Modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device applied to space station

Abstract

The application discloses a modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device applied to a space station, relates to the technical field of experimental devices, and comprises a cabinet body, a batch sample management module, a high-temperature heating module, an X-ray imaging module and an electric control module. The batch sample management module is internally provided with a transverse indexing assembly, a longitudinal lifting assembly and an in-situ sensing assembly. A transfer chain of the transverse indexing assembly is magnetically attracted to fix a plurality of sample ampoules. The lifting end of the longitudinal lifting assembly is provided with mechanical claws which are naturally closed and opened when abutting against a limiting support. The in-situ sensing assembly monitors the state of the sample ampoules in real time. The high-temperature heating module is arranged at the lower end of the batch sample management module and is composed of a plurality of furnace bodies which are independently driven and independently controlled in temperature. The heating channels of the furnace bodies are in communication and coincide with the axis of the sample ampoules. The X-ray imaging module is used for observing the sample melting and solidification process in real time. The electric control module is in communication connection with each module. The device has multiple functions and high system integration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of experimental device technology, and in particular to a modular, multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in space stations. Background Technology

[0002] In the microgravity environment of space, gravity-driven buoyancy convection disappears, enabling the preparation of material samples with high homogeneity and high crystallinity. Therefore, the microgravity environment of space has become an ideal platform for the preparation of high-performance materials.

[0003] However, existing space high-temperature materials experimental devices generally suffer from single functions and low integration, which severely limits the depth and breadth of materials experiments in the microgravity environment of space and makes it difficult to meet the diversified and integrated experimental needs of space materials science research in the space station era. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a modular, multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in space stations, which solves the problems existing in the prior art, has diverse functions, and high system integration.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following solution:

[0006] This invention provides a modular, multifunctional high-temperature materials experimental device for use in a space station, comprising: a cabinet; a batch sample management module fixed within the cabinet; a lateral displacement assembly, a longitudinal lifting assembly, and an in-situ sensing assembly; the lateral displacement assembly has a rotatable transfer chain, on which multiple sample ampoules are magnetically fixed; the longitudinal lifting assembly has a lifting end capable of moving up and down along a first vertical axis, and a mechanical claw is fixed to the lifting end, the mechanical claw being positioned above one of the sample ampoules on the transfer chain; in its natural state, the mechanical claw remains closed; and a limiting bracket is fixed above the mechanical claw, allowing the mechanical claw to open when its upper end abuts against the limiting bracket; the in-situ sensing assembly is used to sense the sample ampoules. The ampoule status is monitored in real time; a high-temperature heating module, fixed inside the cabinet and below the batch sample management module, has multiple furnaces axially distributed along a second vertical axis. Each furnace has a heating channel for accommodating the sample ampoules, and the heating channels of adjacent furnaces are interconnected. The axis of the heating channel coincides with the axis of the sample ampoule grasped by the mechanical gripper; each furnace is driven by its own independent drive assembly to move along the second vertical axis, and the heating of each furnace is independently controlled; an X-ray imaging module, fixed inside the cabinet, is used for real-time dynamic imaging and observation of the sample material melting and solidification process; an electrical control module, fixed inside the cabinet, is communicatively connected to the batch sample management module, the high-temperature heating module, and the X-ray imaging module.

[0007] Preferably, an accelerometer is fixedly installed on the lifting end.

[0008] Preferably, the mechanical gripper includes an upper stop, a lower stop, and two grippers; the upper stop is located above the lower stop, and the upper stop and the lower stop are connected by a compressed spring assembly; the lower stop is fixed to the lifting end; the two grippers are symmetrically arranged, and each gripper has a clamping end, a rotating end, and a connecting end; the sample ampoule has a clamping groove corresponding to the clamping end; the rotating end is rotatably mounted on the upper stop about a first axis; the connecting end is rotatably connected to one end of a connecting rod about a second axis, and the other end of the connecting rod is rotatably connected to the lower stop about a third axis; the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are all parallel to each other and all perpendicular to the first vertical axis.

[0009] Preferably, the longitudinal lifting assembly includes a longitudinal sliding unit, a lifting drive unit, and a fixing base; the batch sample management module includes a vacuum housing; the longitudinal sliding unit is fixed inside the vacuum housing; the fixing base is slidably disposed on the longitudinal sliding unit along the first vertical axis; the lifting drive unit is fixed on the fixing base and is used to drive the fixing base to move along the first vertical axis; the lower stop is fixed on the fixing base; a plurality of first magnetic suction elements are fixed at the lower end of the fixing base, and a plurality of first magnetic suction blocks are fixed at the upper end of the sample ampoule, wherein the first magnetic suction elements correspond one-to-one with the first magnetic suction blocks.

[0010] Preferably, the transfer chain is fixed with multiple suspension seats, each suspension seat being provided with a second magnetic attractor and two first protrusions; the second magnetic attractor and each of the first protrusions are circumferentially distributed around a fourth axis, with the second magnetic attractor located between the two first protrusions, and the fourth axis being parallel to the axis of the sample ampoule; a third magnetic attractor is fixed to the lower end of each of the first protrusions; a second magnetic block is provided on the side wall of the sample ampoule corresponding to the position of the second magnetic attractor; a second protrusion is fixed on the side wall of the sample ampoule corresponding to the position of the first protrusion; a third magnetic block is fixed to the upper end of each of the second protrusions; the second magnetic attractor and the second magnetic block are magnetically attracted; the third magnetic attractor and the third magnetic block are magnetically attracted.

