of various shapes and sizes. As shown, the platform 312 is shaped to have two angled positions 324 on opposite sides of a central structure 326.

[0067] Each end 328 of the platform 312 flares outward to provide an angled surface against which the sample can be forced. One or more arms 306 can be positioned against the sample and opposite the platform 312, secured to the opposing arm 306 and / or the platform itself by a post or screw 336 secured by a nut 318. In some additional or alternative examples, one or more springs bias the arms 306 toward the platform 312 with a force sufficient to support the sample.

[0068] In an example, the platform 312 and / or the support 308 are formed of a non-conductive material. As shown, the support arm 306 is conductive and connected to the common return path 114 to create and maintain a direct electrical connection with the sample. In some examples, the platform 312 is conductive and directly connected to the common return path.

[0069] 9 illustrates a system supporting four samples, the system can support a single sample, or more than four samples can be mounted on the system. Although shown with representative shapes and sizes, either or both samples 305A and 305B can have any shape suitable for mounting on platform 312, including different shapes and / or sizes at any of a variety of locations.

[0070] Figures 10A and 10B illustrate an example conductive pad 400 for supporting a conductive sample 405. For example, for a sample supported within a thermocompression mount 402, pad 400 can be made to electrically and / or physically contact sample 405. When material 402 is formed (e.g., by pouring the support material) around sample 405, the exterior of the resulting support remains conductive. A path from pad 400 to ground can be achieved using one or more of the solutions provided herein.

[0071] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings illustrate principles, preferred embodiments, and modes of operation. However, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the specific embodiments discussed above. Those skilled in the art will appreciate additional variations of the embodiments discussed above.

[0072] Although the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt particular circumstances or materials to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the blocks and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, split, rearranged and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and / or system is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed. Rather, the present method and / or system will include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and under the doctrine of equivalents. Although the controller and method are described as being used in conjunction with an electrochemical machining system, these teachings may be similarly applied to other systems and operations.

[0073] All documents cited herein (including journal articles or abstracts, published or corresponding U.S. or foreign patent applications, issued or foreign patents, or any other documents) are each incorporated by reference in their entirety, including all data, tables, figures, and text presented in the cited documents.

Claims

1. An electrode connection system for a sample in an electrochemical machining system, the connection comprising: a fixing device, the fixing device being used to hold the sample; as well as Electrodes are in electrical contact with a common return path to allow current to flow from the electrolyte solution through the sample.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: The sample includes a conductive material.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a mounting member for supporting the sample, the mounting member being received within the fixture.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein: The fixture or the mount comprises an electrically conductive material, the common return path directing current through the sample, the electrode and the mount or the fixture.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein: The fixing device is an annular fixing device having a substantially circular shape.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a post for positioning the electrode for electrical contact with the sample.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein: The pillars include a conductive material.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein: The pillar comprises an electrically insulating material.

9. The system of claim 6, further comprising a biasing element for forcing the electrode into physical and electrical contact with the sample.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein: The electrode is configured to extend through a portion of the mount through the opening to make physical and electrical contact with the sample.

11. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an electrode connector in electrical contact with the electrode and the common return path.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein: The electrode connector is mounted to the fixture, the sample, or the workpiece by one or more of a clip, a weld, a fastener, a bolt, a screw, a plug, a banana jack, a press fit, conductive tape, or a conductive paint.

13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a stage configured to support the sample or the fixture.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein: The stage is in electrical contact with the common return path and the sample or the fixture.

15. An electrochemical machining system for machining a surface of a sample, the system comprising: a nozzle configured to direct a jet of electrolyte solution toward a surface of the sample, wherein an electric charge is applied to the nozzle; a fixing device, the fixing device being used to hold the sample; a stage in electrical contact with the sample or the fixture; and A common return path is in electrical contact with the stage to allow the charge to flow from the electrolyte solution via the sample to the common return path.

16. The system of claim 15, further comprising a mount for receiving the sample, the mount comprising a conductive material.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein: The charge flows from the electrolyte solution through the sample and the stage via the fixture for holding the sample or mount.

18. The system of claim 15, further comprising a chamber for containing the sample during the electrochemical machining process.

19. The system of claim 15, further comprising a mount for supporting the sample, the mount being received within the fixture.

20. The system of claim 15, further comprising an electrode in electrical contact with the common return path and the sample.

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