[0011] Preferably, the high-temperature heating module further includes a cold trap, which is fixedly positioned above the uppermost furnace body. The cold trap includes a cold ring and a guide ring. The cold ring has a central cooling channel extending along the second vertical axis. Inside the cold ring are multiple independent circumferential cooling channels arranged along its own axis. The length of each circumferential cooling channel gradually decreases from the middle to both ends of the cold ring along its axis. The cold ring is also provided with two quick-break connectors for the inflow or outflow of cooling medium and connected to each of the circumferential cooling channels. The guide ring is fixed to the end of the cold ring away from the furnace body. The guide ring has a central guide channel, which includes a conical channel and a straight channel. The straight channel is close to the furnace body and is fixedly connected to and communicates with the small end of the conical channel.

[0012] Preferably, in the direction of the second vertical axis, at least one of the furnace bodies has an annular flange fixed to the circumferential edge of the docking plate at the corresponding docking point; when the adjacent furnace bodies are docked, they can be sealed by circumferential abutment through the annular flange; the docking plate has a plurality of hollow holes; each hollow hole is circumferentially distributed around the opening of the heating channel of the furnace body.

[0013] Preferably, the furnace body includes a support tube, an inner reflector, a heat insulation layer, an outer reflector, and an outer shell arranged radially outward from the center; a heating wire assembly is wound around the inner wall of the support tube; the heating channel is formed inside the heating wire assembly; the inner reflector is used to reflect the heat transmitted from the peripheral wall of the support tube; the heat insulation layer is used for heat insulation; the outer reflector is used to reflect the heat transmitted from the heat insulation layer; and a temperature measuring component for measuring temperature is also provided in the heating channel.

[0014] Preferably, the high-temperature heating module includes a support frame; the support frame includes a first tray and a second tray, which are fixedly connected by multiple hollowed-out columns; each furnace body is located between the first tray and the second tray; the driving component is a linear drive mechanism, which includes a motor, a lead screw, a guide rail, and multiple mounting brackets; each furnace body corresponds to one mounting bracket, and the exterior of each furnace body has connecting lugs for connecting to the mounting brackets; both ends of the guide rail are fixedly connected to the first tray and the second tray, respectively; the motor is fixed to the first tray or the guide rail, the output end of the motor is fixedly connected to the lead screw, the lead screw is rotatably mounted on the guide rail, and the mounting bracket is slidably mounted on the guide rail; and the lead screw is drively connected to the mounting bracket.

[0015] The present invention achieves the following technical effects compared to the prior art:

[0016] The modular, multifunctional high-temperature materials experimental device for space stations provided by this invention achieves full automation and integration of the entire process, from automatic sample transfer and independent heating in multiple temperature zones to real-time dynamic imaging observation, by highly integrating a batch sample management module, a high-temperature heating module, an X-ray imaging module, and an electrical control module within the cabinet. Specifically, the batch sample management module, utilizing the cooperation of a lateral transposition component and a longitudinal lifting component, combined with a magnetically fixed transport chain and a mechanical gripper with limiting opening function, can flexibly and accurately grasp, reposition, and sense in situ multiple sample ampoules, overcoming the limitations of traditional devices that can only be operated once or manually. Simultaneously… The furnace design, featuring multiple independently driveable and interconnected heating channels, coupled with independent heating control, meets the experimental requirements of complex thermal process curves. The embedded X-ray imaging module directly fills the gap in the lack of in-situ real-time observation capabilities of traditional devices, thereby significantly improving the depth and breadth of materials experiments in the microgravity environment of the space station and meeting the diversified and integrated scientific research needs. The device adopts a modular design, and each functional module can be replaced, maintained, and upgraded in orbit, overcoming the shortcomings of previous space high-temperature materials experimental devices that could not be replaced in orbit. It is suitable for working modes such as space stations where astronauts are on-orbit. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in a space station provided by the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 This is an external structural diagram of the batch sample management module in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations provided by the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the batch sample management module in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in a space station provided by the present invention;

[0021] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the mechanical gripper in the batch sample management module of the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in a space station provided by the present invention;

[0022] Figure 5 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the mechanical claw in the batch sample management module of the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations provided by the present invention.

[0023] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the high-temperature heating module in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations provided by the present invention;

[0024] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the high-temperature heating module in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations provided by the present invention;

[0025] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the docking plate of the furnace body in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in a space station provided by the present invention;

[0026] Figure 9 A simulation diagram of the docking plate (with circular holes) of the furnace body in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations provided by this invention;

[0027] Figure 10 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the cold trap in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in a space station provided by the present invention.

[0028] Figure 11A schematic diagram of the X-ray imaging module in the modular multifunctional high-temperature materials experimental device for use in a space station provided by the present invention;

[0029] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical control module in the modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations provided by the present invention.

[0030] In the picture:

[0031] 1-Cabinet;

[0032] 2-Batch sample management module; 21-Vacuum housing; 211-Opening and closing door; 22-Horizontal rotation assembly; 221-Suspension seat; 2211-Second magnetic suction element; 2212-First protrusion; 222-Top frame; 223-Drive wheel; 224-Annular slide rail; 225-Limiting wheel; 226-Transfer chain; 23-Vertical lifting assembly; 231-Fixed seat; 232-Upper stop block; 234-Lower stop block; 235-Gripper; 2351-Clamping end; 2352-Rotating end; 2353-Linking end; 236-Connecting rod; 237-Mounting bracket; 238-First magnetic suction element; 24-Sample ampoule; 241-First magnetic suction block; 242-Second protrusion; 243-Third magnetic suction block; 25-CCD; 26-Limiting bracket;

[0033] 3-High-temperature heating module; 31-Vacuum shell; 32-Cold trap; 321-Cold ring; 322-Guide ring; 323-Circumferential cooling channel; 324-Quick-break connector; 33-Furnace body; 331-Button plate; 332-Annular flange; 333-Heating channel; 334-Perforated hole; 335-Connecting lug; 34-Drive assembly; 35-First tray; 36-Second tray; 37-Perforated column; 38-Mounting bracket; 39-Magnetic field generator;

[0034] 4-X-X-ray imaging module; 41-Shielding assembly; 42-Sample heating assembly; 43-X-ray optomechanical assembly; 44-X-ray detector assembly; 45-Power supply and control assembly;

[0035] 5-Electrical control module; 51-Electrical connector. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0037] The purpose of this invention is to provide a modular, multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in space stations, which solves the problems existing in the prior art, has diverse functions, and high system integration.

[0038] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0039] Example 1

[0040] This embodiment provides a modular, multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for use in space stations, such as... Figures 1-12 As shown, it includes: a cabinet 1; a batch sample management module 2, fixed inside the cabinet 1; which contains a horizontal rotation component 22, a vertical lifting component 23, and an in-situ sensing component; the horizontal rotation component 22 has a rotatable transfer chain 226, on which multiple sample ampoules 24 are magnetically fixed; the vertical lifting component 23 has a lifting end that can move up and down along a first vertical axis, and a mechanical claw is fixed on the lifting end, the mechanical claw being located above one of the sample ampoules 24 on the transfer chain 226; in its natural state, the mechanical claw remains closed; and a limiting bracket 26 is fixed above the mechanical claw, and when the upper end of the mechanical claw abuts against the limiting bracket 26, the mechanical claw can be in an open state; the in-situ sensing component is used to monitor the status of the sample ampoules 24 in real time; high temperature heating... The heating module 3, fixed inside the cabinet 1 and at the lower end of the batch sample management module 2, has multiple furnace bodies 33 axially distributed along the second vertical axis. Each furnace body 33 has a heating channel 333 for accommodating sample ampoules 24. The heating channels 333 of adjacent furnace bodies 33 are interconnected, and the axis of the heating channel 333 coincides with the axis of the sample ampoule 24 grasped by the mechanical gripper. Each furnace body 33 is driven by its own independent drive assembly 34 to move along the second vertical axis, and the heating of each furnace body 33 is independently controlled. The X-ray imaging module 4, fixed inside the cabinet 1, is used for real-time dynamic imaging and observation of the sample material melting and solidification process. The electrical control module 5, fixed inside the cabinet 1, is communicatively connected to the batch sample management module 2, the high-temperature heating module 3, and the X-ray imaging module 4.

[0041] By highly integrating a batch sample management module 2, a high-temperature heating module 3, an X-ray imaging module 4, and an electronic control module 5 within the cabinet 1, the entire process from automatic sample transfer and independent heating in multiple temperature zones to real-time dynamic imaging observation is automated and integrated. Specifically, the batch sample management module 2, utilizing the cooperation of a lateral transposition component 22 and a longitudinal lifting component 23, combined with a magnetically fixed transfer chain 226 and a mechanical gripper with limiting opening function, can flexibly and accurately grasp, reposition, and sense in situ multiple sample ampoules 24, overcoming the limitations of traditional devices that can only be operated once or manually. Simultaneously, multiple independently driveable and... The furnace body 33, connected by heating channels 333 and independent heating control, meets the experimental requirements of complex thermal process curves. The embedded X-ray imaging module 4 directly fills the gap of traditional devices lacking in-situ real-time observation capabilities, thus significantly improving the depth and breadth of materials experiments in the microgravity environment of the space station and meeting the diversified and integrated scientific research needs. This device adopts a modular design, and each functional module can be replaced, maintained, and upgraded in orbit, overcoming the shortcomings of previous space high-temperature materials experimental devices that could not be replaced in orbit. It is suitable for working modes such as space stations where astronauts are on-orbit.

[0042] The following are the relevant settings for cabinet 1:

[0043] Specifically, cabinet 1 is existing equipment, which will not be described in detail. Other existing devices or equipment on cabinet 1 will also not be described in detail.

[0044] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, cabinet 1 has a left cavity and a right cavity; batch sample management module 2 and high temperature heating module 3 are located in the left cavity; electrical control module 5 is located in the upper right of the right cavity; X-ray imaging module 4 is located in the lower right of the right cavity.

[0045] Among them, the relevant settings instructions for the batch sample management module 2 (such as...) Figures 1-5 (as shown)

[0046] Specifically, the batch sample management module 2 includes a vacuum housing 21, a lateral displacement assembly 22, a longitudinal lifting assembly 23, and an in-situ sensing assembly; the lateral displacement assembly 22, the longitudinal lifting assembly 23, and the in-situ sensing assembly are all located inside the vacuum housing 21.

[0047] Specifically, the front panel of the vacuum housing 21 is designed with an opening and closing door 211 that can be opened by a hinge (which can maintain the seal at the opening and closing point when closed), which makes it convenient for astronauts to open the door to carry out internal sample exchange operations.

[0048] Specifically, the transverse rotation assembly 22 includes a top frame 222 (rectangular in top view, with rounded corners for smooth transition), a ring slide rail 224 fixed at the bottom of the top frame 222, and a drive wheel 223 rotatably mounted at each of the four corners of the top frame 222; a transfer chain 226 is rotatably mounted on the ring slide rail 224 and the four drive wheels 223, and the rotation of the transfer chain 226 is driven by the drive wheels 223 (it can be driven by at least one drive wheel 223, with the remaining drive wheels 223 acting as driven wheels); multiple suspension seats 221 are fixed on the transfer chain 226, and the top of each suspension seat 221 rotates on the ring slide rail 224 via four limiting wheels 225 (two limiting wheels 225 are located on the inner side of the ring slide rail 224, and two limiting wheels 225 are located on the outer side of the ring slide rail 224); the suspension seats 221 correspond one-to-one with the sample ampoules 24.

[0049] Specifically, the suspension seat 221 has 16 stations arranged circumferentially along the annular slide rail 224. Each suspension seat 221 suspends and fixes the sample ampoule 24 by magnetic attraction. The lateral rotation component 22 (i.e. the sample rotation mechanism) realizes the lateral rotation of the sample by rotating the suspension seat 221 along the annular slide rail 224 through a stepper motor combined with a transfer chain 226 (which can be a track).

[0050] Specifically, each sample ampoule 24 is marked with a corresponding number.

[0051] Specifically, after the mechanical gripper of the longitudinal lifting assembly 23 grasps the sample ampoule 24, the longitudinal movement of the sample is achieved through a lead screw (the driving mechanism of the longitudinal sliding unit). On one side of the mechanical gripper, an in-situ sensing component (i.e., LED and CCD 25) is installed to observe the sample rotation and lifting motion.

[0052] In the optional embodiments of this example, a preferred option is to fix an accelerometer on the lifting end. An accelerometer installed at this location is closest to the actual position of the sample and can more accurately reflect the microgravity acceleration value of the sample during the experiment.

[0053] Specifically, the accelerometer uses STMicroelectronics' LIS2HH12 digital 3-axis MEMS accelerometer, with a measurement range that can be set to ±2g / ±4g / ±8g.

[0054] In the optional embodiments of this example, a preferred embodiment includes an upper stop 232, a lower stop 234, and two grippers 235. The upper stop 232 is located above the lower stop 234, and the upper stop 232 and the lower stop 234 are connected by a compressed spring assembly (two compression springs; the lower stop 234 has a spring groove, and the compression spring is located in the spring groove). The lower stop 234 is fixed to the lifting end. The two grippers 235 are symmetrically arranged (the fixed base 231 has a clearance hole corresponding to the position of one gripper 235 to facilitate the flexible grasping and release of the gripper 235). It has a clamping end 2351, a rotating end 2352, and a connecting end 2353; the sample ampoule 24 is provided with a clamping groove corresponding to the position of the clamping end 2351; the rotating end 2352 is rotatably mounted on the upper stop block 232 around the first axis (the upper stop block 232 extends downward to the position of the rotating end 2352 and is connected to the rotating end 2352); the connecting end 2353 is rotatably connected to one end of a connecting rod 236 around the second axis, and the other end of the connecting rod 236 is rotatably connected to the lower stop block 234 around the third axis; the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are all parallel to each other and all perpendicular to the first vertical axis.

[0055] In the optional embodiments of this example, a preferred embodiment includes a longitudinal lifting assembly 23 comprising a longitudinal sliding unit, a lifting drive unit, and a fixing base 231; a batch sample management module 2 includes a vacuum housing 21; the longitudinal sliding unit is fixed inside the vacuum housing 21; the fixing base 231 is slidably disposed on the longitudinal sliding unit along a first vertical axis (the longitudinal sliding unit is a lead screw module, and the fixing base 231 slides along the first vertical axis via a slider on it); the lifting drive unit (stepper motor) is fixed on the fixing base 231 and is used to drive the fixing base 231 along the first vertical axis. The linear axis moves; the lower stop 234 is fixed on the fixed base 231; the lower end of the fixed base 231 is fixed with a plurality of first magnetic suction components 238 (actually, the lower end of the lower stop 234 is fixed with a plurality of first magnetic suction components 238, and the fixed base 231 is provided with through holes for the first magnetic suction components 238 to pass through corresponding to the positions of each first magnetic suction component 238); the upper end of the sample ampoule 24 is fixed with a plurality of first magnetic suction blocks 241 (the first magnetic suction blocks 241 and the first magnetic suction components 238 are both embedded structures), and the first magnetic suction components 238 correspond one-to-one with the first magnetic suction blocks 241.

[0056] In the optional embodiments of this example, a preferred embodiment has multiple suspension seats 221 fixed on the transfer chain 226. Each suspension seat 221 is provided with a second magnetic chuck 2211 and two first protrusions 2212. The second magnetic chuck 2211 and each of the first protrusions 2212 are circumferentially distributed around a fourth axis, with the second magnetic chuck 2211 located between the two first protrusions 2212. The fourth axis is parallel to the axis of the sample ampoule 24. A third magnetic chuck (both the third magnetic chuck and the second magnetic chuck 2211 are embedded) is fixed to the lower end of each first protrusion 2212. A second magnetic block is provided on the side wall of the sample ampoule 24 at a position corresponding to the second magnetic chuck 2211. A second protrusion 242 is fixed on the side wall of the sample ampoule 24 at a position corresponding to the first protrusion 2212 (the second protrusion 242 on the side wall of the sample ampoule 24 can be a single protrusion, or it can be...). Figure 3 As shown, each of the second protrusions 242 forms a ring structure; a third magnetic block 243 is fixed to the upper end of the second protrusion 242; the second magnetic component 2211 is magnetically attracted to the second magnetic block; the third magnetic component is magnetically attracted to the third magnetic block 243.

[0057] Specifically, when the sample ampoule 24 is magnetically attached to the suspension seat 221, the suspension seat 221 has clearance space above the sample ampoule 24, which facilitates the mechanical claw of the vertical lifting component 23 to grasp the sample ampoule 24 and move it up and down to realize the picking and putting action of the sample ampoule 24 on the suspension seat 221.

[0058] Specifically, the various settings of the mechanical gripper (such as gripping and magnetic attraction settings) enable the flexibility of sample handling and the reliability of transport.

[0059] Specifically, the working process of the mechanical gripper is as follows: The mechanical gripper is a passive opening and closing mechanism. Driven by the lifting drive unit (stepper motor), it moves upward. Initially, it is at the top of the longitudinal lifting assembly 23 in the direction of movement (i.e., when it abuts against the limiting bracket 26). The gripper 235 is in an open state (not in contact with the sample ampoule 24 below, ensuring that each sample can pass smoothly during rotation). When the mechanical gripper moves downward, the gripper 235 begins to reset under the action of spring force. The grippers 235 on both sides begin to move closer to the middle. When the lower surface of the fixing base 231 just touches the upper surface of the sample ampoule 24, the arc-shaped side edge and upper edge of the fingertip of the gripper 235 just completely grasp the sample ampoule 24 (corresponding to the clamping groove on the sample ampoule 24). At the same time, the two positioning magnets (first magnetic suction element 238) on the lower surface of the fixing base 231 attract the magnet (first magnetic suction block 241) on the upper surface of the sample ampoule 24. At this point, the gripper 235 moves downwards again, pushing the three hanging magnets (second magnetic blocks) on the side of the sample ampoule 24 to separate from the hanging seat 221, thus completing the gripping process of the sample ampoule 24.

[0060] When the sample is returned, the gripper 235 moves upward. When the upper stop 232 contacts the upper limit bracket 26, it stops moving. The lower stop 234 continues to move upward, and the compression spring is compressed. At the same time, the gripper 235 opens. When the upper limit switch is triggered, the lifting drive unit (stepper motor) stops rotating, and the gripper 235 returns to the initial state.

[0061] Among them, the relevant settings instructions for the high-temperature heating module 3 (such as...) Figure 1 , Figures 6-10 (as shown)

[0062] Specifically, in high-temperature material experiments under microgravity conditions in space, the sample ampoule 24 remains stationary while the temperature field moves, avoiding the problems associated with conventional space material experiments that rely on sample movement and thus affect the microgravity level. By independently moving multiple furnace sections 33 (i.e., each drive component 34 drives its own independent furnace section 33), and adjusting the power, position, or movement speed of different furnace sections 33, various temperature field modes such as zone melting, isothermal, and gradient are achieved. This allows for material solidification methods with variable temperature zones or adjustable solidification rates during experiments, expanding the capabilities of high-temperature material experiments in space. The specific number of furnace sections 33 can be reasonably set according to actual needs; in this embodiment, three furnace sections 33 are used.

[0063] Specifically, the high-temperature heating module 3 includes a cylindrical vacuum shell 31, inside which are three furnace bodies 33, a drive assembly 34 corresponding to each furnace body 33 (i.e., a furnace body 33 lifting mechanism), a cold trap 32, and a set of magnetic field generating components.

[0064] Specifically, the upper end face of the vacuum housing 31 is open and the lower end face is sealed. The vacuum housing 31 is equipped with gas valves (including vacuum valve, exhaust gas valve, nitrogen filling valve, and repressurization valve). The vacuum housing 31 is also equipped with a sealed electrical connector for power supply and information transmission between internal functional components and other external modules.

[0065] Specifically, each furnace body 33 is a circular tubular heating furnace. The three furnace bodies 33 are coaxial, and each furnace body 33 corresponds to a drive assembly 34. The drive assembly 34 realizes the movement of the furnace body 33 along the axial direction through a stepper motor and a lead screw.

[0066] Specifically, the cold trap 32 is positioned above the uppermost furnace body 33 to achieve a high temperature gradient and a large cooling rate. It consists of multiple annular liquid channels (i.e., annular cooling channels 323). The cold trap 32 and the furnace body 33 are also coaxial. A magnetic field generating device 39 is installed between the two furnace bodies 33.

[0067] Specifically, the lower end face of the square vacuum shell 21 of the batch sample management module 2 is circular, and it is connected and fastened to the upper end face of the cylindrical vacuum shell 31 of the high-temperature heating module 3 via rubber rings and flange screws. During operation, the vacuum shell 21 of the batch sample management module 2 and the vacuum shell 31 of the high-temperature heating module 3 are integrated to form a large vacuum outer shell. Vacuuming is performed through the gas valve on the vacuum shell 31 of the high-temperature heating module 3. The cylindrical sample ampoule 24 grasped by the mechanical claw of the batch sample management module 2 is coaxial with the furnace chamber (i.e., heating channel 333) of the furnace body 33 of the high-temperature heating module 3. Therefore, the sample ampoule 24 can be fed into the furnace chamber by moving the mechanical claw to grasp the sample ampoule 24. When the above two modules need to be replaced individually, the individual modules can be replaced by disassembling the flanges and screws on the two end faces. The assembly of the batch sample management module 2 and the high-temperature heating module 3 is located in the left cavity of the cabinet 1.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the high-temperature heating module 3 further includes a cold trap 32, which is fixedly positioned above the uppermost furnace body 33. The cold trap 32 includes a cold ring 321 and a guide ring 322. The cold ring 321 has a central cooling channel extending along a second vertical axis. Inside the cold ring 321 are multiple independent circumferential cooling channels 323 arranged along its own axis. The length of each circumferential cooling channel 323 along its axis gradually decreases from the middle of the cold ring 321 towards both ends (symmetrically distributed along the axis). The ring 321 is also provided with two quick-break connectors 324 for the inflow or outflow of cooling medium and connected to each circumferential cooling channel 323 (the cold ring 321 is connected to the liquid pipeline of the cabinet 1 through the two quick-break connectors 324); the guide ring 322 is fixed to the end of the cold ring 321 away from the furnace body 33. The guide ring 322 (a metal ring with a trumpet shape) has a central guide channel, which includes a conical channel and a straight channel; the straight channel is close to the furnace body 33, and the straight channel is fixedly connected to and communicates with the small end of the conical channel (the straight channel is located in the central cooling channel of the cold ring 321).

[0069] Specifically, the cold trap 32 utilizes the circulating liquid medium provided by the cabinet 1 as a cooling medium to rapidly cool or quench the sample ampoule 24 at the upper heating end of the cold trap 32. During the rapid cooling experiment, the longitudinal lifting component 23 of the batch sample management module 2 is used to quickly lift the material sample from the high-temperature zone of the furnace into the cold ring 321 structure. Through conduction, convection, radiation, and other means, heat can be rapidly absorbed from the sample ampoule 24 and transferred to the liquid cooling medium in the circumferential cooling channel 323, thereby achieving rapid cooling.

[0070] Specifically, the upper end of the cold trap 32 is designed with a flared guide ring 322, which serves as a guide. Even if the centerline of the sample ampoule 24 grasped by the gripper 235 deviates slightly from the furnace axis, it can still enter the furnace through the guide ring 322 structure on the cold trap 32. In this module, the introduction of the cold trap 32 achieves a maximum sample cooling rate of 3℃ / s to 10℃ / s.

[0071] Specifically, the function of the cold ring 321 in the cold trap 32 is to achieve rapid cooling of high-temperature samples, and at the same time, it can reduce the heat transfer from the furnace to the gripper 235, thereby ensuring that the temperature of the gripper 235 does not become too high.

[0072] In the optional scheme of this embodiment, more preferably, in the direction of the second vertical axis, at least one furnace body 33 has an annular flange 332 fixed on the circumferential edge of the docking plate 331 (i.e. the bottom plate of the upper furnace body 33 and the top plate of the lower furnace body 33) at the corresponding docking point; when adjacent furnace bodies 33 are docked, they can be sealed by circumferential abutment through the annular flange 332; the docking plate 331 is provided with a plurality of hollow holes 334; each hollow hole 334 is circumferentially distributed around the opening of the heating channel 333 of the furnace body 33.

[0073] Specifically, considering the high temperature at the center and low temperature at the periphery of the furnace body 33, the deformation of the top or bottom plate of the furnace body 33 near the heating channel 333 is relatively large. Holes 334 are set on the top and / or bottom plates of the furnace body 33, adopting a partial hollow structure design. The partial hollow structure can be in the shape of a waist, a round hole, or an inward opening. This hollow design is conducive to the release of deformation stress of the top and bottom plates of the furnace body 33 under high temperature, reducing the amount of deformation, and reducing the destructive effect of the deformation of the top and bottom plates of the furnace body 33 on the collimation of the heating channel 333 (furnace chamber) of the furnace body 33. This ensures that the furnace chambers of multiple furnace bodies 33 are kept on the same axis, so that samples can enter different furnace bodies 33.

[0074] Specifically, adjacent furnace bodies 33 are connected by annular flanges 332. The annular flanges 332 are located on the outer edge of the connecting plate 331 (top or bottom plate of furnace body 33) and are basically unaffected by thermal deformation caused by high temperature. Therefore, axial alignment and circumferential sealing of adjacent furnace bodies 33 can be achieved. Moreover, in conjunction with the aforementioned perforated holes 334 to reduce deformation, the annular flanges 332 do not need to be set with a large protrusion size to achieve connection and are not affected by the local deformation of the connecting plate 331. This reduces the heat leakage caused by gaps at adjacent contact surfaces when multiple furnace body segments 33 are combined and connected. Heat transfer can be carried out between multiple furnace bodies 33, improving the continuity of the temperature field of the whole machine after the multiple furnace body segments 33 are combined.

[0075] Specifically, such as Figure 9The simulation diagram of the inner side of the docking plate 331 shown demonstrates that through simulation and experimental verification of the docking plate 331, the circular perforated hole 334 can effectively reduce the deformation of the docking plate 331, and can also keep the point of maximum deformation away from the heating channel 333 and the edge position. Figure 9 (The red indicates the largest deformation and the blue indicates the smallest deformation). This reduces the impact of the deformation of the docking plate 331 on the movement and positioning of the furnace body 33, and ensures the axial alignment of the heating channel 333.

[0076] In the optional embodiments of this example, the furnace body 33 preferably includes a support tube, an inner reflector, a heat insulation layer, an outer reflector, and an outer shell arranged radially outward from the center; a heating wire assembly is wound around the inner wall of the support tube; a heating channel 333 is formed inside the heating wire assembly; the inner reflector is used to reflect the heat transmitted from the peripheral wall of the support tube, and the heat insulation layer is used for heat insulation; the outer reflector is used to reflect the heat transmitted from the heat insulation layer; a temperature measuring component for measuring temperature is also provided in the heating channel 333.

[0077] In the optional scheme of this embodiment, a preferred embodiment is that the high-temperature heating module 3 includes a support frame; the support frame includes a first tray 35 and a second tray 36, which are fixedly connected by a plurality of hollowed-out columns 37; each furnace body 33 is located between the first tray 35 and the second tray 36; the drive component 34 is a linear drive mechanism, which includes a motor (or stepper motor), a lead screw, a guide rail, and a plurality of mounting brackets 38; each furnace body 33 corresponds to a mounting bracket 38, and the outer shell of the furnace body 33 has connecting lugs 335 for connecting with the mounting brackets 38; both ends of the guide rail are fixedly connected to the first tray 35 and the second tray 36 respectively; the motor is fixed to the first tray 35 or the guide rail, the output end of the motor is fixedly connected to the lead screw, the lead screw is rotatably mounted on the guide rail, and the mounting bracket 38 is slidably mounted on the guide rail; and the lead screw is connected to the mounting bracket 38 in a transmission manner.

[0078] Specifically, a through hole coaxial with the heating channel 333 of the furnace body 33 is provided on the first tray 35; the hollow column 37 is provided to support the connection while reducing weight.

[0079] Specifically, on two adjacent mounting brackets 38, one mounting bracket 38 is equipped with a limit switch, and the other mounting bracket 38 is equipped with a trigger block. The limit switch is a conventional micro switch. When adjacent furnace bodies 33 are connected, the trigger block can trigger the limit switch. The limit switch can be connected to each drive component 34 through the central controller. The central controller can control the corresponding drive component 34 to stop its operation or adjust its drive speed according to the feedback signal.

[0080] Specifically, the innermost core of the furnace body 33 is the heating wire (the heating wire assembly includes multiple heating wires), which is made of high-melting-point metal wires such as Ta, Pt, Nb, or high-melting-point metal alloy wires; the support tube is made of insulating, high-temperature resistant inorganic non-metallic ceramic material, such as alumina ceramic, yttrium oxide ceramic, chromium oxide ceramic, etc. Multiple heating wires are set and wound inside the support tube, so that the heat generated by the heating wires can be directly transferred to the sample ampoule 24 in the heating channel 333, reducing the heat transfer path and helping to reduce power consumption; the inner reflector is used to reflect the heat generated by the heating channel 333 and reduce the transfer to the outside; an outer reflector is also set on the outside of the heat insulation layer to reduce heat loss. The inner reflector uses high-melting-point metals such as Pt, W, or Mo, and the outer reflector uses low-melting-point metals such as stainless steel or Au; in addition, the temperature measuring component can be set as a temperature measuring thermocouple, which is arranged on the inner wall of the support tube near the heating wire to monitor the temperature and transmit it to the central control mechanism. The thermocouple is selected as a high-temperature resistant S-type, B-type, or tungsten-rhenium thermocouple.

[0081] Specifically, the thermal insulation layer is wrapped around the outside of the inner reflector in a multi-layered wrapping method to increase thermal resistance. The thermal insulation layer material is made of high-temperature resistant inorganic fiber material with low thermal conductivity. The inner layer uses high-temperature resistant fibers such as alumina fiber, and the outer layer uses high-strength fibers such as quartz fiber.

[0082] Specifically, each furnace body 33 is cylindrical in shape and made of metal to increase strength, so as to withstand the mechanical test of aerospace launch. Two sets of lugs are symmetrically arranged on the side of the cylindrical outer shell for connecting with the drive assembly 34. The upper and lower surfaces of the outer shell are upper plates and lower plates, and the upper and lower plates as well as the annular flanges 332 on them are all made of metal.

[0083] Specifically, the furnace body has a maximum heating temperature of 1600℃, and the power consumption under the highest temperature condition is only about 500W, which has the characteristics of high efficiency and energy saving.

[0084] Among them, the relevant settings instructions for X-ray imaging module 4 (such as...) Figure 1 and Figure 11 (as shown)

[0085] Specifically, the X-ray imaging module 4 is an existing device with independent functions, including sample heating, X-ray imaging, data storage and transmission. The X-ray imaging module 4 has no mechanical or electrical interface connection with the batch sample management module 2 or the high-temperature heating module 3. Located in the lower part of the right cavity of cabinet 1, the X-ray imaging module 4 includes a shielding component 41, a sample heating component 42, an X-ray optomechanical component 43, an X-ray detector component 44, and a power supply and control component 45. The shielding component 41, i.e., the outer shell, is made of heavy metal and is used to effectively isolate internal X-ray radiation to prevent it from radiating to the outside. Inside the X-ray imaging module 4, the upper part is the X-ray optomechanical component 43, and the lower part is the X-ray detector component 44. The sample heating component 42 is located between the X-ray optomechanical component 43 and the X-ray detector component 44. The sample heating component 42 achieves high-temperature melting and solidification of the sample, and the X-ray optomechanical component 43 and the X-ray detector component 44 can image and record the melting and solidification process. On the front side of the sample heating assembly 42 is a power supply and control unit, which can control the switching of the X-ray optical engine assembly 43 and the X-ray detector assembly 44.

[0086] Specifically, the X-ray imaging resolution reaches 3 micrometers and the imaging rate reaches 20 frames per second.

[0087] Among them, the relevant settings instructions for the electronic control module 5 (such as...) Figure 1 and Figure 12 (as shown)

[0088] Specifically, the electronic control module 5 is square in shape and is installed in the upper right part of the entire device. The front panel of the electronic control module 5 has electrical connectors 51 that are electrically connected to the batch sample management module 2, the high temperature heating module 3, and the X-ray imaging module 4, respectively, which can control the various functions and actions of the latter three modules. The rear panel of the electronic control module 5 has electrical connectors 51 (plug-in connection, which facilitates the modular installation and disassembly of the electronic control module 5) for electrical connection with spacecraft (such as space station), which can be used for the device to draw power from the spacecraft and for communication.

[0089] Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this invention. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this invention. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the ideas of this invention, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

Claims

1. A modular, multifunctional high-temperature materials experimental device for use in space stations, characterized in that: include: Cabinet; A batch sample management module is fixed inside the cabinet; It includes a lateral transposition assembly, a longitudinal lifting assembly, and an in-situ sensing assembly. The lateral transposition assembly has a rotatable transfer chain, on which multiple sample ampoules are magnetically fixed. The longitudinal lifting assembly has a lifting end that can move up and down along a first vertical axis. A mechanical claw is fixed to the lifting end, and the mechanical claw is located above one of the sample ampoules on the transfer chain. In its natural state, the mechanical claw remains closed. A limiting bracket is fixed above the mechanical claw, and when the upper end of the mechanical claw abuts against the limiting bracket, the mechanical claw can be in an open state. The in-situ sensing assembly is used to monitor the status of the sample ampoules in real time. A high-temperature heating module, fixed inside the cabinet and at the lower end of the batch sample management module, has multiple furnace bodies axially distributed along a second vertical axis. Each furnace body has a heating channel for accommodating the sample ampoules. The heating channels of adjacent furnace bodies are interconnected, and the axis of the heating channel coincides with the axis of the sample ampoule grasped by the mechanical gripper. Each furnace body is driven by its own independent drive assembly to move along the second vertical axis, and the heating of each furnace body is independently controlled. The X-ray imaging module is fixed inside the cabinet and is used for real-time dynamic imaging and observation of the melting and solidification process of sample materials. The electrical control module is fixed inside the cabinet and is communicatively connected to the batch sample management module, the high-temperature heating module, and the X-ray imaging module. The high-temperature heating module also includes a cold trap, which is fixed in position and located above the uppermost furnace body; The cold trap includes a cold ring and a guide ring; The cold ring has a central cooling channel that runs through the second vertical axis. Inside the cold ring, there are multiple independent circumferential cooling channels arranged along its own axis. In the axial direction of the cold ring, the length of each circumferential cooling channel gradually decreases from the middle of the cold ring to both ends. The cold ring is also provided with two quick-break connectors for the inflow or outflow of cooling medium and for communication with each of the circumferential cooling channels. The guide ring is fixed to the end of the cold ring away from the furnace body. The guide ring has a central guide channel, which includes a conical channel and a straight channel. The straight channel is close to the furnace body and is fixedly connected to and communicates with the small end of the conical channel.

2. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 1, characterized in that: An accelerometer is fixedly installed on the lifting end.

3. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mechanical gripper includes an upper stop, a lower stop, and two grippers; The upper stop block is located above the lower stop block, and the upper stop block and the lower stop block are connected by a spring assembly in a compressed state; The lower stop block is fixed to the lifting end; The two grippers are symmetrically arranged, each gripper having a clamping end, a rotating end, and a connecting end; the sample ampoule has a clamping groove corresponding to the position of the clamping end; the rotating end is rotatably mounted on the upper stop block about a first axis; the connecting end is rotatably connected to one end of a connecting rod about a second axis, and the other end of the connecting rod is rotatably connected to the lower stop block about a third axis; the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are all parallel to each other and all perpendicular to the first vertical axis.

4. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 3, characterized in that: The longitudinal lifting assembly includes a longitudinal sliding unit, a lifting drive unit, and a fixing base; The batch sample management module includes a vacuum housing; The longitudinal sliding unit is fixed inside the vacuum housing; The fixed base is slidably disposed on the longitudinal sliding unit along the first vertical axis; The lifting drive unit is fixed to the fixed base and is used to drive the fixed base to move along the first vertical axis; The lower stop block is fixed to the fixed base; The lower end of the fixing base is fixed with a plurality of first magnetic suction components, and the upper end of the sample ampoule is fixed with a plurality of first magnetic suction blocks, wherein the first magnetic suction components correspond one-to-one with the first magnetic suction blocks.

5. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 3, characterized in that: Multiple suspension seats are fixed on the transfer chain, and each suspension seat is provided with a second magnetic suction element and two first protrusions; the second magnetic suction element and each of the first protrusions are circumferentially distributed around a fourth axis, and the second magnetic suction element is located between the two first protrusions. The fourth axis is parallel to the axis of the sample ampoule; a third magnetic suction element is fixed at the lower end of the first protrusion. A second magnetic block is provided on the side wall of the sample ampoule at the position corresponding to the second magnetic component; a second protrusion is fixed on the side wall of the sample ampoule at the position corresponding to the first protrusion; a third magnetic block is fixed at the upper end of the second protrusion; The second magnetic attractor is magnetically attracted to the second magnetic block; the third magnetic attractor is magnetically attracted to the third magnetic block.

6. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the direction of the second vertical axis, at least one of the furnace bodies has an annular flange fixed to the circumferential edge of the mating plate at the corresponding mating point; when the adjacent furnace bodies are mated, they can be sealed by circumferential abutment through the annular flange. The docking plate has multiple perforated holes; each perforated hole is circumferentially distributed around the opening of the heating channel of the furnace body.

7. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 1, characterized in that: The furnace body includes a support tube, an inner reflector, a heat insulation layer, an outer reflector, and an outer shell arranged radially outward from the center; a heating wire assembly is wound around the inner wall of the support tube; the heating channel is formed inside the heating wire assembly; The inner reflector is used to reflect the heat transmitted by the peripheral wall of the support tube, and the heat insulation layer is used for heat insulation; the outer reflector is used to reflect the heat transmitted by the heat insulation layer; the heating channel is also equipped with a temperature measuring component for measuring temperature.

8. The modular multifunctional high-temperature material experimental device for space stations according to claim 1, characterized in that: The high-temperature heating module includes a support frame; the support frame includes a first tray and a second tray, and the first tray and the second tray are fixedly connected by a plurality of hollowed-out columns; each furnace body is located between the first tray and the second tray. The driving component is a linear drive mechanism, which includes a motor, a lead screw, a guide rail, and multiple mounting brackets. Each furnace body corresponds to one of the mounting brackets, and the exterior of the furnace body has connecting lugs for connecting to the mounting brackets. The two ends of the guide rail are fixedly connected to the first tray and the second tray, respectively. The motor is fixed to the first tray or the guide rail, and the output end of the motor is fixedly connected to the lead screw. The lead screw is rotatably mounted on the guide rail, and the mounting bracket is slidably mounted on the guide rail. Furthermore, the lead screw is drive-connected to the mounting bracket.

Images